Letter from the President

Dear Friends,

For many of us postsecondary education was a natural step in life. Our pursuit of higher education helped open doors to our careers and prepared our minds for future challenges. We are privileged to live in a nation where the higher education system attracts and shapes young minds from all over the world. However, we must not take for granted the opportunities afforded to us, for there are millions of Americans whose prospect of going to college - and paying for college - seems like an unobtainable dream.

The Pennsylvania Higher Education Foundation and the Higher Education Foundation have been established to help America's students prepare for, attend, and pay for college - at an affordable level. Today, it is increasingly difficult to pay for postsecondary education as tuition costs are increasing, while state, federal and private funds for schools are limited. The Foundations work closely with students, educators, policy makers, and the community to identify critical areas in need of financial support, then create programs and services that promote the value of higher education, stimulate and sustain community awareness, and ensure new opportunities for student aid are created.

Educating our youth is a fundamental responsibility for all Americans. However, as tuition costs continue to rise, while funds remain limited, it will be community and business leaders who can make a powerful difference. Please share in our passion and commitment to affordable higher education by supporting the Pennsylvania Higher Education Foundation and the Higher Education Foundation. It is only through generosity and teamwork that we will help America's students reach their education goals and turn dreams into the reality of success.

Sincerely,


Michael H. Hershock
President and CEO