Dear Friends:
Historic preservation is a cause close to our hearts. Restoration not only extends the useful life of a beautiful building, it also preserves memories of the events that have taken place within its walls. We are pleased to commit $2.5 million in the form of a challenge grant for The Campaign for Stephens.

When we visited the campus in November 2001, we were struck at the progress Stephens College has made over the past few years as a result of the capital campaign. The College has successfully bridged its heritage with the demands of a new era to create a campus relevant for the students of today and tomorrow. The generosity of alumnae and friends has helped to renovate buildings that are essential to student learning and life, including the library, student commons, residence halls, Learning Center and the new athletic arena-the first new building to grace Stephens' campus in nearly two decades.

As we toured Lela Raney Wood Hall, a building that has been vacant for the past several years, we couldn't help but imagine what a grand building she has been for the campus and the city of Columbia. Generations of our alumnae, as well as members of the Columbia community, have spent many evenings in LRW at formals, dances and other gala events. Understanding the potential this building has for the College's future, we were compelled to help. Our goal is to match dollar-for-dollar gifts and pledges up to $2.5 million for this campaign, which will include the restoration of the ballroom, the creation of student service and administrative offices, and the relocation, housing and display of our nationally known Historic Costume Collection.

The restoration of Lela Raney Wood not only is the centerpiece of The Campaign for Stephens, it is the centerpiece of the campus and many of our memories. With our partnering efforts, it will continue as a centerpiece for years to come.

LRW. It's Her Turn.

Sincerely,

Gretchen Bush Kimball '57
William R. Kimball
Honorary Co-Chairs, LRW Restoration Project