"I solemnly promise to serve the National Alumni Association of
Bethune-Cookman University for the next two years and will
perform all the duties appertaining to the office of
President to the best of my ability,"
A. Ray Brinson, June 19, 2010, Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida

To our dedicated members,

I wish to publicly thank the members of this association for the great honor of serving as our President. I am fully aware of the magnitude of this office and will do my utmost to discharge my duties with honor and pride. I fully realize the responsibilities and importance of this position, and cherish the opportunity to serve. I will not let you down.

It is your right to have an organization that you can be proud of, one that you have full confidence in that your voice as a member will be heard. The leadership team, the Board of Directors, will do its best to make sure our goals and expectations are exceeded. We need your input, suggestions, contributions, and undying support. "We are listening."

The alumni of B-CU are the greatest resources of advocacy for the University. Many people form their opinions about our beloved institution based on their contact or impression of you. We are living testament and it is imperative that we maintain positive images of B-CU where we live, work and worship.

• The sons and daughters of Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune should give first then ask others to give. We are the major stakeholders. We simply can't expect others to do more for B-CU than we are willing to do ourselves.
• We must assist B-CU with the recruitment of quality students and do our fair share in ensuring the retention of these students. "Enter to Learn, Depart to Serve!"
• We must participate in alumni chapter activities, National Alumni Association initiatives and University-sponsored events.
• Our alumni must also participate in community service activities and assume leadership roles in these organizations.

The biggest contribution we can make to our alma mater is to connect, engage, and inspire alumni everywhere to work to their fullest to make B-CU the best institution possible. In today's environment, our responsibility has shifted from mere survival to thriving, growing and remaining competitive. You are key to this challenge and we must answer the call now more than ever.

We are counting on you so join our winning TEAM today. Our students and the University are depending on us. The stakes are too high and I know you won't let us down.

"You don't belong to the National Alumni Association, it belongs to you!"

-- Ray Brinson, B-CUNAA President