This deceptively simple strategic statement \u2013 one of four in our strategic plan \u2013 has launched powerful part- nerships that are achieving remarkable results. This summer, our Outdoor Program Center (OPC) moved its recreational facilities to the waterfront of Bemidji\u2019s recently renovated Diamond Point Park. This beauti- ful, historic gem is now a bustling, resort-like setting where the OPC is the hub for city residents, tourists, and students to rent bicycles, take pontoon rides, get gear for camping, paddle canoes, or learn to maneuver a kayak. The city park has also become an extension of our campus, providing a northwoods environment in which to study, eat lunch, observe ducks and loons, drop a \ufb01shing line, or just get away for a moment. This city-University partnership has enabled both to offer area and campus residents a truly \ufb01rst-class experience. Another summer initiative was with the area chamber of commerce. Together we are seeking ways to draw upon our combined expertise to secure Bemidji\u2019s vitality. That vibrancy is important to the University as we seek to attract new students and meet the social, health, and economic needs of our current students. The University\u2019s vitality is also an economic essential for the area\u2019s businesses. The University has hundreds of such partnerships underway. All have the same philosophical base: As we reach out and work with others, we become a better, stronger, more vibrant University with exponential results for all involved.

cations and Marketing O\ue000f ce, Alumni Asso- ciation, and BSU Foundation at Bemidji State University. It is published three times per year and distributed \ue000ree to BSU alumni, students, \ue000aculty, sta\ue000\ue000, and \ue000riends. Direct comments to horizons@bemidjistate.edu or 1-888-234-7794.

EditorRose Jones
Alumni DirectorMarla Patrias
Foundation Executive DirectorRob Bollinger
DesignerKathy Berglund
Photography DirectorJohn Swartz
Contributing PhotographersThe Johnson Group

A member of the Minnesota State Colleges and
Universities system, Bemidji State University is an
equal opportunity educator and employer.
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Since his college activist days,
Dave Sorensen, General Mills\u2019 vice
president of worldwide sourcing, has