Peggy Gordon Miller
The journey of the Land Grant University System has taken us down many paths.  The road has wound through national highways and local byways as all of us have worked to serve the citizens of our states through teaching, research and extension.  We began on foot or horseback.  We continue electronically.  The great Land Grant System has been and remains the world’s most extraordinary vehicle to move knowledge from discovery to use.

As South Dakota State University celebrates its 125th year, it is with great pride that we welcome you to the 2006 CSREES Administrative Officers Conference.  We encourage you to take advantage of the many educational, cultural and social opportunities we have arranged for you during your time in South Dakota.  On behalf of the University and the College of Agriculture and Biological Sciences, it is my pleasure to welcome you to South Dakota.

Peggy Gordon Miller
President
South Dakota State University

Dr. Gary Lemme
Welcome to the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota and the 2006 Administrative Officers Conference!  South Dakota State University is proud to serve as your host. 

The conference schedule focuses on a number of important issues.  It provides a structured program for the discussion of the most recent opportunities and challenges facing our land-grant university system. 

The program also includes informal opportunities to visit with colleagues and further develop personal networks that are so critical to our success.  And not to be overlooked, the program provides the chance to relax and enjoy the majestic scenery of the Black Hills. 

At the conclusion of the conference, we hope you are professionally invigorated and personally refreshed.  Very best wishes for a successful conference.         
                                    
Dean, College of Agriculture and Biological Sciences
South Dakota State University