The New York State Board of Regents has approved a name change for the College of Aeronautics. Effective September 1, 2004, the institution will be known as Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology.

Our new name is a reflection of what we have become by building upon a foundation of excellence and hard work. Our reputation as an educational institution is longstanding. But that reputation of excellence has broadened in scope and strengthened over the years. We have an enrollment of more than 1,300 students and offer bachelor and associate degree programs. Our new name is a natural evolution of this quality we have established and nurtured over the past 72 years. This name change reflects our deep roots in the aviation industry, while at the same time focuses on the College's future as a greatly expanded academic institution with new programs to include engineering and master's level management offerings. The continued growth of our institution brings many more opportunities for the residents of the New York metropolitan area, and its surrounding environs, to pursue higher education programs in technology, management and aviation. We are also excited about the economic benefits these changes will bring to our neighbors and friends in Queens County.

The name change is part of the College's five-year strategic plan that was developed in 2001. It is the fourth such name change in the institution's 72-year history. It began in 1932 when Charles S. "Casey" Jones, a pioneer aviator and aviation company executive, foresaw the need for highly trained technicians to design, build and service aircraft and engines. George A. Vaughn, Jr. and Lee D. Warrender joined with Casey Jones in founding the Casey Jones School of Aeronautics, the predecessor of the Academy of Aeronautics, and as of September 1986, the College of Aeronautics.

This change brings up many logistical questions, however. Changing the name of such an institution will take some time. As we ease into our new name, we want to lovingly acknowledge our former names and assure that all of our constituencies realize that Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology is the same quality institution that once bore the name College of Aeronautics.

The new College logo and seal are now being designed and approved, along with standards for their use. College departments are to use all stationery, envelopes, business cards and brochures with the former name until these supplies are exhausted before reprinting with the new name.

This is a pivotal time in the history of this wonderful College. I hope you are as excited as I am about possibilities yet to come.

John C. Fitzpatrick, Ed.D. President