As I write these words the roar of Chicago White Sox fans from U.S. Cellular Field is audible on campus. With each White Sox home run comes a fireworks explosion that lights up the sky. A stranger unaccustomed to the celebratory rituals of baseball might be forgiven for thinking that the fireworks were in celebration of all that our IIT team is accomplishing.

This edition of IIT Magazine chronicles many additions to our team, and to stay with the metaphor, it particularly highlights our new soccer team and coach. And we have an instant replay: another look at Professor Porter Johnson’s use of baseball to teach physics.

The White Sox have a new name on their stadium, but we have both a new name and a new building—The McCormick Tribune Campus Center. I invite you to visit and see this remarkable facility, as well as our stunning new State Street Village residence hall that is detailed inside.

This year the White Sox hosted the annual Major League All Star game. This issue of the magazine highlights many of IIT’s all-stars—faculty and students–those who are responsible for the university carrying out its mission of transforming lives and inventing the future.

We recently had the passing of one such all-star—Chuck Finkl. This remarkable man had a profound impact on IIT over the many years that he served as a trustee of the university. Chuck was truly a “Man of Steel” as the story is headlined. His great work in forging stronger steel, building better schools and providing inspiring civic leadership is captured in the wonderful article in this issue.

So I invite you to get some popcorn, take your seat and read about the latest developments of our IIT team. It is often said that the fans make the team, and we are grateful for the support of alumni and friends who have helped to ensure that we will have another winning season.

Lew Collens
President, Illinois Institute of Technology