One of the defining attributes of the American system of higher education is the research university. These venerable institutions have made pervasive contributions to society through their multiple missions: research, education, and service. As the University of Kentucky aspires to be among the very best public research universities, it is imperative that we express excellence in each of these missions. One strategy by which we can achieve that goal is to strengthen connections between faculty scholarship and undergraduate education.

For the institution, this strategy reflects a way to exploit the strength of a research university in terms of resources and personnel; for students, it provides a special learning opportunity that distinguishes the curriculum. By fostering active involvement of undergraduates in the exciting and diverse scholarship conducted by eminent UK faculty across all fields of inquiry - from the sciences and the arts, to the applied disciplines and the service professions - the University can advance scholarship and undergraduate education simultaneously. The opportunity to work side-by-side with world-renowned scholars affords UK undergraduates a kind of education that is only available at a research university; a kind of education that stimulates the intellect, excites the imagination, and motivates strong academic engagement.

In this inaugural issue of Kaleidoscope, we celebrate this important element of the educational experience at UK. Beyond highlighting scholarship as an academic opportunity, the quality of the contributions to this first volume of Kaleidoscope reaffirms that students at the University of Kentucky are as talented and dedicated as those to be found at any college or university in the country. Equally important, this new journal serves as an invitation to future scholars. We encourage more students to take advantage of the extraordinary learning opportunity available through the University's research mission. This opportunity affords a signature academic experience that reflects the educational potential of a world-class research university.

I am pleased and proud that the Office of Undergraduate Studies is sponsoring this journal as a part of our on-going commitment to providing the finest possible undergraduate education to all UK students.