New University of Hawai'i President M.R.C. "Marci" Greenwood struck an optimistic chord yesterday at her first public address since starting in the position last month, saying she is confident the 10-campus system can overcome its fiscal challenges and emerge bigger and stronger.

"The challenges, of course, are significant," Greenwood said, at a convocation ceremony in the Kennedy Theatre on the UH-Manoa campus.

She added, "I truly believe the University of Hawai'i's future is bright."

Greenwood didn't give details on any policy initiatives she is pursuing.

But she did say the university "must maintain and increase our investment in infrastructure." She also said the university needs to pursue more public-private partnerships, fundraising opportunities and grants.

"The university is indeed a powerful agent for economic improvement," she said.

Greenwood also touched on the recent enrollment surge at the University of Hawai'i, saying it is proof people recognize the benefits of pursuing higher education.

The University of Hawai'i system signed up 58,157 students for the fall semester, the highest enrollment in the system's history.

Community colleges saw the greatest percentage increases in enrollment.

Greenwood said UH has a duty to extend its reach even further and to get kids thinking about going to college while still in grade school.

"Our greatest resource is our youth. Our youth represent ... educational capital," she said. "To ensure a better future, we must graduate more students."

She added that as the university tackles its budget crunch, "We must be faithful to our purpose, while being adaptable to our changing conditions."

She closed the speech, which lasted about 20 minutes, on an upbeat note: "I came here knowing that the University of Hawai'i is a great university," she said. "With your support and input, we will be even greater."