Academic Affairs Staff Advisory Council communicates via electronic roundtable

But that was then. Now, the council's 28 members interact virtually at the speed of light on topics as diverse as health and fitness, cultural diversity updates, vocabulary improvement, the current fiction bestsellers list, and the day's weather.

The AASAC electronic networking discussion group was organized last February to take full advantage of the electronic networking capabilities of Internet.

Dr. Bill McDaniel, provost and vice president for academic affairs, felt that regular and convenient interaction among members of the group would be productive and familiarize more individuals with the resources available through Internet.

"The Academic Affairs Staff Advisory Council network is excellent," McDaniel said. "It brings the entire group together in numerous ways, both through their jobs and through mutual outside interests. The exchange of information is wonderful. It's a great way for one to feel a part of the whole."

Lynette Hegwood, operations coordinator for the division, and executive secretary Waanda Lee—with assistance from the Computing Center—coordinated initial efforts to establish the networking group.

In March, Drs. John Perry and Larry Anderson of the Department of Technology and Education provided council members with two hands-on Internet training workshops to start them on their way.

"Networking with the Staff Advisory Council has been particularly important to me for the quick exchange of information with key staff people on campus who have responsibilities similar to mine," said Karen Bluhm, executive secretary for the School of Architecture. "It also allows me to receive information at my convenience, unlike the telephone. It is a wonderful tool, especially for those of us who are housed away from Allen Hall."

The list of topics is growing. As of last week, it includes adult education, cultural diversity, computer tips, health and fitness, family interests, humor, campus issues, news blurbs, politics, sports, "Thought for the Day," "Tidbit of the Week," and local weather. New topics constantly are under consideration.

Representatives of other groups on campus that are interested in electronic networking may call Lynette Hegwood at 325-3559 for information on how to get started.