Chair’s Message
The aftermath of Hurricane Katrina also shows the important national role that organizations like WCET play in connecting people and organizations with those who can help them solve problems. I have been a part of WCET since its start in 1989, and have watched this “people network” mature, from our first conference in a small Denver facility to the truly national conference that we enjoy and benefit from today. As we found out when Katrina-related events unfolded, it is this “people network” that makes a difference to both the lives of individuals and the missions of institutions.
Within days of the hurricane, WCET and its members were in contact with schools, organizations, faculty, and students, who were in need of e-learning solutions to the challenges they faced, as well as with those offering help. As in the past, WCET staff and member representatives have given freely of their time and expertise in linking those in need with those who could provide needed services. Many of our institutions opened their doors – via electronic course delivery – to students displaced by events. Other member organizations are working with the U.S. Education Department and others in finding solutions to a wide variety of academic support and financial aid challenges brought on by Katrina. This clear thinking and generosity is the hallmark of WCET and what makes it a truly “cooperative” cooperative.
While all this was going on, other WCET staff used their own professional networks to provide a place for us to gather for our annual conference in San Francisco. I have no doubt that we’ll meet together for a future conference in New Orleans. Until then, our thoughts are with those affected by Hurricane Katrina, and we look forward to further strengthening the network of people and organizations that make WCET the effective and truly worthwhile organization that it is.
—Barry Willis, Associate Vice President, Educational Outreach, University of Idaho