Research Communicators: Yes, That Includes "Editors"

Once again, we have experienced a successful fall conference that included topics such as "To Print or Not to Print" (Powerpoints: Rob Brown; Kathy Albetski) that explored online publication and "Adobe's Seamless Workflows" that highlighted new, time-saving Adobe software. However, with the short time frame and so many strong topics, it was difficult to attend every session this conference offered. Perhaps next year we can see a session on "How to Clone Conference Registrants for Maximum Conference Coverage."

Seriously, thanks and appreciation must be given to Marshall Vest <mvest@eller.arizona.edu> and Janet Speyrer <jspeyrer@uno.edu> for their hard work, strong leadership, and dedication to secure these excellent sessions and for such a wonderful time. Thanks also to the Past President Jerry Wall <wall@ulm.edu>for his leadership and support. Maureen Dunne <mdunne@frc.mass.edu> and Lee Reynis <lreynis@unm.edu> did a fabulous job of organizing the first-ever AUBER poster session. Finally, thanks also to Secretary-Treasurer Rich Wobbekind <wobbekin@colorado.edu> and his fine staff, especially Cindy DiPersio <dipersio@colorado.edu>, for all their behind-the-scenes hard work that ensured the success of the fall 2003 conference.

However, there has been a concern that with AUBER's new name change of "Research Communicators" there will be no more editors. Be assured this could not be farther from the truth. If you will remember when the name change was discussed in 2002, it was to include the diversity of tasks most of the editors deal with in their jobs. Very few of the AUBER editors are editors only. Most have other duties, including research. Also, AUBER needs to grow. To do so, we must include all those involved with AUBER research and work, hence, the inclusion of researchers in the name and group.

To calm any fears that we may not have any "editor" sessions, the planning committee has already begun work on next year's sessions, and, yes, these include "editor" sessions. For example, the planning committee is looking to invite one of the foremost experts in effective research communication as a speaker. A favorite "hands-on" trainer of Adobe software techniques and tips is also being discussed and considered. Finally, after the positive responses concerning the Adobe software presentation, the planning committee is suggesting we invite another Adobe representative to show us the latest Adobe tools. This hardly sounds as if AUBER has forgotten about editors.

Rennae Daneshvary at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas is planning the conference program, along with Janet Speyrer <jspeyrer@uno.edu>. Please contact Rennae at <rennaed@ccmail.nevada.edu> with ideas for sessions or to participate.

Let's face facts: Research fails if it cannot be communicated effectively. Therefore, there will always be a need for editors, especially in AUBER.

Stephen Smith
The University of Memphis

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