The Communications and ITDE Units will merge under the leadership of David Foote, effective July 1, 2007. This decision is due in large part to the new, 2007-2012 Strategic Plan for UNH Cooperative Extension, which calls for seamless coordination among program area staff and support units, such as administrative support staff, Program Development and Evaluation, Information Technology and Distance Education, Communications, Staff Development and the Business Service Center.

This concept of a merger, however, isn’t new. There have been several “white” papers from both David and Holly Young, and a communications assessment from Holly and Peg Boyles, recommending an integrated unit, comprised of staff from the existing ITDE and Communications staff. We consider this move essential, bringing to Extension a unified team, working collaboratively to further Extension’s mission and program delivery.

As part of this consolidation, David will become a member of the Leadership and Strategic Plan Implementation teams. This will enhance administrative and program needs communication, and help set future direction of Communications and Information Technology in an ever changing environment.

David will continue to provide administrative and directional leadership for distance education and other extension initiatives such as emergency preparedness and eXtension. There will be a close working relationship to distance education support, program development/evaluation and instructional design, as David works with Lisa Townson and Barbara Wright ensuring the delivery of courses and workshops through various distance education technologies.