Spectrum - Volume 20 Issue 09 October 23, 1997 - Proposals sought for outreach activity grants

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Proposals sought for outreach activity grants

By Catherine Doss

Spectrum Volume 20 Issue 09 - October 23, 1997

Proposals are being sought for Virginia Tech's first series of project initiation grants for outreach activities. The Really, Everyone Apply to Create and Have the Outreach University of Tomorrow (ReachOUT) program encourages faculty members to develop outreach initiatives aimed at assisting Virginia, its agencies, businesses, people, and those beyond its borders to improve economic and social conditions.
"The program provides support for projects that extend the university's knowledge resources to new clients and partners and advance its instruction, research, and service missions," said Dixon B. Hanna, interim vice provost for outreach. "We're looking for projects that assist colleges or departments in fulfilling the outreach component of the university's Academic Agenda."
All full-time faculty members are eligible to compete in the ReachOUT program. Academic staff members (including librarians and professional faculty members) as well as academic faculty members, Extension, and field faculty members may compete.
Initial project start-up grants of up to $7,500 each will be awarded. Funds must be fully expended by June 15, 1998. It is expected that 30 grants will be awarded this year. Some recipients will be invited to compete for full implementation grants of up to $40,000 over two to three years in spring 1998.
Successful proposals will indicate potentials for significantly advancing the outreach mission of the academic unit(s) sponsoring the project; building sustained partnerships and collaborations with external groups; obtaining financial sustainability beyond the grant period; increasing Virginia Tech's visibility in Virginia; and contributing to economic development and/or quality of life in the state.
"We're especially interested in projects that use innovative instructional technologies such as computer-enhanced instruction, two-way interactive video, Net.Work.Virginia, or other means of reaching individuals who cannot come to campus," Hanna said.
Applications are due by 5 p.m., December 1, in the Vice Provost for Outreach office, 112 Burruss. Announcements will be made on or near December 15.
Informational sessions will be held on Thursday, Nov. 6 from 3-5 p.m. in 1045 Pamplin and Friday, Nov. 7, from 1:30-3 p.m. in the Fralin auditorium, room 102 to address questions from potential applicants and explain grant criteria more fully.
For more information, contact Hanna at extension 1-3205 or by e-mail at vtout@vt.edu .