Editor's Page

The New Reality

This year hasn't been an easy one for the Cooperative Extension System. State funding for higher education generally, and in some states for Extension particularly, has been cut. Literally hundreds of years of experience left the organization as veteran Extension educators took early retirements. Changing technology, demographics, politics, and citizen needs in our post -industrial society have forced us to rethink "the Extension way." Coping with change has become the new reality.

This issue's To The Point section extends the ongoing dialogue about the role of Extension in today's changing society. In the lead article, Bernard Jones argues that Extension must address broader societal issues to remain viable. He points to needed organizational changes in quality, diversity, planning, partnerships, and funding. Writing in response, C. Wayne Jordan doesn't doubt Extension's willingness to address societal issues. But, he does question the public's willingness to support Extension while it pursues this mission. Walter Walla further maintains that defining our mission is problematic unless both clientele and the Extension organization can first shape a shared vision for its future.

Several of the feature articles also reflect how Extension is dealing with changing social and organizational conditions. We learn how California Extension has established a role in public policy education on volatile "mega-issues" affecting both agriculture and urban areas. Two case studies offer insights about strategic planning and competing for external funding, both of which have become necessities in the current environment.

The Journal isn't exempt from having to cope with change. In this case, technology is the driving force. The Board of Directors has begun a pilot study to examine electronic delivery of the Journal through Internet, which may ultimately reduce our production costs. This issue is the first to be placed on the system, and should be accessible to any person connected to Internet. We welcome your comments on the electronic version of the Journal.

Journal Transitions

Doris Smith, of California, has stepped down as chairperson of the Journal's Editorial Committee. We thank her for outstanding service as a reviewer, as well as her leadership on the committee. Emmalou Norland, of Ohio, a current member of the Editorial Committee, will assume the role of chairperson.

EMR