The chair of the program committee will be pleased to receive tips and suggestions to enhance the substance of the conference, to diversify participation, emphasize its African perspective, and make the meeting a fun and a memorable occasion. Veteran members of the Association, who lost contact, are urged to consider coming this time at this juncture of overlapping times and calendars. A pilgrimage to Poughkeepsie is a rite of passage with us. Vassar College is once more taking us in its debt for its generous support of the conference and solidarity with Dr. Constance Berkley, a Vassar distinguished scholar and founding mother of our Association. Dr. Berkley is investing a lot of energy to secure the invitation of scholars from Sudan.
Nothing is guaranteed so far.
Let us acknowledge her work to reunion. Those who can help effectively in this area can talk to her. Graduate students are especially asked to talk or e-mail the chair about their research agenda. Don't hesitate in letting us know how we can help you feature in the sessions. We already secured the membership of two students through such intimate dialogues.