Dear Colleagues: 
Having attended various reading conferences across the country, I have found that the issues we have in reading in this state are not unique. FCRC is a great avenue for us to present and address these issues that we encounter at our different schools. Using limited resources, we have to produce the most promising students. In fact, we have done this for so long until it has become second nature. Another concern is to infuse more technology into our courses. We have taken on this project by creating online courses. These courses have become very popular with our students who work full time. Faculty members are becoming more familiar with Blackboard and other online management programs that facilitate the online programs.
As a developmental educator for over 20 years, I have seen the many changes in this field and these changes have not always benefited the student. My personal philosophy, "Each one, teach one," is more evident today than ever before. In looking at our present educational condition, we are faced with some difficult challenges such as
- to create a sense of community among learners to promote greater retention,
- to encourage the use of innovative instructional techniques and the use of technology among faculty,
- to strengthen critical reading and thinking skills among students, and
- to prepare students for a changing world of work and the challenges of citizenship.
The challenges of our work confront us; it is by our united effort that we overcome them. I look forward to working with each of you.
Sincerely,
Karen F. Nails-Porter
Karen F. Nails-Porter, M.A.
President, FCRC
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