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Wening & Giddings' Responsibilities Redefined

Change, adaptation, success. People frequently use these words to describe MOREnet. Challenge should also be added to this list, the challenge to continue MOREnet's leadership role in the state.

During this year's strategic planning, it became clear that MOREnet performs two basic functions. The original foundation of MOREnet that continues today is connectivity. MOREnet runs a 1,100-node network of tail circuits and a robust, reliable and secure backbone for its various customers. This network is unique in how it is funded, how it is supported and what organizations are attached to it. This is the MOREnet utility. MOREnet's other function is to provide high-value services to its customers in higher education, public libraries, K-12 schools and Affiliates.

All of us are aware of the State's financial situation and the impact on MOREnet's sponsors, the University of Missouri System and MOREnet itself. Because of the constant personnel changes created by term limits, MOREnet has the challenge and opportunity to help legislators understand MOREnet's role in providing connectivity and services to its customers. This understanding is vital and must represent a strong and expanded focus for the organization's efforts.

It is also clear that MOREnet must work even closer with its agency sponsors to plan for FY03 and beyond. The network utility must remain robust and reliable, and MOREnet must deliver services that both are needed and can be financially supported.

To address these focused efforts there will be a change in responsibilities for Tony Wening and Bill Giddings. Effective immediately, Wening and Giddings' responsibilities will be divided primarily along the lines of educational versus non-educational customers and services.

Wening Named Director of State and Federal Programs

Wening will direct MOREnet's State and Federal Programs, expanding his current responsibility for legislative communications and coordination of services to state agencies, the Office of Administration and the State Chief Information Officer. Ted MacDonald will report to Wening and continue to work with MOREnet Affiliates, the University of Missouri campuses, University of Missouri Extension and Outreach, Missouri Telehealth Network and state agencies to ensure that they are receiving the telecommunication services they want and need. Wening will continue as MOREnet's point person for national E-rate policy and lead MOREnet's development of fee-for-service offerings and other business opportunities, such as identifying and securing new sources of revenue.

Giddings Named Director of Education and Library Programs

Giddings will direct MOREnet's Education and Library Programs, providing the critical linkage between the K-20 and library communities, including eMINTS, K-12 TNP, REAL, MERC, the Shared Network and MOREnet's I2 K20 Initiatives. This area includes contract deliverables, budget and sponsor relations with CBHE, DESE and the State Library. Giddings' group also will be responsible for pilot projects, content development, E-rate customer support, NETg customer coordination and conferences. Jeanne Sullivan, Nancy Piringer, Monica Beglau and Eric Nicklas will report to Giddings.

As Wening and Giddings refocus their responsibilities, some activities, services and deliverables may not have been mapped to one group or the other. They will resolve any ambiguity and deliver the guidance and support necessary to move MOREnet forward. Do not hesitate to contact either one of them if you have any questions.