The DOT USA Awareness Luncheon held on May 2, 2008 was a major success in updating supporters and potential funders about the DOT USA TeachUp! Program.

More than sixty people attended the event that was held at the Lake Terrace Convention Center in Hattiesburg. The keynote speak was Bill Fowler, Senior Director of Global Education Initiatives in North America for Cisco Systems. Fowler spoke about the need and importance of technology integration in education in the 21st century and how DOT USA – through Cisco’s 21st Century Schools Program – is helping create a model for those types of initiatives in Mississippi and Louisiana schools.

Four of the DOT USA TeachUp! Interns – David Thiberville and Jessica Galliano of Louisiana and Antoine Powell and Hsi-Ling-Shi Thompson of Mississippi – gave presentations about some of the projects they have been working on in their schools. James Glover, technology director for Moss Point Schools, and Elizabeth Sims, principal of North Forrest Elementary, also gave brief remarks about the impact the Interns are having in their respective schools.

After the luncheon, business and foundation leaders had the opportunity to speak with Bill Fowler, Janet Longmore, DOT Global CEO and President, and Nuria Arias, Program Director for DOT Mississippi/Louisiana, about expanding the program to other schools across Mississippi and Louisiana. Many left the luncheon excited about the results and impact of the TeachUp! Program and the potential for growth and expansion to other areas.

The awareness event was held in conjunction with the DOT USA board meeting that was held earlier that day, where five new members were appointed to the board. DOT USA is happy to welcome Chip Forstall, Dr. Carol Whelan, and Dr. Karen Soniat, all of Louisiana, and Dr. James Hutto and James Glover, both of Mississippi, to its Board of Directors.