April 2003

Association of American Geographers Council Meeting Minutes

7-8 September 2002 University of Akron recently moved into Falls, SD, will host the next regional Washington, DC renovated quarters; both Central Michi- meeting. Napton also is developing a web- gan University and Michigan State Uni- site that will list all geography departments Attending: M. Duane Nellis, President; versity have initiated master’s degrees in in the Great Plains-Rocky Mountain Janice J. Monk, Past-President; Alexander B. geographic information science. region, and will include programs that Murphy, Vice-President; Katherine Klink, Southeast: Pandit reported that many teach geography even if no geography Secretary and Regional Councillor (West Lakes departments in the region were dealing department is present on campus. Division); and Robert B. Kent, Treasurer and with budget cuts, while at the same time Middle Atlantic: Luzzadder-Beach Regional Councillor (East Lakes Division). most departments are reporting a healthy reported that the Middle Atlantic region National Councillors: Sarah Witham Bed- rise in interest in geography courses. She consists mostly of professional, govern- narz, Kenneth Foote, Victoria A. Lawson, also reported that the geography graduate ment, and academic geographers, who Kent Mathewson, James R. Shortridge, program at the University of Miami has meet most often during evening dinner and Cort J. Willmott. Regional Councillors: been subsumed into international studies. meetings, but also are co-hosting an annu- Percy H. Dougherty (Middle States Divi- Middle States: Dougherty reported that al division meeting with SEDAAG in sion), Sheryl Luzzadder-Beach (Middle several new programs in GIS were in place, November. She noted that budget cuts Atlantic Division), Darrell E. Napton or in development, within the Middle also are affecting the Middle Atlantic (Great Plains-Rocky Mountains Division), States region; most of the programs are region, but that enrollments in geography Kavita K. Pandit (Southeastern Division), within community and four-year colleges. continue to be strong. Fred M. Shelley (Southwestern Division), He also noted that, because of budgetary New England-St. Lawrence Valley: Judy Walton (Pacific Coast Division), and constraints, several geography departments Yacher reported that there have been very Leon I. Yacher (New England-St. within the region were facing the possibil- large budget cuts in the region but at the Lawrence Valley Division). AAG Execu- ity of being merged with other units on same time there has been growth in terms tive Director Ronald F. Abler, AAG their campuses. On a more positive note, of enrollments, including enrollments in Research Division Director Douglas B. changes in the requirements for education geography. There has been a trend toward Richardson, and AAG Executive Assistant students in the state of Pennsylvania will increased class size as a cost-saving meas- Ehsan M. Khater. require geography education majors to ure. Yacher noted that in Connecticut, take up to 45 credit hours of geography, geography education students must have a Agenda and Logistics and this should increase enrollments in formal major in geography, and that this upper division geography courses at col- has greatly benefited the department. President Nellis called the meeting to leges and universities in the state. Yacher also reflected on the loss of Glenn order at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, 7 Septem- Pacific Coast: Walton noted that Miller, who was an important supporter of ber, and welcomed the Council to Wash- budget cuts also are affecting the Pacific geography within the NESTVAL region. ington. The Council unanimously adopt- Coast region, but that most geography Southwest: Shelley reported that, ed the agenda prepared by President Nel- departments seem to be doing well for the despite the economic downturn, geogra- lis and Executive Director Abler. Council time being. Enrollments are gaining at phy departments within the division have also noted with sadness the passing of both the undergraduate and graduate lev- experienced healthy growth in enrollments Jeanne X. Kasperson, Glenn R. Miller, and els. There has been a trend toward fund- and continued strong support for geogra- Jack P. Mrowka. ing new GIS labs and faculty on campus, phy within their institutions. Two impor- but many are funded on soft money. She tant events within the region include the Challenges and Opportunities noted that geographers in the APCG were new Ph.D. program in geography at Okla- for the Association immensely saddened by the loss of Jack homa State University, and the generous Mrowka, who was a very active member bequest to Louisiana State University from REVIEW OF GEOGRAPHY PROGRAMS— in the region. the estate of the late Evelyn Pruitt, for an REGIONAL COUNCILLOR REPORTS. Great Plains-Rocky Mountains: Nap- endowment to support the education of East Lakes: Kent reported that geog- ton described his efforts to help connect women geographers. Shelley also noted raphy programs in the region are doing geographers in academic, business, and the implementation of several GIS well despite declining state budgets. government positions; because of his programs within the region, including the The University of Cincinnati and the efforts, USGS/EROS Data Center in Sioux Ph.D. program at Southwest Texas State

10 AAG Newsletter www.aag.org Volume 38, Number 4 and a Center for Geographic Information Colorado has developed a Geography Fac- question research within geography. It was Science at the University of Texas. ulty Development Alliance, focused on suggested that the Association could make West Lakes: Klink noted that prelimi- assistant professors in geography. The an important contribution to the discipline nary attendance estimates were strong for alliance held two very successful work- by highlighting cross-cutting research arti- the upcoming regional meeting in Min- shops during summer 2002, and there cles as the lead articles in our journals. neapolis. The division officers hope that a already is a waiting list for future work- INTERNATIONAL ACTIVITIES successful meeting will help build stronger shops that extends through 2004. AND PROGRAMS. ties between the community and four-year Councillor Lawson discussed the cru- Past President Monk described the colleges and the Ph.D. institutions within cial role of geography in central issues workshop on “Race, Space, and Urban the region. As has been the case elsewhere, for the nation: terrorism, globalization. Development” in Johannesburg in August budget cuts are affecting colleges and uni- She noted that it is a good time to be a 2002, which brought together more than versities in the West Lakes division, with geographer but that we seem to be “invis- 25 South African and United States geog- some possible impacts on geography. ible” in the public arena. She wondered raphers. Outcomes from the workshop how the AAG might encourage its mem- REVIEW OF TOPICAL DEVELOPMENTS— included several prospects for collaborative bers to “reclaim our space” in public and NATIONAL COUNCILLOR REPORTS. research projects, and a possible follow-up academic debates in ways that are cre- Councillor Willmott reflected that a panel at the AAG Southeast Division’s ative and engaging. One impediment focus on “geographic dynamics” (from the annual meeting in Fall 2002. The Johannes- that we can work toward removing is our NRC book Rediscovering Geography) would burg workshop was supported by funds lack of disciplinary diversity: there are demand increased interaction between from the National Science Foundation. few geographers specializing in the physical and human geographers. “Geo- Monk also described efforts to promote Islamic world, for example. Councillor graphic dynamics” could involve subjects international participation at the AAG Mathewson wondered whether there has such as risk assessment and scenarios for Annual Meeting in Los Angeles, including been renewed financial support for area the future. He noted that most geography an evening reception for international studies, and whether geographers were majors have insufficient quantitative skills scholars. Monk also urged AAG members involved in area-studies initiatives? to participate in forecasting initiatives. to attend non-U.S. geographical meetings. Research Director Richardson noted that Councillor Bednarz observed that geogra- Councillor Pandit observed that non-U.S. one example is the AAG terrorism initia- phy students increasingly take GIS cours- geographical societies are pleased to have tive, which is being supported by many es in place of statistics or quantitative U.S. geographers at their meetings. agencies in Washington, DC. methods courses. Willmott felt that the PRESIDENT’S PRIORITIES. AAG should make a case for better quan- DISCUSSION OF ARTICLES BY TURNER President Nellis reported that the titative education in geography. (ANNALS, 2002) AND CUTTER ET AL. Endowment Campaign is off to a strong Councillor Bednarz reported on results (PROFESSIONAL GEOGRAPHER, 2002). start. A kickoff event will occur at the from the National Assessment for Educa- The Officers and Councillors lauded the New Orleans meeting. He expressed his tional Progress (NAEP), released in June authors for beginning a discussion of what continued support for the AAG’s strategic 2001. She noted that geographic literacy it is that geography “is good for” but, as initiatives and Richardson’s efforts to had improved for middle-school students, might be expected, there was considerable coordinate the initiatives. He also contin- with increased classroom use of maps and debate as to how to define our “big ques- ues to work on membership issues, partic- globes, and more study of countries, cul- tions.” Councillor Shelley agreed that a set ularly for building greater partnerships tures, and environmental topics. Students of questions should be identified—but who with geographers in private and govern- with the most-improved NAEP scores had should identify them, and how do we con- ment agencies. teachers who were trained through the tinue the debate over time so that things Geographic Alliances. Bednarz stated that are not cast in stone? Vice President Mur- VICE PRESIDENT’S PRIORITIES. two big problems for Alliances are that phy offered that while we might be able to Vice President Murphy described his NGS funding is ending and that many identify key questions, we need to under- first priority as raising the profile of Alliance leaders are retiring. The NGS, stand that not every geographer must be geography and geographers in public however, will help to build a endowment working on them: “big questions” should debate. One of the things that works for state Alliances by offering to match a not be prescriptive, but they can be impor- against geography is its “invisibility” to state’s $500,000 contribution. Councillor tant in getting people to engage in broader the general public. A higher profile for Foote reported that Colorado has one of intellectual debates. Noting that there can geography would help us in other initia- the NGS endowments, and that colleges be institutional constraints that work tives (i.e., bringing geography to elite and universities in the state are seeing against big-question initiatives, there institutions; the geographical dimensions freshmen who want to major in geography. followed an extended discussion of how we of terrorism). A second priority is to Foote also reported that the University of might contribute to, and encourage, big- enhance the diversity of the discipline.

www.aag.org AAG Newsletter 11 April 2003

He noted that the Association can do PUBLICATIONS. that he would like to increase the use of more to promote participation by non- Director of Publications Amy Jo student interns (but that would require Anglo geographers, and that he would Woodruff reviewed the article flow and someone on staff to manage the activity), like to develop some strategic initiatives editorial decisions from 1 January 2002 to and to tap the enthusiasm and talents of along these lines. A third priority will be 31 August 2002, for both the Annals and retired/senior geographers to support to encourage cross-cutting discussion The Professional Geographer. She noted that AAG operations and initiatives. among sub-disciplines within geography, submission rates are healthy, but that it is The Executive Director transition is perhaps through plenary sessions at the challenging to keep about the same num- going well. Richardson has taken respon- annual meetings. ber of papers in each section for each issue sibility for Association finances as of 1 of the Annals. The editors are working to September 2002 (beginning of fiscal year reduce turnaround time, but much of the Status of the Association 2003) and will assume the Executive delay is associated with getting timely Director position as of 1 January 2003. FINANCE. reviews. At the request of the editors, Nel- Richardson’s priorities as Executive The Association has seen an improve- lis charged Woodruff to investigate the Director were outlined in the August ment in finances, and expects to break financial ramifications of increasing the 2002 AAG Newsletter. even in fiscal year 2002. Most cost savings Annals to six issues per year. EDUCATIONAL AFFAIRS. Editorial Assistant Megan Nortrup was have come from reductions on annual Educational Affairs Director Osa Brand hired at end of May (2002) and is doing a meeting expenses and on travel by staff. reported that there was much interest in great job in helping to balance the edito- The Finance Committee will meet in Feb- the MyCOE (My Community, Our Earth) rial workload. Nortrup is taking primary ruary 2003 to propose a budget for fiscal exhibit at the WSSD meeting in Johan- responsibility for production of the Guide year 2004. nesburg, and that many South African to Programs in Geography in addition to teachers planned to participate in the ENDOWMENT CAMPAIGN. assisting with other editorial work. project. New educational projects under The theme of the Endowment Cam- Curt Roseman and Tom Hankins sub- development include an NSF proposal to paign is “Advancing Geography in Part- mitted a written report on the PlacesOnLine develop a Teacher’s Guide to Modern Geogra- nership with You: The Association of project. By October 2002, PlacesOnLine phy; an NSF/ROLE proposal for research American Geographers at the Centennial should include several links for Louisiana on spatial learning in college geography and Beyond.” Nellis is developing a cap- and New Orleans; the best of the Los classes; and a minority recruiting project Angeles links will be maintained on the ital campaign brochure and a case state- focused on community colleges. site. Roseman and Hankins will continue ment, which will be used when The ARGWorld project sponsored to promote the creation of place-based approaching corporations and founda- three teacher workshops during summer websites by geographers. tions. The campaign’s objective is to 2002, at Texas A&M, the University of Councillor Willmott asked about establish a $2M endowment by 2006. Western Michigan, and at the AAG office electronic publications and role of Publi- in Washington. About 40 teachers partici- MEMBERSHIP. cations Committee. Abler asked that pated in the workshops. The AAG contin- Abler reported that membership stood Willmott review a proposal from 1996 to ues its negotiations with Holt, Rinehart, at 5,866, which is typical for this time of establish an electronic publications over- Winston for distribution of the year. The transition to anniversary date sight committee, and recommended that a ARGUS/ARGWorld materials. renewal is mostly complete. A standing proposal be included on the agenda at the The NGS has withdrawn from a joint New Orleans council meeting. Willmott, Membership Committee, chaired by Julie initiative with the AAG and the NCGE for Lawson, and Richardson will work toward Winkler, is working on ways to enhance a shared educational affairs position. Nel- developing the proposal. membership in the Association, and Nellis lis suggested that the AAG/NCGE will The Council approved a proposal for has renewed his regional division mem- explore the option of working with the an Annals memorial for Evelyn Pruitt. bership challenge. NGS in another capacity. Membership Services Coordinator MERIDIAN PLACE OPERATIONS. Past President Monk presented Robert Andelman reviewed the software Richardson reported that staffing is the report of the Task Force on Geogra- and hardware upgrades in support nearly stable, and that he will be making phy Education, which was charged of new membership capabilities. Mem- additional hires for clerical/office support, with reviewing the structure, charge, bers can review and update personal internal office management, and project and activities of the various AAG educa- information, renew memberships, and development and coordination. AAG staff tional groups and to identify possible register for meetings online. Pledges to continue to do cross-training so that there organizational changes, if appropriate. endowment funds also will be tracked is some redundancy in expertise and in Monk outlined the process the Task Force via the new software. institutional memory. Richardson noted followed in gathering information and

12 AAG Newsletter www.aag.org Volume 38, Number 4 developing its recommendations, which development. The AAG, NGS, ESRI, and Gras), the opening session will be then were presented for action by the UNEP are the four organizing partners. Wednesday morning, and the opening Council. The Task Force recommended The MyCOE exhibit was set up at the reception is scheduled for Wednesday that the Association combine the existing World Summit on Sustainable Develop- evening. The banquet will be held on Fri- Committee on Community Colleges with ment in Johannesburg in August 2002, at day evening, followed by the presidential the Commission on College Geography the InterAmerican Development Bank address (as an open session) and a recep- II, to create a Committee on College annual meeting in Milan, and at the tion. The AAG will encourage depart- Geography, which would have representa- national AAG meeting. The AAG ments to sponsor a departmental table at tion across the range of post-secondary received requests for over 2,000 MyCOE the banquet. The AAG again will host a institutional levels and would include the kits, and about 250 projects were submit- reception for international visitors and President of the Community College ted. Discussions are ongoing about how will invite specialty groups to co-sponsor Affinity Group as an ex officio member. to carry this activity into the future. the event if they wish. A motion to identi- Councillor Foote suggested that the new Strategic initiatives primarily are fy (via ribbons or special badges) the committee also include some link to the focused on reaching out to public and pri- international attendees failed to garner a Geographic Education Specialty Group. vate sector geographers. Some examples second. The Council agreed that meeting The Council approved the recommenda- of projects being undertaken are the Map- tion of the Task Force. The charge to the ping the News conference (co-sponsored by badges might note one’s country of origin. new Committee on College Geography is the AAG) and the AAG’s involvement in The New Orleans Program Committee “to foster the development of programs the GIScience 2002 conference. will have a disability coordinator (follow- and resources to support and enhance ing from an earlier Council mandate). PLACEMENT AND OUTREACH PROGRAMS. undergraduate and graduate education, Upon request, the AAG will make reason- Richardson reported that the new Careers and the preparation and continuing train- able accommodations to people with in Geography brochure is selling well (the ing of faculty, in all types of institutions disabilities, per the Americans with Dis- where geography is taught; to promote first printing sold out within three weeks, abilities Act. Abler will respond to recent now on second printing). Richardson has and initiate projects that address human inquiries to describe the kinds of accom- been involved with NASA’s National resources and/or the development and dis- modations already provided by the AAG, Workforce Development Education and semination of educational materials; to and will work with the New Orleans Pro- Training Initiative, which is looking at sponsor educational activities at regional gram Committee to consider additional long-term national workforce needs related and national meetings or at specialized reasonable accommodations. Monk sug- to geographic technologies and geograph- workshops; and to initiate and maintain gested that we provide a link on the ic understanding. He also was contacted by ties with relevant national organizations AAG’s web site to the Geography Disci- dedicated to higher education.” the U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC)/Topograph- pline Network’s Learning Support for Disabled RESEARCH AND STRATEGIC INITIATIVES. ic Engineering Center (TEC). Geographers Students Undertaking Fieldwork and Related Research Division Director Richardson make up more than 20% of the workforce Activities web site (http://www.glos.ac.uk/ provided an update on current and pro- at TEC, and there is a need for more Ph.D. gdn/disabil/). While this site emphasizes posed AAG initiatives. geographers and more diversity in the support in fieldwork, Monk found it also Participants in the NSF-funded work- workforce. Representatives from the to have much general information of value shop on the Geographical Dimensions of ERDC/TEC plan to discuss these issues to geographers. Terrorism (24-26 January 2002) devel- with representatives from the AAG. Planning is well underway for the Cen- oped a series of research themes and tennial meeting in Philadelphia (14-19 action items; NSF published a pamphlet Richardson also has been exploring ideas March 2004). Stan Brunn reviewed a writ- describing these outcomes. The next step about how to improve the COPS experi- ten report from the Centennial Coordi- is to publish an edited book that expands ence for both jobseekers and employers. nating Committee on activities planned on the NSF pamphlet. The book will for the meeting. A project is underway at include contributions from many of the Continuing and New Business people who participated in the workshop, Michigan State University to digitize the plus a few others. The book may be pub- ANNUAL MEETINGS. Geographers on Film series, and funding is lished by the AAG or perhaps by Kluwer, Abler reported that there are plenty of being sought from the NEH to support and the NSF would like to have the book hotel rooms still available for the New this activity. Brunn noted that Wes Dow out very soon. Orleans meeting, and that having the may no longer conduct interviews after The MyCOE (My Community, Our meeting right after Mardi Gras has been the Philadelphia meeting, and that Coun- Earth) project is aimed at promoting very attractive to people overseas. There cil should think about who will take up geographic learning for sustainable will be no events on Tuesday (Mardi this project if Wes declines to continue.

www.aag.org AAG Newsletter 13 April 2003

There was some discussion of the submit an annual report for review by the AAG Executive Committee, 7 February titles of the two centennial publications, AAG Council.” 2003, Washington DC; AAG Council, 2- LandMinds: 100 Geographic Solutions to Saving In light of the calls for censure of a 4 March 2003, New Orleans LA; AAG Planet Earth and TechnoEarth: A Social Histo- paper presented at the Los Angeles meet- Executive Committee, September 2003, ry of Geography and Technology. The general ing, the council discussed whether the TBD; AAG Council, 17-19 October feeling among Council members was that AAG should have a policy statement on 2003, Kalamazoo MI; AAG Executive the subtitles might better serve as the scientific freedom of speech. Council rec- Committee, February 2004, TBD; AAG main titles for each volume. ommended that the Committee on Scien- Council, 13-14 March 2004, Philadel- The Council approved the addition of tific Freedom and Responsibility be phia PA; AAG Executive Committee, two new members to the Centennial Coor- charged with drafting a succinct policy September 2004, TBD; AAG Council, dinating Committee (one from the D.C. statement for presentation to the Council. October 2004, Sioux Falls SD. Nellis will contact the chair of the com- area, one from the Philadelphia area). CLOSED SESSION mittee and pass along Council’s request. Murphy discussed the idea of replacing The Council met in closed session to the single presidential plenary in Philadel- HONORS AND AWARDS. act on the Executive Committee’s recom- phia with a series of plenaries, one at the Abler reported that one nomination for mendation that, upon his retirement, Ron end of each day. The plenaries could serve 2003 Honorary Geographer (along with Abler be recognized as AAG Executive as a compelling coming-together point to several supporting letters) has already Director Emeritus. The recommendation talk about where geography is going, been received. Nominations are due at the was passed unanimously. to showcase up-and-coming geography end of 2002, with the final selection made ADJOURNMENT and geographers, to reflect on how “out- by the Executive Committee. John There being no additional business, siders” see us, and to think about geogra- McPhee was the nominee for 2002 Hon- President Nellis adjourned the meeting at phy’s “big questions.” orary Geographer. 12:45 p.m. on 8 September 2002. ■ Abler confirmed that the 2005 meet- The council discussed the status of the ing in Denver (5-9 April) will be held at AAG book and article awards. Council Respectfully submitted, the Adams Mark Hotel, and the 2006 approved the Executive Committee’s rec- Katherine Klink, AAG Secretary meeting in Chicago (7-11 March) will be ommendation that book award citations be held at the Palmer House Hilton. Both published in the AAG Newsletter as well as sites can accommodate the annual meet- listed in the AAG Guide to Graduate Programs ing in-house. in Geography. Publication in these outlets parallels the public citations of AAG Hon- COMMITTEES AND COUNCIL. ors recipients. Council was pleased to note The council approved the Honors that, in the June 2002 New York Review of Members Present Iraq Committee’s recommendations for honors Books, Johns Hopkins University Press War Petition at AAG to be presented at the AAG meeting in included three geography titles among its New Orleans. The council also approved list of award-winning books. Business Meeting the Nominating Committee’s recommen- Article awards have been delayed Attendees of the AAG business dations of nominees for the next election because criteria and procedures have not meeting, held on 8 March 2003 in of AAG National Councillors and AAG yet been developed. Council approved the New Orleans, Louisiana, presented Vice President. Executive Committee’s recommendations the Association with a petition The council reviewed and approved to (1) disband the current Article Awards signed by 373 attendees, opposing the minutes of the March 2002 AAG Committee and to (2) ask the Honors a possible pre-emptive strike on Council meeting in Los Angeles. Committee to draft criteria and procedures Iraq by the United States. The peti- The council approved the charge to for the article awards to be presented to tion stated, “As members of the the AAG Membership Committee of Council. Items the Honors Committee should consider in their deliberations Association of American Geogra- “…monitoring membership trends of the include eligibility; the nomination proce- phers, we oppose a pre-emptive war Association, and developing, and where dure; the publication outlet; and the “win- on Iraq.” The petition was turned appropriate bringing forward to the AAG dow” of allowable publication date(s). over to the AAG secretary so that Council, strategies for enhancing and it would become a part of the diversifying the AAG’s membership. The FUTURE COUNCIL AND EXECUTIVE permanent record of the 2003 committee should communicate regularly COMMITTEE MEETINGS. Annual Meeting. ■ on their ongoing work, meet at least once The proposed schedule for future exec- per year at the AAG Annual Meeting, and utive committee and council meetings is:

14 AAG Newsletter www.aag.org January 2004

AAG Council Meeting Minutes New Orleans, LA • 2-4 March 2003

Attending: M. Duane Nellis, President; Janice J. Review of Geography Programs—Regional continue to be strong, especially in GIS. She stated Monk, Past-President; Alexander B. Murphy, Vice-Pres- Councillor Reports that the State of California is working on a formal ident; Katherine Klink, Secretary and Regional Councillor East Lakes: Kent stated that the division’s 2002 articulation for transfer of credits from community (West Lakes Division); and Robert B. Kent, Treasurer and meeting was hosted by Central Michigan Universi- colleges to universities, which would be helpful for Regional Councillor (East Lakes Division). National Coun- ty in Mount Pleasant, and the East and West Lakes many geography students. She also thanked the cillors: Sarah Witham Bednarz, Kenneth Foote, will be meeting jointly in 2003 at Western Michigan AAG office for running the profile on APCG in the Victoria A. Lawson, Kent Mathewson, James R. University in Kalamazoo. He reported that no AAG Newsletter. Shortridge, and Cort J. Willmott. Regional Councillors: programs in the region reported (unusual) trouble. Great Plains-Rocky Mountain: Napton reported Percy H. Dougherty (Middle States Division), Tenure-track faculty replacements have been strong that the 2002 meeting in Missoula, MT, was very Sheryl Luzzadder-Beach (Middle Atlantic Division), over the past few years. The demographic transition well attended, and that the 2003 meeting will be Darrell E. Napton (Great Plains-Rocky Mountains of faculty is largely complete; few additional faculty hosted by Kansas State University. He stated that Division), Kavita K. Pandit (Southeastern Division), will be retiring so faculty lines are less likely to the USGS/EROS Data Center in Sioux Falls also has Fred M. Shelley (Southwestern Division), and Judy be lost due to budget cuts. Kent noted that most had cutbacks, though forest fire research and “home- Walton (Pacific Coast Division). AAG Staff: Execu- geographers in the region are in smaller, and some- land security” activities remain strongly supported. tive Director Douglas B. Richardson, and Director times in joint, departments, such as geography and The term “geography” is being used more widely of Research and Outreach Patricia Solís. planning. It may become increasingly important to within the USGS, with a number of people within seek alliances within universities to foster cluster the agency who are supporting geographic issues. Regrets: Leon I. Yacher, Regional Councillor (New hires or joint positions. Middle Atlantic: Luzzadder-Beach reported that England-St. Lawrence Valley Division). Southeast: Pandit reported that the undergraduate geography seems to be doing well in the region: for geography program at Western Carolina has been example, enrollments are up at George Washington Visitors: Thomas Baerwald, National Councillor-Elect. phased out, and the Geography and Geology Depart- University, which will be hiring a replacement for a ments were merged at the University of Memphis. retiring geography faculty member; Frostburg State AGENDA AND LOGISTICS Many schools are capitalizing on GIS (and physical University’s Geography Department has moved into President Nellis called the meeting to order at 3:15 geography, to a lesser extent) to keep themselves a newly renovated building with new labs for teach- p.m. on Sunday, 2 March, and welcomed the coun- afloat. West Liberty State College (West Virginia) ing, GIS, and physical geography; and George cil to New Orleans. President Nellis proposed (and has a new geography major, the University of Mason University hopes to be replacing two posi- the Council approved) two modifications to the Louisville (Kentucky) initiated a master’s program in tions in geography and expanding connections with agenda prepared by President Nellis and Executive applied geography with specialization in GIS, the other units on campus, mostly through physical Director Richardson. The Council voted unani- University of South Florida has a new Ph.D. program geography and GIScience. Luzzadder-Beach also mously to adopt the modified agenda. focusing on geography, environmental science, and reported on a survey conducted by the chair of the policy, and the University of North Carolina-Greens- division as to why its members do not always renew APPROVAL OF MINUTES boro has a new Ph.D. program in applied geography. their memberships. Fifty percent of the respondents The council approved the minutes of the September Middle States: Dougherty reported that small cited better opportunities and/or support in their 2002 AAG Council meeting in Washington, DC. programs in the region are feeling the largest specialized areas of research from disciplines outside impacts from budget reductions. Throughout the of Geography; the second most important reason CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNI- region, retirements are not being replaced or are was “distance decay” (members in areas far from TIES FOR THE ASSOCIATION being replaced by adjunct or temporary faculty. DC); and the third most important reason boiled Funding increasingly is based on “formulas” that rely down to lack of time. President’s Priorities on numbers of students, types of activities, faculty New England-St. Lawrence Valley: Yacher was out of President Nellis reported that there has been good productivity, graduation rates, and so on. Several the country and unable to attend the meeting. success with the initial efforts of the Endowment geography programs in the region are housed in Southwest: Shelley reported that many universities Campaign (revisited later in these minutes). AAG “combined” departments, such as Geography- in the region are seeing higher enrollments but membership is strong this year, with many renewals Planning, Geography-Environmental Science, less funding. Geography programs are holding and new memberships processed in the first few and Geography-International Studies. He reported their own, and a new geography major has been months of 2003. Nellis described his objectives with the formation of a new Department of Planning instituted at Texas Christian University in Fort the Presidential Plenary, focused on crossing bound- at Temple, which specializes in GIS but has no Worth. Many geographers are concerned about the aries and building partnerships between academic geographers among the program faculty. Dougherty effects of funding cuts on education for underrepre- and non-academic geography. He discussed also also reported the development of a Ph.D. program sented communities (African-American, Latino). effects on higher education of state budget shortfalls, in Environmental Sciences at Montclair University, The division’s 2002 meeting was held in Laredo, and and his belief that the decline in state support is like- which is being led by their Geography Department. the 2003 meeting will be in Stillwater, OK. Shelley ly to be a long-term trend. Nellis observed that uni- The division’s 2002 meeting was held in Montclair, noted that geographers at Stephen F. Austin Univer- versities have become more “businesslike” in their NJ, and the next meeting will be in Albany, NY. sity were among those who used GPS technology to financial concerns, and increasingly are evaluating Pacific Coast: Walton indicated that the 2002 map and assist recovery of debris from the loss of programs in terms of productivity measures, student meeting in San Bernardino was very successful, and the Space Shuttle Columbia on 1 February 2003. credit hours, research dollars, Ph.D. productivity, that the 2003 meeting will be hosted by Portland West Lakes: Klink said that the 2002 meeting in numbers of undergraduate majors, and the contribu- State University. She characterized the feeling Minneapolis was well attended but that, apparently, tion of geography departments to the mission of the within the region as “gloom and retrenchment but this did not carry over into increased membership in college and university. with some bright spots.” Enrollments in geography the region. She reported that budget cuts were

18 AAG Newsletter www.aag.org Volume 39, Number 1 affecting universities throughout the region, but between U.S. and Russian, Eastern European, and office has been working hard to reduce expenses, that the University of Northern Iowa received a new Central Asian geographers. including increased use of on-line membership serv- faculty line in geography despite budget cuts in the ices because these save significant amounts of staff state and university. Vice President’s Priorities time. Meeting registration fees will increase but he Vice President Murphy’s priorities include (1) enhanc- felt that the amounts were still accessible for most Review of Topical Developments— ing the role of geography in public debate, (2) bridg- people. Kent noted that he expected there to be a National Councillor Reports ing the intra-disciplinary divide, and (3) diversity small positive balance for FY 2003, followed by a The national councillors led a discussion of the enhancement. He has been working with individuals modest surplus for FY 2004. January 2003 report of the NSF Advisory Committee at the National Research Council to put together a The Finance Committee moved that there be a for Environmental Research and Education (ERE) proposal for a major study focused on the origins of 2% inflation-based dues increase for FY 2004. The titled “Complex Environmental Systems: Synthesis for terrorism and the changing role of international motion was approved by Council (16 in favor, one Earth, Life, and Society in the 21st Century.” relations. Another potential opportunity for geogra- opposed). The FY 2004 Budget approved unani- Councillor Bednarz felt that the report was clear as to phy is a possible Cambridge Studios/PBS project on mously by the Council. the promotion of interdisciplinary studies but that the “Science of Geography,” which would be a follow- there is a lag within universities as to support and up to the “Power of Place” series, but focused more on Endowment Campaign: “Advancing rewards for interdisciplinary studies. Universities the nature of geography itself. Murphy has tenatively Geography in Partnership with You” will need to be more flexible in supporting interdisci- agreed to serve as one of two senior content advisors President Nellis stated that about 75 individuals plinary coursework and research, but will this be for the project. He discussed briefly some ideas about already have made commitments during the at the expense of established disciplines, especially how to encourage geographers to comment publicly campaign’s “silent phase,” and funds to date total geography? President Nellis offered that universities on events of the day: op-ed pieces and radio inter- about $200,000 in addition to two bequests. A need to revise how overhead cost recovery is handled views might be the easiest available outlets. Could we brochure describing the campaign will be in each with respect to interdisciplinary grants. Councillor get a handful of our most thoughtful and articulate registration packet in New Orleans. Individuals can Willmott thought that the ERE report showed a lack people to do an op-ed piece, or consent to be inter- pledge funds to a number of categories, which now of “systems thinking” and was missing a historical viewed on particular subjects? He observed that cul- includes an “Enhancing Diversity” fund. The AAG underpinning. Councillor Lawson felt that human tivating the media is a difficult endeavor, and he is has an agreement with a professional advisor (at AAG expense) to work with individuals who wish to geographers are left out and that environmental considering hosting a workshop at the Philadelphia set up a charitable remainder trust. The endowment research and education should include more about AAG meeting about how to work with the media. is important in helping to put the AAG on stable humans as a component (and agent?) of the environ- Murphy stated his belief that what we have in financial footing, and in allowing the Association to ment. Baerwald offered that the ERE report is not common (as geographers) could give us greater undertake strategic initiatives. an NSF “document,” rather it was produced by an strength in difficult economic times, and he will seek advisory committee. One of the most valuable to foster more intra-disciplinary interaction along Membership outcomes of the ERE project was that people from a these lines. The Philadelphia Centennial meeting will President Nellis reported that membership has very broad range of communities came together and include broadly based plenary sessions at the end of increased to about 7,100, and stands at about 8,400 universally were excited about this topic. He stated each day, which hopefully will serve as a point of when institutional members are included. Richard- also that the broader construct of ideas within the ERE interaction for all geographers. He also would like to son said that the conversion to anniversary date report will guide NSF into the future, and that highlight cross-cutting research articles in the Annals. renewals will be complete by the end of 2003, and geography is known as one of the first good examples Murphy observed that geographers from various that dues renewal notices will go out automatically of an integrative field in the human-environment area. subdisciplines can benefit from talking to each other, to those whose memberships are up for renewal. Executive Director Richardson observed (and Coun- even if they don’t formally work together on particu- AAG Membership Director Robert Andelman cillor Klink agreed) that the ERE report is not a report lar projects. reported on several changes in membership process- about geography, it’s a report about environmental sci- ing, including upgrades to computer systems and ence from the NSF, and that what is impressive is that Executive Director’s Introductory networks in the central office that allow for geography is a big part of what should be going on. Comments enhanced web-based membership services. The new Executive Director Richardson stated that the AAG is web site will include a search function, and plans are International Activities and Programs working to help implement the initiatives being devel- in progress to develop an on-line jobs bank to allow Past president Monk stated that the International oped, and feels the Association is making real progress. members to post resumes and to allow employers to Reception at the New Orleans meeting is being He congratulated the AAG staff for their hard work in search resumes and post jobs. supported by the AAG and six (of eight) regional support of the New Orleans meeting. He updated the Nellis reported that over the past year, the New specialty groups. Four Mexican departments of Council on new staff at AAG central office: Patricia England-St. Lawrence Valley division had the largest geography now are included in the AAG’s Guide to Solís (Director of Research and Outreach), Robert percentage increase in membership and the Associa- Graduate Programs. The South Africa workshop on Andelman (Membership Services Coordinator), and tion of Pacific Coast Geographers had the largest “Race, Space, and Urban Development” has generated Oscar Larson (Sustainable Development Specialist). absolute increase in members. at least one NSF proposal and a couple of more are The current staff consists of about 10 people, which A survey conducted by the Membership Commit- in the works. Monk and Mick Healy (Gloucester Richardson felt is “a little too lean,” but increases in tee showed that a large number of the faculty in Ph.D. University) participated in a meeting organized by staffing await a more stable financial climate. departments are not AAG members, that eight of 49 the American Association of Higher Education to Ph.D. program chairs were not AAG members, and foster collaboration between U.K. subject centers in eight of 38 M.A./M.S. program chairs were not AAG Learning and Teaching and U.S. disciplinary associ- STATUS OF THE ASSOCIATION members. Nellis asked each Council member to iden- ations. They are developing plans for future joint tify the three top reasons as to why they are members efforts (see below, Educational Affairs). The Russian, Finance of the AAG; the resulting list may help the Associa- Eastern European, and Central Asian Specialty Treasurer Kent reported that the Association’s finan- tion better identify what it “does” for its members, and Group, through chair Bob Kaiser (Madison) has cial status has been improving. He reviewed for the why membership is important for individuals as well received an NSF grant to help build a network Council the Auditor’s Report for FY 2002. The AAG as for the discipline.

www.aag.org AAG Newsletter 19 January 2004

Publications Journal Operations Richardson outlined the Association’s continued Publications Committee Chair Willmott stated that AAG Director of Publications Amy Jo Woodruff support for conferences such as Mapping the News, Roger Kasperson will be stepping down as the reported that the new Guide to Graduate Programs in the GIScience conference, and the National Confer- Nature-Society Editor for the Annals. A search for a Geography now is available. Work flow for the ence on Science, Policy and the Environment. new editor is underway. Association’s journals is going more smoothly, sub- Richardson reported that the Race, Place, and Willmott and Murphy led a discussion about ject to hills and valleys in submission rates (more Ethnicity conference in Binghamton, NY, was very how to encourage submission of cross-cutting manuscripts received in July and August than well attended, and the organizers hope to continue papers to the Annals. Topics might include the at other times of year) and the availability and this event. Discussion ensued as to how best to history of geographic thought; complex analysis in cooperation of reviewers. Recently some glitches support the goals of the conference. The Enhanc- geography; the role of GIS in critical geography; with typesetting have delayed printing of the Profes- ing Diversity fund now is part of the Endowment and the challenges of scale for physical and human sional Geographer, but this issue seems to be resolving campaign, and this will be an important way to geography. Several Council members agreed that a itself. Several Annals memorials are in process. support these activities. Richardson noted also that good “niche” for the Annals would be to encourage Editors Basil Gomez, Truman Hartshorn, and Solís is involved in a White House initiative publication of such integrative pieces. Baerwald sug- Audrey Kobayashi described the manuscript flow for focused on educational excellence for Hispanic gested that the Annals could be “the” place where the Annals and the Professional Geographer. They stated Americans. A motion was made to create an (for example) biologists, geologists, historians, and that authors are a little impatient about the length of Ad Hoc Task Force on Diversity, whose charge sociologists would go to learn how geography can time it takes to get into press (a little over a year) and would be “to facilitate ongoing AAG initiatives on contribute to research in allied disciplines. Murphy that editors need to work on increasing the speed of diversity and to recommend a set of long term agreed to draft a proposal regarding cross-cutting the reviews. They observed that most manuscripts goals for the AAG in enhancing diversity within research articles for the Annals, to be forwarded for seem to be coming from recent graduates rather than geography.” The motion was approved unani- consideration by the Publications Committee. The established scholars. Baerwald asked what the editors mously by Council. Publications Committee also will be asked to rec- might be doing to establish the Annals as a forum for Richardson outlined efforts to develop relation- ommend how these submissions will be handled by broader interaction and interchange among allied dis- ships with various charitable foundations, including the Editors. ciplines? Gomez thought this question appropriate the Ford Foundation, the Kellogg Foundation, and Richardson reviewed a proposal by Blackwell to for the entire discipline. the Tinker Foundation. add the Association’s journals (Annals, Professional Geographer) to the “Synergy” package of online Educational Affairs journals that they market to libraries. The AAG’s Meridian Place Operations Educational Affairs Director Osa Brand reviewed journals then would become freely available to any- Executive Director Richardson felt that the AAG has the status of a number of currently funded projects, one who has access to Synergy. Richardson stated been able to hire a number of good people, but that that the issue is not whether to go online, rather the the office is still “one person deep” in many key areas. including ARGWorld and a web-based project on issue is how to go online. There are obvious benefits Staff will do cross-training to try to develop internal Global Geography Education. Projects under to having broader circulation of the journal, but backup support. Richardson stated that some development include a spatial learning project there is some concern about the possible impact on improvements are needed in the accounting group, (NRC, AAG), Investigating Cities from Space (NASA, individual and institutional AAG memberships. Cur- and he is investigating the possibility of augmenting AAG), the Teacher’s Guide to Modern Geography (NSF, rently, Blackwell still requires libraries that the staff with supplemental contract support. AAG), and several minority recruiting projects. subscribe to Synergy to maintain hard copies of Richardson reported that past litigation involv- Brand also described several current projects in journals as well. This requirement may not continue ing the AAG recently was settled, with no wrong- which the AAG is involved, but without monetary into the future, however. Richardson said that doing admitted on behalf of the Association. compensation. discussions with Blackwell will continue, and that Richardson informed the Council that there will Monk reported on a potential collaboration the Finance Committee will consider the financial be some expenditures this year for needed mainte- between the AAG and the UK Learning and Teach- implications of the proposal. nance and upgrades at Meridian Place. ing Network for Geography, Earth, and Environ- Kent and Richardson presented a recommenda- mental Sciences (GEES). The group is working tion of the Executive Committee that the AAG Research and Outreach Initiatives towards a collaborative workshop in 2004 following Newsletter be published 11 times per year, rather than Richardson and Solís reported that the Geographical the IGU Congress in Glasgow and is also exploring 12 times (the August issue would be dropped). This Dimensions of Terrorism book has been published; other opportunities. Bednarz reported that GENIP reduction would save the Association between the editors of the book have donated all royalties to has partnered with Travelocity to set up an annual $8,000-9,000 per year in printing and shipping the AAG. This NSF-funded initiative has spawned a award for excellence in geographic education. costs. News and job postings are available on the good deal of subsequent research. The MyCOE (My Baerwald reported that NSF has convened a group AAG web site, so information still will be available Community, Our Earth) project is completing its first of educators from across the social and behavioral to the membership. Several council members com- phase and plans are in development for phase II of the sciences (including Brand) to address fundamental mented that, in the past, there had only been 11 project. High school and college students from progress in (K-12 through post-doc) education in issues of the Newsletter, and the move to 12 issues 27 countries submitted MyCOE projects, which our fields. per year was a relatively recent development. Coun- have been showcased in Johannesburg, Milan, and cil approved the motion to move from 12 to 11 Washington, DC (among other locations). Solís Placement Programs issues of the Newsletter for FY 2004 (17 in favor, 2 submitted a grant proposal to cover expenses for Richardson observed that CoPS activity had opposed). Kent requested that the Newsletter carry an phase II, with the AAG acting as the fiscal agent for dwindled over the years and now has a very minimal article to explain the reasons for this change. the multi-agency project (as it did for phase I). The presence at annual meeting. In response, the Associ- Richardson asked council members to review the AAG will work to formally assess the impact of the ation has changed the format of CoPS to bring PlacesOnLine web site and recommended that the MyCOE projects for students as well as communities. together at the meeting a set of job resources, such AAG continue to support its development. Richardson observed that many organizations that as sessions on academic and non-academic employ- PlacesOnLine has functioned as the “local publica- also are interested in education and outreach increas- ment in geography, mentoring early career faculty, tion” for the region where the annual meeting is ingly are seeking partnerships with the AAG. For and research and career opportunities. The New held. If this function is to continue, PlacesOnLine example, the American Council on Education has Orleans meeting will include 700-1,000 job postings will need to have this content posted about four invited the AAG to participate in its international that will give students and faculty members a better months prior to the annual meeting. education initiatives. idea of the kinds jobs that are available. Bednarz

20 AAG Newsletter www.aag.org 78307AAG_Jan04_B_R4 12/30/03 3:29 PM Page 21

Volume 39, Number 1

suggested that the “essence” of this activity should Murphy led a discussion about names for the Future Council and Executive be available to people who didn’t come to the meet- AAG’s Book Awards. After discussion of several possi- Committee Meetings ing, perhaps via the AAG web site. ble alternatives, the Council approved unanimously The proposed schedule for future executive commit- the following names: the AAG Globe Book Award for Pub- tee and council meetings is: CONTINUING AND lic Understanding of Geography, and the AAG Meridian Book AAG Executive Committee, September 2003, TBD NEW BUSINESS Award for the Outstanding Scholarly Work in Geography. AAG Council, 17-19 October 2003, Kalamazoo MI Nellis presented a proposal to Council for a new AAG Executive Committee, February 2004, TBD Annual Meetings Presidential Achievement Award. The proposal was AAG Council, 13-14 March 2004, Philadelphia PA Richardson reported that to date there are about developed in consultation with the AAG Executive AAG Executive Committee, September 2004, TBD 3,700 registrants for the New Orleans meeting. Committee. The purpose of the award is to recog- AAG Council, October 2004, Sioux Falls SD Participation guidelines for the meeting are nize individuals for long-term contributions published in the meeting program. The meeting to geography that may have been overlooked by Resolutions web site includes information for members with the Association within any particular year. Some Two resolutions were approved unanimously by the disabilities. The Philadelphia Centennial meeting councillors expressed concern that this award may council. will be a big event, and the Association wants to short-circuit the existing Honors process; others Whereas, Janice Monk, as Vice President, President, encourage people to attend. A commemorative observed that this award is more akin to a “Con- and Past President of the Association of Ameri- poster for the Centennial will be available at the gressional Award” for longstanding contributions to can Geographers, has exercised exceptional New Orleans meeting. the discipline. Council approved establishment of leadership in assisting the Association in work- Future meetings are scheduled for Denver (5-9 the award (15 in favor, 1 opposed, 1 abstention). ing to strengthen international links for aca- April 2005) and Chicago (7-11 March 2006). Coun- demic geography and geographic education, cil authorized Richardson to work to finalize plans to Specialty Groups and in promoting diversity within the AAG and hold the 2007 meeting in San Francisco. Councillor Lawson reviewed several issues raised in among its membership; Disability issues: packet and website include info the reports submitted by Specialty Group chairs. Therefore Be It Resolved that the Association of Ameri- for disability issues and also for learning network for Concerns mostly center on reporting formats, the can Geographers, assembled in New Orleans, students with disabilities. role of Specialty Group chairs, and the slow response Louisiana, on the occasion of its 99th annual Co-chair Don Janelle reported on the Centennial of the AAG regarding Specialty Group payments. meeting, heartily thanks Jan for her leadership Coordinating Committee’s preparations for the Richardson stated that it is important for the mainte- of the Association during the past three years, Centennial meeting in Philadelphia. The Geographers nance of the AAG’s 501(c)3 status that Specialty and especially for her efforts to improve the on Film archive is moving to Michigan State Groups submit their reports on time. Lawson pointed links between research and education, to University, and the move is nearly complete. The out that the AAG’s Standing Rules state that Special- address issues of diversity, and to enhance the Geography in America Timeline is on-line through George ty Group chairs should file their reports after the standing of the discipline around the world. Washington University; editing is nearly finished for AAG annual meeting, which has the benefit of manuscripts to appear in WorldMinds and about 15 of linking up with the fiscal year cycle. Lawson also Whereas, Councillors of the Association of American the 20 chapters for the Social History book are in hand. suggested that the AAG web site should include a Geographers expend substantial time and effort Copies of both books will be given out to members at link that shows the roles and responsibilities of advancing the causes of the Association and the the 2004 meeting. The winner of the Centennial logo Specialty Group chairs. Richardson stated that many Discipline; and contest is Ms. Lian Tan, a graphic artist originally specialty groups are moving their funds to the AAG Whereas, the Council of the Association of American from Malaysia and now living in the United States. office, rather than maintaining separate accounts. Geographers has confronted difficult issues and Committees and Council Lawson relayed a request by the Geography of responded to unusual opportunities during the the Bible Specialty Group asking the AAG to pub- Secretary Klink presented the recommendations of last three years, The Geography of the Holy Land the Committee on Committees. The recommenda- lish their book on Therefore Be It Resolved that the Association of Ameri- tions were approved unanimously by Council, in coordination with the Centennial meeting. can Geographers, assembled in New Orleans, th which also authorized the Committee to finalize Richardson stated that the Centennial Planning Louisiana, on the occasion of its 99 annual any remaining details via e-mail. Committee solicited book proposals some time ago, meeting, extends warm appreciation to retiring The AAG Executive Committee nominated and this request has come in a bit late. Some AAG Councillors Victoria Lawson, James R. Kavita Pandit to serve as AAG Secretary and Darrell councillors noted that other specialty groups are Shortridge, Percy H. Dougherty, Fred Shelley, Napton to serve as AAG Treasurer. The Council supporting their own publications. Council Katherine Klink, and Robert B. Kent for the approved unanimously the nominations. Pandit will ultimately chose to decline the Geography of the energy, time, and talent they have contributed serve as Secretary and Napton as Treasurer for terms Bible Specialty Group’s request. to the Association during their terms on the beginning on 1 July 2003 and extending through The Cultural Ecology Specialty Group submit- AAG Council. the completion of their appointments to Council ted for approval its proposal for the James M. Blaut (30 June 2005). Innovative Publication Award. The award was approved Adjournment Richardson updated the Council about the unanimously, with the stipulation that the award is There being no additional business, President Nellis activities of the Long Range Planning Committee. named for the Cultural Ecology Specialty Group adjourned the meeting at 12:15 p.m. on 4 March The Committee now has three co-chairs (Tom Baer- and not the AAG. 2003. ■ wald, Susan Cutter, and Alec Murphy) to better The Community College Affinity Group submit- manage the work load. A subcommittee will meet ted a request for reduced meeting registration fees for Respectfully submitted, this spring to develop a preliminary draft of the long community college students. Several councillors Katherine Klink, AAG Secretary range plan. noted that there already exists a reduced rate for stu- dents. Rather than institute a new rate, Council Honors and Awards thought the Association should make it more widely The Council endorsed unanimously the Executive known that there already is a program in place where- Committee’s nomination of Cynthia Enloe (Clark by people with financial hardship can apply for a University) as the 2003 Honorary Geographer. rebate of registration fees.

www.aag.org AAG Newsletter 21 March 2004

Association of American Geographers Council Meeting Minutes

Kalamazoo, MI plans to capitalize on the centennial meeting by active role in the diversity taskforce constituted by 18-19 October 2003 bringing in some high profile public figures such as Past President Duane Nellis. Lawson will also work Rita Colwell, Director of the National Science with Richardson in organizing the next conference Attending: Alec Murphy, President; Duane Nellis, Foundation, and other scholars such as Jeffrey Sachs on Race/Ethnicity and Place which will be held at Past-President; Vicky Lawson, Vice-President; Kavita and Cynthia Enloe. He is also working to get geog- Howard University. Pandit, Secretary and Regional Councillor (Southeastern raphy’s research in front of the media. Murphy, A third priority is the Early Career development of Division); and Darrell Napton, Treasurer and Regional along with the presidents of NGS and NCGE will geography faculty. Lawson will work with Ken Councillor (Great Plains-Rocky Mountains Division). prepare a couple of statements for publication in Foote’s Geography Faculty Development Alliance National Councillors: Thomas Baerwald, Sarah Bed- national newspapers, perhaps in conjunction with summer workshops. Other activities will include the narz, Kent Mathewson, Ann Oberhauser, and Cort the Geography Centennial. Another effort he is organization of panels at the AAG meetings and Willmott. Regional Councillors: Samuel Areetey-Attoh engaged in is the construction of a list of geogra- reviving the AAG’s Phoenix group with the goal (East Lakes Division), Jon Kilpinen (West Lakes phers that are conducting research on issues that are toward developing a new cohort of future leaders for Division), Sheryl Luzzadder-Beach (Middle Atlantic in the public eye and bringing this research to the the AAG. Division), Paul Matthews (Southwestern Division), attention of the broader community. Murphy is also Finally, Lawson plans to showcase geography’s Gregory Pope (Middle States Division), Judy Wal- working to get the NRC interested in a follow up to role in promoting Social Justice through conference ton (Pacific Coast Division), Leon Yacher (New the successful Geographic Dimensions of Terrorism plenaries, workshops etc. England-St. Lawrence Valley). AAG Staff: Executive study. Preliminary discussions are also underway to Director Douglas Richardson and Deputy Director pursue a documentary on geography for broadcast Review of Geography Programs Patricia Solís. on PBS. Finally, Murphy made reference to his Southeastern Division. Pandit reported that the recent trip to Tehran to give a keynote address at an 2003 SEDAAG meeting will take place in late Regrets: Kenneth Foote, National Councillor. International Geography Congress. This trip pro- November in Charlotte, NC. More information on vided him with an excellent public opportunity to the status of geography departments in the region Visitors: Joe Darden, Chair, AAG Diversity Taskforce; frame the issues of the day geographically. will be available after this, but at present the region’s Stan Brunn, Co-Chair, Centennial Coordinating Committee; Efforts to foster great interdisciplinary dialogue geography programs are managing despite severe Karl Zimmerer, Candidate for the editorship of the Nature- include the organization of plenary sessions at the budget cuts in some states. Society section of the Annals of the AAG; Robin Friedman, 2004 centennial meeting. These sessions will cap Mid-Atlantic Division: Luzzader-Beach reported AAG Journals Manager; and Michael Solem, AAG Edu- each day with presentations from high profile indi- that there has been a recent move to broaden the cational Affairs Director. viduals within and outside of geography that speak participation in the division beyond the traditional to the breadth of the discipline. Comments made at focus in the Washington, DC area. A variety of PRELIMINARIES two of the plenaries will be published in a Centen- activities are planned across the region throughout President Murphy called the meeting to order nial Forum section in the December 2004 issue of the year. University of Maryland has become more at 8:05 a.m. on Saturday, October 18. He intro- the Annals. President Murphy is also working with active in the MAD-AAG. duced David Dickason, Chair of the Department the editors of the Annals to work out the details in Great Plains-Rocky Mountains Division: Napton of Geography at Western Michigan University a plan to include cross-cutting papers as lead articles reported that the recent meeting held in Manhattan, who welcomed the Council to Kalamazoo. Presi- in each issue of the Annals. KS had one of the highest attendance in recent dent Murphy welcomed the new council members. Murphy informed the Council that with respect years with over 200 attendees. Univ of Colorado at The agenda for the meeting was adopted subject to to increasing the diversity within the discipline, he Denver and University of Kansas are expanding. a few minor revisions. will work closely with Vice President Lawson and New England-St. Lawrence Valley Division. : Yacher The council approved the minutes of the March Past President Duane Nellis who were also engaged reported that the most recent meeting of the divi- 2003 AAG Council meeting held in New Orleans, in this effort. sion, held in Hartford CT was well attended and had Louisiana. four concurrent sessions including a special session Vice President’s Priorities on the future of the NESTVAL Division. There was CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNI- Vice President Vicky Lawson told the Council of some concern about the lack of participation of larg- TIES FOR THE ASSOCIATION the 4 areas on which she intends to focus. The first of er geography departments in the region and the these was a Healthy Departments initiative focused on absence of geography programs in the many liberal President’s Priorities strengthening the positions of geography programs arts schools in the region. Next year’s conference President Murphy stated that in recent months within their college and university environments. will be in Farmington Maine, and there is discussion much of his time has been devoted to planning for Toward this end, Lawson is organizing a summer of a joint meeting with the Maritime Provinces in the centennial meeting. However he is also interest- workshop for department chairs which would bring the future. Despite budget cuts, departments have ed in pursuing three objectives: enhancing geogra- them together with geographers that were involved been able to survive and even grow. Department of phy’s role in public debate, fostering intra-discipli- in different levels of university administration. The Geography at UMass Boston has been dissolved. nary dialogue and diversifying the membership of first workshop is tentatively scheduled for the end of NESTVAL region led all the regions in the relative the AAG. June 2004. growth in the AAG membership this year. With regards to geography’s role in public Lawson’s second priority is increasing diversity in Pacific Coast Division: Walton reported that this debate, Murphy, working together with Richardson, geography. She stated that she intends to play an year's meeting was held at Portland State University

18 AAG Newsletter www.aag.org Volume 39, Number 3 and was one of the highest attended ever. After the He also raised the question of whether associate ing. Through a number of changes including losses from the Santa Barbara meeting (due to 9/11), memberships could be offered to non-geographers. improvements in membership processing, the the financially successful San Bernardino (2002) and Oberhauser brought up the need to emphasize membership has now has turned around. A third Portland State (2003) meetings have put APCG the relevance of the AAG especially since some of priority was the centennial campaign. At present accounts back in the black. Membership has grown, the best and brightest scholars in geography are this has raised $468,000 not including annuities and the region had the highest absolute growth in moving away from the discipline. According to and bequests. Nellis is continuing to work on AAG membership last year, winning the AAG's chal- her, the AAG needs to use the centennial not only internal and external fundraising initiatives. Finally, lenge award. Overall news from the region is good to focus on our successes but also to engage in the diversity taskforce established by Nellis has despite budget cuts. However, the small geography some critical reflection. made good strides and will continue its mission department at Eastern Oregon University is in danger Wilmott observed that Council membership does under Lawson’s leadership. of being eliminated. not include explicitly representation from our most Southwest Division: Matthews reported Central popular and active specialty groups (for example, Executive Director’s Comments Arkansas now has a geography department and the GIS, Remote Sensing and Urban SGs). He also Richardson began by thanking the Council for Oklahoma State is now offering geography Ph.D.s. noted that the AAG journals are primarily directed the opportunity to serve as the Executive Director, This year’s meeting will be held in Stillwater, OK. toward a geography audience and attract a limited and Nellis, Murphy and Lawson for their support. Middle States: Pope reported that the division was readership from other disciplines. As a result, Following this he presented the highlights of AAG actively involved in the planning for the Centennial physical geographers and others often send their activities over the past year. These included the finan- meeting. Syracuse University is shoring up its offer- best pieces to more visible journals. Wilmott cial health of the AAG, growth in membership, the ings in physical geography through new hires. New wondered if the AAG could put out a few more hire of a new Journals Manager (Robin faculty were hired to geography departments at Penn focused geography journals. This prompted a dis- Friedman) and Educational Affairs Director (Michael State, SUNY Geneseo (where 50% of all incoming cussion of how the AAG could allow diverse spe- Solem), upgrading of the newsletter format and freshman take geography), Kutztown University cializations to flourish while maintaining its role as content, revamping of the AAG website, and plan- (which also has a new building for the department.) an umbrella organization for all geographers. ning for the Centennial meeting. Hunter College now has a geography program. Bednarz noted that the greatest relevance of the SUNY-Albany is hosting the upcoming Middle States AAG is its lobbying potential on the behalf of geog- STATUS OF THE ASSOCIATION meeting which has a huge increase in attendees. raphy. She provided the example of the No Child West Lakes Division: Kilpinen reported that Left Behind initiative which excludes geography and Finances although small departments are active in hosting argued that only through lobbying can we change Assets. Richardson presented an overview of the regional meetings there is a need to involve large this. Bednarz also observed that there are also differ- preliminary FYE 2003 figures. This represented the departments as well. UW-Stevens Point faculty have ent types of citizens in every organization and each first time in over four years that the AAG was not in received several awards, Northern Iowa will have a seeks to participate in a different way. The AAG a deficit situation. Costs have been cut through the newly renovated building in 2005 and the geography should provide diverse types of opportunities for renegotiation of existing contracts. Revenues have department at Valpraiso will relocate to a new build- members to participate in the AAG. been raised partly through funding from agencies ing. Kilpinen indicated that small departments in the Baerwald raised four issues. (1) Given that like NSF, USDA etc. Some of the surplus will be region have expressed the need for more guidance geography is an interdisciplinary field, the AAG’s transferred to a capital infrastructure fund to support when approaching university administrators. challenge is to highlight the benefits of working infrastructure maintenance in the coming years. The East Lakes Division: Areetey-Attoh reported that together while still allowing everyone to pursue audit of these preliminary figures is scheduled for the new officers of the East Lakes Division are work- their individual interests. (2) The AAG needs to November 2003. ing to revamp the website and newsletter. Ohio Uni- clarify its role. Is it a membership organization Banking. The AAG’s banking arrangements with versity is consolidating their environmental geogra- (one that generates benefits for members), a schol- Merrill Lynch have not been satisfactory, and phy initiative. University of Toledo has been asked to arly society (seeking to benefit scholarship) or a Richardson is in the process of consolidating all propose a Ph.D. in GIS. Michigan State University professional organization (promoting geography)? accounts at a full service bank. Now that we are has gone through an external evaluation process. (3) The AAG’s greatest value is not to the individual no longer in a deficit financial situation, it will Ohio View is a consortium of GIS scholars which has but to the collective, viz. the discipline. Supporting be possible for the AAG to get a line of credit. led up to some exciting collaborations. the AAG is an issue of common pool resources (4) Richardson has also hired a professional bookkeeping Our specialty group structure can play an important company to come in a few days a week to help with Review of Topical Developments role in making the AAG distinctive from other bookkeeping and conduct internal audits, etc. President Murphy asked the National Councillors scholarly societies. Centennial Fund. As of the end of September 2003, to discuss the question “Why does the AAG matter?” Murphy summarized the ideas presented by the the fund has received $468,000 in pledges (and over According to him, framing the answer to this was cru- National Councillors and thanked them for their $180,000 in actual contributions). The AAG staff is cial for (1) soliciting contributions for the centennial input. looking into “naming opportunities” at different lev- campaign, and (2) ensuring our membership does not Tom Baerwald was elected by the National Coun- els toward this fundraising effort. fall after the journals become available electronically. cillors as the Chair of the National Councillors. Council unanimously approved Richardson’s Richardson added that this question is important in proposal to remit annually $1.20 per full member light of the fact that the discipline was not immune to Past President’s Priorities who has a mailing address in the United States to broader trends of splintering that are affecting many Past President Nellis noted that one of his high the regional divisions. disciplinary organizations. Given this context, we priorities was to ensure a smooth transition in the Murphy stated that the membership owes need to look for ways to keep the AAG as a central AAG leadership after Abler’s departure. As chair of Richardson a huge debt of gratitude for bringing the point of reference for all geographers. the Executive Director Search committee, Nellis organization out of the red so that we can now go Matthewson: stressed the importance of multi-disci- hired Doug Richardson and the transition had pro- forward from a position of financial strength. plinary initiatives such as forming geography ceeded successfully. A second priority was boost- sections/study groups within other organizations. ing the AAG membership which had been declin- Continued on page 20

www.aag.org AAG Newsletter 19 March 2004

Minutes from page 19 Membership articles. Richardson has been working with will be submitted to NSF and other selected agen- Richardson reported that AAG membership Blackwell to streamline the workflow for the cies. Overall, thanks to the Geographic Dimensions has grown steadily and is currently a little over journal manuscripts. of Terrorism initiative, geography is now seen as a 7400. Membership processing services have been Council discussed the pros and cons of having the discipline which can address this area of research. streamlined, and the new online renewal system AAG journals made available online with a package Internationalizing the Discipline. The American Coun- is effective. The AAG booth at a recent ESRI such as the Blackwell Synergy system. There was a cil on Education is working on internationalizing edu- meeting generated a large number of new mem- general consensus that given the trend in the cation in a number of disciplines including geogra- bers. Richardson noted, however that we need to publishing world, we will have to go online in this phy. The AAG is working with ACE to develop a pro- develop a package of membership benefits that way at some point. Richardson agreed, but noted for posal to explore the possible roles of disciplinary will appeal to groups like these if we decide to the record the potential negative impact this might organizations in this effort. attract more non-academic members. A new hold for AAG revenue and membership. Richardson Ph.D. Five Years Out Study. The Center for Inno- feature in the AAG newsletter, “Membership said he would work with Blackwell to try to identify vation and Research in Graduate Education at profiles,” focuses on drawing attention to the ways to give members some special advantages with University of Washington has chosen geography diversity of AAG membership. respect to the online journals. Council voted as one of the seven disciplines to survey the career Julie Winkler, Chair of the AAG Membership unanimously to authorize Richardson to pursue pos- paths of Ph.D. recipients 5 years ago. The AAG has Committee visited the Council to provide an update sible agreements with Blackwell or others to place our been able to include a couple of questions related on the committees work. She presented the results of journals online. to the role of disciplinary organizations in helping membership data analysis done by the committee. Other publications. Richardson noted that Geogra- individuals along their career paths. The AAG Committee member Don Vermeer’s membership phy in America will be out in January 2004. The will receive summary data on geography Ph.D.s in analysis based on the AAG Guide to Geography Programs Geographic Dimensions of Terrorism book has generated January 2005. found that a substantial number of geography faculty $2,500 in royalties that are being donated by the Geography Career Outreach. The AAG has succeed- members that are not AAG members, and the stu- editors to the AAG Centennial fund. ed in getting the description of geography careers in dents of these faculty are more likely not to be AAG Council welcomed Karl Zimmerer, candidate for the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook members. A separate analysis of AAG membership editorship of the Nature-Society section of the Handbook updated. files found that a large number of members join for Annals. He presented his view of the trends in the A number of proposals are currently being just 1 or 2 years. Nature-Society scholarship in geography, and developed. The AAG is in the early stages of Winkler proposed that the AAG conduct a sur- responded to questions from the Council about exploring the possibility of establishing an Office vey of the approximately 2000 lapsed members to his editorial priorities and style. Murphy thanked of the Geographer at the U.S. Congress. The U.S. elucidate the reasons why they had not renewed Zimmerer for being available to meet with Council. Department of Agriculture is providing funding for their membership. The council unanimously After discussion, Council unanimously approved activities on geography and sustainable develop- approved the motion to conduct this survey. A sec- the appointment of Zimmerer as the next editor of ment in conjunction with its 4-H programs. These ond proposal made by Winkler was to award free the Nature-Society section of the Annals. activities are a direct outcome of the success of memberships to nine community college faculty MyCOE. Collaborative initiatives with the Office (one from each regional division, to be selected by Meridian Place Operations of Naval Research, InterAmerican Development the regional division) in conjunction with the AAG There have been a number of new personnel Bank, NOAA, USAID, and other institutions are centennial celebrations. In exchange, these hired at Meridian Place: Robin Friedman (Journals being developed. awardees would have to organize a session at the Manager), Michael Solem (Educational Affairs The AAG will cosponsor a Mapping in the News regional meeting. This proposal dovetailed with the Director), and Heather Heimbuch (administrative conference, perhaps at the National Press Club in Community College Initiative which has been led assistant). Patricia Solis has been appointed as AAG Washington, DC in late Spring of 2004. The next by Joan Clemons. The motion was unanimously Deputy Director. A part-time worker is handling Race/Ethnicity and Place conference will take place approved by Council. AAG accounting. Two interns are also working at in September 2004 at Howard University, co-spon- Murphy thanked Julie Winkler for the excellent the AAG office. sored by the AAG, Binghamton University, and work of the Membership Committee. Richardson mentioned that AAG insurance costs Howard University. The AAG is also supporting and have gone up rapidly. He also noted that regional co-sponsoring the 2004 GIScience conference, to be Publications meetings have not in the past been covered by the held in October, 2004. Richardson introduced the new journals manag- AAG liability insurance and proposed seeking a There was some discussion of AAG elections and er Robin Friedman. She was the top choice out of a rider to the AAG policy to cover regional meetings. voting trends. Our participation rates are at the mid- competitive pool of candidates. Murphy welcomed Major building maintenance in the coming years dle/high range as compared to other associations. her to the AAG staff. will be required, and a plan for capital infrastructure The issue of online voting was raised and will be Newsletter. The look and content of the AAG needs will be developed. revisited in a few years. newsletter has been improved. Megan Northrup will Richardson thanked Patricia Solis for her energy be working on the newsletter and the Guide to the Research and Outreach in working in the research and outreach area. Geography Programs. Publication production is steady. Deputy Director Solis summarized the AAG’s AAG Journals. A special centennial issue of the recent research and outreach activities. These Diversity Taskforce PG is scheduled for February 2004. Murphy is editing included the following: Joe Darden, the Chair of the AAG Diversity a “Forum” section of the Annals based on selected Geographic Dimensions of Terrorism: The AAG Taskforce was introduced by Alec Murphy. Darden presentations made at the Presidential Plenary has received a supplementary grant from NSF to told the Council that he was initially ambivalent sessions at the Centennial meeting. An extra 100 disseminate the results from this study. The NRC- about chairing this taskforce because in the past, pages have been added to the journal to accommo- Committee on Geography is proposing a study on recommendations by diversity committees were date this section without displacing scheduled the underlying causes of terrorism. The proposal rarely institutionalized by geography departments.

20 AAG Newsletter www.aag.org Volume 39, Number 3

Darden indicated that he agreed to serve on this how we can strengthen geography’s position in slates. These will appear in the December 2003 taskforce because of his confidence in Richardson, public policy pertaining to geographic education. Of newsletter. and his hope that there would now be follow- particular concern has been the omission of geogra- Long Range Planning Committee. Murphy provided an through action. phy in the No Child Left Behind initiative. AAG is update on the work of the Long Range Planning Com- Darden said that the taskforce will identify requesting $25,000 from GENIP to help support mittee. Following discussion, the Long Range Plan was departments that are willing to take steps to increase a staff member in Washington to monitor federal adopted by Council. It was agreed that the report and diversity and focus on helping those departments. It legislation and regulations that pertain to geographic its contents should be widely disseminated. will provide a packet of materials that will provide a education. The Council approved (with one absten- Standing Committees. The Places on Line developers guide to departments wishing to enhance diversity. tion) the motion that the AAG, as a member of have asked for an endorsement of their activities. He urged departments to look on diversity as an GENIP, approve the GENIP contribution. Murphy felt that the Council should not microman- integral part of the department’s programs not as age the activities of any specialty group. The AAG an add-on item. The taskforce will also organize CONTINUING AND NEW BUSINESS Research Grants Committee has asked that the form sessions and panel at the national meetings. for applying for the Vouras Award have a check off Considerable discussion ensued about Annual Meetings for minority status. Richardson clarified that hence- implementation strategies for taskforce initiatives. Stan Brunn, Co-Chair of the Centennial Coordi- forth, the standing committee reports will be dis- President Murphy thanked Joe Darden for the nating Committee visited the Council and provided cussed at the spring council meeting. excellent work of the Taskforce. a summary and update of the many activities that are Specialty Groups. Specialty group reports were being organized for the Centennial meeting and at reviewed. Council approved unanimously the for- Educational Affairs other times during the year. Council members were mation of two new specialty groups: Communica- Richardson introduced Michael Solem, the encouraged to contribute memorabilia to Don tion Geography Specialty Group and Developing new AAG Director of Educational Affairs. Solem Janelle for the Hall of History at the AAG centen- Areas Specialty Group. Tom Baerwald, as chair of updated the Council on some of the ongoing efforts nial meeting. Don Dahmann is also very interested the national councilors, will meet with specialty of the AAG in this area: in adding more detail to the timeline and would wel- group chairs in 2004. Online Center for Global Geography Education. This come contributions. Arlene Rengert is organizing a project is designed to support online international silent auction and is looking for contributions with Honors and Awards collaborative learning and geographic inquiry and a geographical theme. is funded by NSF (Michael Solem PI). It is in its Richardson went over the preliminary schedule The AAG Executive Committee approved the testing phase and a full development proposal will and highlights of the 2004 AAG meeting. He noted nomination of Keith Ord as the 2004 Honorary be submitted to NSF in summer 2005. that the meeting is priced at below cost, and that he Geographer, and Bruce Alberts and Harm De Blij for Geography Faculty Development Alliance. The GFDA is is looking for corporate sponsors to help subsidize the 2004 Presidential Awards. geared to support the success of early career geogra- the meeting. As of the present there were 2700 The Council approved unanimously the recom- phy faculty through summer workshops and follow registrations which was on par with past meetings at mendations made by the AAG Honors Committee up activities at the national meetings. It is funded by a similar point. However the sale of banquet tickets for the 2004 Honors awards. the NSF (Ken Foote, PI) and Solem is collaborating was much higher than in the past. Richardson discussed a recent letter he had with Foote on the project’s research component. There was some discussion of the extra costs of received from the International Geographic Infor- My Community, Our Earth (MyCOE). The Phase II the Centennial meeting. Murphy indicated that mation Foundation asking if the AAG would be of this project has now commenced. The USDA has there were good reasons for why this meeting had a interested in being considered as a candidate to committed $70,000 to AAG to disseminate MyCOE higher fee, which were addressed by Richardson in administer IGIF funds related to GIS research and materials to USDA-related programs. his column in the October 2003 AAG newsletter. education. Council voted unanimously to direct NSF Science of Learning Center. The SLC program Richardson also noted that the AAG is trying to Richardson to pursue this opportunity subject to supports large-scale and long-term centers that help offset costs to members in two ways: (1) final approval by the Executive Committee. advance learning research. Solem will lead the AAG through the waiver of registration for student vol- effort to organize a research consortium and formu- unteers and (2) through a special fund set aside for Closed Session late a proposal for the 2004 SLC competition. those members with financial hardship. Council met in closed session to conduct its ARGUS and ARGWorld. The AAG share of the Murphy expressed his thanks to Stan Brunn and annual review of the Executive Director’s perform- royalties from this project will be used to support of Don Janelle for their work on the CCC. ance and compensation. the AAG Educational Affairs director (30%) and the The venues for future AAG meetings are Denver Geography Educational Materials Development (2005), Chicago (2006), and San Francisco (2007). Adjournment Fund (70%). Richardson is exploring the possibility of holding the 2008 meeting in Washington, D.C. Future There being no further business, President Mur- GENIP Council meetings are scheduled for 13-14 March in phy adjourned the Council meeting at 12:00 noon Nellis informed the Council on recent GENIP Philadelphia and 1-2 October in Sioux Falls SD. on Sunday, October 19, 2003. ■ activities. Sarah Bednarz is the GENIP project coor- dinator, and Roger Downs is the chair. Nellis, Downs, Committees and Council Respectfully submitted, and Solem are the AAG representatives on GENIP. Committee on Committees. The Council voted to Kavita Pandit Much of the discussion in GENIP has centered on finalize the Nominating and Honors Committee AAG Secretary

Learn more about Philadelphia by visiting PlacesOnLine at www.placesonline.org.

www.aag.org AAG Newsletter 21 July/August 2004

Association of American Geographers Council Meeting Minutes

Philadelphia, PA his presidential initiatives. With regards to is the Healthy Departments initiative. 12-14 March, 2004 enhancing the profile of geography in This summer workshop has already drawn public debate, Murphy published an considerable interest. There was also a Attending: Alec Murphy, President; op-ed piece on the importance of geogra- need to create a standing committee that Duane Nellis, Past-President; Kavita Pan- phy for understanding international becomes a repository of information that dit, Secretary and Regional Councillor developments in 12-15 newspapers departments often need. The second is (Southeastern Division); and Darrell Nap- around the country. The art of op-ed increasing diversity in the AAG member- ton, Treasurer and Regional Councillor writing was also the subject of one of his ship. Vicky will take an active role in the (Great Plains-Rocky Mountains Division). presidential columns and he will organize diversity taskforce constituted by Past National Councillors: Thomas Baerwald, a workshop on the topic at the Denver President Duane Nellis. Lawson will also Sarah Bednarz, Kenneth Foote, Kent AAG to build on momentum. He also work with Richardson in organizing the Mathewson, Ann Oberhauser, and Cort noted the presence of high profile public next conference on Race/Ethnicity and Willmott. Regional Councillors: Samuel figures at the Centennial meeting. A Place which will be held at Howard Aryeetey-Attoh (East Lakes Division), Jon second initiative, increasing intra-discipli- University. The final two priorities are Kilpinen (West Lakes Division), Sheryl nary dialogue in geography, was being the early career development of geogra- Luzzadder-Beach (Middle Atlantic addressed in his presidential columns and phy faculty and showcasing geography’s Division), Paul Matthews (Southwestern in the Presidential Plenary sessions which role in promoting social justice. Division), Gregory Pope (Middle States will appear in the December issue of the Division), Judy Walton (Pacific Coast Annals. Murphy noted that the idea of REVIEW OF GEOGRAPHY PROGRAMS Division), Leon Yacher (New England-St. including cross-cutting pieces in the Middle States. Pope noted that a Lawrence Valley). AAG Staff: Executive Annals was under discussion with the number of universities in the region are Director Douglas Richardson and Deputy Annals editors. Murphy noted that he was hiring geographers. State budgets are a bit Director Patricia Solís. also working to support the Centennial better than in the past year. Regrets: Vicky Lawson, Vice President. Fund and diversity initiatives of Duane East Lakes. Aryeetey-Attoh reported Visitors: Robert Andelman, Oscar Nellis and Vicky Lawson respectively. that Grand Valley State is hosting the 1st Larson, Robin Friedman, Michael Solem, International Workshop on Human AAG Staff; Richard Marston, Vice PAST PRESIDENT’S PRIORITIES Dimensions of Climate and Environmen- President-elect; Michael Goodchild and Duane Nellis recapped his activities tal Change in Central Asia and engaging Audrey Kobayashi, Annals of the AAG Edi- over the past three years. The transition to in projects in Brazil and Peru. Western tors; Truman Hartshorn, Professional Geog- the new AAG director has taken place very Michigan received a 3 year NSF-REU rapher editor; John Ray, IGIF; Orlando successfully. The Centennial Fund contin- grant on Globalization and Sustainable Taylor, Dean of the Graduate School, ues to grow. The first two Presidential Development in Latin America. Howard University; Rita Colwell and Peg Awards will go to Bruce Alberts, President Youngstown State Geography has moved Barratt, National Science Foundation; of the National Academy of Sciences, to new facilities in close association with Stan Brunn and Don Janelle, Centennial and Harm DeBlij. Nellis summarized the the Center for Urban Studies, and is Coordinating Committee Co-chairs. issues that came up at the recent GENIP involved in a university-wide assessment meetings. He ended by noting the he, effort. Toledo is making progress on the PRELIMINARIES along with Susan Cutter and Jan Monk, is Ph.D. initiative. Division is debating on President Murphy called the meeting in the process of editing a book that the appropriate status for Ontario geogra- to order at 3:15 p.m. on March 12. The compiles selected presidential columns phers wishing to associate with the region. agenda for the meeting was reviewed and from the AAG Newsletter. The volume will be West Lakes. Kilpinen reported positive adopted subject to a few minor revisions. published by the West Virginia Press. news from the department heads in terms of hiring and enrollments, and donation to CHALLENGES AND OPPORTU- VICE PRESIDENT’S PRIORITIES capital campaigns and endowments. NITIES FOR THE ASSOCIATION Murphy communicated to the Council Southeastern. Pandit reported that PRESIDENT’S PRIORITIES the four priorities that Vicky Lawson will new doctoral programs have been put in Alec Murphy summarized progress on be pursuing in the coming years. The first place at UNC-Greensboro and University

14 AAG Newsletter www.aag.org Volume 39, Number 7 of South Florida (in conjunction with Foote noted that geography is respond- Council members discussed these ideas Department of Environmental Studies ing well to the urgent issues of the day further, and Murphy thanked the National and Policy). and is already in a high profile position. Councillors for their input. Pacific Coast. Walton reported a posi- Willmott agreed with Foote that geogra- tive mood at most geography programs in phers are becoming more active and EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S COMMENTS the region. The mood in California was a visible. However he was concerned that Richardson provided a brief review of bit more negative. the AAG mainly focuses on quantitative 2003. Highlights included the growth of Great Plains-Rocky Mountains. Nap- measures in assessing geography’s the AAG Centennial Fund, and the rise in ton focused on the state of North Dako- progress rather than on the quality of our AAG membership. The Annals’s Nature- ta. There are many “lonely geographers” research and the nature of our innovative Society section has a new editor, and the in the state who are difficult to keep contributions. He wondered if we are AAG is soliciting applications for a new edi- track of because of the high turnover in becoming excessively corporate and driv- tor for the PG. The AAG Newsletter has been their numbers. There are three searches en by the agendas of funding agencies. expanded, and will henceforth be posted on underway at the University of North Oberhauser appreciated the role of the AAG website for immediate access. He Dakota, and the department will be geography in promoting an international outlined the new and continuing research, moving to new facilities at the center of outlook. She noted that the growing outreach, and educational projects. campus this summer. The geography fragmentation of the discipline will create department is facing new competition the need for us to define the discipline. STATUS OF THE ASSOCIATION from the College of Aerospace Studies, However it also creates the opportunity FINANCES which is adding a graduate program in for us to address a widening range of Treasurer Darrell Napton and Doug earth system sciences. social issues. Richardson reviewed the financial situa- Mid-Atlantic. Luzzader-Beach report- Bednarz raised the issue of “missing geog- tion of the AAG. Finances and financial ed that University of Maryland will host raphy research.” One issue is Brown vs. the management are in good shape. The Asso- the 2004 regional meeting. Frostburg Board of Education. The other is spatial ciation received a very positive audit State hosted a Student Research Day ear- analysis of contemporary education issues. report. For the first time in five years, the lier in the year, and various departments in These are some very important areas that AAG had a positive cash flow. Napton the region hosted prominent geographers geographers are not addressing. According discussed the myth amongst some mem- from outside the region. to her, we have separated theory from bers that the annual meetings generate New England-St. Lawrence Valley. policy and that is hurting us. profits for the AAG. Instead, the AAG has Yacher reported several instances where Mathewson, along the same lines won- often had to absorb some of the costs and departmental faculty and physical facili- dered if the AAG could “forecast” or Richardson is trying to more accurately ties had expanded in the past year. A think ahead to significant events or capture the costs of the meetings in the number of intra-divisional collaborations anniversaries coming up and prepare a registration fees. The registration cost of have been initiated. geographical perspective to the issue the Denver meeting will be less than the Southwest. Matthews reported that ahead of time. Centennial meeting, but probably not as the Southwest Division was in good Baerwald noted the funding success of low as the fees charged in previous years. shape. Geography at Oklahoma State is geographers particularly at NSF but added Richardson also mentioned that there are doing particularly well. that geographers do need to become more a number of mechanisms such as the Doug Richardson reported that AAG is socially relevant to attract continued Enrichment Fund and student volunteer willing to handle the financial bookkeep- funding. An example of a success story activities that can help reduce or eliminate ing of those regions that desire it. He also in this area is the Geographical Dimen- the cost of registration. announced that the AAG has added a sions of Terrorism initiative, which has Council approved unanimously a set rider to its liability coverage that will now raised the profile of the discipline. It is of four resolutions that empowered the cover the regional division meetings. important for us to continue to bridge Executive Director to take all actions nec- research and policy. NSF is placing essary to consolidate AAG accounts in the REVIEW OF TOPICAL DEVELOPMENTS greater emphasis on the societal and SunTrust bank. President Murphy asked the National educational impacts of research. The one Budget. Napton reviewed the proposed Councillors to discuss the question “Does area in which he felt we are weak is the budget for 2005. Council unanimously geographical research and teaching need scientific examination of social and approved the 2005 budget. to be more responsive to the high profile economic phenomena and linking GIS to Centennial Campaign. Nellis reported that social issues of the day?” scientific human geography. pledges toward this campaign are now

www.aag.org AAG Newsletter 15 July/August 2004 over $600,000. There are also several area post offices. He felt that the AAG Following this discussion, Alec Murphy sizable pending bequests. He also newsletter needs to be posted as soon as it welcomed Annals editors Audrey announced the launching of a new cam- becomes available in the “Members Only” Kobayashi and Michael Goodchild and paign that will allow persons to purchase section of the AAG website. The Council PG editor Truman Hartshorn to the Coun- an AAG “birthday brick” to place in the members supported this move. cil meeting. Kobayashi reported that the entrance walkway to Meridian Place for Other publications. Murphy noted that transition to a new journals manager has $1,500. Nellis also discussed the idea of the latest Guide to Geography Departments was gone well. With Robin’s help, the backlog contacting family members or former stu- now available. It is much easier to use of manuscripts submitted to the “People, dents of prominent deceased geographers thanks to a new formatting. Two centen- Place, and Region” section has been to set up special named endowments. nial publications are also being distributed cleared. She also noted that the author- International Geographic Information at the meeting. ship of papers to this section of the Annals Foundation. Richardson reported that the AAG Journals. Cort Willmott noted is heavily dominated by two groups: IGIF has selected the AAG over two other that the job advertisement for the editor senior authors from overseas and recent competing organizations to continue its of the Professional Geographer appeared in Ph.D.s from the United States. She spent work of providing scholarships and grants the March 2004 newsletter. He noted that considerable time working with the latter to support geography. The assets of IGIF a suggestion had been made to have an group of authors but viewed it as a will transfer to the AAG, and the AAG Associate Editor as well for the journal— productive task. Kobayashi would like to will appoint an Interim board to oversee this may be something that could be see more senior American authors submit IGIF operations. brought up with the selected editor. to the Annals. Goodchild reported a Council approved unanimously two Richardson suggested increasing the satisfactory manuscript flow of 25 to 30 resolutions to facilitate the transfer of stipend available to the editor which per year of which 8-10 are published. IGIF assets to AAG control. would allow him/her to get additional He reported that a high share of the Doug Richardson welcomed visitor help. Council members supported this submissions to the “Methods, Models, and John Ray of the IGIF to the Council meet- idea. Murphy asked Council members to GIS” section of the Annals tended to be ing. John Ray provided a short history of encourage qualified people to apply for unsuitable for publication or authored by the IGIF. Richardson thanked John Ray for this position. “repeat visitors”—persons who made all his efforts in support of IGIF, and Council unanimously approved the frequent submissions to the journal. for the selection of the AAG as IGIF’s slate for the Annals Editorial Board as Goodchild also spoke to the difficulty in successor organization. proposed by editors Zimmerer and getting reviewers for manuscripts, a point Kobayashi. that was reinforced by Truman Hartshorn. MEMBERSHIP Richardson introduced Robin Murphy brought up the issue of includ- Richardson reported that AAG mem- Friedman, AAG Journals Manager. She ing cross-cutting pieces in the Annals. bership is at a record high of almost 8,500. updated the Council on the contents of There was general support for this This high mark was the result of a the upcoming issues of the Annals and initiative, and Council discussed some of concerted effort to bring back lapsed the PG. the logistical issues associated with having members to the Association and to recruit Council discussed other issues related such a section with the Annals editors. young members. Part of the membership to the journals, and referred three of these increase may also be due to the interest to the Publications Committee for MERIDIAN PLACE OPERATIONS in the Centennial meeting. Richardson action/recommendation. First, since the Richardson reported the new personnel anticipates a small drop in the member- terms of editors Michael Goodchild and hired at Meridian Place: Heather Heim- ship but was hopeful that we will retain Basil Gomez were expiring simultaneously buch (administrative assistant), Gayathri most members in the coming years. in the next year, the Publications Gopiram (IMS and website enhance- Council discussed the factors that may Committee was asked to consider asking ment), and Terry Lynn Martin (accounting affect AAG membership trends. one of the two to serve an additional year. manager who will now be working full Second, the Publications Committee time). The AAG has also hired Gary PUBLICATIONS should consider whether there should be Fitzpatrick as a Policy Fellow who will Newsletter. Richardson mentioned that separate book review editors for the Annals work part time for 6 months to help there have been difficulties in getting the and the PG. Finally, the Publications monitor Congressional bills and activities newsletter delivered in a timely basis via Committee was asked to explore the related to geography. bulk mail due to the frequent disruptions possibility of publishing short obituaries Future capital infrastructure expenses experienced by the Washington, D.C., in the PG. will involve improvements to the building

16 AAG Newsletter www.aag.org Volume 39, Number 7 such as painting and roof maintenance. Richardson updated Council on issues strongly into the higher education arena Murphy noted that the size of the AAG related to public policy, press and pub- while at the same time sustaining the focus operations has caused us to outgrow the licity, and outreach and external relations. on K-12. space in Meridian Place. At some point in Murphy thanked Solís and Richardson the future, we may consider developing for their work in the research and CONTINUING AND off site locations to accommodate the outreach area. NEW BUSINESS growing staff and projects. Richardson welcomed Dean Orlando ANNUAL MEETINGS Taylor, Dean of the Graduate School at of Murphy informed the council about a RESEARCH AND OUTREACH Howard University and summarized the proposal that he had received from a Deputy Director Solís summarized the partnerships that AAG is forging with group of AAG members that the Council AAG’s recent research and outreach activ- Howard University. Orlando Taylor dis- should adopt a resolution requiring the ities. These include launching Phase II of cussed the challenges to the social science AAG to contract with only union hotels the My Community Our Earth project disciplines and the opportunities repre- for the annual meeting. After discussion, (collaboration with USDA, NOAA, sented by the AAG-Howard relationship. the Council passed unanimously the USAID, InterAmerican Development Richardson thanked Orlando for the following motion: Bank, NGS, Office of Naval Research, and opportunity of working together with him “The Council directs the Executive others), obtaining NSF Travel funding for and Howard University during the past director to make every effort to actively geographers to attend the 2004 IGU Con- year and into the future. solicit and give preference to a suitable gress in Glasgow, developing a NSF Murphy welcomed Rita Colwell and unionized hotel in cities selected for the proposal to enhance the National Science Peg Barratt from the National Science AAG meetings, provided that such hotel’s Digital Library, and partnering with Foundation to the Council meeting. Col- rates and facilities are competitive with the American Council on Education to well summarized trends in NSF budget those of non-union hotels; and the Coun- internationalize the discipline. and strategies, and responded to questions cil directs the Executive Director to report Richardson reminded Council of the from Council. Murphy and Richardson to Council on the implementation of this upcoming conferences sponsored or thanked Colwell and Barratt for their initiative as part of the regular report on co-sponsored by the AAG. These include presence in Philadelphia. future AAG meetings and include discus- the Mapping in the News conference to sion of the issue in the minutes of the be held in Washington D.C. (May 14-15, EDUCATIONAL AFFAIRS Council meetings.” 2004), the Race/Ethnicity and Place Richardson introduced Michael Solem, Richardson reviewed the upcoming conference at Howard University the AAG Director of Educational Affairs. events at the Centennial meeting, and (September 16-18, 2004), and the Solem updated the Council on several thanked the AAG staff for their excellent GIScience conference (October 20-23, ongoing educational efforts of the AAG work. The Council gave a special vote of 2004). Richardson also mentioned that he including the proposal for a Center for the thanks to Robert Andelman who donated was planning a 2005 conference that looks Advancement of Geography Education, the Centennial plaque to the Association. at the links between Geography and the the Online Center for Global Geography There was discussion and concern Humanities. Education, the Geography Faculty Devel- expressed about the fact that the paper Solís shared with Council the 10 opment Alliance activities, and a FIPSE titles were not included in the AAG meet- projects suggested by the Diversity Task supported program on Teacher’s Guide to ing program. Oscar Larson spoke to the Force. A number of panels and sessions are Modern Geography. Projects under Council about the oversight problem, and being organized at the AAG that promote exploration include a NSF Science of the Council discussed various options, the action agenda of the Task Force, Learning Center and a U.S. Department including the printing of a program and many of the other activities are of Education Predoctoral Interdisciplinary addendum to make paper titles available already underway. Research Training Program in Education to meeting registrants. The Council AAG’s activities related to Geography Sciences. He also updated the Council thanked Oscar Larson for his hard work Careers and Outlook are reflected in a on activities of Geography Education on meeting organization. recent article in Nature magazine on Materials Development Fund (GEMDF) Alec Murphy welcomed Stan Brunn geography’s leadership in the area of and GENIP activities. and Don Janelle, Centennial Coordinating geospatial science and technologies, and Doug Richardson thanked Michael Committee Co-chairs to the Council. new employment opportunities. Solís Solem for all his efforts in the area of Edu- Council discussed the planning process is also working on enhancing AAG’s cational Affairs and for helping to move that went into the Centennial meeting. careers activities. the AAG’s educational initiatives more Murphy thanked Brunn and Janelle for all

www.aag.org AAG Newsletter 17 July/August 2004 their work and planning for the Centen- Council unanimously approved the Therefore be it Resolved that the Association of nial meeting. establishment of this committee. American Geographers, assembled in The venues for future AAG meetings The Council unanimously approved Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on the are Denver (2005), Chicago (2006), and the nominees for the upcoming vacancies occasion of its Centennial Meeting, San Francisco (2007). For the 2008 meet- on various Standing Committees, noting heartily thanks Duane for his leader- ing, Boston has been selected as the host that the membership of the Healthy ship of the Association during the past city, and contracts are in the final stages of Departments Standing Committee, three years, and especially for his negotiation. currently comprised of Vicky Lawson efforts to improve the standing of the The next Executive Committee meet- (chair), Alec Murphy, and Sarah Bednarz, discipline and the profession in all ings will be in Washington, D.C. on Sep- would likely be expanded over time. sectors, and for his role in initiating tember 19, 2004. Future Council Meetings Council members discussed strategies the AAG’s Advancing Geography will be in Sioux Falls, S.D. (October 1-3, to streamline the nomination process Centennial Fund. 2003) and Denver, CO (April 3-5, 2005). and increase nominations for the various Whereas, Councillors of the Association of AAG awards. American Geographers expend HONORS AND AWARDS substantial time and effort advancing Richardson informed Council about SPECIALTY GROUPS the causes of the Association and the the major awards to be made at the Tom Baerwald noted that since Spe- discipline; and Awards Banquet. He noted that, as in the cialty Group reports are due following Whereas, the Council of the Association of past, the announcement of Specialty the Annual meeting, a full report on American Geographers has confronted Group awards will be made only if the Specialty Group activities will be forth- difficult issues and responded to award winner is present at the banquet. coming in the Fall Council meeting. unusual opportunities during the last Murphy noted that he had received an three years, Therefore Be It Resolved that the Association of STANDING COMMITTEES application for the establishment of a Murphy proposed the establishment of new specialty group, the Viticulture and American Geographers, assembled in a new Standing Committee on Healthy Oenology Specialty Group. Council Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on the Departments. The charge for this commit- unanimously approved the establishment occasion of its Centennial Meeting, tee would read as follows: of this specialty group. extends warm appreciation to Past Pres- ident Duane Nellis and retiring AAG “The committee seeks to help geogra- Councillors Kent Mathewson, Cort J. phy departments in colleges and universi- APPROVAL OF RESOLUTIONS Willmott, Sheryl Luzzadder-Beach, ties strengthen their programs by sharing, Council unanimously approved the Leon Yacher, and Judy R. Walton, for developing, and disseminating materials following two resolutions. the energy, time, and talent they have and information of use to department Whereas, Duane Nellis, as Vice President contributed to the Association during heads; organizing workshops and other and President of the Association of their terms on the AAG Council. activities; providing recommendations of American Geographers has exercised geographers who could serve effectively exceptional leadership in assisting ADJOURNMENT as site visitors or reviewers; and bringing the Association in addressing the There being no further business, to the attention of Council issues of challenges facing the discipline of President Murphy adjourned the Council importance to the health of geography Geography and working to strengthen meeting at noon on Sunday, March departments. The committee will also academic geography, geographic edu- 14, 2004. ■ provide a resource for departments in cation, and the internal administrative, need of rapid input in response to management, and financial capacity of Respectfully submitted, challenges that arise.” the AAG; Kavita Pandit, AAG Secretary

Call for Papers for the AAG’s 2005 Annual Meeting in Denver, Colorado, is now available at www.aag.org.

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Association of American Geographers Council Meeting Minutes

Sioux Falls, South Dakota regional meetings. On the topic of Social Justice, from physical and human geography. He will October 2-3, 2004 Lawson is organizing two Presidential Plenaries for encourage policy-makers/non-academic geographers the Denver AAG meeting under the broad theme to organize sessions at Denver in order to build Attending: Vicky Lawson, President; Dick Marston, of “Fear and Hope.” The plenaries are entitled better links with academic geographers. Another Vice President; Alec Murphy, Past-President; Kavita “Environments, Society, and Sustainability” and area of interest is to build intra-disciplinary dialogue Pandit, Secretary and Regional Councillor (Southeastern “Economies, Politics, and Peace.” She has identified amongst geographers. The publication of papers Division); and Darrell Napton, Treasurer and Regional a number of prominent speakers to make presenta- from the Centennial Meeting Presidential Plenaries Councillor (Great Plains-Rocky Mountains Division). tions at these panels. In the coming months, in upcoming issues of the Annals and Progress in Human National Councillors: Thomas Baerwald, Sarah Bed- Lawson will be working on the “Young Career Fac- Geography will be an important step toward this goal. narz, Kenneth Foote, Ines Miyares, and Ann Ober- ulty Development” priority area. Murphy is also supporting the Healthy Departments hauser. Regional Councillors: Stuart Aitken (Pacific initiative by helping Dick Marston organize the next Coast Division), Samuel Aryeetey-Attoh (East Vice President’s Priorities Healthy Departments workshop. Lakes Division), Martha Geores (Middle Atlantic Marston’s central initiative is to advance physical Division), Jon Kilpinen (West Lakes Division), Paul geography in the AAG. He intends to organize Review of Geography Programs Matthews (Southwestern Division), Tim Rickard interdisciplinary plenary sessions, special sessions, Great Plains-Rocky Mountains. Napton reported (New England-St. Lawrence Valley). AAG Staff: multi-specialty group sponsored events at the AAG that geography in the division is thriving. Montana Executive Director Douglas Richardson and Deputy meetings, plus his own talks at regional and national State will begin offering a Ph.D. in geography and Director Patricia Solís. meetings to communicate across subdisciplines and geology in Fall 2005. South Dakota State has added promote the "geographical advantage" that we all a Center of Excellence in GIS, and will hire three new Regrets: Kristin Dow, National Councillor; Gregory share in approaching problems of people-environ- geographers. A new doctoral program will be affili- Pope, Regional Councillor (Middle States Division). ment relations. He will form an ad-hoc committee to ated with the Center. The University of North come up with ideas on how to integrate physical Dakota’s geography department recently moved PRELIMINARIES geographers better into the AAG and promote the into new facilities at the center of campus. Wyoming President Lawson called the meeting to order common ground between subdisciplines. He noted has hired three new physical geographers. Areas of at 8:25 a.m. on October 2. She welcomed the new that more and more physical geographers are finding concern relate to the future of higher education fund- members on the AAG Council: Stuart Aitken, a home in the American Geophysical Union and ing in Colorado and the fact that much of the hiring Martha Geores, Ines Miyares, and Tim Rickard. elsewhere under the umbrella of earth systems of geographers has been through interdisciplinary She thanked Darrell Napton for helping organize science. Marston also mentioned that U.S. will be centers rather than geography departments. the Great Plains-Rocky Mountains Regional Meet- organizing the 2009 International Association of East Lakes. Attoh reported that at the upcoming ing and the AAG Council meeting. The agenda Geomorphologists meeting. Although the Geologi- regional meeting there will be continued discussion for the meeting was reviewed and adopted follow- cal Society of America will probably be the local of the geographic extent of the division. He noted ing a minor revision. organizer, Marston would like to see the AAG play a that higher education institutions in Ohio have done prominent role in this meeting. He will also establish well in fostering collaborative efforts; about nine CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNI- an informal working group of physical geographers departments are involved in the Ohio GIS Net and TIES FOR THE ASSOCIATION to come up with ideas to enhance the visibility of the OhioView consortium. Toledo’s Ph.D. initiative physical geographers and involve them in AAG is proceeding well. President’s Priorities affairs and initiatives. Consistent with his statement New England-St. Lawrence Valley. Rickard noted Lawson updated the Council on activities relat- on the AAG ballot, Marston plans to support the that departments in the region are generally healthy. ed to her four Presidential priority areas: Healthy healthy departments initiative of President Vicky One concern is that the termination of the MA Departments, Enhancing Diversity, Social Justice, Lawson, plus recommendations of the Diversity Task program in Geography at the University of Vermont and Early Career Development. The “Healthy Force and efforts to increase the role of geography in leaves the three states of Northern New England Departments” workshop was held in Seattle in June the U.S. Geological Survey. without a Masters program in Geography. Also, the 2004. The panelists at the workshop were geogra- NESTVAL Executive Committee is investigating phers that held prominent administrative positions Past President’s Priorities replacement of the annual Proceedings of its Fall in their universities. The workshop was well attend- Murphy will continue his work in getting geogra- conference with a more formal geographical journal, ed and a second workshop is being planned for phers more involved in public policy. He is organiz- similar to Southeastern Geographer. Summer 2005. A Healthy Departments Standing ing a session on op-ed writing at Denver that will Southwest. Matthews reported that the Southwest Committee has also been established as a resource take advantage of the presence of David Newman, a Division was in good shape. The Oklahoma State’s for departments. In the area of enhancing diversity, geographer from Israel well known for his opinion doctoral program is doing particularly well thanks to Lawson continues to work closely with the AAG’s pieces. He intends to have a follow-up session at the a young, dynamic faculty. Texas A&M is adding new Diversity Taskforce. Lawson is collaborating with 2006 AAG on interacting with media. Murphy is faculty. Texas State University is still looking for a Sallie Marston and Dereka Rushbrook to prepare working with the AAG to explore how the AAG Chair. University of New Mexico has become heavi- a proposal to be submitted to NSF and FIPSE website can display links to important op-ed pieces ly dependent on part-time faculty members. for funding for a series of summer institutes for by geographers. Murphy’s Past President’s address West Lakes. Kilpinen reported that there are some minority scholars. Lawson will also speak to the next year will emphasize the role of geography in departments that consistently participate in regional issue of diversifying geography during her visits to public debate by drawing on examples of research activities such as Macalester and Aldolphus Gustavus

18 AAG Newsletter www.aag.org Volume 40, Number 3

College. Although the University of Iowa has been programs. She felt that a geography degree provides AAG assets. Matthews seconded the motion which an active participant on occasion, the participation a greater advantage than an interdisciplinary degree Council unanimously approved. of larger departments has been lacking. Lanegran for students seeking jobs. Miyares felt that we need Pledges and contributions to the Centennial is organizing a session at the upcoming AAGs to do better in selling the strengths and advantages Fund continue to flow in. Richardson informed on Geography in the Liberal Arts Colleges. The of our “internal interdisciplinarity” to students Council that the Centennial Fund will soon be Geography Department at Valparaiso has moved into and employers. renamed the “Advancing Geography Fund.” He is a new building. Bednarz reported that the soon-to-be-released also developing new capabilities within the AAG for Southeastern. Pandit reported that a new doctoral NRC report on “Spatial Thinking” reinforces the planned giving. He also informed the Council that program has been put in place at UNC-Greensboro. importance of seeking patterns and then exploring paperwork to make AAG the successor organization The Geography department at University of South processes, something that geographers are trained to to International Geographic Information Founda- Florida has proposed a joint Ph.D. program with do. She brought up the issue of the public perception tion is now finalized. The AAG-IGIF Fund will Department of Environmental Studies and Policy and of geography, and argued that the discipline needs a provide scholarships and make other disbursements. the proposal is under review. The upcoming region- better public identity. al division meeting will be held in Biloxi, Mississippi. Foote spoke about the challenges of interdiscipli- Membership Pacific Coast. Aitken reported that he would like narity in a university environment. Interdisciplinary Richardson reported that AAG membership is to see a greater participation by the large depart- programs involve split appointments and often dilute over 8,000, and may or may not be slightly down ments in the region. He also suggested that it would faculty involvement in a single unit. Many young from last year at the end of the calendar year. He career faculty are being hired by departments in be beneficial to have greater information sharing observed that last year’s membership figures may be which geography is combined with other disciplines, between regional chairs. The geography program slightly higher because of the Centennial meeting. and they face difficult decisions on how they allocate at Nevada is doing very well and has got the green AAG staff attended the ESRI User Conference their time between the disciplines. Foote felt that light for its Ph.D. program. On the other hand, the in San Diego, CA and signed up several meeting there was need to improve the way interdisciplinary program at Idaho is in crisis. attendees for AAG membership and distributed initiatives are implemented at the university level. Mid-Atlantic. Geores reported that there are membership forms to others. A letter was sent to all Oberhauser noted that geography has a long relatively few geography departments in the region; non-member department chairs urging them to join tradition of being involved in interdisciplinary most geographers work for the federal government. the Association. The AAG has also had strong out- research. Although this was positive, she worried The Division Chair is alternately an academic and reach programs to former members and to students that this could weaken geography in situations non-academic geographer. The participation of as well. Council members discussed the survey of where faculty engaged in interdisciplinary research lapsed members that is currently underway. academic geographers is excellent, and Geores will do not contribute sufficiently to their departments work to raise membership and participation amongst or the discipline. non-academic geographers. Publications Council members discussed these ideas further. Newsletter. Richardson observed that the AAG Middle States. Many schools in the region report Lawson thanked the National Councillors for Newsletter now has a much more professional look new hires (both new lines and replacements), with their input. and highlights the diversity of the profession and major hiring initiatives ongoing at Syracuse, Hunter, discipline. He suggested that it be considered as a and Montclair State. Some Pennsylvania state schools STATUS OF THE ASSOCIATION recruitment tool for undergraduates. express concern that open faculty lines are not being Richardson provided a brief review of recent AAG Journals. Murphy noted with approval that replaced, or are being replaced with temporary lines. AAG activities leading into a fuller discussion of the the turnaround time on Annals articles had been dra- New geography-related degree programs are offered status of the association. matically reduced. Depending on the section, the or proposed at Hunter, Penn State, Buffalo, and turnaround time now ranges from 2.9 to 3.5 months. Delaware. Research and active AAG membership Finances The turnaround time for PG articles, however, was 5 appear to be strong across the region. (Submitted by Treasurer Darrell Napton reviewed the financial months. Richardson mentioned that he is working Pope via email.) situation of the AAG. He observed that the fiscal with the publisher to increase the number of pages in year for the Association has just ended and the the PG which will reduce the backlog of articles. Review of Topical Developments books are being prepared for the annual audit. The Murphy updated the Council about the issue of President Lawson asked the National Councillors audit report will be provided to the Council at the including cross-cutting pieces in the Annals that had to discuss the question “What are the challenges and spring meeting. received the general support of the editors. He opportunities that the trend toward interdisciplinary Overall, AAG finances are in good shape and our noted that this issue involved a delicate balance research poses for geography?” net positive cash flow continues to be strong. Napton between the authorities of the Council, the editors Baerwald spoke about NSF’s recent “Spatial Social noted that both the AAG’s operating funds and its and the Publications Committee. Council discussed Science” initiative to attract scholars from disciplines endowment funds are growing. Napton noted that the implications of such cross-cutting pieces given that are discovering the importance of geography over the past year, the AAG has consolidated most of the current structure of the Annals. Bednarz asked and thereby drawing more funding to the Social Sci- its accounts into one institution – the SunTrust Bank that we move carefully and explore what the mem- ences. He felt that geographers have an inherent – for greater efficiency in making and tracking bership thinks about this possible change. Richard- advantage in undertaking interdisciplinary research transactions. Richardson and Napton presented son urged that the Publications Committee discuss because unlike scholars in other disciplines they are Council with the outline of the investment strategy this further with the editors. not limited by the topics they study; it is the “where” recommended by SunTrust Bank. Matthews moved Oberhauser updated Council about Publications of what they study that provides the common base. approval of financial management strategy under the Committee activities. The committee had received a He noted that geographers have been involved in a SunTrust umbrella. Kilpinen seconded, and Council number of applications for the PG editorship and had number of high profile interdisciplinary projects unanimously approved the motion. narrowed the search down to two candidates: David funded by the NSF. Napton moved that Council approve two corpo- Wilson from Illinois and Sharmistha Bagchi-Sen from Miyares distinguished between interdisciplinary rate resolutions to give Doug Richardson the research teams and interdisciplinary degree continued authority to make transactions involving Continued on page 20

www.aag.org AAG Newsletter 19 March 2005

Council Meeting Minutes from page 19 SUNY-Buffalo. Aitken commented on his experience Research and Outreach Educational Affairs as editor of the PG. He felt that the job is challeng- Deputy Director Solís summarized the AAG’s Richardson updated the Council on several ing because there is a heavy submission rate. recent research and outreach activities. The success of ongoing educational efforts led by Michael Solem The editor needs to have good management skills the My Community Our Earth project has prompted of the AAG. The AAG has received a 3-year grant and support of their departments. Oberhauser also the AAG and other sponsors to make it a longer term from FIPSE for teacher professional development in brought up the issue of editors and editorial terms. programmatic activity. Activities are now focused geography. The project is being led by Michael Specifically: around the upcoming United Nations Decade for Solem and Phil Gersmehl with Joseph Stoltman as 1. The terms of editors Michael Goodchild Education on Sustainable Development. The AAG the external evaluator. Michael Solem continues to and Basil Gomez are expiring in December 2005. also obtained NSF Travel funding for members to work on a 3-year NSF grant on establishing an Napton made the motion that we advertise for attend the 2004 IGU Congress in Glasgow, with Online Center for Global Geography Education. A replacements for these two editors. Bednarz second- renewal for the Regional Conference in Brisbane third project is the Geography Faculty Develop- ed. Council unanimously approved this motion. in 2006. The Association is partnering with the ment Alliance funded by the NSF with Ken Foote as Council suggested that the terms of the two editors American Council on Education on a Carnegie Foun- PI. The AAG has a subcontract. The GFDA work- be staggered to prevent them from expiring in the dation funded project on internationalization of the shops have filled up for the remaining two years on same year. discipline. The AAG has created a Senior Associates the grant. Council discussed ways to continue this 2. The editorial terms of Peter Muller (PG and program to provide a structured mechanism to tap program after NSF funding is over. Annals Book Review editor) and Dennis Fitzsimons into the expertise of retired geographers. Projects A number of educational projects are currently (PG and Annals Cartography editor) are ending under development include Living Learning Land- under exploration. A proposal has been submitted in Dec. 2004 which leaves a very short time to scapes (creation of informal learning environments in to NSF’s Teacher Professional Continuum program appoint new editors. Napton moved that the the area of geography and ecology) and a proposal to to develop teacher training products and workshops terms of Muller and Fitzsimmons be extended by NSF International Programs (spatial analytical focused on GIS and spatial literacy. Phil Gersmehl one year (subject to their willingness to do this). approaches to studying human-natural systems in the is PI along with co-PIs Wade Boykin of Howard Matthews seconded. Council unanimously Panama Canal Watershed). University and Michael Solem from AAG. Another approved this motion. Richardson reported on the specialty confer- proposal has been submitted to NSF’s Research Council also discussed various issues regarding ences sponsored/co-sponsored by the AAG this on Learning and Education to examine graduate the appointment of book review editors for the PG year. These were the Mapping in the News confer- training in geography. The PI is Michael Solem and the Annals. Lawson suggested that the Publica- ence at the National Press Club in Washington and co-PIs are Ken Foote and Janice Monk. Finally, tion Committee discuss these issues with the editors D.C. (May 14-15, 2004), the Race/Ethnicity and AAG is exploring a proposal with Texas State’s and then come to the Council specific motions Place conference at Howard University (September Grosvenor Center for Geographic Education for if necessary. 16-18, 2004), and the GIScience conference in NSF’s Opportunities for Enhancing Diversity in Richardson discussed AAG’s agreement with College Park, Maryland (October 20-23, 2004). the Geosciences. Blackwell Synergy to publish the journals online. The AAG also provided logistical support to the Bednarz, in her capacity as Project Coordinator, The agreement will go into effect on January 1, Healthy Departments Workshop in Seattle in June updated Council on GENIP activities. GENIP and 2005. Besides making the journals more accessible 2004. Richardson is planning a 2005 conference on its constituent organizations, including AAG, are to the public, there are other benefits to the AAG Geography and the Humanities. These conferences exploring strategies for securing funding for Geog- such as having our logo displayed whenever the have built many new relationships with academic raphy under the current provisions of the No Child journal was accessed, reciprocal access to journals of institutions, media representatives, policymakers, Left Behind as well as building political support for other societies, links to the AAG website, and space and scholars from other disciplines. geography education when NCLB comes up for on the journal home page of an informational Solís provided an update on the Diversity Task- reauthorization in 2006. Council discussed ways in banner. Council discussed the implications of the force activities. The AAG will be sending out a which Geography Awareness Week could be better trends toward online publishing for scholarly diversity-related survey to Department Heads on publicized, and Bednarz volunteered to bring this societies and thanked Richardson for his work in the recommendation of the Taskforce. She also issue up through GENIP to the National Geograph- negotiating this agreement. reported on AAG’s activities related to Geography ic Society which initiates it each year. Interview of PG Editor Candidates. Council met Careers and Outlook. She is currently working in turn with two candidates for the Professional with the Bureau of Labor Statistics to edit and STATUS OF THE ASSOCIATION Geographer editorship. They presented their visions review information on geographic technologies for for the journal and responded to questions from the their Occupational Outlook Handbook. The DOL Future Meetings Council. After discussion in which Council noted O*Net Online Occupational Information Network Richardson reviewed the meeting schedule for that we had two outstanding candidates and that plans to link to the AAG Careers website. GENIP the 2005 Denver AAG meeting. Future meetings this was a difficult choice, a vote was taken and has provided financial support for AAG activities will be held in Chicago (2006), San Francisco Sharmistha Bagchi-Sen was appointed as the next related to Geography Careers. (2007), and Boston (2008). Las Vegas is under editor of the PG. Finally, Richardson updated Council on issues consideration as a location for the 2009 meeting. related to public policy. John Wertman, Director After discussion, Council directed Richardson to Meridian Place Operations of the AAG’s new Public Policy initiative, has been negotiate a suitable hotel and facility rate at Las Richardson spoke highly of the efficiency and tracking legislation that impacts the geography Vegas. Alternate locations discussed were Salt productivity of the AAG staff. They are function- community and publishes a report monthly in Lake City, Phoenix, Houston, and San Antonio. ing well together as a team, and have learned the the newsletter. He and Gary Fitzpatrick, AAG The next Executive Committee meeting will be many new systems in place at the AAG. Important Policy Fellow, and the AAG are working toward in Washington, D.C. on February 27, 2005 and the capital infrastructure improvements have been the eventual goal of setting up an office of a next Council meeting will be in Denver on April conducted at Meridian Place. Geographer in Congress. 3-5, 2005.

20 AAG Newsletter www.aag.org Volume 40, Number 3

Pursuant to a resolution passed at the Spring Committees for the various AAG Honors were the AAG move to host Specialty Group listservs and 2004 Council meeting, Doug Richardson reported presented to Council. enhance the Specialty Group page on the AAG to the Council on union hotel options in cities that Lawson discussed the possibility of the AAG website. Other issues related to the annual meeting, have been selected by Council for future meetings. introducing a major new award “Geography Prize viz. minimizing scheduling conflicts and reduction For the 2008 Boston meeting (in advanced stages of for International Understanding” which would be of registration fees for students and other groups. negotiation when the resolution was passed) the given to major public figures. Council expressed With regards to the reduction of registration fees AAG will have two official hotels: the Weston support for this idea. Lawson, Murphy, and Pandit Richardson noted that two programs are already in (unionized) and the Marriott (non-unionized). The will make up the ad-hoc committee to explore place: the AAG Enrichment Funds and a student hotels are one block apart and connected by an the feasibility of establishing such a prize and volunteer program to help students get a reduced enclosed mall, and sessions will be held in both to report to Council in April 2005 with a specific registration fee. Baerwald suggested that the hotels. The Weston is slightly more expensive than recommendation. National Councillors get together before the the Marriott but not prohibitively so. Denver meeting to discuss any specific recommen- Negotiations with the Adams Mark Hotel for Specialty Groups dations to Council. the 2005 conference in Denver were completed Richardson announced that the AAG is making several years ago. Richardson noted the only union- a number of new services available to specialty Other Business ized hotel in the city, the Executive Tower, has only group members. These include hosting online Napton inquired whether the AAG should about 300 rooms. However, in the interest of forums for specialty groups, and handling specialty become involved in the certification of GIS special- providing options to those members wishing to stay group finances. The link to specialty groups on the ists. Richardson noted that there was an Ad-Hoc in a union hotel, the AAG website will provide AAG website has been enhanced and Specialty Committee on GIS Certification and he will ask information about this hotel which is approximate- Group chairs will have password access to update them to look into this. Baerwald updated Council ly eight blocks from the Adams Mark conference their group’s information and post the annual report. on personnel transitions at the NSF. Murphy hotel. Richardson observed that it is illustrative of Richardson informed Council that the Aging reported on the rising number of students taking the the limited options often available to the AAG that Specialty Group that had asked to be deactivated. AP Geography exam. This is resulting in a direct there is apparently only one small hotel which is There was some question about what should be increase in the number of freshman entering college unionized in the entire city of Denver. done with the approximately $1000 balance of with a declared geography major. Council also funds in the Specialty Group account. Attoh moved discussed the possibility of establishing another AAG Committees that in the event that a Specialty Group is inactive geography journal targeted more toward non-aca- Council approved the addition of Richard for several years, its funds revert to the AAG.” The demic geographers. Marston, John Adams, and Marie Price to the motion was seconded by Kilpinen. This led to a Standing Committee on Healthy Departments. broader discussion about the process for designating Closed Session Council then voted to finalize the Nominating a specialty group inactive. Pending clarification of Council met in closed session to review the and Honors Committee slates. These will appear this issue, the motion was tabled. Richardson also Executive Director’s performance and compensa- in the December 2004 newsletter. The regional announced that a new Affinity Group on tion. After discussion, Council members voted to councillors elected Sam Attoh as the Chair of “Private/Public Sector Geographers” has been estab- extend Doug Richardson’s contract by four years. Regional Councillors. lished. Other AAG affinity groups in place are Retired Geographers, Graduate Students, and Adjournment Honors and Awards Community College Affinity Groups. There being no further business, President Law- Marston announced that the 2005 Honorary Baerwald in his capacity as Chair of National son adjourned the Council meeting at 11:45 p.m. on Geographer Award would be given to Stephen Pyne Councillors reviewed Specialty Group reports and Sunday, October 3, 2004. in the Biology and Society Program at Arizona summarized the requests made by Specialty Group State. Murphy announced that the 2005 Presiden- chairs. The majority of the issues related to elec- Respectfully submitted, tial Awards will be given to Don Meinig and Al tronic communications and financial services. He Kavita Pandit Voorhees. The selections of the AAG Honors noted that these questions have been addressed by AAG Secretary Award Deadlines

2005 15. Intermountain West Research MAY MARCH Grants at BYU. http://fhss.byu.edu 15. SWG Pruitt National Minority Fel- 10. Department of Defense SERDP /reddcent/. lowship Program. Contact Ruth Shirey at funding for federal sector. www.serdp.org/ 15. Political Geography SG Stud- [email protected]. funding/funding.html. ent Paper Competition. www.political 10. Political Geography SG Non-Stu- geography.org. OCTOBER dent Achievement Awards. Contact Phil 14. McColl Family Fellowship. Steinberg at [email protected]. APRIL www.amergeog.org/scholarships_ 14. Political Geography SG Disserta- 15. Best Practices in Science Model- program.htm tion Enhancement Award. www.political ing Competition. www.esri.com/science 15. Fulbright Teacher and Administrator geography.org. modeling. Exchanges. www.fulbrightexchanges.org.

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November 2005

Association of American Geographers Council Meeting Minutes

Denver, CO Vice President’s Priorities Private funding has been raised to construct a new April 3 -5, 2005 Marston updated Council on planning for the building at UC Colorado Springs, which will include upcoming Healthy Departments workshop. He a new space for the Geography Department. The department is experiencing growth and has been Attending: Vicky Lawson, President; Dick Marston, will chair the Department Chairs luncheon at designated a Department of Excellence. Vice President; Alec Murphy, Past-President; Kavita the meeting at which Dr. Chris Mayda will be a East Lakes. Attoh reported that the Geography Pandit, Secretary and Regional Councillor (Southeastern speaker. He has organized a panel on Healthy Department at Kent State University has received Division); and Darrell Napton, Treasurer and Regional Departments at the Denver meeting. Also an a 3-year $1.87 million grant from NSF related to Councillor (Great Plains-Rocky Mountains Division). important priority is to advance physical geography promoting inquiry-based learning in the physical National Councillors: Thomas Baerwald, Sarah in the AAG. The Denver meeting program includes sciences. Akron is now offering a M.S. degree in Bednarz, Kirstin Dow, Kenneth Foote, and Ines interdisciplinary plenary sessions, special sessions, Geography/GIS, and a graduate certificate in GIS. Miyares. Regional Councillors: Stuart Aitken (Pacific and multi-specialty group sponsored events at the Youngstown State made their first tenure-track hire Coast Division), Samuel Aryeetey-Attoh (East AAG meetings, which emphasize the links between physical geographers and other areas of the in geography in 11 years. Geography at Eastern Lakes Division), Martha Geores (Middle Atlantic Michigan has teamed with the College of Education Division), Jon Kilpinen (West Lakes Division), Paul discipline. Marston is also encouraging the AAG to co-sponsor sessions with other physical geography to develop an earth science education major and Matthews (Southwestern Division), Gregory Pope, a GIS educator’s certificate applicable to Regional Councillor (Middle States Division), Tim societies. Marston is also working hard to promote geography and its role in the USGS. master’s degrees. Rickard (New England-St. Lawrence Valley). AAG New England-St. Lawrence Valley. Following up on Staff: Executive Director Douglas Richardson and Past President’s Priorities a report made at the last Council meeting, Rickard Deputy Director Patricia Solís. Murphy noted that there is a lot of common noted that Vermont chose (rather than was forced) ground between the presidential priorities, and to give up its Masters degree in order to focus on Regrets: Ann Oberhauser, National Councillor. that in recent years there has been considerable the undergraduate program. Rickard noted the need for strong leadership in the region and continuity in the work of successive AAG Visitors: Monica Amerelo, Press Consultant; Will Graf expressed concern that there were at least a couple Presidents. With respect to his work in enhancing and Jerry McMann, USGS Science Planning Team; of vulnerable departments. the role of geographers in public policy, he noted Jack Schroder, AAAS; Barbara Chow, Director, NGS Southwest. Matthews reported that the that there have been a number of actions taken by Education Foundation, Leslie Duram, Publications Southwest Division was in good shape. Phil Committee; Audrey Kobayashi, Section Editor of Annals of the AAG including the introduction of a media Suckling has been hired as the new head of Texas the AAG; Dennis Fitzsimmons, Cartography Editor of the and media relations link on the AAG website, the State and University of Oklahoma is getting Annals of the AAG; Robert Andelman, Megan organization of specialty conferences, and the energized behind the new head, Fred Shelley. Nortrup, Robin Friedman, John Wertman, Michael hiring of John Wertmen. In addition, to these, West Lakes. Kilpinen reported that he did Solem, Oscar Larson, AAG Staff. Murphy is representing the AAG/geography at a not receive much of a response to his queries to number of major conferences in the US and department chairs. However the overall picture is PRELIMINARIES overseas and has organized a session on op-ed positive. Macalester College is doing well. Concern President Lawson called the meeting to order at writing at the meeting. Murphy’s Past President’s about how information on geography/AAG makes 3:05 p.m. on April 3. The agenda for the meeting was address also addresses the role of geography in its way to geographers in joint departments with reviewed and adopted following a minor revision. public debate. Murphy’s other initiative is to foster non-geography chairs. Region is working on interdisciplinary dialogue and the published papers helping out for the Chicago meetings. Southeastern. Pandit reported that many of the CHALLENGES AND from the Philadelphia plenaries that recently appeared in the Annals provide a good statement. schools in the Southeastern region are finally emerging OPPORTUNITIES FOR Finally, Murphy sought Council guidance on the from several years of budget cuts. Many programs THE ASSOCIATION extent to which the issue of cross cutting pieces in report brisk growth centered on GIS. There are the Annals should be pursued. promising signs that a Geography department may President’s Priorities be established at Florida International University. Lawson updated the Council on activities relat- Review of Geography Programs Pacific Coast. Aitken reported that the Geography ed to her four Presidential priority areas: Healthy Great Plains-Rocky Mountains. Napton reported that Department at Nevada-Reno has recently submitted Departments, Enhancing Diversity, Social Justice, Geography is thriving in the region. South Dakota a proposal to establish a Ph.D. program and approval and Early Career Development. The “Healthy State University and the Montana State University’s is expected within a year. Unlike the impression that Departments” workshop was held in Seattle in June Earth Science Department have established new may have been created by his report at the last 2004, and a second Healthy Departments doctoral programs. South Dakota State also has a Council meeting, the University of Idaho is doing Workshop has been planned for Summer 2005 by new interdisciplinary GIScience Center of Excellence. well. The Cal State system employees may Dick Marston. The Healthy Departments Standing Geography is thriving in Utah’s community colleges actually get a raise after several years of no raises. Committee is now in place and has responded to which are channeling students to four-year colleges The Geography Department at Arizona State numerous calls for advice from department heads. and universities. The Department at Brigham Young University is being elevated to a School of She noted that there is a tremendous momentum in is refocusing its introductory physical geography class Geosciences. Overall, despite budgetary cutbacks the work of the AAG’s Diversity Taskforce. On the into a natural hazards class which has become a and faculty loss, graduate programs across the board topic of Social Justice, Lawson has organized two part of the core. Universities in Colorado are are doing well. Presidential Plenaries under the theme of “Fear and experiencing mandated funding reductions and Mid-Atlantic. Geores reported that George Hope” at the AAG meeting. several campuses are exploring private funding. Mason has just launched a new Ph.D. program in

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Volume 40, Number 10

Earth Systems and Geoinformation Sciences and is after 4 years of losses in our net assets, our total Journals Manager and Megan Nortrup, AAG hiring new faculty. George Washington has made assets have grown over 2 years from $1.5 million to Newsletter Editor. two hires, and geography is taking a leading role $2.4 million, and all debts have been retired. Our AAG Journals. Robin Friedman reported that AAG in the restructuring of Earth and Environmental strong financial position has given us the ability to journals are being published in a timely fashion. Sciences. University of Maryland at Baltimore invest in new programs and initiatives and provide a With respect to production, she has taken over the County has just appointed an urban geographer, robust suite of services to members. Napton also copyediting which has improved quality and process- and the Geography department at University of reported that the Finance Committee spoke at ing time. The term of the new PG editor began on Maryland College Park has just opened an office in length with the investment broker and concluded January 1, 2005 and the transition has gone well. Kinsasha. They continue to be successful in the that the current investment strategy which is There was discussion of memorials appearing in the NASA Grants program. MAD-AAG has good somewhat conservative is the best option. AAG and the need to indicate to authors that these participation in its monthly meetings which foster a Napton moved that the AAG raise membership need to be kept to a fixed length. Lawson thanked sense of community in the region. dues in all categories of membership by the rate of Robin Friedman and Megan Nortrup for their hard Middle States. Universities in Pennsylvania and inflation. Kilpinen seconded. There was discussion work on behalf of the AAG. New York are having difficulty in replacing faculty. about the fact that this raise is taking place when we Council discussed the Book review editorships. Pope noted that the growth of multidisciplinary have a positive growth in our finances. Napton Miyares moved that (1) there be separate centers on campuses often come at the expense of pointed out that our growth in total assets reflects, Book Review editors for the Annals and the PG; traditional departments. With a few exceptions, to a significant extent, the growth of our restricted (2) Council extend the term of the current Annals Ph.D. granting institutions in the region generally funds. The AAG is, however, faced with escalating are not involved in regional meetings. The Regional Book Review editor by 2 years; and (3) the AAG costs on items such as health insurance at a time that appoint a PG book review editor for a 4 year term. Division meeting will be at the Chautauqua the Association is expanding its member services. Bednarz seconded. Council unanimously passed Institution in October. Council unanimously passed the motion. this motion. The Council reviewed the AAG proposed budget Review of Topical Developments Lawson presented Council with the PG Editorial for FYE 2006. After discussion, the budget was President Lawson asked the National Councillors Board nominations as submitted by PG Editor unanimously adopted by Council. Lawson thanked to discuss the question “What should be the role of Treasurer Darrell Napton for his hard work and Bagchi-Sen. Council approved the slate with the AAG in social outreach given the sort of work in Council members thanked Doug Richardson for his two abstentions. which geographers are engaged?” excellent financial stewardship of the organization. Richardson brought up the issue of optional Foote observed that GIS Science and Education Pledges and contributions to the Advancing journal subscriptions. A number of associations areas have a long tradition of outreach toward Geography Fund are now just over $900,000. provide their members subscription discounts to various areas, and these could provide compelling Richardson reviewed the new initiatives he is relevant 3rd party journals. Council expressed strong models on which to build further. However, pursuing: formalizing a Planned Giving Program, support for this idea. Richardson will begin explor- outreach can require considerable resources and we seeking funding from private foundations and ing this issue and will keep the Executive Committee need to be careful that we do not stretch these too corporate donors whose missions are consistent and the Council appraised of developments. thinly over many areas. Bednarz noted that the with those of the AAG, developing a world mission- Lawson welcomed Leslie Duram, the Acting intersection of spatial thinking and education is oriented fundable project, getting on the federal Chair of the Publications Committee, and a new cross cutting area with great potential for charitable payroll withholding program, developing outreach. Geographers and cognitive scientists are Richardson thanked Duram for stepping in as new categories for revitalizing donations, and hiring currently working together to on this topic. Acting Chair and for her work on the Committee. someone to help with these efforts. Miyares pointed out that her institution, Hunter Duram provided a background on the work of the Publications Committee. College, is one that actively trains its students for Membership public service. Keeping public service in focus Lawson welcomed Richard Aspinall, candidate Richardson reported that contrary to the has the potential for bringing back geography in for the editorship of the Environmental Sciences expectation of declines in AAG membership after smaller institutions and programs. According to section of the Annals. He provided his editorial the Centennial meeting, membership continued to Dow, geographers have a great opportunity to get vision and answered questions from the Council. grow last year and is now over 9,000. He noted that more involved in key public policy issues such as the number of members who are retiring is growing Following discussion, Council approved, with one redistricting. Specialty groups could get more and there is a lifetime membership option for abstention, that Aspinall be appointed as the next involved in this issue as well. Baerwald noted that it interested retired members. ES editor of the Annals. is becoming increasingly important at NSF to Lawson introduced Rob Andelman, AAG Council met with two candidates for the demonstrate a research project’s value to society. We Director of Membership. Rob discussed the efforts editorship of the Methods Models and GIS need to think broadly about how we can best that the AAG is engaged in to broaden the section of the Annals. They presented their visions communicate the benefits of geographic research to membership. AAG staff members attend the for the MMGIS section of the journal and the larger world. meetings of organizations such as ASPRS and GITA, responded to questions from the Council. After Council members discussed these ideas further. as well as co-sponsored events like the Race/ discussion (in which Council noted that we had Lawson thanked the National Councillors for Ethnicity and Place conference and have had many two outstanding candidates and that this was a their input. individuals sign up for AAG memberships. He also difficult choice) Council approved, with STATUS OF THE ASSOCIATION spoke about the efforts that the Membership one abstention, the appointment of Mei-Po Kwan Committee is making to help in this regard. as the next MMGIS editor of the Annals. Finances Council discussed a range of issues related to AAG Council voted to appoint Tom Hodler as the Richardson gave a brief overview of the AAG membership. On behalf of Council, Lawson next Cartographic Editor of the Annals and PG. financial picture and noted that this was the thanked Rob Andelman for his excellent work and Vicky Lawson welcomed Audrey Kobayashi, best financial statement in the history of the AAG. dedication to the AAG. Annals PPR editor, and Dennis Fitzsimmons, Treasurer Darrell Napton reported that the AAG outgoing cartographic editor of the Annals and PG. Finance Committee met in February to examine the Publications audit report for the past fiscal year. He noted that Lawson introduced Robin Friedman, AAG Continued on page 24

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November 2005

AAG Council Meeting Minutes from page 23 Kobayashi reported that the editors of the AAG between representatives of the AAG and USGS Vicky Lawson introduced John Wertman, journals meet regularly and work well together. She culminating in a USGS Geography Summit held in Director of the AAG’s Public Policy initiative. He is also noted that the submission rate for her section the Cosmos Club, Washington DC in January 2005. working on a range of activities toward the goal of is growing. Dennis Fitzsimmons spoke to the Richardson is also working with his counterpart in augmenting geographic expertise available to challenges of keeping up the quality of maps and the Association of American Law Schools to organ- Members of Congress and enhancing Federal graphics in the journals given the proliferation of ize scholarly exchanges between AAG and AALS funding of geographic education. Richardson noted internet maps and widespread use of Powerpoint. initially through specialty sessions on Geography that the AAG’s public policy initiative dovetails well Lawson thanked both editors for their efforts on and the Law at the annual meetings of both with other areas such as educational affairs, membership, publications, press/media coverage behalf of the AAG. associations. Other specialty conferences under etc. Lawson and Richardson thanked Wertman for consideration include those on Geography and his excellent work on behalf of the AAG. Meridian Place Operations Drug Addiction (possibly partnered by NIH) and Richardson praised the quality of the AAG staff. Geography and the Humanities (possibly partnered Nikolas Schiller has been hired as the AAG Careers Educational Affairs by ACLS, NEH, and NHA). in Geography Program Coordinator. Patricia Solís Doug Richardson introduced Michael Solem, Richardson next welcomed Will Graf and Jerry will be working part time for the next year while she Director of AAG Educational Affairs. Solem McMann, members of USGS Geography Science is in Panama. Ehsan Khater is also working part described the two major grants that AAG Plan Development team and Jack Schroder, Chair- time. There is no pending litigation. Council has recently received to support its educational elect of the Geology and Geography Section of the discussed the need to make Meridian place initiatives. The first is an NSF grant close to $1 AAAS. McMann outlined the goals of USGS’s sci- wheelchair accessible. Richardson mentioned that million for a 3-year study on the professional he was working on finding additional space which ence strategy for geographic research which focus- development of graduate students. The project will would have accessible boardroom and workspaces. es around human and environmental dynamics of result in practical resources for departments on ways land change. Graf discussed the ways in which the to enhance their graduate programs. The second is Research and Outreach AAG and its members could support and comple- a year-long grant from NASA to develop a rigorous Richardson introduced Monica Amerelo who ment the work at the USGS. Schroder then spoke teacher training program in physical geography and has been hired as a press consultant to the AAG. about the structure of the AAAS and the work of the remote sensing drawing on NASA imagery and Her charge is to build greater press coverage of the Geology and Geography section of the AAAS. He other resources. The program builds on recent AAG meetings. Amerelo noted that several local urged the AAG to identify a set of geographic issues relationships developed with Howard University. reporters will be covering the Denver meetings, and that were timely and of wide interest around which Solem also updated Council on a number of the national press has been informed. The AAG has he could develop proposals at the AAAS. Lawson continuing projects. These include a FIPSE grant to also reserved a room for reporters. Amerelo and Richardson thanked Graf, McMann, and develop teacher professional development resources responded to questions from the Council on how Schroder for visiting the Council meeting. in geography. As a first step in dissemination of this the research of AAG members could better covered Solís provided an update on the Diversity work, a volume entitled Teaching Geography will be in media outlets. Taskforce plans and activities. There are three published this year by Guilford. Another is the Patricia Solís summarized the AAG’s recent diversity-related sessions at the Denver AAG. Online Center for Global Geography Education research and outreach activities. The AAG is Strategic efforts to introduce geography programs which has now developed three prototype continuing to generate new activities with the part- at Howard University continue. The AAG Careers models that are being tested. The AAG is one of ners participating in the successful MyCOE project. five scholarly organizations participating in a These include the Maui Digital Bus Project with the Project includes the Diversity Taskforce in its Office of Naval Research, and a Coastal restoration implementation plan. Analysis of the diversity project to internationalize the disciplines. The and community geography project in Panama in survey is underway and the Diversity Clearinghouse project is spearheaded by ACE and funded by the collaboration with the Ocean Fund. The AAG will be launched soon. Council discussed Carnegie Endowment. publishes regular “Partner Updates” for distribution various issues associated with the survey and The AAG, along with a number of other to the MyCOE collaborators on these Taskforce activities. institutions, is working on a NSF pre-proposal to developments. Collectively, these activities focus In the area of Careers and Employment in seek funding for a Center of Spatial Learning. Full around the UN Decade of Education for Sustainable Geography, Solís reported that, thanks to AAG proposals are by invitation only. Richardson noted that this is one of the most ambitious and far- Development, 2005-2014. efforts, the US Department of Labor has broadened reaching of the AAG’s educational projects. AAG received a continuation grant from the their scope of their Geography category and their Council member Bednarz who is also the NSF to support the travel of AAG members to the website now includes a link to the AAG. AAG has GENIP Project Coordinator said that she was IGU Regional Conference in Brisbane in 2006. The also provided DOL with names of geographers they heartened by the rise in external funding for Association is also one of five participating can contact for the O-Net survey. Richardson spoke geography initiatives. She noted that the National disciplinary associations on the American Council about AAG’s proposal with the Geospatial Geographical Society is beginning to restore their of Education’s project on Internationalizing the Information and Technology Association focused funding to the state alliances and is planning a major Discipline submitted to the Carnegie Foundation. on enhancing workforce development in national campaign promoting geography. More The Senior Associates Program, spearheaded by geospatial technologies. details on this were provided by Barbara Chow from Jan Monk, is moving forward in productive Solís spoke about the Careers in the Geographical the NGS who was introduced by Richardson. ways. Several other projects and proposals are Sciences project being spearheaded by Nicholas Chow spoke to the educational work underway at in development. Schiller, AAG Careers coordinator. With GENIP’s NGS which focused around three areas: getting Richardson recapped the successes of the many support, this project will produce and disseminate K-12 geography education funded by Congress, specialty conferences sponsored/co-sponsored by information on careers in geography and the developing a Public Service Announcement the AAG last year and the efforts underway to build geographical sciences. Currently the project is in the promoting geography, and K-12 teacher training in on the links made at these conferences. Most data collection stage. Council discussed the activities geography. Richardson thanked Chow for her recently there have been a series of meetings planned under this project. efforts and for speaking to the Council.

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Volume 40, Number 10

CONTINUING AND NEW BUSINESS shall be included in the annual call for field trip Council unanimously approved the addition of proposals that appears in the AAG Newsletter. the phrase “in written, spoken, and electronic Annual Meetings The resolution was unanimously passed by communications” in the second to last sentence in Vicky Lawson introduced AAG Conference the Council. Section IIB of the AAG Professional Ethics coordinator Oscar Larson. He anticipated that Future meetings will be held in Chicago (2006), Statement. The amended sentence would read: there would be over 5000 registrants and over 800 San Francisco (2007), and Boston (2008). Councillors “As members of the geographical community, it sessions at the Denver meeting. He thought that discussed the possibility of Las Vegas as the site of the is the moral responsibility of geographers to respect the digital submission of abstracts permitted later 2009 meetings. Matthews moved we go to Las Vegas, the dignity of persons, to value a diversity of deadlines which helped generate more registrants. Bednarz seconded. After further discussion of pros intellectual commitments and projects, and to treat AAG has recently developed customized abstract and cons of this site, Council unanimously voted for colleagues with civil collegiality in written, spoken submission software which in the long term will Las Vegas as the site of the 2009 AAG meetings. and electronic communication.” save the Association considerable time and money. Lawson thanked Oscar for his efforts on behalf of AAG Committees and Council Resolutions the AAG. Regarding future meetings, Council Pandit presented Council with the Committee on Council unanimously approved the following unanimously directed the ED to make slide Committees recommendations for new additions to two resolutions. AAG Standing Committees. Council unanimously projectors available on request only next year. Whereas, Alexander Murphy, as Vice President approved the slate. Lawson informed Councillors that she had and President of the Association of American Council members unanimously approved the received a union hotel petition that followed up on Geographers has exercised exceptional leader- appointment of Sam Attoh as AAG Treasurer to a resolution the Council had adopted in 2004. ship in assisting the Association in addressing succeed Darrell Napton and Jon Kilpinen as AAG Murphy presented the following resolution drafted the challenges facing the discipline of Geogra- Secretary to succeed Kavita Pandit. The regional in response by the Executive Committee: phy and working to strengthen academic geog- councillors elected Paul Matthews as the Chair of The AAG will actively solicit and give raphy, geographic outreach to the wider public, Regional Councillors. preference to a suitable unionized hotel in cities and collegiality within the discipline; selected for the AAG annual meeting. If on Honors and Awards review, the AAG Executive Committee Therefore be it Resolved that the Association Lawson announced the names of the AAG concludes that cost or other considerations of American Geographers, assembled in Denver, Award winners who will be honored at the Awards indicate that a non-union hotel should be used Colorado on the occasion of its 101st Annual Luncheon. Council unanimously approved the in a city with a union hotel option, then the Meeting, heartily thanks Alec for his leadership establishment of a new award, the “Geography Prize Executive Committee should detail the rationale of the Association during the past three years, for World Understanding” as outlined in a proposal for its choice to the Council and at the AAG and especially for his efforts to improve the circulated by Lawson. business meeting. The AAG will continue to standing of the discipline and the profession, and for “his role in presiding over the AAG’s negotiate, and if possible strengthen, existing Specialty Groups force majeure language in AAG annual meeting Centennial Meeting. Baerwald, Chair of National Councillors, hotel contracts. reported that the new services made available to the Whereas, Councillors of the Association of The resolution was unanimously passed specialty groups have been received very positively. American Geographers expend substantial by Council. He noted that the business meetings had been time and effort advancing the causes of the Lawson asked the Council to consider what our shifted to new time slots, and recommended that Association and the discipline; and options are if we face labor disputes at a future the Specialty Group Chairs be allowed to make Whereas, the Council of the Association of American annual meeting. The overall feeling of the Council is recommendations on the scheduling of their Geographers has confronted difficult issues and that there is a need to inform the membership business meetings given current time constraints. responded to unusual opportunities during the last about the ramifications of holding vs. canceling He will also urge chairs to work on maximizing the three years, meetings during a labor dispute and to develop a quality rather than the quantity of specialty group contingency plan. sessions, and to provide input on how the AAG can Therefore Be It Resolved that the Association Lawson then brought up a second petition that provide an outreach to the wider community. of American Geographers, assembled in Denver, the AAG had received protesting the exclusion of Richardson noted that the Aging and the Colorado on the occasion of its 101st Annual non-US citizen members of the AAG on a field trip Microcomputers groups have asked to be deactivated. Meeting, extends warm appreciation to Past organized by the AAG Military Geography Specialty Picking up discussion on a motion that was tabled in President Alexander Murphy, and retiring AAG Group. She presented a resolution drafted by the the previous year, Council unanimously passed that Councillors Ken Foote, Sarah Bednarz, Darrell Executive Committee: “In the event that a Specialty Group is inactive for Napton, and Kavita Pandit, for the energy, time, In keeping with the AAG’s effort to promote the three years, its funds revert to the AAG.” and talent they have contributed to the Associa- fair and equal treatment of members, field trips Council unanimously approved the establishment tion during their terms on the AAG Council. organized by AAG members or specialty groups at of two new affinity groups, Public/Private the annual meeting will, as a rule, be open to all Geographers and Stand Alone Geographers. Council Adjournment discussed the differences between Specialty Groups members. In instances where a member or There being no further business, President and Affinity Groups. specialty group wishes to organize a field trip that Lawson adjourned the Council meeting at 12:50 explicitly excludes any group of AAG members, the p.m. on Tuesday, April 5, 2005. ■ organizer will petition the AAG Council for an Other Business exception to this policy by the date when field trip Alec Murphy suggested, on behalf of the Respectfully submitted, proposals are due. If Council grants the exception, Executive Committee, that Council consider Kavita Pandit notice will be given in the AAG Newsletter, updating the AAG’s Professional Ethics statement to AAG Secretary along with an explanation of the reason for reflect the effects of the proliferation of mass the exception. The substance of this resolution electronic communication. After discussion,

www.aag.org AAG Newsletter 25 April 2006

Association of American Geographers Council Meeting Minutes

West Palm Beach, FL contributions of geographers to public policy Vice President Pandit present at a meeting of November 19-20, 2005 through several Newsletter columns. department chairs from the region. Chairs reported no major problems in their departments, but they Attending: Dick Marston, President; Kavita Pandit, Vice President’s Priorities discussed the issue of classification of geography Vice President, Vicky Lawson, Past President, Jon Pandit outlined two major focus areas for her Vice courses where state funding is concerned. The chairs Kilpinen, Secretary and Regional Councillor (West Lakes Presidential year. First, she will continue the Healthy also discussed the idea of organizing themselves to Division); and Samuel Aryeetey-Attoh, Treasurer and Departments initiative, in part by organizing the educate state legislatures on the importance of Regional Councillor (East Lakes Division). National Summer 2006 workshop in Athens, Georgia. She GIScience, physical geography, and human Councillors: Thomas Baerwald, Kirstin Dow, Carol hopes to promote this during the chairs luncheon at geography. Next year’s East Lakes meeting is slated Harden, Mei-Po Kwan, Ines Miyares, and Ann Chicago by organizing a round-table format with for Toledo, and there is the possibility of a joint Oberhauser. Regional Councillors: Stuart Aitken various discussion topics solicited from chairs in meeting with the Ontario group in 2008. (Pacific Coast Division), Kevin Blake (Great Plains- advance of the meeting. She would also like to invite Great Plains-Rocky Mountains. Blake reported Rocky Mountains Division), Martha Geores non-geographer chairs from joint departments to the positive news from GPRM, including strong (Middle Atlantic Division), Paul Matthews (South- 2006 workshop and hold more breakout sessions like faculty numbers in many departments. Efforts western Division), Tyrel Moore (Southeastern those held in Maine in 2005. Second, Pandit wants continue within the region to get relatively Division), Gregory Pope (Middle States Division), to emphasize internationalization in geography. inactive departments to host meetings in the near and Timothy Rickard (New England-St. Lawrence Pandit will include a session on the topic next future. Student participation in GPRM meetings is Valley Division). AAG Staff: Executive Director summer at the Healthy Departments workshop. In significant. He mentioned the possibility of an Chicago, she will also highlight the International Douglas Richardson and Director of Research and on-line journal or newsletter. Reception and promote and participate in interna- Outreach Patricia Solís. Mid-Atlantic. Geores reported that the MAD- tional sessions, including one on graduate students AAG is healthy, with tremendous GIS programs at and one on Fulbright opportunities. Through both PRELIMINARIES George Mason, Salisbury, and Maryland, but not as of these initiatives, Pandit will work to broaden the President Marston convened the meeting at 8:32 much human geography. George Washington is reach of geography to encourage geographers from a.m. on November 19 with a short welcome, intro- smaller, but more balanced, and frequent all walks of life to participate in the AAG. ducing new members to Council. After a brief Geography Bowl champions. Student enrollments review, Council adopted the agenda for the meeting. are strong. At Maryland, many new majors have Past President’s Priorities come out of introductory courses. There has been CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNI- Lawson commented on the dynamics and good participation in conferences, including inter- TIES FOR THE ASSOCIATION energy of many of the AAG’s recent initiatives, national conferences. The division felt a great loss including the Healthy Departments initiative. For with the death of Bill Wood. President’s Priorities her part, Lawson plans to continue to work on Middle States. Pope reported that New Jersey is Marston outlined four main priorities: 1) diversity issues during her Past Presidential year, Advancing Physical Geography, 2) Healthy Depart- including the Diversity Task Force. She has tried to looking forward to a capital improvement initiative in ments, 3) Collaboration within Geography and encourage underrepresented students to attend the the state. Pennsylvania has seen an initiative to create between Geographers and Other Disciplines, and 4) AAG meeting in Chicago, which the AAG has a “state geographer” position. In New York, there has Geography and Public Policy. He will seek to supported by reserving some Conference Assistants been a sweeping overhaul of general education engage physical geographers in AAG affairs, slots expressly for that purpose. She also noted that requirements. Physical geography now fulfills a including editorial positions, awards, and various panels by the Diversity Task Force are in the works science requirement. Regional courses are in high committees, as well as encourage a Physical for Chicago. Lawson also plans to continue her demand. Some departments have noticed declining Geography reception at AAG Annual Meetings. He initiative on geography and social justice. Geogra- enrollment in physical geography due to a shift in will also monitor and cultivate geography’s place in phies of care and responsibility will be the theme of environmental science towards a biological point of the USGS. Marston co-organized the Summer 2005 Lawson’s Past President’s address in Chicago. view. Faculty numbers, however, are stable to Healthy Departments workshop with Alec Murphy Papers from the President’s Plenary session last year improving. The Middle States journal is doing well in Portland, Maine, and he will work with Vice in Denver, ‘Geographies of Fear and Hope,’ are and should soon appear on the region’s web page. President Pandit on the Summer 2006 workshop in currently under review as a possible Annals forum. New England-St. Lawrence Valley. According to Georgia. Marston is organizing the President’s Rickard, NESTVAL is very excited about geography’s Plenary Session for the Chicago meeting on Review of AAG Regions return to Harvard. Despite continued strong atten- “Geography—The Original Integrated Environ- East Lakes. Attoh reported that East Lakes met in dance numbers, the regional meeting has seen a mental Science.” Finally, he will highlight October at Bowling Green State University, with decline in the significance of its traditional banquet.

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The NESTVAL Proceedings is still in some flux with too next year with the GPRM division in Lincoln, with no current debt. Treasurer Attoh reported that the few submissions, but a publication is viewed as the University of Illinois hosting the following current financial statements confirm the financial necessary. Perhaps the most important question in the meeting in 2007. Members in the region expressed health of the AAG, thanking Darrell Napton for his region concerns strategies to replace retiring faculty interest in creating a Liberal Arts Affinity Group. work last year as Treasurer. Our investments are members. Rickard recommended that the Healthy They also expressed concern about overly lengthy conservative enough to protect our interests, but Departments workshop examine this concern. articles in the Annals and the cost of AAG journals at diverse enough to generate healthy income. A full Pacific Coast. Aitken reviewed faculty, student, a time of contracting library budgets. audit of our financial statements is scheduled for and budget levels at Pacific Coast schools. Budget December, 2005. At Marston’s urging, Council Review of Topical Developments numbers are down a bit. There is some decline of thanked Richardson with a round of applause for his President Marston asked the National geography majors in the California state system. San efforts and those of his staff to manage the AAG’s Councillors to identify possible constraints that Diego State University has seen a decline in majors, finances. might prevent physical and human geographers but this may relate to the department’s emphasis on The Advancing Geography Fund has now topped from working together and geographers in general the Ph.D. program. Reno’s Ph.D. program will be up the $1 million mark in pledges, with more than from working with other scholars. and running next year. The region met recently in $700,000 received. Within this umbrella fund, there The National Councillors noted that while super- Phoenix hosted by Arizona State. The region are numerous specific funds on targeted projects to ficial constraints exist between physical and human requests that the AAG provide more data on which donors can now contribute. Council members geographers in their subdisciplinary language, jargon, enrollment/staffing/budget trends in geography and suggested adding examples of specific projects and terminology, more important philosophical differ- more publicity, perhaps even a short video on the ences often exist between subfields on methods. supported by these funds in a Newsletter column or on AAG website on career opportunities. The There are also institutional constraints, with few the AAG website, perhaps akin to “your tax dollars at University of Alaska reports that the department may schools providing incentives for this kind of collabo- work” ads. Discussion with Council also indicated be rebuilding geography in Alaska, possibly adding ration. If departments buy into a change in culture that a subcategory targeted to students is desirable. an MA/MS program. with greater collaboration, it can start with students as Richardson is also working on cultivating relation- Southeastern. Moore reported that SEDAAG was a bottom-up approach, while simultaneously a top- ships with several major foundations that could honored to host the AAG Council’s Fall meeting at a down approach could start with NSF, etc., to contribute to the AAG in the future. very successful meeting in West Palm Beach. Reports encourage collaboration. Hurricane Katrina has Richardson proposed that the AAG not raise next to the Division’s Steering Committee meeting certainly highlighted opportunities for year’s membership dues. Pandit moved accordingly, revealed that, with few exceptions, state funding physical/human researchers to come together. Good and Miyares seconded. Attoh, as Treasurer, expressed concerns had eased since previous year. As is the case partnerships, the Councillors noted, emerge from support for increasing dues modestly, along the lines in other AAG divisions, SEDAAG is seeking greater common concerns or goals. Common objectives for of 2 percent, in the spirit of fiscal conservativeness. participation from Ph.D. programs at the regional geographers include scale—spatial, temporal, organi- Council approved the motion to hold membership meetings. Membership in the region is on the zational, etc.—and the nature of change (and its dues steady for one year, with one abstention. rebound but remains a priority, particularly in the implications). We could all benefit from a greater Division’s regular faculty membership category. A openness to other approaches in our work, recog- Membership new Ph. D. program focused on environmental nizing contributions from fellow geographers in other Richardson reported that membership should be geography - land use/land cover impacts and specialties, as well as scholars in cognate fields. We around 9,300 at the end of this year, based in part in monitoring, geospatial applications and Latin should look to engage scholars from other fields who much improved member benefits, including online America was launched in Fall 2005 at the University are doing geographic work and to publish and services, new membership options, new affinity of Southern Mississippi. Another Ph.D. program in promote our broadly conceived work. groups, and services for regions and specialty groups. Geography and Urban and Regional analysis is After further discussion among Council at large, Members now also have the option to receive several pending approval for implementation in Fall 2006 at Marston thanked the National Councillors for their optional third-party journals at discounted the University of North Carolina at Charlotte responses to his question. subscription rates. Southwest. Matthews reported that SWAAG met In the category of enhanced member services, last week, and departments across the region seem to STATUS OF THE ASSOCIATION Richardson noted that the AAG recently added an be doing extremely well. Many are adding new Finances automatic membership renewal option and has faculty members. Northeastern State University, in Richardson provided an overview of AAG featured the retired life membership. AAG now Oklahoma, which was under some administrative finances. He noted especially the initiation or offers listserv and on-line access to lists of officers and pressure, is doing well and will host the regional outright completion of many of the items he outlined annual reports for specialty groups. Along these same meeting in 2008. The University of New Orleans in his 2002 article in the AAG Newsletter. There will lines, he highlighted the AAG’s response to still has not been able to get back on campus. certainly be opportunities for the future, but he noted Hurricane Katrina as a service to those members and West Lakes. Kilpinen reported that West Lakes the need to consolidate our recent gains. geography departments along the Gulf Coast held a very successful meeting in November in Iowa Richardson showed the Association’s change in affected by the disaster. City, focused in part on the theme of geography and net assets since 1999, highlighting the AAG’s public policy. The region will hold a joint meeting improved financial condition during this time, with Continued on page 16

www.aag.org AAG Newsletter 15 April 2006

Council Meeting Minutes from page 15 Publications telecommunication operations system, upgrades to Solís provided an update on the Diversity Task Richardson indicated that the AAG’s publications the heating and air-handling system, general mainte- Force, circulating minutes from recent meetings. She are strong and professional, and many are available nance of the building and grounds, and the initiation reminded Council of the launching of the AAG’s on-line to members. The AAG Newsletter, for instance, of renovations in the attic for some new office space. online Diversity Clearinghouse, which represents a has expanded in recent issues, accommodating the He spoke of future plans for other interior upgrades searchable database of information on diversity fall influx of job listings as well as many new features. and exterior repairs. Richardson also noted the recent within the field of geography. The Task Force also The Newsletter has thus improved as a recruiting tool hiring of Ivan Cheung as AAG Director of GIScience forwarded to Council a request for the creation of an and as a vehicle to provide information on geography Programs, Beth Schlemper as full-time Research AAG Enhancing Diversity Award. Attoh moved that to university administrators and to scholars in other Fellow in Geography Education, and Jongwon Lee as Council create this award, and Lawson seconded. fields. The new op-ed section will allow for the Education Fellow. Richardson lauded the abilities and Council unanimously approved the motion. raising of meaningful issues within geography and performance of the AAG staff. Following the recommendation of the Task Force, the AAG. Similarly, as part of our outreach to Latin Miyares moved, and Lawson seconded, the America, the Guide to Geography Programs has been Research and Outreach nomination of Don Deskins and Saul Cohen as expanded to provide coverage to Latin America and Richardson and Solís summarized recent Associ- recipients of the 2006 Enhancing Diversity Award. the Caribbean. ation projects in research and outreach. The AAG Council unanimously approved this motion, as well. Richardson noted an increase in submissions to continues to serve as the Secretariat for the “My Council then shifted to the AAG’s public policy the PG since 2004 and a turnaround time of under Community, Our Earth” (MyCOE) initiative, which initiative. Richardson reiterated the AAG’s concern four months for both the PG and the Annals. He seeks to engage young people around the world in for policy issues that affect geography, including updated Council on the status of the AAG’s agree- local projects that use geographic methods and federal funding in several key areas, and provided ments with Blackwell. For the PG, this will mean an technologies to investigate sustainable development. Council with an update from John Wertman, the increase of 160 pages for the 2006 volume. The possi- The project is focused on the current United Nations AAG’s Directory of Public Policy. The AAG has bility of publishing a fifth issue of the Annals is being Decade of Education for Sustainable Development, sent several letters to Congressional members and explored. An upgraded version of Manuscript Central 2005-2014. Other current AAG projects include an federal agencies on the issue of scientific freedom will debut on January 1, 2006, making manuscript NSF grant providing travel money for conference and on behalf of federal funding for geography submissions to both journals easier and more user attendance in Brisbane. The AAG is concluding work education, among other topics. The AAG has also friendly. Finally, all issues of the Annals and the PG are with an American Council on Education proposal to organized congressional briefings on topics like now available electronically through Synergy. the Carnegie Foundation to promote international- building geographic management systems. Infor- Council then discussed the terms of AAG journal ization of teaching and learning at U.S. universities mation from these activities is then distributed via editors. Baerwald moved, and Miyares seconded, through collaborative efforts. the Newsletter to all AAG members. that Kobayashi be offered a second term as editor of Richardson then updated Council on AAG Richardson then discussed the recent culmi- the PPR section. Council passed the motion unani- specialty conferences, mentioning especially the nation of a long-running initiative to bring mously. Geography and Humanities conference. This geography back to Harvard. Working with Peter Discussion then turned to the PG Book Review symposium, scheduled for February 2007, involves Bol, Professor of East Asian Languages and Civiliza- editor. Council voted to extend the deadline to AAG partnership with the American Council of tions at Harvard, the AAG provided support and February 15, 2006. Learned Societies and the University of Virginia. information as Harvard University officials estab- Council next considered the proposed editorial Funding is being sought from the National lished a new Center for Geographic Analysis. boards for the MMGIS and ES sections of the Annals. Endowment for the Humanities and the National Support for this initiative reached to the upper Baerwald moved to accept the MMGIS editorial Humanities Alliance. levels of Harvard’s administration, suggesting a board. Moore seconded, and Council passed the Richardson also reminded Council of the long-term commitment to the Center and perhaps motion. Harden then moved and Miyares seconded Geography and Drug Addiction Symposium, jointly to a geography program at Harvard in the future. that the board for the ES section be accepted. sponsored by the AAG and the National Institute on Finally, Richardson updated Council on the Council passed the motion. Kilpinen and Baerwald Drug Abuse (NIDA) and scheduled for March 8, AAG Senior Associates Program, designed to offered a motion as follows: In forming their editorial 2006, in conjunction with the AAG Annual Meeting engage retired geographers in ongoing activities boards for approval by Council, editors should in Chicago. and to make their considerable talents and nominate individuals who do not serve as editors of Besides these conferences, Richardson mentioned experience available to the AAG and its ongoing either the Annals or the PG. Matthews seconded the a third Race, Ethnicity and Place conference in projects on research, public policy, and education. motion. Council passed this motion. November 2006 in San Marcos, Texas, to be co- AAG Past President Jan Monk helps coordinate the sponsored by the AAG, and a collaboration with the Senior Associates Program. Meridian Place Operations Association of American Law Schools on Richardson offered an overview of staff and “Geography and the Law.” All of these events Educational Affairs facilities issues related to Meridian Place. He noted evidence the efforts of the AAG to highlight the Richardson circulated and summarized a written the recent installation of a new computer and importance of geography to allied fields. report from Michael Solem, Director of Educational

16 AAG Newsletter www.aag.org Volume 41, Number 4

Affairs, and Educational Fellows Jongwon Lee and use in their classrooms through the AAG’s educa- committee to seek funding for a “Geography Prize Beth Schlemper. He indicated that the AAG is tional projects is a remarkable achievement, one for World Understanding” will consist of Lawson, emphasizing higher education in geography, as that Solem deserves considerable credit for spearheading. Richardson, and Harm de Blij. reflects the majority of the membership, but has launched initiatives at the secondary level as well. CONTINUING AND NEW BUSINESS Specialty Groups Recent efforts in this area include an NSF- Baerwald highlighted the status of Specialty Annual Meetings funded project called “Enhancing Departments and Group annual reports, important issues, and Richardson reviewed the planning and prelim- Graduate Education” or EDGE. This is a three-year requests. Specialty Groups expressed gratitude for inary schedule for the Chicago meeting, scheduled study of the process of professional development in the support provided by the AAG central office. for March 7-11, 2006. Early indications point to yet graduate-level geography. EDGE has supported Pandit asked about the issue of moribund Specialty another meeting with more than 5,000 attendees. two on-line resources: the AAG Guide to Careers in Groups and whether the Specialty Groups had Richardson also noted the exciting variety of field Geography and the Geographic Sciences and 2) the discussed this issue and how to address it. Council trips that members had already submitted for the AAG Healthy Departments website. Another AAG requested a status report of the World-Wide Web Chicago meeting. educational project includes a three-year grant from Specialty Group, which has not reported to Council Future AAG meetings will occur in San Francisco the Department of Education’s Fund for the in a while. (2007), Boston (2008), and Las Vegas (2009). Improvement of Postsecondary Education (FIPSE) Matthews moved that Council confirm that the Council discussed several possible sites for the 2010 to develop a “Teachers Guide to Modern procedure for establishing and maintaining Affinity meeting, including cities in the central United Geography.” Lee joined the AAG staff to work as a Groups be identical to that for establishing and States, but reached no decision on the matter. post-doctoral fellow under this project. maintaining Specialty Groups. Harden seconded, Two education-related proposals are currently AAG Committees and Council and Council approved the motion unanimously. pending. First, in September 2005, a proposal went Kilpinen provided Council with nominees for Kilpinen discussed the possible creation of a to the NSF for Geospatial Resources for Secondary the Honors and Nominating Committees. Liberal Arts affinity group. School Teachers. If funded, this $1.2 million Following discussion, Council selected the final project will support workshops and professional slates for these committees, the candidates’ names Closed Session development resources for integrated math, science, and biographical materials to appear in the January Council met in closed session to review the and geography education for four years. Second, 2006 AAG Newsletter. Executive Director’s performance and compensation. NASA has awarded the AAG a one-year planning Following discussion, Council commended Doug grant for Project Geo-START (Geo-Spatial Honors and Awards Richardson’s efforts as Executive Director and Thinking Activities and Resources for Teachers of The Honors Committee forwarded its selections approved his salary and benefits for the 2006-2007 Geography and Earth Science). This project will for AAG Honors to Council, these to be announced fiscal year. improve teaching and student learning in physical at the Chicago meeting in 2006. Marston geography and earth system science through announced that Barbara Kingsolver, noted author Adjournment resources using GIS datasets and NASA earth- and activist, has accepted the 2006 Honorary There being no further business, President observing remote sensing imagery. Geographer Award. Lawson then discussed the Marston adjourned the Council meeting at 11:50 a.m. on Sunday, November 20, 2005. Richardson emphasized the remarkable contri- 2006 Presidential Achievement Award, indicating butions to AAG initiatives in the educational affairs that she would circulate the names of nominees to Respectfully submitted, area by Michael Solem. The development of the Executive Committee for approval in the Jon T. Kilpinen resources and materials that geography teachers can coming weeks. Finally, Richardson reported that a AAG Secretary Quarter Century

he April 1981 AAG Newsletter Mid-Holocene Fields of Annual Precipita- ogy of Galways Plantation, Montserrat, informed AAG membership that tion,” Colin E. Thorn (Illinois) for “Spatial West Indies,” and John D. Tremont TRobert Aangeenbrug, professor of Stratification of Geomorphic Processes in (Anchorage, Alaska) for “A Geographical geography at the University of Kansas the Alpine by Tundra Plant Communi- Investigation of Arctic Frontier Road was appointed by the National Research ties,” Marilyn A. Brown (Illinois) for “The Development Policies”…Stanley D. Council to serve as a member of the U.S. Impact of Public Programs on Residential Brunn and Gyula Paure joined the facul- National Committee for the IGU as a rep- Energy Conservation,” William C. John- ty of the University of Kentucky…the resentative for ACSM from January 1, son (Kansas) for “Reconstruction of Late University of Illinois established new 1981 to December 31, 1984…AAG Quaternary Vegetation at Natural Trap graduate programs in regional science and Research Grants were given to Paul A. Cave, Wyoming,” Lydia M. Pulsipher geomorphology. Kay (Utah) for “Late-Pleistocene and (Tennessee) for “The Historical Archaeol-

www.aag.org AAG Newsletter 17 May 2006

Association of American Geographers Council Meeting Minutes

Chicago, IL Past President’s Priorities being model departments, etc. Enrollment is gener- March 5-7, 2006 Lawson thanked those AAG officers who have ally stable, with Syracuse having major growth. joined Council the last two years and continued Pennsylvania’s state budget cuts have prevented Attending: Dick Marston, President; Kavita Pandit, many of her initiatives, especially the Healthy faculty hiring there. Rutgers has a hiring freeze, but Vice President, Vicky Lawson, Past President, Jon Departments project. She noted that the Healthy Montclair State has had hires the past two years. Kilpinen, Secretary and Regional Councillor (West Lakes Departments’ web page has been established and is Slippery Rock University, Montclair State, and Division); and Samuel Aryeetey-Attoh, Treasurer and growing. Summer workshops may go to alternating Syracuse have all enjoyed new buildings or infra- Regional Councillor (East Lakes Division). National years after 2006. Lawson hopes to add some new structure in recent months. Syracuse now has a Councillors: Thomas Baerwald, Kirstin Dow, Carol members to the Healthy Departments Committee “community geographer,” who carries out outreach Harden, Mei-Po Kwan, Ines Miyares, and Ann to continue its work. On the issue of diversity, the initiatives with the city. Pennsylvania’s initiative for Oberhauser. Regional Councillors: Stuart Aitken Diversity Task Force will meet in Chicago and a State Geographer has been tabled, pending a reso- (Pacific Coast Division), Kevin Blake (Great Plains- submit a report to Council later in 2006. Lawson lution of the administrative home for the position. Rocky Mountain Division), Martha Geores (Middle continues to work on funding for the Geography Middle States will hold its next meeting in New Atlantic Division), Paul Matthews (Southwestern Prize for World Understanding. Finally, she Brunswick, New Jersey in October. Division), Tyrel Moore (Southeastern Division), mentioned that her Past President’s Address later in New England-St. Lawrence Valley. Rickard reported Gregory Pope (Middle States Division), and Timo- the Chicago meeting will focus on “Geographies of that NESTVAL is set to meet at the University of thy Rickard (New England-St. Lawrence Valley Care and Responsibility.” Vermont in October 2006, the department there Division). AAG Staff: Executive Director Douglas perhaps resuming its role as a regional leader. Richardson and Director of Research and Outreach Review of Geography Programs Rhode Island College is facing challenges in servic- Patricia Solís. East Lakes. Attoh reported that geography is well ing its majors due to a hiring freeze. in the East Lakes, with only minor changes in some Pacific Coast. Aitken reported only a few signifi- PRELIMINARIES departments. State-level issues, including transfer cant changes in the region since Fall 2005. He noted President Marston convened the meeting at 3:10 assurance guides in Ohio, have been mildly contro- that the University of Idaho is doing well, having p.m. on March 5 with a brief welcome. Council versial, but few chairs are concerned about their had a solid external review, an NSF grant, the addi- then adopted the agenda for the meeting. impacts on geography. Subsidies for geography tion of a new position, and increased graduate appli- courses remain low in many departments, despite cations. The University of Arizona reported a CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNI- higher costs for GIS and environmental lab courses. record number of geography majors—about 350— TIES FOR THE ASSOCIATION Bowling Green State University is looking to estab- this academic year and approval of a Graduate lish a school of Earth, Environment, and Society to Certificate in GIS. The California State University President’s Priorities compete for more state support. Grand Valley State system has seen new hires in geography at several Marston reviewed his main priorities: 1) University is working on some international initia- schools, and geography at Cal State Longbeach has Advancing Physical Geography, 2) Healthy Depart- tives. Toledo is readying to submit its Ph.D. proposal been designated a “growth pole” in the College of ments, 3) Collaboration within Geography and to the Ohio Senate before final state approval. Liberal Arts, expecting to reach 200 majors in the between Geographers and Other Disciplines, and Great Plains-Rocky Mountain. Blake reported that next few years. The debut of Reno’s Ph.D. program 4) Geography and Public Policy. He especially a slate of dates and locations is in place for the next is slated for next year. noted the President’s Plenary Session for the three annual regional meetings (2006, 2007, 2008) Southeastern. Moore reported good news on Chicago meeting on “Geography—The Original and that the planning efforts for the 2006 meeting geography in SEDAAG. Budgets at many schools Integrated Environmental Science.” Marston also are going very well. He also reported on the state have improved. The department at the University commented on his involvement with AAG fundrais- of geography in several departments in the region in of Kentucky is doing especially well with several ing activities, including meetings in Chicago. which geography is combined with earth science or current hires in progress and a new GIS teaching environmental studies. Geography is doing well in and research lab. The University of Tennessee is Vice President’s Priorities these departments in terms of faculty and student also doing well, with two new faculty positions and Pandit reiterated her two main initiatives: numbers; in a couple of instances geography is the a growing number of majors. East Carolina Univer- internationalization in geography and healthy sole focus of the department’s programs and these sity and the University of Georgia have enjoyed departments. She reminded Council of the next departments are experiencing growth. recent hires. One ongoing concern in the region Healthy Departments Workshop, to be held in Mid-Atlantic. Geores reported that MAD-AAG involves membership, which is not as strong as in Athens, Georgia, June 9-11, 2006. She also hopes held its annual meeting at the USGS this year as the past. SEDAAG hopes to work with the AAG to to encourage regional divisions to organize part of an effort to expand the involvement of promote regional membership renewals. “healthy departments” sessions at their meetings in public-sector applied geographers. The academic Southwest. Matthews reported that SWAAG 2006-2007. To highlight internationalization in departments all seem to be in good stead. Students seems to be quite healthy, with no major changes geography, Pandit will meet with counterparts are declaring geography majors earlier than ever—a since December. In New Mexico, the Department from other countries at the IGU in Brisbane in July good sign of the health of the discipline. The fall of Higher Education, a recent creation, has moved 2006 and during other overseas trips. She will also meeting is going to be held in conjunction with to create a core curriculum for higher education, work more closely with the AAG’s International SEDAAG at Morgantown, West Virginia. though its implementation across the state seems Research and Scholarly Exchange Committee on Middle States. Pope reported that many depart- unlikely. At the request of a SWAAG member, the international matters. ments report having high standing in their colleges, George Carney situation was raised.

20 AAG Newsletter www.aag.org Volume 41, Number 5

West Lakes. Kilpinen reported that plans for the members and supported by the Scientific Freedom Kyoto Protocol and Rulebook that is presently joint West Lakes meeting with the Great Plains- and Responsibility Committee. Many Council international law; Rocky Mountain division in Lincoln, Nebraska, are members embraced the spirit of the proposed reso- Be it further resolved that, the AAG encourages geog- well under way. News from some of the larger West lution, but several were concerned about its length raphers to continue to engage in climate change Lakes’ departments indicated that geography is well and language. Marston circulated copies of a state- research, education, scientific assessments, policy even in the face of changes. The University of Illinois ment on climate change endorsed by, among others, discussions, and political action, as they deem reported an impending inclusion of geography in a the National Academy of Science. After much appropriate; and new School of Earth, Society, and Environment, with reflective discussion and editing, Council approved Be it further resolved that, the AAG, as an important hiring priorities in interdisciplinary research areas. the following revised version of the resolution with representative organization of geographic science, The University of Wisconsin-Madison reported new five abstentions: direct its Council and President to establish a appointments in each of the last few years and a very AAG Resolution Requesting Action on Climate Change committee to draft a formal position paper as a successful GIS certificate program. Indiana Univer- Whereas, climate change is a process that consti- reference document on global climate change. sity noted some challenges to replacing retiring tutes a major threat to Earth’s environment and to Council agreed that the submission of the origi- faculty members, but remained very optimistic given the well-being of people in all nations; nal petition was very valuable for raising an impor- the results of recent hires. Whereas, geography is an integrative science that tant scientific and policy-related issue and for synthesizes and analyzes data regarding human- highlighting the process of AAG resolutions. Review of Topical Developments environmental relationships, thereby increasing Harden then moved, with Matthews seconding, President Marston requested that the National understanding about global climate change and that the Council appoint an ad hoc committee to Councillors consider the role of petitions and reso- contributing to more informed policy decisions; participate in the Intergovernmental Panel on lutions in the AAG, including the process of bring- Whereas, members of the Association of Ameri- Climate Change review process on behalf of the ing those petitions to Council. Marston and can Geographers (AAG) petitioned the AAG Coun- Association. Council approved the motion unani- Baerwald reviewed the articles and by-laws of the cil to consider this issue; mously. Marston thanked the National Councillors AAG regarding established procedure. Baerwald Whereas, global scientific efforts established a for their thoughtful responses to the complicated pointed out that there are two broad questions: substantial body of evidence and reached a scientific matter of AAG resolutions. what is the broader role of petitions, and what are consensus on global climate change, including the mechanisms of the petition process? reports from the Intergovernmental Panel on STATUS OF THE ASSOCIATION The National Councillors noted that there are Climate Change (IPCC) and Arctic Climate Impact various levels of expression (individual members, Assessment (ACIA), among others; Finances Specialty Groups, and the AAG as a whole) and two Whereas, the International Polar Year for science Richardson and Attoh reported that the AAG is kinds of petitions/resolutions: those addressed to and research takes place from March 1, 2007 to on very solid financial ground with no debt, a fact Council to shape Association policy, business, or March 1, 2009, focusing on the Polar Regions, confirmed by a recent audit. Net assets of the AAG operations and those that speak on behalf of the which are affected by climate change at a greater increased by $755,258 from FYE 2004 to FYE 2005. AAG in a larger dialogue as a public statement. Our rate than middle and lower latitudes; and The Association’s investment portfolio is also task with the latter type of resolution is to find the Whereas, eleven national science academies, performing very well. The auditor was pleased that best way to have experts in our field express their including the U.S. National Academy of Sciences, all previous recommendations of the firm had been views on various issues. Many agreed that geogra- issued a joint statement on June 7, 2005, that calls followed. The Finance Committee reported phy’s breadth gives it expertise in science fields and on world leaders to take prompt action to reduce discussing a number of issues, including the possibil- in social/political policy; it has the ability to the causes of climate change, adapt to its impacts, ity of investing in socially conscious funds. The connect these areas. Many also agreed that resolu- and include the issue in all relevant national and Finance Committee also voted unanimously in favor tions issued by the AAG on the advancement of international strategies. of increasing membership dues in 2007 in line with science and sound policy represent an appropriate Therefore be it resolved that, the Association of Amer- cost-of-living increases (this following the previous expression of the Association’s mission, provided ican Geographers (AAG) affirms the international year with no dues increase). Attoh moved that that these resolutions are well written, focused on a scientific consensus on climate change, including Council adopt this recommendation, and Baerwald specific issue related to geography, and free from endorsement of the June 7, 2005, joint statement of seconded. Council passed the motion unanimously. politically inflammatory language that could the national academies entitled “Global Response to Richardson then outlined the proposed 2007 weaken the AAG’s overall credibility. Councillors Climate Change;” budget. The budget included no major changes then thoroughly discussed the pros and cons of the Be it further resolved that, the AAG urges the U.S. from last year’s budget. Baerwald moved approval of process by which resolutions come to Council and Government to take a leadership role in addressing the proposed 2007 budget, and Moore seconded. are approved, especially the merits of resolutions climate change, support open scientific debate The motion passed unanimously. that could emanate from a small number of individ- about the issue, and fully cooperate with the Inter- Richardson then provided a brief update on the uals but hope to speak on behalf of all 9,500 AAG governmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), Advancing Geography Fund, which continues to members. Many asked rhetorically if these kinds of the Arctic Climate Impact Assessment (ACIA) of grow through the addition of recent gifts like the Association statements should go to the member- the Arctic Council, the national science academies, bequests of Sandra Mather and Duane Marble. ship for a vote. Ultimately, Marston charged the and other governmental and nongovernmental Priorities for the Fund include the ongoing refine- National Councillors with the task of reviewing the organizations, as well as with the international ment of a planned-giving program at the AAG, AAG’s resolution procedures with the goal of issuing community of countries, to better scientifically further cultivation of relationships with several key a set of recommendations to the Constitution and understand climate change and to develop sound foundations, pursuit of new corporate donations, Bylaws Committee. policies to attenuate greenhouse gas emissions; and the development of a broadly engaging, fund- Discussion then turned to a climate change peti- Be it further resolved that, the AAG enjoins the U.S. able project to add visibility to the AAG’s work. tion forwarded to Council by John Paul Jones III and Government to act upon commitments made by the Robert Christopherson, signed by a number of AAG U.S. in the UNFCCC, May 9, 1992, and ratify the Continued on page 22

www.aag.org AAG Newsletter 21 May 2006

Council Meeting Minutes from page 21 Richardson envisions hiring an AAG staff member discuss “how to” aspects of article preparation and speakers from the USGS, ESRI, the U.S. Forest in the future to assist in these efforts. submission at annual meetings. Friedman reported Service, the USDA, and USAID on efforts in the that the AAG may not need the page increase in the U.S., the Gulf of Mexico, and Caribbean. The Membership PG that Council had discussed in previous meetings. AAG is working to gain the support of the AAG staff members Robert Andelman and Richardson praised Friedman’s work on the journals Inter-American Development Bank for a project on Oscar Larson joined Council’s discussion of as a major asset to the AAG. “Geographic Education, Science, and Technology membership and annual meeting issues. AAG Council then discussed the idea of adding a fifth in the Americas” (GESTA). This project will membership in 2005, Andelman reported, hit a issue to the Annals, reviewing several options from support the gathering and exchange of information record high of 9,478 individual members. Richard- Blackwell. Originally, this idea was to facilitate about geographic educational programs, scientific son indicated that the AAG staff will examine publication of papers from the upcoming endeavors, and the geographic technology industry whether the growth has been largely in the student Geography and Drug Addiction Symposium. toward improving competitiveness and facilitate or non-student category. Noting the link between Subsequently, Springer approached the AAG to regional collaboration around the use of membership growth and annual meeting atten- publish this work as a book. Kwan commented on geographic knowledge/technology for sustainable dance, Larson reported that nearly 5,300 people the difficulty the Annals editors have had in meeting economic development. had registered in advance for the Chicago meeting. and discussing a fifth issue. Oberhauser relayed the Richardson reported on two specialty confer- Both sets of numbers indicate that geographers are Publications Committee’s overall support for the ences will take place in conjunction with the finding the AAG valuable and want to be associated idea despite some concerns about diluting the Chicago meeting: the NIH National Institute on with it. Council then discussed the results of a quality of the articles. Drug Abuse/AAG Symposium on Geography and “lapsed member” questionnaire conducted by the Oberhauser reported that Audrey Kobayashi has Drug Addiction and the Association of American Membership Committee. Richardson noted the agreed to serve a second term as editor of the PPR Law Schools/AAG Geography and the Law many of those lapsed members had rejoined the section of the Annals. Council then considered Sessions. Work also continues to proceed on the AAG. Richardson introduced Ivan Cheung, the additions to the editorial boards of both the Annals Geography and the Humanities conference in AAG’s Director of GIScience Programs to the and PG. Baerwald moved and Pope seconded that February 2007 at the University of Virginia. Council. Council approve an addition to the ES editorial Solís reported that the Diversity Task Force will Council then discussed the ongoing role of the board. Council approved unanimously. Attoh be meeting in Chicago principally to discuss Membership Committee. The Committee has moved and Miyares seconded that Council approve production of a final report to Council that includes completed, in many ways, its charge of several years an addition to the PPR editorial board. Council its recommendations. The AAG will make its ago, given the increases in AAG membership. approved unanimously. Finally, Harden moved and Enhancing Diversity Award presentations at the Richardson recommended continuing the Commit- Oberhauser seconded that Council approve an Awards Luncheon. tee, but with a revised charge that includes coordi- addition to the PG editorial board. Council Richardson continues to work to integrate several nating its activities with the ongoing membership approved unanimously. Oberhauser then reported career-related initiatives into a more centralized operations of the AAG staff more closely. that the Publication Committee recommended Jay career program at AAG. He noted that the AAG Matthews moved to continue the Membership Gatrell for the position of PG Book Review Editor. held two workshops with the Department of Labor to Committee with its new charge; Dow seconded. Baerwald moved and Blake seconded Gatrell’s clarify the status of geography in labor statistics and Council passed the motion unanimously. appointment. Council approved the appointment job classifications. The AAG will also hold a series of unanimously, Gatrell’s term to be January 2007 to career and graduate school-related sessions as part of Publications December 2010. Finally, Harden agreed to serve as the Chicago meeting. Richardson noted that the op-ed section in the Council’s representative on the Publications John Wertman and other AAG staff continue to Newsletter has been well received and will continue. Committee. monitor legislation related to funding for geographic Topics are not solicited; they are submitted by research and for geography education, as well as members. One or two pages of submissions are Meridian Place Operations many broader policy issues. They have worked printed in the Newsletter each month, and all submis- Richardson mentioned the addition of new staff steadily with National Geographic Society staff sions are posted to the AAG website. The AAG members in the past several months, the result of members and others on behalf of geography in the staff will also be developing a Media Resources area which is that nearly every usable space at Meridian impending reauthorization of No Child Left Behind on the website. Richardson noted that the AAG Place has been filled. Most recently, this involved in 2007. Wertman will also chair a session at the had recently published the 2005-2006 Guide to Geog- completing renovations in the attic for new offices. Chicago meeting on U.S. electoral geography. raphy Programs in the Americas, though with incorrect Richardson also discussed the ongoing search for a Richardson discussed the AAG’s recommenda- numbers for membership in the Specialty Groups. Deputy Director and an Executive Assistant/Writer. tion to the National Research Council to list four The AAG will mail errata sheets to purchasers of the The Association will likely need to lease some ancil- subfields for geography in its Assessment of Guide with the correct numbers. lary office space in the near future to accommodate Research-Doctorate Programs. He also commented Journals Manager Robin Friedman noted that any additional staff or any new operations under- on the publication with the University Consortium the average turnaround time for both the Annals and taken by the Central Office. He reiterated his pride for Geographic Information Science (UCGIS) of the PG is less than 3.5 months. The debut of the in the professionalism and integrity of the the GIScience and Technology Body of Knowledge book. new version of Manuscript Central has been delayed AAG staff. Finally, Richardson and Solís provided details of a slightly. Several memorials are slated for coming memo of understanding between the AAG and the issues of the Annals. Rickard raised the question of Research and Outreach Pan-American Institute of Geography and History the recent increase in the decline rate for the PG. Solís provided a summary of several recent proj- (PAIGH), to be signed in a special session at the Friedman reminded Council that new submissions to ects. The Chicago meeting will provide a venue for Chicago meeting. Through this agreement, the the PG increased by 50 percent in 2005. Marston a special panel on the ongoing “My Community, AAG and PAIGH hope to cooperate on a variety of suggested having more editors’ panels or sessions to Our Earth” (MyCOE) initiative with featured future activities.

22 AAG Newsletter www.aag.org Volume 41, Number 5

Educational Affairs Darrell Napton to the position of Parliamentarian, the Annals. A general discussion about special issues Michael Solem spoke to Council on the educa- his term beginning July 1, 2006. then followed. Kobayashi was highly complimen- tional affairs of the AAG. He commented on how Kilpinen also presented Council with a slate of tary of Robin Friedman’s work. Council was pleased collaborative the staff work on the many education candidates for vacancies on AAG Standing Commit- to hear of the cooperation between the editors and projects at AAG has been and the great synergy tees. Harden moved that Council appoint two Friedman as a real team. among all the projects at the AAG. He noted that nominees to the Committee on College Geography, NASA has agreed to fund Project Geo-START filling one fewer vacancy next year. Moore Resolutions seconded, and Council passed the motion unani- (Geo-Spatial Thinking Activities and Resources for Council approved the following resolutions Teachers) for $92,834 to improve teacher quality in mously. Council then approved the Standing unanimously: physical geography and earth system science. Committee appointments unanimously. Whereas, Victoria Lawson, as Vice President and Three future projects are currently under develop- Council unanimously approved the appointment President of the Association of American ment: one with Penn State on ethics in GIScience, of Ines Miyares as AAG Secretary and Kirstin Dow one through the Carnegie Foundation’s CASTL as AAG Treasurer. For 2006-2007, Miyares and Geographers, has exercised exceptional leadership in Leadership Program on the scholarship of teaching Dow will serve as co-chairs of the National Council- assisting the Association in addressing the challenges and learning, and one through NSF’s GEO-Teach lors, and Aitken will serve as chair of the Regional facing the discipline of Geography and working to program for pre-service and in-service teacher train- Councillors. enhance diversity within the discipline, to engage the ing in the geosciences. Solem complimented the Current Membership Committee co-chairs Julie work of geographers with an ethic of social justice, to excellent work Jongwon Lee has done on behalf of Winkler and Don Vermeer and member Bill Crow- support early faculty career development, and to the AAG’s educational initiatives. ley met with Council and provided an overview of promote healthy academic departments in geography; Richardson informed Council that he had been the Committee’s recent work. Council shared its Therefore be it resolved that the Association of asked if the AAG would consider an affiliation with revised charge for the Committee. Vermeer raised American Geographers, assembled in Chicago, Illi- the National Council for Geographic Education the matter of a survey of the entire AAG member- nois, on the occasion of its 102nd Annual Meeting, (NCGE), in light of its search for a new administra- ship. Winkler mentioned that the American Mete- heartily thanks Vicky for her leadership of the Asso- orological Society conducts such a survey every five tive home and executive director. Council discussed ciation during the past three years, and especially the pros and cons of such an arrangement, both for years, which is valuable on topics like salary, diver- for her efforts to improve the standing of the disci- the AAG and the NCGE, as well as the logistical sity, and employment. Moore suggested that the pline and the profession, and for her role in promot- arrangements it would require. Considering the AAG should think about establishing a procedure ing the AAG’s Healthy Departments initiative. strong synergy of the organizations in the area of and a tentative survey interval in the short run geography education, Council expressed interest in before implementing such a survey. Moore agreed Whereas, Councillors of the Association of exploring the possibility. Miyares moved that to serve as Council’s representative to the Member- American Geographers expend substantial time and Council authorize Richardson and Solem to develop ship Committee. effort advancing the causes of the Association and a letter of intent, which, if successful, would result in the discipline; and their developing with the Executive Committee of a Honors and Awards Whereas, the Council of the Association of Amer- full proposal. If the full proposal is accepted by Council reviewed the recipients to be recog- ican Geographers has confronted numerous chal- NCGE, the Council will make the final decision on nized at the Awards Luncheon, including AAG lenges and responded to many opportunities during any agreement. Blake seconded the motion, which Honors, Enhancing Diversity Awards, book awards, the past three years, Council passed with one abstention. and specialty group awards, as well as the Presiden- Therefore be it resolved that the Association of Amer- tial Achievement Award recipients to be recognized ican Geographers, assembled in Chicago, Illinois, at the Past President’s Address. Council also on the occasion of its 102nd Annual Meeting, CONTINUING AND NEW BUSINESS discussed the Geography Prize for World Under- extends warm appreciation to Past President Victo- standing. Before conferring this award, which is ria Lawson and retiring AAG Councillors Samuel Annual Meetings intended to be high profile, Lawson noted the need Aryeetey-Attoh, Thomas Baerwald, Jon T. Kilpinen, Richardson commented on the tremendous program to work on fund raising for the prize. Paul Matthews, Ann Oberhauser, and Gregory assembled for the Chicago meeting, including the Pope, for the energy, time, and talent they have many special events and sessions, guests, and field Specialty Groups trips. He also mentioned that planning for the San Baerwald reported on the status of the specialty contributed to the Association during their terms on Francisco meeting, April 16-21, 2007, is already groups, most of which continue to operate very the AAG Council. underway. Upcoming meetings are scheduled for well. On-line services have been very beneficial to Boston in 2008 and Las Vegas in 2009. Council the specialty groups. Many long-standing prob- Adjournment considered potential sites for the 2010 meeting, lems have been addressed, if not solved, by these There being no further business, President Marston mentioning Baltimore and Miami as possibilities. new services. Richardson indicated that the AAG adjourned the Council meeting at 11:55 a.m. on now handles the bookkeeping for most specialty Tuesday, March 7, 2006. AAG Committees and Council groups. On behalf of the Committee on Committees, Respectfully submitted, Kilpinen moved that Council establish an AAG Other Business Jon T. Kilpinen Parliamentarian for the specific purpose of ensuring Audrey Kobayashi, editor of the PPR section of AAG Secretary that the annual AAG Business Meeting follows the Annals, reported to Council. She indicated that appropriate procedures and protocols, this position the Annals are in very good shape. A small number to be appointed by Council for a term of three of delinquent reviewers represent the largest prob- years. Pandit seconded the motion, which Council lem. Members of the Editorial Board have begun passed unanimously. Council then appointed consideration of the possibility of a fifth issue for

www.aag.org AAG Newsletter 23 May 2007

AAG Council Meeting Minutes

Norman, Oklahoma the idea at a regional level. Wright reported the improving overall. California departments October 27-29, 2006 positive impact on the Oregon State campus. report increases in tenure track hires and Ari- Kennesaw State is developing geography in zona departments report having more majors Attending: Kavita Pandit, President, Thomas Baer- combined department. Friend reported similar than they can serve. Hawaii also reports wald, Vice-President, Richard Marston, Past President, positive impacts at Minnesota State. Pandit led a improvements. Southern Oregon is a small Ines Miyares, Secretary, Kirstin Dow, Treasurer. discussion around a potential reduced rate AAG department having difficulty replacing retire- National Councillors: Kirstin Dow, Carol Harden, membership program for geographers in devel- ments. The APCG meeting in Eugene was well Mei-Po Kwan, Sallie Marston, Ines Miyares, oping regions. The AAG Central Office will attended, one of biggest meetings. A chronic Dawn Wright. Regional Councillors: Stuart Aitken explore further how to implement such a plan. concern is that larger PhD programs do not (Pacific Coast Division), Craig Colten (South- participate in regional meetings. The California west Division), Donald Friend (West Lakes Divi- Vice President’s Priorities Geographical Society provides networks that sion), Martha Geores (Middle Atlantic Division), Baerwald spoke about his interest in promoting have become very important for community Lisa Harrington (Rocky Mountains-Great Plains Geography as interdisciplinary discipline and sug- colleges and K-12 teachers. This opened a dis- Division), Keith Henderson (Middle States Divi- gested several forums for such work: working with cussion to be continued at the Spring AAG sion), Tyrel Moore (Southeast Division), Timo- the journal editors to plan special issues, forums; Council meeting concerning the importance of thy Rickard (New England-St. Lawrence Valley encouraging specialty groups to continue to cross- networking with state and other subregional Division). AAG Staff: Executive Director Douglas promote and organize special sessions at meetings geographical societies. Richardson and Director of Research and Out- of cognate disciplines; broadening participation in West Lakes Division reach Patricia Solís. Excused: David Kaplan (East the International Polar Year; and others. He Friend reported that the West Lakes Division Lakes Division). expressed his support for continued promotion of previous initiatives, including the Healthy Depart- held its regional meeting jointly with The Great Plains Rocky Mountain Division in Lincoln, PRELIMINARIES ments Initiative, internationalization activities, Nebraska. The region has no archive, instead President Kavita Pandit convened the meet- implementation of recommendations from the relying on the institutional memory of long-time ing on October 28 with a brief welcome of new Diversity Task Force, further development of geo- members. John Frazer Hart has offered his 40+ National and Regional Councillors. Kevin Blake graphic education programs and a potential new year library of programs with abstracts to begin was acknowledged for his service to the AAG and relationship with NCGE, and further involvement an archive. As rural agricultural regions lose pop- his resignation as Rocky Mountains-Great Plains in public policy development and public discus- ulation and metropolitan areas grow, there is also Regional Councillor for health reasons was sions to which geographers can contribute. a clear decrease in regional/rural high school accepted. Lisa Harrington was introduced as grads. Thus regionally located colleges and uni- elected to complete his term. The agenda was Past President’s Priorities versities are now developing plans to maintain adopted. Minutes from the Spring Council meet- R. Marston reviewed priority activities includ- enrollment levels by increased recruiting of ing were circulated previously, approved and ing efforts by the Advancing Physical Geography urbanites which includes drawing “diverse” popu- published. President Pandit reported that the working group to increase subdisciplinary repre- lations away from the city. AAG Executive Committee met in Burlington, sentation in journal publication, editorships, VT, October 14-15, 2006, to prepare and review committees and activities at the AAG Annual Mid-Atlantic Division the agenda for the Fall Council meeting. In Meetings. R. Marston discussed the role of Georges reported that the geography pro- attendance were Kavita Pandit, President, Thomas geography at USGS – the smallest unit with the gram at UM-Baltimore County is targeted as a Baerwald, Vice-President, Richard Marston, Past fewest PhD level scientists in the agency. He growth department, with a projected increase President, Ines Miyares, Secretary, Kirstin Dow, Trea- addressed the topic of the Healthy Departments from 9 to 14 faculty. UM-College Park is mov- surer, and Douglas Richardson, Executive Director. Initiative, which is currently seeking input on a ing away from a regular MA to an applied MA location for summer 2007. R. Marston’s Past in GIS, with a shift toward just a PhD. The Presidential Address at the AAG Annual Meet- department has developed a new study abroad CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES ing in San Francisco will relate to his work in program. George Mason University is focused FOR THE ASSOCIATION Mountain Geography. R. Marston raised the on physical geography and is now a program in need to find an appropriate way to honor President’s Priorities Earth Systems. George Washington University Gilbert White and is focusing on continued Pandit reviewed her main priorities of contin- and Frostburg State’s programs are doing well. fundraising for the Mel Marcus Fund, and other uing the Healthy Departments Initiative and pro- The region hosts 550 AAG members who are development activities. moting internationalization. Pandit reported a non-academics, mostly in government posi- successful Department Chairs luncheon round- tions. Programs in the region are heading Review of Geography Programs table in Chicago. The Healthy Departments toward earth science, but demand for human workshop in Athens, Georgia hosted 30 partici- Association of Pacific Coast Geographers geography continues. Richardson added that pants. Several AAG regional meetings are hold- Aitken reported that despite declines in USGS and the Census Bureau have organiza- ing Healthy Departments workshops, expanding budgets, geography programs appear to be tional memberships.

14 AAG Newsletter www.aag.org Volume 42, Number 5

Middle States Division tiatives. The bright look of this “big picture” plinary Ph.D. in spatially integrated social sci- Henderson reported that the region recently seems to emanate from a variety of positive ence. Western Michigan University has made held its autumn meeting at Rutgers University influences: 1) generally improved state budgets, progress towards establishing a Ph.D. program with roughly 75 paper presentations and approx- 2) state policies that encourage access to higher with a recommendation from its review commit- imately 130 in attendance. With the exception of education, and, 3) the reputations that geography tee and is pushing a graduate certificate program Rutgers, the region has had difficulty attracting departments enjoy on their campuses. An in GIS. Miami University has created a attendees from the larger Ph.D. Departments but improved state financial climate has helped GIScience Certificate program which will be students from Syracuse and Penn State have geographers at the University of Richmond offered at the regional and main campuses. Sev- begun to attend again in the last few years. The secure new faculty lines that, over the next few eral departments are working through potential main action item at their board meeting was to years, can make current progress toward a realignments. The University of Toledo hosted approve the transition of the ‘Middle States Geo- Geography program a reality. In Kentucky, a the annual East Lakes Division Meeting in grapher’ to an electronic journal beginning next five-year state economic development initiative October, and the 2007 meeting will be hosted year. Many departments in the region report has increased university enrollments. At West- by Michigan State. continued growth and success, such the award of ern Kentucky, that has translated to an increase Richardson and Pandit reminded regional a large NSF grant to Syracuse University to cre- in credit hours coupled with the Department’s Councillors that elections should be held in a ate an Integrated Spatial Analysis lab, an increase participation in AP Geography teacher work- timely manner when the region’s Councillor’s in the undergraduate program at Rutgers, new shops. There seems to be a lot of mobility term is coming to an end. New regional Coun- faculty, department chair, and new research pro- among faculty with several moves taking place cillors should be elected and in place by June 30 grams at Penn State, a new online Master’s pro- within the Division. Departments are well posi- of the expiring term year. It was noted that gram at California of Pennsylvania, and a new tioned to absorb these changes; faculty lines AAG Bylaws call for mail ballot of elections. Provost in the SUNY system, Dr. Risa Palm. have been retained and replacement searches are AAG Central Office will explore the possibility underway. Departments also have been actively of internet-based voting. New England-St. Lawrence Valley recruited to participate in interdisciplinary envi- Rickard noted that the NESTVAL Newsletter ronmental science programs, a development Review of Topical Developments includes many departmental reports which show that attests to Geography’s relevance. The future National Councillors led a discussion focused that Geography is increasingly strong in the status of SEDAAG departments’ leadership was on how can geography contribute to internation- region. There are significant achievements in the buttressed by several SEDAAG faculty members’ alization of universities from a departmental level. following areas: GIS, Geographic Education, participation in a highly successful and well- Dow opened by discussing the tension between environmental geography, grants and interna- attended AAG Healthy Departments Workshop interdisciplinary and disciplinary voices. She tional outreach with several study abroad pro- this summer in Athens Georgia. mentioned several areas of potential collabora- grams to Europe and the Caribbean. A Healthy tion toward that goal– area studies interest Southwest Division Departments Workshop was held during the suc- groups, guest speakers, colloquium series – each Colten reported that, unlike other regions, cessful autumn regional meeting at Burlington, of which can build toward collaboration and can SWAAG has good participation by the larger Vermont, which reflected the Society’s increasing focus on internationalization. PhD larger programs, and that they actually emphasis on student and service awards. The Wright described NSF partnerships for inter- compete to host the meetings. Senior faculty society is searching for a new journal editor. national research and education such as the part- enjoy the meetings. Students take paper com- nership between Oregon State and the Scripps Great Plains-Rocky Mountains Regions petitions seriously. Departments support stu- Institute focused on coastal mapping. This year’s regional meeting was held jointly dent to participate. Texas A&M will host in Additionally, departments can develop part- with the West Lakes Division and hosted by 2007. The region’s journal is healthy. There are nerships in graduate training with non-US insti- UN-Lincoln. Harrington reported that it was a currently 16 faculty searches active. Depart- tutions and participation in Fulbright programs good coordinated effort. GPRM is a large region ments have been able to replace retirements. such as the shorter-term senior specialist pro- so it is a challenge to get people there and PhD There are growing numbers of majors, and gram where one only has to be away for 2-6 granting departments have limited involvement. small programs and programs on urban cam- weeks. A third opportunity is to participate in Harrington is the first female regional Council- puses are growing. Spatial analysis and map- International Working Groups and Research/ lor from the division. BYU has furloughed its ping sciences are areas of growth, as are inter- Education Collaboration/Coordination grants MA program to focus on their undergraduate national programs. UT-Austin and Louisiana where we can build collaborative networks, program with 300+ majors. The GIS Center of State University have developed an interdisci- develop workshops, and/or student and Excellence at South Dakota State University is plinary focus. The University of New Orleans researcher exchange opportunities. doing well. Kansas State and the University of is still experiencing effects since the hurricanes Harden raised the need to always be ready Kansas are working together on an AGS-funded of 2005. to respond to significant global initiatives. ecological project. East Lakes Division Geographers need to be at the table when plan- Southeastern Division Kaplan reported that, despite challenging ning initiatives and need to be willing to serve. Moore reported that the status of Geography budgetary environments in Ohio and Michigan, There is a need to refocus on area studies/region- in SEDAAG is robust, as evidenced by increas- several programs are expanding their faculties al geography and to develop links between GIS ing enrollments and numbers of majors, addi- and graduate programs. University of Toledo is tional faculty positions, and programmatic ini- in the process of developing a new, cross-disci- Continued on page 16

www.aag.org AAG Newsletter 15 May 2007

AAG Council Meeting Minutes from page 15 and area studies and rethink GIS applications STATUS OF THE ASSOCIATION categories for donations have been identified courses and research to address global questions. and publicized, including those such as for Departments also need to document what they Finances diversity enhancement, community college The Council reviewed preliminary FYE 2006 do for their universities in this area. scholarships, student research and travel grants, financial statements. Dow and Richardson pre- R. Marston raised the importance of know- among others. Donors who make at least a ing what the university wants and to be there sented an overview of the robust financial health $1,500 donation to the Advancing Geography to participate. of the association, including an increase in net Centennial Fund will be honored on a brick Kwan discussed the importance of develop- assets of over one million dollars ($1,106,205) in walkway at the AAG. A ceremony is planned at ing relationships with language programs and the past year alone (FYE 2006); strong fund rais- Meridian Place in Washington, DC on February international studies, as well as student ing through grants and contracts; building 17, 2007 to lay the first of these bricks. exchange programs and visiting scholars. financial assets to protect the organization from Miyares reiterated the importance of future deficits and to sustain programs; and Membership involvement in area studies programs, language long-term plans and investments. Richardson Richardson noted continued growth in mem- programs, and study abroad. One key problem described the current implementation and future bership and estimated that it would at least reach is that university rewards systems may not needs of new management systems and appro- 9,700 by the end of 2006. Member services have value these activities. priate technology at the central office. He has similarly continued to improve, including a Baerwald described numerous NSF initia- hired new staff with skills to handle redesigned recent focus on increased online services; sus- tives that are examining the same question. workflow. The solid financial foundation that tained membership solicitation/renewal; student The Office of the Director now manages inter- the AAG has achieved is helping to provide bet- recruitment; retired lifetime memberships; auto- national collaboration programs, including ter membership services to increasing numbers matic membership renewal; support for specialty PIRE funding for collaboration to develop net- of members. It also assures we can continue and conferences and regional conferences; new affin- works around central themes, although not just expand our work with other organizations to ity groups, e.g., the Stand Alone Geographers geography; OISE is examining who should build geography, not just the AAG. Richardson Affinity Groups; and programs to engage the tal- serve on panels. He raised the question of how reviewed plans for new projects and for external ent and experience of the membership, such as the SBE should be involved. fundraising, and discussed the significance of the AAG Senior Associates Program. Additional discussion among the whole the recent growth and dynamism of our annual In 2005, the AAG decided to forgo any council focused on levels of engagement at meeting to the AAG’s future. annual increase in dues for 2006 because of the departmental levels in curriculum – how aware Dow reviewed the major categories of good financial picture of the association. The are advisors of study abroad? Is it encouraged? income and expense in the preliminary financial Executive Committee had discussed how over Are regional courses part of general education statement. The largest area of income source the long term, a continued pattern of not raising requirements? was the category “other,” referring to external dues annual to adjust for inflation as the policy Concerning Regional Studies, it was noted sources such as grants, contracts, bequests, and has historically been, could prove financially that the State Department and other govern- donations. Membership dues represent 15% of unwise for the association later. At present, ment agencies are in need of regional experts. the total AAG income. Not surprisingly, the much of the AAG income comes from grants It may be time to reword, retitle, or repackage largest expense category is for salaries and and not dues, but in the future we may have less regional geography as Integrated Regional fringe benefits which represent 40% of total contract income. The bylaws state that dues can Analysis and Synthesis. expenses. Costs are likely to grow over the increase routinely up to the rate of increase of Geores raised the need to continue to sup- coming year with anticipated added staff and the national Consumer Price Index (CPI). As port places where regional courses are no infrastructure needs. there was no increase in dues last year, the Exec- longer offered. Richardson reviewed the investment portfo- utive Committee recommended an increase in Richardson described related ongoing AAG lio, indicating that the major area of asset invest- dues of 3% for 2007. Harden moved to accept international activities, including rejuvenating ment for the association currently is a conserva- the recommendation of increasing membership area studies; focusing on global perspectives that tive portfolio that includes a mixture of stocks, dues for 2007 by 3%, below the currently pro- geography offers that many other area studies bonds, and CDs. The recommended balanced jected CPI for this year. Friend seconded. The programs do not; the AAG’s several Latin Amer- investment plan includes liquidating individual motion passed unanimously. ican initiatives; Spanish language sessions at the stock holdings to maintain value and reinvest in Richardson and Solís provided a draft docu- AAG meetings; international travel and research long-term managed securities and short-term ment for input and for consideration at the San grants; joint sessions with Canadian geogra- annual CDs. SunTrust Bank is the AAG’s bank- Francisco Council meeting, regarding an AAG phers on cross-border issues; IDB funding; the ing and investment company. Developing Regions Membership program. MyCOE programs; IGU partnerships; a hazards Concerning the AAG Advancing Geography The basic idea is to allow geographers and relat- conference now in the development stage; the fund, the committee and leadership have identi- ed professionals who live in regions of the world Carnegie/ACE-funded Internationalizing the fied 11 areas of fundraising focus for the near where incomes are much lower than in the US, Disciplines project; reciprocal international team. Two of these areas are planned giving and to become members of the AAG at a substantial- membership programs; developing regions foundation funding. Richardson has also suc- ly lower fee and receive most of the same mem- membership program; and many others. cessfully sought corporate donations. Several bership benefits. For a reduced, subsidized

16 AAG Newsletter www.aag.org Volume 42, Number 5 membership fee, these geographers would get forthcoming issues of the AAG journals. Sever- editorial board as proposed. Colten seconded. online journal and newsletter access and receive al optional third party journals are also available The motion passed unanimously. other benefits such as reduced meeting registra- at discounted rates to AAG members. tion rates. The Council expressed consensus Harden, the Publications Committee Chair, Meridian Place Operations supporting the idea and authorized the AAG noted that the turnaround time for journal man- Richardson introduced the new members of staff to pursue a detailed plan for consideration uscripts is excellent. The environmental science the Central Office staff and described their at the next meeting. section of Annals has a lower submission rate, roles. He reported on the AAG’s new wireless and efforts are underway to increase submissions internet systems, upgraded IT infrastructure, Publications to this section. Manuscript Central, the online and improvements in building infrastructure. At Richardson described the healthy and active interface is working well. this point Meridian Place is at the maximum use state of publications activities within the AAG. Several topics concerning the possibility of a of existing space and supplemental office space For the AAG Newsletter, the current format of fifth issue of the Annals were discussed, including is essential. Richardson is looking into options. production via offset press is increasing in cost. how such an issue would be edited. Initial discus- The AAG is also developing improved infor- Changing to web press would have slightly sions suggested papers could come from special mation on the discipline through a Geography higher costs, but would allow for increased con- conferences such as the one with NIDA, but Disciplinary Data Initiative, designed to collect tent and more copies. Richardson has solicited those papers are now being published as a book. membership and departmental information. price proposals for moving to web press. Web A fifth issue could be cost neutral but could affect Staff is now in the process of evaluating what press mandates content in 16-page increments. the Citation Index in counter-intuitive way has been collected, sorting out what is essential Additional content production would also because of the number of articles published. R. to collect for the future, and incorporating fed- demand additional staff, maybe a ?-time person Marston noted however, that special issues can eral agency and other third party data related to who is a professional writer. The council dis- often increase the citation index of those issues. geography into an online resource for the AAG cussed whether there is a demand for more con- Other ideas for content included papers that are website. Progress has been made but a lot of tent and whether the newsletter should include cross-cutting or with special themes. A challenge work remains. advertising. Baerwald made a motion that the is how to institute cross-cutting articles in the The association has hired a new law firm, council approve inclusion of advertising in the journals, especially the Annals. Kwan stated that Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw and Pittman, LLP. Jer- newsletter from publishers, software companies, the editors currently sort out which section a ald Jacobs, the AAG’s lead lawyer, is a national- academic institutions and research institutions, cross-cutting piece would go into and believe the ly recognized general counsel on association and other organizations related to geography or process is working well and maintains quality of law. The law firm is working with the AAG of interest to geographers. S. Marston seconded papers. Council discussed ways to encourage and Executive Director on contract language related the motion. The motion was approved unani- support editors with cross-cutting papers and to annual meetings, in an attempt to reduce the mously. The Executive Director offered to considered the possibilities such as guest editors AAG’s financial risk and liability. Richardson screen advertising to ensure that it is not incon- to work with the other editors. Aitken express his pointed to a recent newsletter article on union sistent with the mission of the AAG. support of special issues and guest editors. The issues that elaborates and explains that the AAG The AAG Guide and Membership Directory Council reiterated their consensus for pursuing has joined INMEX, an organization that pro- now spans all of the “Americas.” The new edi- the possibility of a fifth issue. Richardson asked vides information from hotel unions and on tion will contain 25 Latin American listings. R. Marston, Aitken, and Harden to develop a potential labor dispute status. Submission of information can now be conduct- written proposal for how the fifth edition might Annual meeting insurance costs have ed online and can be submitted in English, be concretely managed. Kwan agreed to provide increased. The AAG also has an event cancella- Spanish or Portuguese. input as an editor and Councillor. tion policy to protect the association and the AAG has arranged for a site on Amazon.com Richardson pointed out that the publishing Annual Meeting, but if cancellation occurs for the sale of volumes produced or published contract with Blackwell on the journals is up for because of the AAG’s decision, the insurance is by the Association. Richardson described new renewal at the beginning of 2008. Other pub- generally not applicable. publications, including the GIS&T Body of Knowl- lishers have also expressed an interest in prepar- edge, developed by UCGIS and published by the ing a proposal to the AAG. Richardson noted Research and Outreach AAG, for which an agreement is in process to the benefits of competitively bidding the jour- Solís described three new initiatives under translate into Chinese. The book, Geography and nals, even if we decided to stay with the same the My Community, Our Earth program, a Drug Addiction, is in progress. That publication publisher, in order to explore achieving stronger long-standing AAG partnership. First, the US resulted from the joint symposium by AAG and marketing services and better financial return, State Department will potentially provide NIDA. The AAG and NRC are also exploring and to maintain quality and increase citation rat- resources to support Geography and GIS for funding for a symposium and book on The Earth ings, among other potential benefits. supporting basic science and math education in Sustained. Harden noted that Karl Zimmerer’s term the Islamic world. Geography materials will be The journals, Annals of the AAG and the Profes- ends in 2007, Sharmista Bagchi-Sen’s term ends translated into Arabic and master teacher-train- sional Geographer, are both available online and are in 2008, and Peter Muller’s term ends in 2008. ing workshops are being developed tentatively produced on time. The total number of pages Harden will contact Zimmerer to see if he wants for Tunisia. The plan is disseminate this same published has increased and the journals have to be considered for a second term. Editor model in South Asia, namely in the Philippines. strong editors. The newsletter is also available Audrey Kobayashi submitted her editorial board online and includes the table of contents for for approval. Harrington moved to approve the Continued on page 18

www.aag.org AAG Newsletter 17 May 2007

AAG Council Meeting Minutes from page 17 Secondly, MyCOE is awaiting approval from recommend that the Council form a standing Richardson mentioned the press and media USAID to extend work currently being done in committee on enhancing diversity by redesign- relations that the AAG is involved with for out- Central America to 10 additional countries with a ing the Affirmative Action and Minority Status reach purposes, including the regular column he new focus on supporting university student proj- standing committee with a new charge to con- writes for the ESRI ARCNews that reaches hun- ects on biodiversity. Third, a current project with tinue the work of the task force. dreds of thousands of readers worldwide, and support from USDA is forming constellations of Work on careers and employment in geogra- numerous other interactions with the mainstream students, faculty and extension personnel in land phy is continuing. One project has aimed to media, both print and electronic. The AAG is grant universities to design and conduct local sus- improve the Department of Labor’s classification also considering holding another “Mapping the tainable development projects in geography. of jobs in geography. Additionally, there are News” conference during the next year or two. There will be a special session in San Francisco improvements planned for the AAG’s Annual Richardson reported that the AAG provided with presentations from competitively selected Meeting Jobs in Geography Center, including recommendations to the National Research participants. representation from more potential employers, a Council regarding the categories for geographic Richardson described activities that have been large number of posted available jobs and online subfields in preparation for the new NRC PhD building from the joint conference with NIDA, employment resources, and new sessions and departmental rankings. While there are many and continued developing projects around GIS presentations related to employment in geogra- ways to describe the discipline, AAG submitted with a new part of NIH, namely the Office of phy. Other activities include the design and dis- four subfield proposals, in consultation with Projects and Special Initiatives (OPASI). A tribution of careers materials, development of many members, and all were accepted by NRC GIS&T Cyberinfrastructure proposal has been new online contacts, launching of the GIWIS and have been implemented in the rankings submitted to NSF by the AAG together with system, and conducting of two workshops on process. Howard University and the University of Cali- employment. A major area of growth has been Solís reviewed some of the additional interna- fornia Santa Barbara. A GIS&T for development in web-based resources for careers in geography. tional activities the AAG has been conducting, proposal has been submitted to IDB that will link The AAG also is a member of the GIS Certi- including two projects funded by the NSF: the US, Korean, and Latin American geographers to fication Institute (GISCI), a consortium of organ- AAMIGA program to facilitate relationships analyze workforce needs and skills in those areas izations that includes the AAG, URISA, NSGIC, among geographers in the Americas and the Trav- and design a proposal for a new center of excel- and UCGIS, to address the GIS certification el Grant program for US researchers to attend lence in the region. The AAG was invited to sub- movement. The organization “MAPPS” has IGU meetings. mit a full proposal to the Teagle Foundation on recently filed a court case arguing that only certi- Geography and Liberal Education and awaits a fied engineers, architects, and surveyors should Educational Affairs decision in the coming weeks, and has also devel- be eligible to bid on most US government con- Richardson briefly reviewed the multiple oped proposals the NEH and the Virginia Foun- tracts that involve nearly any type mapping or education grants and contracts the AAG is con- dation for the Humanities for funding of the GIS, with profound implications for the entire ducting under the leadership of Solem and oth- upcoming AAG Geography and the Humanities mapping community. AAG is analyzing this ers. These include the NSF funded EDGE proj- Conference. threat and considering options for responding. ect, Enhancing Departments and Graduate Edu- The AAG continues to co-sponsor special The AAG continues to work in the public cation in Geography; the NASA funded Project conferences and scholarly events. These include policy arena. Funding from Al Voorhees and his Geo-START: Geo-Spatial Thinking Activities but are not limited to another successful Healthy estate helped initiate and now supports part of and Resources for Teachers to improve teacher Departments workshop held in June, the North the AAG’s public policy work. The AAG has quality and student outcomes in physical geog- American Land Cover Summit with USGS and also received some support from the Decade of raphy and earth system science; and the FIPSE- the National Academies of Sciences held in Behavior through Distinguished Research funded Teacher’s Guide to Modern Geography, Washington in September, and a recent Hazards Awards to W.A.V. Clark and Susan Cutter, that to provide geography teachers with a suite of Symposia also with USGS and the University of also funded congressional briefings, and also a high-quality training products. Pennsylvania. Richardson noted the AAG’s activ- Distinguished Lecture Award that funded Jeffrey The AAG continues to have a strong rela- ities at the upcoming Race, Ethnicity and Place Sachs to come to a previous annual meeting. tionship with GENIP. Michael Solem, Roger Conference in San Marcos; next year’s plans for a AAG Staff continue to monitor activities that Downs, Duane Nellis are representatives for the Geography in the Americas Conference in La affect the geography research and education AAG. GENIP has developed a statement defin- Serena, Chile; and the Geography and the community, including the effort to include ing a “highly-qualified K-12 geography teacher.” Humanities Conference for next year, co-spon- geography funding and programs in the reau- Moore moved and Wright seconded a motion to sored by the AAG, the American Council of thorization of the No Child Left Behind Act. endorse the statement provided by GENIP. The Learned Societies, the University of Virginia, and AAG also provided support in the case of the Council voted unanimously to approve the with support from the National Humanities arrest of geographer Ghazi Falah, writing letters motion. Alliance’s Director Emeritus John Hammer. and making high-level contacts to support his The NCGE is seeking another location and The Diversity Task Force has submitted its release and the observance of human rights. has approached the AAG to consider co-loca- final report and documented the significant The AAG’s Policy Office also works on a variety tion. Solem and Richardson have developed progress that has been made on the 10 action- of scientific freedom issues. Richardson received proposals for possible co-location and financial able items. The DTF has asked the council to many letters of support from members on all of support for NCGE. Working more directly with continue support of ongoing actions. They also these activities. NCGE to improve K-12 geography education

18 AAG Newsletter www.aag.org Volume 42, Number 5 could have significant benefits for geography The slates for the Honors and Nominating Honors and Awards education broadly. Richardson and Solem pre- Committees were reviewed. One more candi- R. Marston recommended developing an sented proposals at the NCGE meeting in Lake date was needed for Honors A. Miyares was award in honor of Gilbert White and submitted Tahoe. Richardson reviewed the components of empowered to invite an additional former hon- a proposal for an additional AAG Honors cate- the proposals and how it would benefit both oree to stand for election for the committee. gory called the Gilbert F. White Public Service NCGE and affect the AAG. The future need for The slate of candidates for Vice-President and Honors. S. Marston moved and Harden sec- additional office space, the impacts on member- National Councillors submitted by the 2006 onded the motion to create the Gilbert F. White ship, the financial risks for the AAG, and other Nominating Committee were presented and Public Service Honors as a 6th category of AAG topics were all discussed among the council. A unanimously endorsed. Honors. It was unanimously approved. motion was put forward by Friend, and second- Baerwald and Dow reviewed the ongoing Jeffrey Sachs was selected as the 2006 Hon- ed by Harden that if requested to do so, Council discussion regarding the need to revise orary Geographer. The 2006 Presidential Award Richardson and Solem are authorized by the the resolution process in order to eliminate will be co-awarded to Laura and Jack Danger- council to move forward to enter into a memo- ambiguity currently present in the bylaws. mond and to James Knox. Joe Darden was unan- randum of agreement with NCGE. The council There is also a need to clarify differences imously endorsed to receive the Enhancing voted unanimously in approval of the motion. between a petition, a resolution and a public Diversity Award for 2006. statement. Sections of the bylaws that may need to be clarified or revised were identified. A cur- Specialty Groups CONTINUING AND NEW BUSINESS rent white paper developed by Baerwald and Richardson noted that most of the specialty Annual Meetings Dow will be given to the Constitution and groups (SGs) have requested that the AAG han- Attendance has been up each year since New Bylaws Committee to review and then it will be dle their bookkeeping, accounting, and check Orleans and the San Francisco meeting is reviewed by the AAG’s attorneys. Once drafted, writing. The AAG provides this administrative expected to set a new record. The dates for a plan would then be circulated among the and accounting service to the SGs at no charge. future Annual Meetings are San Francisco, April membership for discussion. Various venues will He also noted the difficulty of determining who 17-21, 2007; Boston, April 15-19, 2008; Las be arranged for discussions on this, with the is still a member of those SGs which have no Vegas, March 22-26, 2009. Dates are being hope of a Council vote to implement a clear res- membership fee for some of its members. It was considered for the 2010 AAG Annual Meeting olution process by the Boston meeting in 2008. suggested that SGs have a nominal annual mem- in Washington, DC. R. Marston moved to send a revised draft of the bership fee of one dollar per member to aid in white paper to the Constitution and Bylaws keeping membership numbers current and accu- AAG Committees and Council Committee for review and comment, then back rate. Pandit suggested contacting groups that The council continued their discussion of the to the Executive Committee and the Executive have no fee, and that any new group would need need to update the standing committee struc- Director to proceed with a legal review. Baer- to have a membership fee of at least $1. The ture. Awards committees have clear charges, but wald seconded the motion which then passed council expressed consensus for the policy. many others do not. Some committees may unanimously. The Council reviewed the petition for and need to be consolidated with others, some need The Council had discussed earlier develop- approved the establishment of the Paleoenviron- to have their charges clarified or brought up to ing a white paper on climate change. Instead, mental Change Specialty Group (membership fee date. Some committees have quasi-judicial since the Council has voted to endorse the $5 for regular members, $1 for students). charges that may place the AAG at legal risk. IPCC report as its position, Dow proposed con- Pandit reviewed the dates for upcoming Colten moved and Moore seconded a ducting a survey of the membership to identify Executive Committee and Council meetings. motion to task the Committee on Committees contributors (individual geographers, specialty with examining the committee structure and groups) to the IPCC report. This would provide Closed Session developing a proposal for restructuring commit- the necessary information to demonstrate ways Council met in closed session to review the tees by the spring Council meeting. Concern in which geographers play an important role in Executive Director’s performance and compen- was raised that some committee chairs need to this process. It would also provide a list for AAG sation. Following discussion, Council com- be contacted in advance for their input in the for press contacts and press releases to local mended Doug Richardson’s efforts as Executive process. The motion passed unanimously. media, as well as a newsletter article. R. R. Director and approved his salary and benefits The charge of the Endowment Trust Com- Marston agreed to contact Annals editor Richard for the 2007-2008 fiscal year. mittee was reviewed. The activities of the Aspinall about the possibility of a forum section Endowment Committee have now been incor- focused on how climate change affects physical Adjournment porated into the Finance Committee, and the processes and on human impacts of climate There being no further business, President need for a separate committee for the endow- change. S. Marston and Colten raised the need Pandit adjourned the Council meeting at noon ment fund is no longer current. The AAG Trea- to involve the Political Ecology and Historical on Sunday, October 29, 2006. surer also sits on both committees. Richardson Geography Specialty Groups as members of stated that this would streamline the process these groups have been involved in research and Respectfully submitted, without diminishing its function. Baerwald activities on climate change as well. Ines Miyares moved and Colten seconded that the Endow- Baerwald updated the Council on the status AAG Secretary ment Trust Committee be decommissioned, as of the next Healthy Departments workshop to its functions are now vested in the Finance be hosted by Louisiana State University, possi- Committee. The motion passed unanimously. bly in Baton Rouge.

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AAG Council Meeting Minutes

San Francisco, California to newsletter columns on Internationalization, ing APCG in the fall. Sonoma State departments April 15-17, 2007 particularly those addressing study abroad and of geography and global studies are well. San best practices for internationalization. Francisco State is excited abut their role in this Attending: Kavita Pandit, President, Thomas year’s annual meeting. Humboldt State is weath- Baerwald, Vice-President, Richard Marston, Past Past President’s Priorities ering budget cuts. Steve Cuhña has received the President, Ines Miyares, Secretary, Kirstin Dow, R. Marston thanked everyone for their sup- Social Sciences Award for California. CSU San Treasurer. National Councillors: Kirstin Dow, Carol port and involvement over his tenure on the Bernardino is down to 3 FTEs from 8. At UC Harden, Mei-Po Kwan, Sallie Marston, Ines Executive Committee. He reviewed his initia- Davis, retirements are not being replaced. The Miyares, Dawn Wright. Regional Councillors: tives to advance physical geography, which University of Arizona reports 380 majors—pos- nd Stuart Aitken (Pacific Coast Division), Craig included nominations for positions, gift mem- sibly the 2 largest undergraduate program after Colten (Southwest Division), Donald Friend berships, and activities at national meetings. He Texas State. Southern Oregon’s program closed (West Lakes Division), Martha Geores (Middle represented AAG at the Gilbert White memorial after the loss of faculty and budget support. The Atlantic Division), Lisa Harrington (Rocky service and discussed the proposed new Gilbert University of Oregon recently received an NEH Mountains-Great Plains Division), Keith Hen- White honors. Guidelines for the Mel Marcus grant for a summer program for K-12 teach- derson (Middle States Division), David Kaplan Award were presented as well as progress on the ers. Richardson responded to a question “What (East Lakes Division), Tyrel Moore (Southeast Presidential Achievement Award. He, Aitken AAG can do to help departments face some of Division), Timothy Rickard (New England-St. and Harden are working as a subcommittee to these challenges?” By invitation from depart- Lawrence Valley Division). AAG Staff: Execu- coordinate with editors on guidelines for a pro- ments, AAG helps educate administrators about tive Director Douglas Richardson and Director posed 5th issue of the Annals. the central role of geography in the university of Research and Outreach Patricia Solís, Jenna and society, to citizenship in globalized world, Watson, Education and Outreach Coordinator. Vice President’s Priorities and in providing greatly expanded employment President-elect Baerwald presented a state- opportunities for students. This process has had PRELIMINARIES ment on his commitment to interdisciplinar- positive impacts at numerous colleges and univer- President Kavita Pandit convened the meet- ity—bridging geography within and across sities. Also, materials to help strengthen geogra- ing on April 15 with a brief welcome. The cognate disciplines. He suggested a variety of phy departments and programs are available from agenda was amended to add an item under ways in which specialty groups could coordi- the AAG office and online at the AAG’s Healthy New Business and was adopted. Minutes from nate work beyond co-sponsorship of sessions Departments website. the Fall Council meeting were circulated pre- and of participation of geographers in other viously, approved and published. President conferences, specialty meetings and work- East Lakes Pandit reported that the AAG Executive Com- shops. He emphasized the importance of inter- Kaplan reported that the University of mittee met in Washington, DC, February 17- disciplinarity at NSF. He will be continuing to Toledo hosted the annual East Lakes Division 18, 2007, to prepare and review the agenda help with the Healthy Departments Initiative Meeting on October 20-21. They discussed for the Spring Council meeting, and that it and will participate in the upcoming workshop the idea of fielding a Geography Bowl team, had met on April 15 prior to the beginning at LSU. He plans to work on strengthening but have yet to develop a formal mechanism of the full council meeting. In attendance ties with the regional divisions doing outreach for it. Youngstown State University is working were Kavita Pandit, President, Thomas Baerwald, at host campuses and regional meetings, and on a plan to renovate space in the basement Vice-President, Richard Marston, Past President, encouraged regional councilors to be active to dedicate a 10 machine GIS lab for student Ines Miyares, Secretary, Kirstin Dow, Treasurer, facilitators in this process. internship work and research. They have also Douglas Richardson, Executive Director, Director received distance learning video camera equip- of Research and Outreach Patricia Solís. Review of Geography Programs – ment from OhioView to place in a small con- Regional Councillors ference room in the same area. Ohio Wesley- CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES an’s Department of Geology and Geography FOR THE ASSOCIATION has hired a new human/cultural geographer, South West to start this fall. Ohio University’s department President’s Priorities Colten reported that things are going well remains heavily involved in interdisciplinary Pandit reported on her two primary initia- in the region. Meetings are being hosted by research and teaching, primarily with Envi- tives—continuing the Healthy Departments several institutions. A number of departments ronmental Studies, International Studies and Initiative and Internationalization. Louisiana report a healthy status of hires. Universities Women’s Studies. University of Cincinnati’s State University will host the Healthy Depart- without geography departments are hiring department will be jointly celebrating, with ments Workshop in Summer 2007. Regional geographers. University of Texas geographers the department of Geology, their centennial meetings are offering panels and workshops are in international and interdisciplinary lead- on April 26 and 27. Kent State University just on healthy departments. Geores asked about ership roles. went through two graduate/doctoral reviews. helping departments grow in new areas. Pandit One was an overall review of the department explained that the AAG Healthy Departments Pacific Coast and the second was a decision by the Univer- Committee is examining growth of depart- Aitken reported that the California State sity to reallocate graduate doctoral lines. Both ments as well as other issues such as depart- University system came close to holding a strike. reviews were positive and their doctoral and ment mergers. Pandit reported a good response CSU Long Beach is doing great and will be host- masters programs continue to thrive.

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Southeastern Great Plains-Rocky Mountains AAG bring to you?” The hope is for a greater Moore notes that Department Chairs across Harrington reported that her information sense of ownership. Inclusion of the applied the 10-state region indicate a quite healthy is based on regional meetings and academic geographers has changed both the times and status of Geography. Budget concerns are programs; but in the future, she hopes solo formats of our meetings. Applied geographers few, no programmatic cuts are reported, and academic geographers can be included as well. who tend to be most active in MAD come undergraduate and graduate programs are solid Non-academic members in the region are from schools that have actively been part of and expanding. Geography also seems strong- also difficult to identify for contacting about the AAG. Departments are in good shape, but ly positioned on campuses where multidisci- submitting information for the report. Sev- the organization itself is not very active. There plinary restructuring has created new depart- eral programs are seeing growth related to is a strong technical orientation for the 150 ments. Departmental links with Geographic GIScience, including BYU, Wyoming, North undergrads at the University of Maryland – Alliances are vibrant in a number of states Dakota, and Kansas State. A new emphasis College Park. UMCP is seeking to expand and campus-wide internationalization initia- area in GeoSpatial Intelligence at BYU already its human geography offerings and is con- tives further enhance Geography’s visibility as has attracted 25 majors. Geography at BYU ducting a search for multiple hires in human do awards for faculty research and teaching also has increased by about 40 majors from a geography. Richardson reported that Towson honors. SEDAAG’s membership is improving, year ago. The University of North Dakota State may have an interest in becoming more and increased by 11% last year. The Division’s is seeing several changes, most positive. The involved in the region. joint meeting with the Middle Atlantic Divi- biggest concern at present is covering course Baerwald reminded regional division coun- sion, hosted by West Virginia University was offerings with current faculty. Due to retire- cillors to check the dates that their terms end a huge success. The SEDAAG Steering and ments and resignations, Wyoming is likely to and help to ensure that their replacements are Executive Committees approved travel fund- be advertising at least three positions in the elected in a timely fashion, i.e., before the ing for Stand Alone Geographers (SAGE) to next two years. The new Department Chair terms of existing councilors expire in June of facilitate their participation in the Division’s is Jerry Webster (relocating from Alabama). the next year. meetings. Great venues for future meeting sites Kansas State University has just hired three R. Marston raised the idea of holding joint include Charleston, SC (2007), Greensboro, new faculty members, two of whom have regional division meetings with the regional NC (2008), and Savannah, GA (2009). Discus- been made possible by grant work and one by meetings of other associations. sions have begun for a possible joint SEDAAG- negotiations by Richard Marston when he was SWAAG-NCGE meeting in New Orleans. hired as Head. Review of Topical Developments National Councillors led a discussion on New England-St. Lawrence Valley Geographical Middle States the growth of the AAG in both membership Society Henderson conducted a survey with spe- and programs, raising the question of how Rickard noted that NESTVAL has appointed cific questions around themes and initiatives. best to respond and prepare for the future. an Editor, John Hayes, and an Associate Editor, There has been significant growth in gradu- There has been steady growth in attendance Steven Silvern, for its new regional Journal ate students, some growth of undergraduates. and the size of the program at national meet- which will replace its long-standing Proceedings. New Jersey is experiencing a budget crisis. ings. Councillors discussed whether to limit The new format for the Journal is intended to The University of Buffalo expects 5 new hires. program participation beyond current limits, encourage high-quality article submissions and Villanova is launching a new program/depart- particularly the number of panels on which analytical work on regional issues. Rickard ment. There are concerns about accrediting one can serve. A subcommittee was proposed stated that it had been a period of generally programs i.e. GIS certification—budget links to examine this issue, consisting of Miyares, S. improved budgets and support for higher edu- to accreditation. Internationalization is a major Marston, Wright, and Baerwald. cation in the region. In the past three years trend in the region. Kwan inquired as to the composition of the many geography departments have reported growth and whether we needed any structural successful new programs and increases in fac- West Lakes changes to meet the needs of new members. ulty numbers. The Geography Department at Friend reported that there were no known Harden raised the question of whether inter- Southern Connecticut State University, where major issues since fall report. Three depart- national growth would necessitate governance the next regional conference will take place ments are lined up to host regional meetings, changes, and whether we should reopen earlier on November 2-3, 2007, is hiring two new with a push to have the PhD-awarding institu- discussions of a name change for the associa- geographers, one of whom will serve in a tions host. The next meetings will be hosted by tion. Wright added that one benefit of growth revitalized urban studies program housed in Illinois, Indiana, and Macalaster. Macalaster’s is an increase in geography majors and raised the department. The University of Vermont, department has grown from one person to five. questions about the importance of engaging which hosted a successful regional conference these new members, particularly American last October, hired two new geographers and Mid-Atlantic minorities/communities of color and “would-be reconfigured its curriculum to allow specializa- Geores reported that the Mid-Atlantic geographers”—K-12 students. Dow empha- tion in geospatial science or in human, physi- region is unique in that it includes many sized the need to maintain a sense of commu- cal or global geographies. The department’s applied geographers and is close to the AAG nity with the growth. support of the Vermont Geographic Alliance central office. Within the last year with Molly Richardson reported on the AAG’s efforts is typical of the support for K-12 geographic Brown as president MAD has made a renewed to increase AAG membership and participation education in the region. The forthcoming effort to involve these geographers. One of in our annual meetings. Most of the growth meeting in New Haven will emphasize this the questions that seems to have made a dif- in membership has been in the academic sec- support and give geography teachers an impor- ference is for us to ask “What can you bring tor. There has been some but limited member tant role in NESTVAL’s affairs. to the AAG?”. It’s different than “What can the recruitment in private and public sector. AAG

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remains inclusive of all sectors and all subfields an ex-officio member, but since the treasurer 17, 2007. Colten suggested that departments in its activities. There are many returning serves on the Publications committee, there are could purchase a brick or that bricks could lapsed members and strong increases in student enough links between the committees, and that be purchased in honor of significant mentors. membership. Every category has grown, but ex-officio position could be removed to lighten The desire was expressed to begin a fund to the highest relative growth is among students the burden upon the Publications Committee support the AAG’s new developing regions and younger geographers. Social activities chair. Dow moved to restructure the AAG membership program, scheduled to begin in geared to students are important and create Finance Committee such that the immediate early 2008. a sense of community for the next genera- past chair (AAG Past Treasurer) would be R. Marston discussed the Mel Marcus Fund: tion. Sustaining an ethic of inclusiveness and appointed to serve as member of finance com- Carol Harden, Richard Marston, Andrew Mar- collegiality has been important to expand- mittee, replacing the position of the publica- cus, and Geoffrey Jacquez comprise the pro- ing the AAG’s membership and annual meet- tions committee chair. Pandit seconded the posed committee. The fund aims to foster stu- ing attendance. Creating venues for “shared motion which passed unanimously. dent field work in physical geography. Found- experiences” at the annual meetings, through Dow and Richardson reviewed the FYE ing principles, objectives, eligible expenses, plenary sessions, featured sessions, and inter- 2008 budget. Friend asked about the budget’s and application committee composition were national receptions, etc., have been effective decline in projected future revenue. Richardson presented. in drawing and retaining attendees. Specialty explained that he budgets and makes projec- groups are invited to identify highlighted ses- tions conservatively. Richardson further clari- Membership sions. International attendance has increased fied that the budgeted 2008 change in income Richardson reviewed AAG dues structure, with approximately 25% internationals attend- from 2007 for grants and contracts is conser- and noted that dues had increased very little ing. Also, approximately 1,400 non-members, vatively projected at 50% of current income, in the recent past, and that they are also based many from unrelated disciplines, now attend but if pending proposals are funded. It could be upon a graduated scale for social equity. There the AAG Annual Meetings. With the increas- as high or higher than in FYE 2007. Since the is a highly discounted rate for full-time students ing number of members comes greater influ- Finance Committee had already meticulously as well as for retired members. He mentioned ence for the AAG on important public policy reviewed and recommended approval of the that the “retired lifetime” membership might be issues and our participation in the broader budget, Dow moved to approve the budget as a good gift for retiring faculty. It was suggested intellectual enterprise gives geography stron- presented. Friend seconded and the motion by council members that departments consider ger presence in the university, creating new passed unanimously. the lifetime membership category as a benefit linkages across disciplines. Kaplan asked why there had been substan- in hiring packages for new faculty. The associ- tial debt in the past and positive income now, ation is developing ways to keep retired geog- STATUS OF THE ASSOCIATION and whether this was related to the growth raphers involved. A reduced rate for multi-year in the annual meeting. Richardson explained membership is also available, as is an option to that contracts and grants and other external Finance renew memberships automatically by keeping sources of income, such as donations, are the At the Fall Council meeting the draft finan- a credit card on file. Members can also access major variable on income fluctuation. The cial statement had been reviewed. The audited online cognate journals at a reduced rate. Web- AAG has been aggressively pursuing grants financial report was presented at this meeting based services are much more organized now. and contracts and managing them efficiently. and reviewed by Richardson and Dow. AAG Now the focus is on professionalizing web The annual meeting and membership income investments were not affected negatively by site and improving functionality. Council sug- accounts for a relatively smaller percentage of the recent decline in the stock market, as most gested various assessment options for how to revenue stream and they also have associated funds were invested in low risk guaranteed get member input to improve web-services. expenses that rise in proportion to any rise in return investments prior to the decline. A concept paper developed by the AAG to income. The AAG’s growth in total revenue Richardson proposed that a Conflict of establish a Developing Regions membership and net income has occurred while holding Interest policy be drafted with assistance of the category was presented and discussed. Rich- membership fees and annual meeting registra- association’s attorneys. ardson discussed the importance of designing tion fees at very low levels, relying on dramati- Dow reported that the Finance Committee an administratively workable program, one cally growing the number of AAG members met on February 17, 2007 with the auditor that is easy and inexpensive to implement. and annual meeting attendees, rather than by who described the association as being on the Developing regions would be defined using increasing the fess of substantially. cutting edge of best practices of non-prof- World Bank database categorization up to and its. Recommendations of the audit are based including World Bank upper middle income. on anticipated changes in federal accounting Advancing Geography Centennial Developing region members who make less requirements for non-profits, but the AAG Campaign than $20,000 could join at the greatly reduced will not have to make any significant changes. Richardson referred to the Advancing developing region membership rate, and would A suggestion was made to be less conserva- Geography Campaign progress report and receive journals online. This would be limited tive in investments, but to do so slowly with the AAG’s plan for fund raising. The asso- to resident citizens of developing countries. Richardson’s judgment since the market is so ciation does not have a designated fund raiser. The membership has expressed support for this volatile. Dow presented a recommendation to Richardson himself and other staff respond initiative. Moore moved to establish the AAG restructure the Finance Committee to include as opportunities arise, which is an uneven Developing Regions Membership Program as the immediate Past Chair (AAG Treasurer) to approach. He has developed a list of potential presented and discussed. Wright seconded the stay on the committee in an ex-officio posi- donors, including foundations, to guide future motion which passed unanimously. tion. The Finance Committee has historically systematic efforts. There was a donor brick S. Marston raised an idea she received from included the Publications Committee chair as ceremony held at Meridian Place on February a member to consider having a professional

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publicist for books authored by geographers. control. R. Marston and Aitken will present stated when a decision might be made, but Richardson expressed support for the idea and the proposal to the Editorial Board meeting. the attorney believes that the judge could would work on it with AAG staff. Such a pub- A number of questions were discussed, includ- respond within the next few months. The licist might identify new audiences and move ing how papers would be selected, how qual- AAG’s responses have all been made in con- beyond internal marketing, as well as iden- ity control would be maintained, whether the sultation with the lawyers. The AAG has tifying reviewers for popular outlets. Aitken focus would be on cross-cutting and/or inter- established a fund to recover some costs. suggested organizing sessions for the annual disciplinary themes, and how special issues Kwan commended Richardson in this action meeting on how to promote books. might affect regular submissions. Harden will for conceptualizing the response and by orga- encourage discussion of these issues with the nizing with sister organizations. Pandit called Publications Publications Committee. for an affirmation of the vote made via email, Jim Ketchum is the new editor of the AAG Richardson has drafted and circulated a whereby the Council supported the develop- Newsletter. The most recent issue is included in Request for Proposals (RFP) to four major inter- ment and submission of the amicus brief. The this Annual Meeting’s tote bags. It was only national publishers, outlining what the AAG earlier email vote approved submission of the mailed to those who are not attending. This would like to see in a new publishing contract amicus brief unanimously. Friend moved to re- was the first issue with paid advertising as for the AAG journals. The initial responses are affirm the email vote approval and Colten sec- approved at the Fall 2006 council meeting. all substantially better than our current publish- onded. Unanimous affirmation of the previous The new AAG Guide to Geography Programs in ing contract. Richardson will enter negotiations unanimous vote was registered, with Baerwald the Americas is out with many new Latin American with the publishers submitting proposals in having recused himself during both this vote region entries. The GIS&T Body of Knowledge order to secure the best possible contract. The and the earlier email vote. is available both in book and e-book form. negotiation process will likely be completed by Springer will be publishing the book that result- June. Considerations will include intellectual Research and Outreach ed from the Geography and Drug Addiction property, production quality, finances, broaden- Solís presented an update on the My Com- joint symposium with NIDA held in Chicago ing distribution and readership internationally, munity, Our Earth (MyCOE) project, which last year. There is now an Amazon.com web link and programs to enhance the quality of the remains key to the AAG sustainable develop- for ordering AAG publications. journals, among others. ment, informal education, and outreach pro- Journal editors reported good turnaround Kobayashi presented the editors’ report. The grams. The US State Department is funding times for article submission, review and council gave formal thanks and recognition activity supporting science and math education response. Michael Watts requested a memorial to the hard work conducted by editors. Annals in the Muslim world through the use of GIS. be written in honor of Allan Pred although he editors will discuss the proposal of a fifth issue MyCOE will be collecting and translating was never AAG president. Friend moved, Baer- of the journal. Journals have used a new version materials into Arabic and sponsoring a master- wald seconded to include a memorial for Pred of Manuscript Central since January. There teacher workshop in Tunisia. The USAID is in the Annals. The motion passed unanimously. have been some problems with servers on cam- continuing to fund projects supporting uni- There is also a need to find someone to write puses limiting access to Manuscript Central for versity-level students, this year around GIS the memorial for Joseph Russell. Tables of reviewers. Muller explained that a separate book and biodiversity in Central America. USDA contents of upcoming journal issues are now review editor has been selected for the PG. They has provided support for MyCOE constella- printed in the AAG Newsletter. are waiting to see how it works out in terms of tion grants to groups of students, faculty, and Harden noted that Sharmistha Bagchi-Sen’s the books reviewed for each. Friend inquired as extension personnel in land grant institutions and Peter Muller’s terms expire in 2008. Zimmer- to the impact factors for each journal: 1.76 for conducting activities focused on sustainable er has agreed to serve a second term. Bagchi-Sen Annals, 0.96 for 2006 for PG. development. IDB has approved funding for a has also agreed to serve longer. Pandit asked that feasibility study for using GIS&T for economic the Publications Committee make a recommen- Meridian Place Operations development in Latin America through a part- dation at the next meeting in the Fall. New employees at the AAG central office nership with the Korea Fund for Technology S. Marston raised a concern received by a were introduced: David Coronado is the new and Innovation. Many other new proposals member about receiving rejections of manu- Communications Director; Jenna Watson will to various agencies including NSF and private scripts despite good reviews. R. Marston sug- assist with Education and Outreach. AAG foundations are submitted or in development. gested setting up a system for author feedback currently has two new interns, Karim Thomp- Richardson presented the Earth Sustained on their review experience and explained the son and Melissa DeSomma. project, a joint proposal of the AAG, NRC, example of how Geomorphology works. Richard- Richardson reviewed the MAPPS legal Ecological Society of America, and the George son will check on capabilities. briefing, explaining that the case currently Perkins Marsh Institute, to be completed in part The Nature and Society editorial board pending in federal court could have significant for the 2012 Earth Summit (Johannesburg Plus was presented. Council discussed representa- consequences for the geography and mapping 10). Previous work focused on how earth has tion among subfields and suggested additional communities, including the GIS industry. An been transformed. Now the focus is on how it names to be considered. Harden will present adverse outcome could effectively exclude can be sustained. AAG has taken a lead in the these to the editor and will follow up with the nearly everyone but licensed architects, engi- effort to raise $2 million. An initial advisory council via email. neers and surveyors from federal government board has been selected and a budget drafted to R. Marston presented a proposal outlining contracts for “mapping” services of every sort cover a symposium, publications, products for the procedure for a possible 5th issue of the and description – not just those mapping policy and education, website for dissemination, Annals and for editorship procedures. Submis- services traditionally performed by survey- and communication. sions would still be handled online. One senior ors. The AAG, et al., amicus brief is being The AAG is participating in and, in some editor would be assigned to insure quality considered by the court. The court has not cases, helping to organize the following special

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conferences: The North America Land Cover sity, focusing on applications of spatial skills ence will present 4,196 papers, 113 illustrated Summit; a Hazards Symposium with USGS and and spatial thinking for Earth Science teach- papers, 326 posters, 225 panel sessions, and 92 the University of Pennsylvania; The Geography ers, and testing materials this summer in DC interactive short papers, in a total of 974 ses- in the Americas Conference with AAG and the schools. AAG’s FIPSE funded—Teachers Guide sions in 65 concurrent sessions, 15 illustrated Grosvenor Center at Texas State University to Modern Geography addresses the problem of paper sessions, and 11 short paper sessions. to be held in La Serena, Chile, May 2007; the the shortage of geography in teachers colleges There are 129 additional meetings. The total is Geography and the Humanities conference at by providing resources in print and in digital approximately 4,700 direct participants in 1,250 the University of Virginia, June 22-24, 2007; form. Solem has organized a workshop at this sessions, not counting meetings. S. Marston and several others. In addition, the AAG staff annual meeting to review the materials for raised the issue of reconsidering whether to participates in extensive outreach, attending introductory courses. limit the number of sessions any one participant and organizing numerous meetings, workshops, Additional projects include developing could present in. A suggested exception might conferences, and events. undergraduate materials for international e- be organizing and chairing sessions. Several Derek Alderman has submitted a request for learning experiences around particular themes council members raised the issue of the seem- funding for a book project stemming from a and a workshop at La Serena for materials ing proliferation of panels, particularly since place name workshop. Dow raised the caution development/collaboration. Wright and Dave upcoming meetings will have fewer rooms avail- concerning setting precedent for unsolicited DiBiase are collaborating on a project to devel- able. Dow suggested encouraging self-limiting proposals that do not fall within existing AAG op an ethics curriculum related to GIS research. to one paper, one discussant and one panel for grants and awards programs. Colten suggested The AAG is also working with NCGE on K-12 the Boston meeting. Dow and Miyares will raise a letter of support from the AAG instead of school curricular programs, and working with awareness of this issue at the Specialty Group funds. Richardson noted that if the meeting GENIP to address requirements of NCLB. A Chairs meeting. Harrington suggested asking were held at a national AAG Annual Meet- new Marren Fellows program has been devel- student workers to count numbers attending ing, the AAG could provide financial support oped to broaden involvement in GENIP. Rich- panels to obtain data before developing a new through existing programs. ardson proposed the development of an online policy. Richardson mobilized staff quickly to be The Jobs in Geography area has been information clearinghouse, along the lines of able to collect data at this meeting for consider- restructured to provide more online access, the one developed for the Diversity Task Force, ation in future discussions. more posted jobs, and to include both aca- to enhance access to educational materials. For the Boston 2008 meeting, the Local demic and nonacademic jobs. AAG has orga- Richardson reported that he received a let- Support Committee is being formed. Jeffrey nized several workshops and special sessions ter from NCGE on April 10, 2007, stating that Sachs has been invited and has accepted. on careers issues. the NCGE leadership had unanimously agreed Noam Chomsky has also been invited. Future AAG continues to work on Public Policy to request that the AAG host the Central meeting dates are for Las Vegas, March 22-26, initiatives. Key local politicians have been Office of the National Council for Geographic 2009 at the Hotel Riviera, and the 2010 meet- invited to attend this AAG Annual Meeting in Education in Washington, D.C. The AAG will ing will be held on April 13-18, in Washing- San Francisco. A member of Senator Barbara be providing co-location facilities and sup- ton, DC at the Marriot Wardman Park Hotel. Boxer’s staff plans to attend and other RSVPs port services for an initial period of five years, Richardson reviewed the force majeure clauses of are expected. Friend noted that Representative which will be reviewed in the fifth year. By the 2010 agreement, which provides the asso- Walz from Minnesota is a former geography contributing support to the NCGE, the AAG ciation with excellent legal protection in the teacher. AAG has written letters of support hopes to support programs for K-12 geogra- event of cancellation. for increased funding for the National Science phy education, thus also benefiting geography Richardson relayed to Council a request from Foundation, and supports increased federal in higher education, the public and private a group of members for creating a child care pro- funding for geography education. sectors, and in society. The arrangement will gram for AAG Annual Meetings. The Council also demand increased space, which the AAG discussed ways for the AAG’s existing child care Educational Affairs Update central office is currently seeking. reimbursement program and family activities to Solem reported on the EDGE Project, cur- Richardson has been examining buying ver- become better known among members. Richard- rently in its 3rd year. Research components sus leasing options within walking distance of son said staff would continue looking into ways include interviewing participants, and exam- Meridian Place. Colten moved to authorize the to improve efforts in this area. ining factors affecting development of early Executive Director to explore purchase and lease scholars, starting at MA level. The project is options to address space needs as he sees neces- Committees and Council now being extended beyond academia, cover- sary, in consultation with local council members Miyares presented the proposed restructur- ing topics such as preparing students for non- Baerwald and Price, with information and final ing and new charges of standing committees academic career alternatives. Data are current- approval by the executive committee for quick developed by Solis and Richardson, the Com- ly being analyzed. The goal is to identify ways turnaround on any major purchase decisions mittee on Committees, and the Executive Com- departments can address the needs of students that need timely response. Harden seconded mittee. The goal is to give committees mean- in professional development and movement the motion, which passed unanimously. ingful work that is in support of what is done into careers in geography. The project will pro- by the central office without duplicating or duce a package of materials to disseminate to Annual Meetings conflicting with that work. Some current com- graduate programs, as well as books on several For the San Francisco, April 17-21, 2007 mittees are dormant and some have charges that aspects of the research. A publishing agree- AAG Annual Meeting, records show 6,468 reflect the era in which they were organized but ment for the books is in negotiations. pre-registered attendees. Richardson noted with need a new, more relevant charge. Committees AAG staff is conducting a NASA-funded on-site registration a projected number of about will be asked to coordinate with the Executive project in collaboration with Howard Univer- 6,800 participants was expected. The confer- Director or designee at least once a year to be

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synergistic with the work of the Council and that Laura and Jack Dangermond and James ship in assisting the Association to address the the central office. One committee situation is Koch would receive the 2007 Presidential Award. challenges facing the discipline of Geography, not yet resolved—ties between the Commit- Pandit announced that Joe Darden would receive has contributed valuable efforts to improve tee on the Status of Women in Geography and the 2007 Enhancing Diversity Award. the standing of physical geography within the new Enhancing Diversity Committee. The Dow and Miyares reported on their review the discipline, has played an important role in slate of membership for the new committees of specialty group reports. Most of the special- supporting healthy geography departments, developed by the Committee on Committees ty groups are active, although some have late and has taken a personal interest in promoting was presented. Colten moved for its acceptance or out-of-date reports. The chairs of groups membership, fostering collegiality within the with the caveat that the configuration of the with out-of-date or missing reports have been discipline, and recognizing outstanding mem- two previously mentioned committees would notified. Many report balances of funds but bers of the association; depend on the outcome of the upcoming discus- with an unclear purpose for those funds. All Therefore Be It Resolved that the Association sions with them. Harden seconded. The motion specialty groups have minimum dues of $1. of American Geographers, assembled in San passed unanimously. The central office manages funds for about Francisco, California on the occasion of its S. Marston was nominated by Dow to be the 70% of the groups. A proposal for a new spe- 103rd Annual Meeting, heartily thanks Dick AAG Treasurer. Wright seconded the nomina- cialty group on Studies of the American South for his leadership of the Association during the tion. The Council elected her unanimously. was submitted to the council. Friend moved past three years, and especially for his efforts Colten was nominated by Miyares to be AAG and Colten seconded for approval of this new to improve the standing of physical geography Secretary. Harrington seconded the nomina- group, which was approved unanimously by within the discipline and the profession, for tion. The Council elected him unanimously. Council. fostering collegiality within the discipline, and Wright was elected by the National Councillors Kaplan asked how regional divisions receive for his role in supporting a stronger associa- to serve as Chair of the National Councillors. support funds from AAG. Richardson explained tion. Friend was elected by the Regional Councillors that Council recently established a policy for Whereas, Councillors of The Association to serve as Chair of the Regional Councillors. the AAG to provide regional divisions a cer- of American Geographers expend substantial AAG Election results for terms begin- tain amount based upon a rate set by Council time and effort advancing the causes of the ning July 1, 2007, were formally announced: multiplied by the number of full-time member Association and the discipline; and President Tom Baerwald, Vice President John residents in the US belonging to the region. Whereas, the Council of The Association of Agnew, National Councillors Marie Price and Some regions have their own dues structures. American Geographers has confronted numer- Audrey Kobayashi; Honors Committee Edward Aitken asked how this affects international ous challenges and responded to many oppor- J. Malecki, Barney Warf, and Kelley Crews- members. Richardson explained that they were tunities during the last three years; Meyer; and Nominating Committee Patricia not assigned, but there are reciprocal relation- Therefore Be It Resolved that The Association of McDowell, Fred Shelley, and Gary Gaile. ships with the Canadian Association of Geog- American Geographers, assembled in San Fran- Miyares raised the question of whether the raphers for joint membership, for example. cisco, California on the occasion of its 103rd election could be moved online to possibly Richardson also explained that he expanded Annual Meeting, extends warm appreciation increase participation. Baerwald and Richard- the AAG’s insurance policy to include regional to Past President Dick Marston and retiring son will work with the attorneys and the Con- meetings, and that matching grants are now AAG Councillors Stuart Aitken, Kirstin Dow, stitution and Bylaws Committee to examine also being offered to regions for World Geo- Martha Geores, Ines Miyares, and Timothy the legality and feasibility of online voting. graphy Bowl teams. Rickard for the energy, time, and talent they Baerwald reported that he will work with Richardson gave a brief update on Affinity have contributed to the Association during Constitution & Bylaws committee to review Groups, emphasizing their importance in con- their terms on the AAG Council. the document he and Dow are developing necting particular needs of members, including Whereas, Members of The Association of concerning procedures for Council to receive stand-alone geographers, Retired Geographers, American Geographers offer their talents, petitions and resolutions. Richardson will have Community College, Senior Associates, Pub- time, and ideas to support the activities of the the materials reviewed by the AAG’s attorneys lic-Private sector geographers, and graduate Association as Chairs and Members of various when they are completed by the committee. students. association committees appointed by the AAG Pandit reviewed the list of honorees recom- Pandit reviewed the dates of upcoming Council; mended by the Honors committee: Darrell council and executive committee meetings as Therefore Be It Resolved that The Association Napton, Ronald F. Abler Distinguished Service follows: Executive Committee, October 27-28, of American Geographers, assembled in San Honors; Reginald Golledge, Lifetime Achieve- 2007, in the DC area; Fall Council meeting, Francisco, California on the occasion of its ment Honors; Peirce Lewis, Lifetime Achieve- November 9-11, 2007 at Urbana-Champaign 103rd Annual Meeting, thanks the outgoing ment Honors; Sarah Witham Bednarz, Gilbert in conjunction with the West Lakes Meet- Chairs and Members of the AAG Commit- Grosvenor Honors for Geographic Educa- ing; Executive Committee, Spring 2008 to be tees for their service to the Association, the tion; Nigel Thrift, Distinguished Scholarship determined; and Spring Council meeting, April discipline and the profession during their com- Honors. Harden moved and Friend seconded 13-15, 2008 in Boston, Massachusetts. mittee terms. an affirmation of the vote made by email There being no further business, President that unanimously confirmed those selected Council Met Briefly in Closed Session. Pandit adjourned the council meeting at 11:10 to receive AAG honors. The affirmation vote Council approved the following resolutions am April 17, 2007.  passed unanimously. unanimously: Pandit announced that the Executive Com- Whereas, Richard Marston, as Vice President, Respectfully submitted, mittee had selected Jeffrey Sachs to be the 2007 and President of the Association of American Ines Miyares Honorary Geographer. R. Marston announced Geographers has exercised exceptional leader- AAG Secretary

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AAG Council Meeting Minutes

Champaign-Urbana, Illinois non-geographers at the AAG Annual New England-St. Lawrence Valley: November 10-11, 2007 Meeting. Price suggested inviting public McAnneny reported that the regional officials to participate at meetings to meeting in New Haven was a success. Attending: Tom Baerwald, President; John help instill a geographic perspective, as The region is making headway with its Agnew, Vice President; Kavita Pandit, Past was done in the San Francisco meeting new journal. Challenges for departments President: Craig Colten, Secretary (South- and other meetings. Council discussed in the region include an upturn in majors west): Sallie Marston, Treasurer; Doug the challenges non-geographers face to without corresponding increases in faculty Richardson, Executive Director. National publish in the Annals and council support- lines. Faculty in the region are its greatest Councillors: Carol Harden, Audrey ed the expectation that non-geographers asset and they are doing exciting research Kobayashi, Mei-Po Kwan, Marie Price, should become conversant in geographic that interests students. There is an overall and Dawn Wright. Regional Councillors: literature. trend toward younger faculty, as universi- David Kaplan (East Lakes), Lisa Har- ties replace retirees. rington (Great Plains-Rocky Mountains), Vice President’s Priorities Molly Brown (Middle Atlantic), Keith Agnew indicated he will continue to Middle States Henderson (Middle States), Cathleen support effective programs of predeces- Henderson reported that the overall McAnneny (New England-St. Lawrence sors and outlined his priorities. He noted health of geography departments appears Valley), Tyrel Moore (Southeast), Donald that the AAG meeting has become the to be strong. Most departments report Friend (West Lakes). AAG Staff: Patricia major international geography meeting growth. Increasing interest in geogra- Solís (Director of Research and Outreach) and he will seek to maintain the interna- phy is linked to at least three areas. In and Rachel Franklin (Deputy Director). tional prominence of that meeting along many departments geography is playing with increasing its interdisciplinarity; he a larger role in interdisciplinary envi- PRELIMINARIES will emphasize themes that blend human ronmental programs. Majors, minors, or Baerwald opened the meeting, welcomed and physical geography, and promote the certificates in Environmental Studies and new and returning council members, and competitive advantage that geographers Environmental Science have geography led introductions. He introduced new have in human/environment discussions. at their core. As long as geography is in agenda items and Moore moved to adopt Agnew aims to direct attention to the a position to control its own place within the agenda with the changes, seconded by critical issue of funding for geography in these interdisciplinary programs and not Harden. The Council approved unani- public universities, as the health of the be usurped by them, this appears to be mously. Colten reviewed the minutes discipline is very much tied to the health a positive trend. The use of GIS within from the Executive Committee meeting of public universities. the business community is opening the held in Cambridge, Maryland on October door for geographers to collaborate with 27-28. The Council reviewed the minutes Past President’s Priorities business faculty, and to attract business from the Spring 2007 meeting held in San Pandit expressed her appreciation for students to geography classes. Finally, Francisco, California and approved them being able to work with AAG officers and smaller programs are reaching out to unanimously. council, and looks forward to working primary and secondary education depart- with Baerwald and Agnew on continuing ments to renew or forge new links to the CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNI- the focus on internationalization during social science curriculum. These ties bring TIES FOR THE ASSOCIATION the coming year. many more students into the classroom. Departments are able to replace retiring President’s Priorities Review of Geography Programs – faculty. The only cautionary notes came Baerwald discussed his presidential pri- Regional Councillors from smaller state universities where orities around interdisciplinarity, explain- state budget-conscious administrators are ing that we would continue to support West Lakes increasingly trying to raise graduation seeking speakers from other fields and Friend reported that the status of geog- numbers to justify programs and funding geographers who interact with other dis- raphy in the region was good. There is requests are ranked by professional certi- ciplines, encouraging scholars from other concern with budget cuts in the public fication programs. Penn State, University disciplines to publish in the Annals, and universities. Most universities in the of Delaware, and others reported Nobel interdisciplinary research in education. region report that an international focus Prize winners, geographers working on Baerwald also pledged to continue the and GIS are attracting students and that the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate focus on priorities of his predecessors there are more majors at the freshmen Change. such as leadership training workshops level, due in part to Advanced Placement. (healthy departments workshops), chairs’ Environmental awareness also helps attract East Lakes luncheons, internationalization, diver- students to geography classes. Challenges Kaplan reported a successful regional sity, engagement in public policy, and include cooperation between human meeting in East Lansing. The region orga- outreach to regional meetings. Richard- and physical geography, realignments of nized a panel on enhancing diversity at son noted that the AAG Enrichment Fund departments, and a brain drain from the is one way to support the attendance of region. Continued on page 18

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AAG Council Meeting Minutes from page 17 the meeting to follow up on the AAG and the regional meeting allows an programs; they also seek comparative data national level initiative. Successes include exchange between university and non-uni- to help sell the importance of geography; the advancement of several geographers to versity based geographers. Departments and others desire sample protocols and prominent university administrative posi- in the region are healthy and several are material for Student Learning Outcomes tions, including two presidents. No depart- adding lines. A goal of the MAD chair Assessments. ments have been the target of cut backs, is to increase involvement of university A discussion proceeded among Coun- and overall there has been a positive trend programs in the regional meeting. cillors relating to improving the inclu- in hiring. Departments report success with sion of all types of departments in the grants and lab upgrades. Undergraduate Great Plains – Rocky Mountains AAG regional level meetings; suggestions enrollment increases have been achieved Harrington indicated that departments included sharing a set of ideas and a guide through international and environmental reported a variety of challenges, oppor- for meeting organization and developing programs, and online courses. Challenges tunities, and assets. Challenges included and exchanging techniques to promote include funding cuts at the university level increasing enrollments; space pressures; regional meetings. Richardson offered and declining overall university enroll- pressures on faculty for more teaching, to include an additional invitation for ments, and stereotyping of geography research, and service; changing expecta- Regional Division meeting organizers to as being only about computers. One tions of universities (to be a “research- attend the Regional Division breakfast at concern is the possible impact of a new oriented profit center” or to focus on the Boston meeting to discuss regional- University System of Ohio and how that “entrepreneurship”); faculty transitions level activities. Also, Council raised the might play out. with retirements and new hires; and issue of how to promote diversity in funding issues. Opportunities include geography in the regions. Richardson Southwest connections with alumni, collaborations encouraged re-thinking the important Colten challenged the other regions within units and across campuses, and and changing roles that regional meetings to follow SWAAG’s lead and donate funding possibilities in research. Assets might play in an era of electronic com- funds for a regional brick in the AAG’s include good students, productive faculty munication. walkway. Departments in the region members, location, and connections to are finding themselves incorporating regions. Other notable conditions and Topical Issues multidisciplinary activities including trends are increasing student numbers and Wright opened the discussion of geog- urban studies, environmental studies, and interdisciplinary connections, although raphy and sustainability. She suggested Atlantic studies. Enrollments are up there is some concern about the develop- making geography the place to go for especially in undergraduate programs. ment of competing programs that are sustainable practices and possibly forming Several large departments have full- geography-focused, but not geographer- a special committee on sustainability. time undergraduate advisors which have populated. There were concerns about Harden urged that geographers take the proven effective in tending to the needs assessment standards and identification of discussion of sustainability out of the of large numbers of majors. Certificate model programs, and the meaning of NRC academy and put it into practice; she programs or other special programs in rankings. noted AAG plays the role of promoting GIS also are on the upswing. Depart- geography as a specialty with expertise ments are being prompted to reduce the Southeast in sustainability and partners with other number of total credit hours for gradua- Moore reported that several states organizations with interest in the topic; tion. This is forcing some small programs have serious budget concerns, but even in she emphasized that sustainability is to fight to maintain their standing with those states geography is alive and well. critical for our food and fuel futures. Kwan the consequent reduction of Semester Departments are enjoying increasing encouraged geographers to develop ideas Credit Hours (SCH). Faculty hires were enrollment and new initiatives. Degrees that blend environmental and economic healthy across the region with depart- in GIS, meteorology, and planning are concerns, how to sustain environment and ments replacing retiring faculty and in contributing to this trend. New faculty economy; that geographers can integrate some cases adding new lines. Online lines and success with external grants and should incorporate equity into sustain- courses are showing up with greater help departments maintain their univer- ability discussions; and that geographers frequency. SWAAG met in Bryan, Texas sity status. can also contribute by being sensitive to with more than 200 in attendance. A key context and scale. Kobayashi stressed challenge remains how we effectively Pacific Coast that geographers are well positioned to convey what geography is to students Wilkinson reported that the state of address the intersection of social and and administrators. geography was quite good. The Cal environmental justice and that without State system averted a strike and faculty references to social justice and human Middle Atlantic will receive raises. Several departments rights there is something missing from Brown reported that the region has reported new hires are underway; others sustainability discussions. Price called shifted its regional meeting to the fall reported new degrees or programs. Chairs for geographers to align with university and met at the Census Bureau in October. sought AAG assistance in developing initiatives such as urban sustainability and There are a large number of private and “best practices” to help deal with new to participate in the policy arena. Marston public sector geographers in the region environmental studies and geoscience stated that the discipline can become a

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leader in sustainability by reaching out to Richardson reported that the Associa- 2010 and begin looking for a successor. distant constituencies via electronic means tion is seeking a new auditor, due to recent Council unanimously affirmed the email and also by reducing our own carbon changes in the current auditor’s offering of vote on the approval of the editorial footprint; that the discipline needs to services toward consulting practice only. board of the Nature-Society section of the make a commitment to lead. Richardson He requested Council’s authorization to Annals. Kobayashi raised a question about noted that the meanings of sustainability hire a new auditor in consultation with establishing terms for editorial boards. vary and advocated a consistent use of the AAG Treasurer, which was provided Baerwald recommended that the Publica- the term. He pointed out that the AAG unanimously. tions Committee consider that question in has several sustainability projects, many consultation with the editors. Richardson ongoing since before the World Summit Advancing Geography Centennial noted that he had increased the stipends on Sustainable Development in 2002, Campaign for editors to thank them for their hard that promote geography’s contributions Richardson reported that the AAG con- work and dedication. as a discipline to both understanding and tinues to seek donations for the fundrais- Richardson reported on the new practice in sustainability. ing campaign. Although efforts have been publications agreement with Routledge. largely opportunistic since there is no full- After extended negotiations with several STATUS OF THE ASSOCIATION time development staff, they have been publishers, Routledge provided the best successful. Richardson currently handles proposal that will provide sustained and Richardson provided an overview of the most fundraising himself. Donations now guaranteed income for the two journals. Association’s recent accomplishments and total more than $2.0 million, mostly from The agreement will also allow the publica- activities. Since the early 2000s, the Asso- sources outside of the discipline. Estate tion of a fifth issue of the Annals, abstracts ciation’s financial picture has improved planning is one area where the association in Chinese and Spanish, extensive mar- dramatically. Membership services have has been active recently, and hopes to keting of the journals, free full online increased through the use of technology. expand its efforts. access, and many other benefits. Council Publications remain a primary compo- applauded Richardson’s success at forging nent and are now in a very advantageous Membership an extremely favorable agreement for the situation with the new agreement. The Richardson reported membership has AAG. Association has expanded its office space climbed above 10,000, students constitute by renting additional space near Meridian almost half the membership, and regular MERIDIAN PLACE OPERATIONS Place in order to accommodate new staff members just over half. Richardson indi- Richardson reported on new staff and and activities. Research and outreach cated the AAG is in the process of rolling interns and explained the matrix team have become more prominent and involve out the new Developing Regions Member- management approach in which staff col- numerous international programs and spe- ship Program. laborate on projects. He introduced Dr. cialty conferences and publications. The The Executive Committee recommend- Rachel Franklin, who recently joined the Association is watching for opportuni- ed to Council to approve a dues increase AAG staff as Deputy Director. Regarding ties to protect geography through public at 1 percent less than the rate of inflation legal matters, Richardson and AAG staff policy (for example, currently through No to be effective in 2008. Agnew reported invested considerable time in the effort to Child Left Behind legislation and support- an estimated rate of inflation of about 4 prepare an amicus brief in support of the ing defeat of the MAPPS lawsuit). Educa- percent. Council unanimously approved a government’s position. The Federal Court tional efforts include EDGE, GENIP, and 3 percent dues increase effective in 2008. rejected the MAPPS lawsuit that would cooperation with NCGE. The Executive Committee also recom- have limited most federal contracting for Richardson reviewed the Association’s mended to the Council that the AAG mapping services to engineering, survey- financial documents. The preliminary Treasurer begin a process to reconsider ing, and architectural firms. This was a FYE07 balance sheet showed a net the details of the graduated dues catego- major victory for the mapping community, income of $2.1 million and a total equity ries. The current scale has been in place but one that will likely not end with this of $5.7 million. This puts the Association for some time and has no steps above the court decision. In other news, the AAG in a much better position than in 2002. $100,000 level. Council approved this has also secured a nearby office suite to The AAG Treasurer presented the 2008 recommendation to review dues structure accommodate expanding staff. It is also in budget, explained that it was reviewed unanimously. the early stages of revamping its web page. by the AAG Finance Committee, and recommended approval. The Council Publications Regional Division Funding unanimously approved the 2008 budget. The Council unanimously approved The Executive Committee recom- Given the positive current financial the following recommendations from mended to the Council to increase con- picture the Executive Committee rec- the Executive Committee: (1) approach tributions from the AAG to the AAG ommended that the Council charge the Clifton Pannell to write a memorial Regional Divisions from $1.20 to $1.40 Finance Committee with the task of for Norton Ginsburg to appear in the per member. Council discussed the merits examining options to protect the Asso- Annals; (2) approve Sharmistha Bagchi- of raising the contribution even higher for ciation’s assets for the long term while Sen to continue as editor of the Profes- the benefit of regions with small member- putting a portion of them to work. The sional Geographer until the end of 2010; ships. Kaplan offered a motion to make a Council supported moving the recom- and (3) extend the term of Peter Muller mendation to the Finance Committee. as Book Review Editor of the Annals until Continued on page 20

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AAG Council Meeting Minutes from page 19 flat contribution of $1,000 to each region. Richardson reported that an effort to the AAG allowed commercial sponsorship He accepted a friendly amendment that move the Geographers on Film collec- of the tote bags. Council considered modified the original motion allowing tion to the AAG from the Michigan State the discussion of this and other meeting the AAG to make a flat contribution of Library since they did not have the funds expenses that may be offset by sponsors. $1,000 to each region this year, while or staff to properly curate and distribute Council encouraged Richardson to explore allowing regions with large memberships the collection. AAG is seeking to digitize possible options. to select between the flat contribution the collection and make it more accessible. of $1,000 and the existing $1.20 per Richardson has appointed an ad-hoc com- Committee on Committees member contribution, for this year only. mittee of Wes Dow, Fritz Nelson, Alexander Colten presented a field of nominees The Council unanimously approved the Murphy, Kent Mathewson, Rachel Franklin, for the AAG Nominating Committee and motion as amended to make a flat con- and Richardson to coordinate effort. Rich- the AAG Honors Committee. Pandit tribution, with an option for regions to ardson asked for Council approval of this moved that the Committee on Com- choose to receive the $1.20 per member committee. Council asked if experts in film mittees narrow field and submit it to contribution for this year only in lieu of preservation to be included. Richardson the Council for an email vote. Council the flat contribution. indicated such expertise is available to the unanimously approved the motion. The committee. Council approved Richardson’s Secretary will send an email ballot for the Research and Outreach formation of the ad-hoc committee. Council to select the slate of candidates Solís and Richardson reviewed various for the member ballot to choose these programs that seek to advance the mission Education committees. of the AAG and enhance the position of Richardson reported the AAG is moving The Secretary reported the AAG Nom- geography. Brown asked if AAG had a into phase two of the Center for Global inating Committee submitted a slate of strategic plan for seeking grants. Solís Geography Education under the direction officers and National Councilors for the noted that AAG Staff target grants that of Michael Solem and continues its involve- ballot. are in line with the AAG’s broader stra- ment in the Enhancing Departments and Kobayashi raised a question regarding tegic plan for the association and also Graduate Education (EDGE) and GENIP. the AAG Enhancing Diversity Commit- the My Community, Our Earth Program. It is also working with the Carnegie Foun- tee and the AAG Committee on the Baerwald indicated he was impressed with dation on the CASTL (Carnegie Academy Status of Women – both concerned with the strategic fundraising activities at the for the Scholarship of Teaching and gender. Richardson and Solís indicated AAG. Council suggested several addi- Learning). The AAG’s already strong edu- that council had deliberated that point and tional organizations that might collaborate cation staff has been strengthened with the current structure reflects input of those with the AAG. addition of Dr. Susan Gallagher as Senior two committees. Council indicated it Solís provided updates on an upcoming Project Manager for Geography Education. could reconsider if it becomes an issue. program under the My Community, Co-location of the National Council for Our Earth Program to conduct a teacher Geographic Education (NCGE) with the Procedures for Council Resolutions workshop in Tunis that will now be held AAG will facilitate additional coordina- Baerwald presented a revised proposal near the dates of the IGU conference. The tion toward advancing K-12 and university on a clarified process for members to submit AAG also has recently developed propos- geography education. requests to Council for resolutions. Key als to various foundations (Nippon, JRS, points are: any member should feel free to and Coca-Cola). AAG is working with CONTINUING AND NEW BUSINESS request consideration of any issue related the National Academy of Sciences and the to the objectives of the AAG; a minimum George Perkins Marsh Institute to attempt Annual Meetings number of 50 (rather than a percentage) to fund a publication, Earth Sustained, that Attendance continues to rise since the is included to reflect a group action; and will follow up to the series on Man and 100th anniversary meeting in Philadelphia the group must affirm AAG membership of Nature, Man’s Role, and Earth Transformed in 2004. Increasing attendance has created those signing petition. Discussion covered with an objective to point toward some increased demands for space. Three hotels expanding the term “in writing” to include solutions to environmental problems. A are necessary in Boston to accommodate email and the need to clarify the meaning of call for papers for contributions to the the conference. A census of attendance a “majority of those who vote.” Richardson Geography and the Humanities confer- in San Francisco indicated specialty group indicated he would have the association’s ence publication were issued recently, sponsorship tended to increase attendance attorneys ultimately look at the proposal. after a successful conference event in at particular sessions. About a third of Baerwald moved to have the AAG Consti- Charlottesville. Richardson encouraged the sessions were “well-attended.” AAG tution and By-Laws Committee to make a Council to have colleagues stay in touch will conduct a data collection effort again recommendation on the proposal. Pandit with congresspeople on the reauthoriza- this year for future planning purposes, but seconded moving it to the committee. tion of the No Child Left Behind legisla- will reconsider whether to continue the Council unanimously voted in favor. tion, noting that while geography has practice after Boston. Future meetings to been identified as a core discipline, no be held in Las Vegas (2009), Washington, Healthy Departments federal funding was provided in the earlier DC (2010), and a West Coast site in 2011. Agnew offered to host the next passage of the act. Friend raised the question of whether workshop in Los Angeles. Future events

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will emphasize leadership development Specialty and Affinity Groups cialty Group and the Council approved in addition to the past successful themes. Wright reported that most of the 58 unanimously. Agnew will consult with the AAG Healthy specialty and affinity groups had submit- Richardson provided an update of Departments Committee to develop a new ted annual reports. Some requested that Affinity Groups. name that would reflect this focus. Council consider a sliding scale for annual meeting registration fees. Richardson Future Council and Executive Honors and Awards noted there is an equity scale for asso- Committee Meetings The selections made by the AAG ciation membership dues, and that Annual Council discussed the next Executive Honors Committee were disclosed Meeting fees also already were prorated Committee Meeting to be held in Tucson, to Council, but will remain confiden- for students and by participation days. March 29-30, 2008, and the Council tial until announced to full membership. Council noted other AAG programs that meeting to be held April 13-15, 2008 The Executive Committee recommended offer support for annual meeting atten- in Boston. Further planning hinges on Charles Mann as Honorary Geographer dance, such as the AAG Conference Assis- securing dates of the regional meetings in for 2008. Pandit had proposed David tants Program and the AAG Enrichment the fall. Ward as recipient of the 2008 Presidential Funds. They discussed the administrative The Council met briefly in closed Award, which was approved by the Execu- burden of a sliding scale and decided no session. tive Committee. The AAG Enhancing action was necessary. Specialty groups Baerwald thanked Friend and the West Diversity Committee recommended Janice also reported seeking improved mecha- Lakes Region for hosting the Council Monk and Jacqueline Meyer to receive the nisms for coordinating co-sponsorship meeting. With business completed, Wright AAG Enhancing Diversity Award. Kaplan of sessions. Richardson indicated that moved to adjourn. Harden seconded. The moved to accept the recommendation, planned modifications to the registration Council unanimously agreed to adjourn at seconded by Wright. Council unani- web page will facilitate this. Specialty 11:11 a.m. mously approved the recommendation. groups expressed an interest in bringing Respectfully submitted, Richardson is working with the AAG in high profile scholars from cognate History of Geography Specialty Group fields to address annual meeting. Another Craig Colten on a lifetime achievement award for Wes specialty group advocated allowing spon- AAG Secretary Dow and Geoffrey Martin. He requested sorship of poster sessions. that Council also present a special citation Executive Committee recommended of appreciation for their contributions, the approval of an application received for which was accepted. the creation of a Cyberinfrastructure Spe-

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AAG Council Meeting Minutes

Boston, Massachusetts promote sessions at Las Vegas that point reports; some expressed concern with April 13-15, 2008 toward integration, with drought in the multi-disciplinary programs encroaching southwest as one example. The AAG on smaller departments and encouraged Attending: Tom Baerwald, President; John Healthy Departments Workshop will thinking about ways to feature geography Agnew, Vice President; Kavita Pandit, Past continue under a new title – the AAG as a discipline even while departments President; Craig Colten (Southwest), Secretary; Department Leadership Workshop. He participate in such university initiatives. Sallie Marston, Treasurer; Doug Richardson, noted that current topics of concern for Executive Director. National Councillors: Carol departments include state budgets and West Lakes Harden, Audrey Kobayashi, Mei-Po Kwan, how to maintain department resources. Friend reported that the region is Marie Price, and Dawn Wright. Regional He recommended that chairs should be pleased with the new allocation of $1,000 Councilors: David Kaplan (East Lakes), made aware of journals that showcase per region of supplemental support from Lisa Harrington (Great Plains-Rocky interdisciplinary research. the AAG. He noted that the most pressing Mountains), Molly Brown (Middle concerns are with belt tightening and Atlantic); Keith Henderson (Middle States), Past President’s Comments budget shortfalls in state schools. Tyrel Moore (Southeast), Donald Friend Pandit expressed pleasure with inter- (West Lakes), Cathleen McAnneny (New nationalization developments within the England-St. Lawrence), Nancy Wilkinson East Lakes AAG, such as the multi-lingual abstracts in Kaplan observed that the region is (Pacific Coast). AAG Staff: Patricia Solís AAG journals and the new AAG Develop- and Rachel Franklin. experiencing economic decline, and this ing Regions Membership Program. She presents a challenge to departments to concurred that we need to be mindful of stay strong in contrast to regional patterns; PRELIMINARIES budget issues. however, the strength of geography has Baerwald called meeting to order, been to showcase how the discipline can welcomed Council, and led introduc- Review of Geography Programs – contribute to a region’s growth. Depart- tions. Moore moved to adopt the agenda, Regional Councillors ments are seeing growing number of Harrington seconded; and Council majors. He encouraged AAG to continue adopted the agenda unanimously. Kaplan Pacific Coast to support small departments and stand- moved to approve the minutes of the fall Wilkinson reported that despite severe alone geographers. Council meeting, Harden seconded, and budget cuts, some departments are hiring. Council approved unanimously. Two key concerns: interdisciplinary SEDAAG encroachment, especially in environmen- Moore shared concern from department CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNI- tal sciences and need for guidance in best TIES FOR THE ASSOCIATION chairs in the region with tight budgets practices for program assessment. and the growing number of non-tenure positions. He noted that the region is also President’s Comments Great Plains/Rocky Mountains Baerwald summarized activities related pleased with the $1,000 per region annual Harrington reported that departments support from AAG. to his interdisciplinary initiative during seek comparable data to use in program the past year, reviewed the upcoming reviews, such as comparative, discipline- New England/St. Lawrence Valley presidential plenary session at the Boston wide tabulations; she also noted that, meeting on interdisciplinarity, and com- McAnneny reported that programs although not directly related to the AAG, in the region are also concerned with mented that he was pleased with the leadership in geographic alliances is expe- range of interdisciplinary activity on the budgets as well as with securing good data riencing significant rates of retirement for program reviews. Most programs are program. He noted that the work of with scarce replacements. the healthy departments, internationaliza- largely undergraduate and greater under- tion, and geographic education efforts graduate participation could be promoted continue, and observed that geographers Middle Atlantic in AAG activities. can help with diversity and play a role in Brown noted that federal government public policy. agency personnel are the leading group SWAAG of geographers in the region and called Colten noted that there are a growing Vice President’s Comments for greater efforts to strengthen public/ number of interdisciplinary programs and Agnew expressed interest in follow- private partnerships. She noted a poten- noted that numerous departments were ing through with interdisciplinary and tial for growth and engagement among able to help direct the direction and growth internationalization initiatives, and that geography professionals in government of these interdisciplinary programs, which he also seeks to encourage interaction agencies. included inserting geography courses in among geographers (especially human their curricula. and physical) and to strengthen an inte- Middle States grative geography with the goal to inspire Henderson relayed that department intradisciplinary collaboration. He will chairs in the region offered positive Continued on page 18

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AAG Council Meeting Minutes from page 17

Friend led discussion of five themes the discussion by noting that a major chal- Ocean (TAO) experiment moves them as that emerged from the regional reports: lenge/need for geography is in the area a community toward that end. (1) Stand Alone Geographers: he noted of “human capital,” (e.g., having enought Discussion continued and touched on the AAG Stand Alone Geographers faculty to maintain and extend geography how to construct a campaign that would Affinity group is in place and Council programs, fighting budget cuts, seeking to convey how geography is a fundamental discussed how to engage this constituency change academic culture to fully meet the base of knowledge and also how geogra- in regional meetings and in departments need of non-tenure track instructors, etc.) phers can apply core geography practices in the regions nationally, (2) Engaging and well-staffed departments will enable to societal needs. Geographic scale is one Professional (non-academically based) us to address these questions. Marston key contribution that should be conveyed Geographers: Council discussion centered observed that focusing training in the geo- to the larger academic world. Regarding on how to learn from other organizations graphical sciences more toward coupled the question posed: what are “burning” that had successfully engaged with public human and physical systems and delivering concepts in geography? Council discussed and private constituents, including how knowledge about these coupled systems is how geography has many questions which we could make annual meetings more essential to motivate people to change may need to be prioritized for outside appealing; (3) Interdisciplinary Programs: their behavior to deal with environmental consumption. Richardson noted the sig- Council discussed how geographers need changes. Kwan stated that geography is nificance of the emerging disciplinary to be involved in the conceptualization and prominent in many important issues but synergy among formerly disparate trends administration of university interdisciplin- needs to translate its capabilities across in geography, such as between the rapidly ary programs, and how departments need specialties, which demands an ability to growing areas of GIScience and critical to remind university administrators that share a common language with other spe- theory. Others suggested that our most geography is inherently an interdisciplin- cialists and convey the importance of what common goal is how we might better ary program. Departments must be mindful we do. Kobayashi reported that there is care for the world (e.g., in terms of envi- that many interdisciplinary programs are a dire need for geographers to engage in ronmental health of the planet and the not pre-professional programs, hence international, global endeavors, to make well-being of the world’s people). degrees in geography are still of value; contact with geographers across borders. (4) Information Needs for Assessments and She cited an example of the Metropolis STATUS OF THE ASSOCIATION Program Reviews: It was noted that the Project (a study of international migra- AAG Healthy Departments web page has tion, the largest social science project ever Executive Director’s Comments some valuable information that can be used in Canada) in which U.S. geographers Richardson provided an overview of for department assessments and statewide are poorly represented. She also urged the association’s budget. The change in organizations may also have comparable more geographers to address world issues, net assets was positive and more than $2.1 data for assessing programs. It was noted such as securing peace. Harden noted million for FYE 2007 alone. Total liquid that increasing demands for accountability that we need to improve our visibility on assets were nearly $8 million as of the date means increasing need for comparable and campuses, to earn greater buy-in to what of the council meeting. Financial position accessible data on departments’ outcome we do. She observed that geography is reflects AAG programs that have boosted assessments. AAG is working on a data resource-poor compared to some disci- membership, grants and contracts to help clearinghouse that includes data collected plines; so we must seek out opportunities grow the discipline, and efforts to create by the AAG as well as links to third-party and remind administrators that we teach an inclusive annual meeting with “room sources; (5) AAG promoting geographic more, while competing with science coun- for everyone.” Membership has climbed research at the national level and retention terparts for funding. Price commented that to over 10,000. The AAG will maintain of geography in K-12 curricula: Council geographers are rarely at the table when a separate count of the new Developing discussed how faculty need to be alert policy decisions are made, even though Regions membership. Other developments to university initiatives, be prepared to spatial inequalities may be at the heart include expansion of space at Meridian compete for funds, be alert to threats, be of the policy issue; our challenge is to Place, initiating efforts to upgrade the on committees and positioned to respond position geography to be a “fundamental” association’s web site, continuing outreach to opportunities, and be involved in mul- and “essential” player. Baerwald asked if activities, engagement in policy discus- tidisciplinary programs as one way to there is something that geography can do sions, promoting geographic education solidify geography’s position on campus. as a field to address and build fundamental through many programs, including EDGE knowledge, are there core fundamental and support of NCGE. Topical Issues: National geographic theories (such as in health, Councillors policy, planning, management) that we Finances Dawn Wright led a discussion address- can advance together? What can we col- Treasurer Marston reviewed the FYE ing the questions: (1) What questions lectively work toward as a geographical 2007 Audit. The Association currently should geography be studying over the community (human and physical)? An has total cash and investments totaling next 10 years? (2) What makes geogra- example in oceanography is the common $7.7 million. Most investments are liquid phers particularly suited to answer them? goal of all sub-disciplines of oceanogra- and spread between long- and short-term (3) What are the greatest challenges facing phy to understand El Nino, and a global funds. Total assets rose from $4.3 million geographical sciences today? She opened project such as the Tropcial Atmospheric at FYE06 to $6.6 million at FYE07.

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Marston reported that the Executive annually sponsors a donor’s reception to be a regular component along with the Committee had discussed a recommenda- acknowledge donors. Richardson pointed foreign language abstracts. Other devel- tion by Richardson to dedicate a portion of out that departments and individuals opments include a revamped AAG Guide to AAG assets to an endowment that would be can support the new AAG Developing Geography Departments and an Amazon.com used to fund long-term association programs Regions Membership Program by offering site to promote publications sales. Council and financial stability. Recommendation gift memberships for colleagues in eligible discussion stressed the importance of from Executive Committee was to place $5 countries, noting that it is also easier for strengthening the environmental sciences million into a permanent, restricted endow- US members to pay with credit cards than section of Annals. The Association also is ment that would protect the growth in for members in many developing regions. moving to put individual articles online. assets from recent years for the long-term Association will include acknowledgments benefit of the association. Membership of geographers who review abstract trans- Council discussed how funds would Membership numbers over 10,000, with lations. Editors are moving manuscripts be invested differently and how interest strong student membership. Discussion from submission to decision efficiently on would be dedicated. The purpose of the of retaining members explored options a 3-month average. The Fifth issue of the endowment would be to provide long- for discounts for multi-year memberships. Annals is moving forward; each will have term protection of a sizable portion of AAG already offers some special pro- special theme. The first two will focus on association assets, and would build on two motions. Richardson accepted Kaplan’s Peace and Conflict (2009) and Climate existing smaller endowments. Endowment suggestion to explore a 5-year member- Change (2010). would be invested to protect funds, but ship option. The AAG Lifetime member- The PG editor, Sharmistha Bagchi-Sen, at the same time to optimize earnings. ship category was suggested as a gift is willing to serve an abbreviated extension Other funds will remain liquid for future from departments for retiring colleagues. for 2 years. Council reviewed her proposed needs. Details of this investment will be Marston reported on the effort discussed editorial board and recommended that the discussed by the Finance Committee and at the Fall Council meeting to update editor add a geographer representing the reported on at the next council meeting. income levels for membership dues based cultural-historical specialty. Moore moved Furthermore, the Treasurer and the Execu- on 7 categories at $25,000 increments that the Council accept the PG editorial tive Director will report to Council at its with weighted averages of dues. Marston board recommended by Bagchi-Sen with Fall 2008 meeting regarding all of the moved and Wright seconded a motion to the stipulation that she nominate a board AAG’s endowments. Marston moved and update the AAG dues structure based on $25,000 member representing the cultural-historical Agnew seconded the following motion: increments, starting at $25,000 and below, with specialty. Marston seconded. The motion The AAG Council resolves that $5 million in $150,000 and above representing the top category. passed with one abstention. assets of the Association of American Geographers The motion passed unanimously. Council discussed overlapping editorial should be placed in an endowment to support long- Richardson led a discussion of the boards and a Council resolution passed in term development of the AAG. The motion passed AAG’s new Developing Regions Member- 2005 restricting editors of AAG journals unanimously. ship Program. He encouraged Council to from serving on editorial boards of other Marston concluded that the association help promote the new program among AAG journals. Council discussed the desir- books were in great shape, that its funds colleagues, distributed examples of multi- ability of maintaining an open editorial were in good hands at the association and language fliers, and pointed out that fliers process, to have broad representation on also as reported by the AAG’s account- in additional languages are forthcoming as boards. The Council emphasized that the ing firm. Richardson noted that AAG’s resources to produce them are generated. deliberations were not about individuals, finances currently go through a higher- In light of this new program the but about ensuring an open review process. level audit required for entities with sub- Council revisited the idea of changing the Council also acknowledged that editors stantial external federal grant funding. The association’s name brought up a few years would retain the freedom to select review- AAG staff is also developing an accounting ago. With increasing global presence and ers from outside of their editorial boards. manual. international membership, Association Friend moved and Harden seconded the Richardson outlined a projected budget of “American” Geographers may seem following motion: As of July 2008, no editor of $4.4 million for 2009 based on recurring increasingly parochial. Some international of an AAG journal or a member of an editorial income, royalties, subscriptions, and the scholars, however, have expressed that board of an AAG journal should serve as an editor new publications contract. New expenses they favor belonging to association with or member of the editorial board of another AAG include additional staff, many new initia- America in the name. Council also dis- journal. If an editorial board member becomes the tives, inflation, and significant medical and cussed the related issue of “geographers” editor of another AAG journal, that editor should liability insurance cost increases. Marston versus “geography” in the name. Richard- resign from the editorial board of the first journal. forwarded a motion from the Finance Committee to son suggested that we let the Developing This action in no way should inhibit any editor adopt the 2009 budget; Price seconded. The motion Regions Membership Program grow and from seeking targeted advice from any member of passed unanimously then revisit the idea later on, should it be the AAG, including other editors or editorial board of interest to do so. members. This action will not affect the composition Advancing Geography Campaign of any editorial boards approved before June 30, Richardson discussed the AAG’s planned Publications 2008. The motion passed with one abstention. giving program. AAG is developing a letter Richardson distributed copies of the to circulate to members and retired geog- new Annals and reported that increased raphers regarding bequests. Also, AAG color pages for maps and graphics will Continued on page 20

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AAG Council Meeting Minutes from page 19

Discussion of journals continued and their preparation for its demands. CONTINUING AND NEW BUSINESS covering the impact of articles in special Baerwald thanked Solem for his efforts. issues and the upcoming survey of journal Annual Meeting subscribers. Research and Outreach Attendance at the AAG Annual Meeting Solís reported on current AAG projects in Boston is expected to exceed 7,000. Meridian Place Operations using geography and geographic technol- Special features will include: a symposium Richardson introduced AAG staff and ogies for biodiversity in Central America; on Indigenous Geographies co-sponsored the Council acknowledged their fine State Department funded projects to by the AAG Indigenous Peoples Spe- work. AAG employs a matrix management support basic math and science educa- cialty Group, Charles Mann (AAG’s 2008 system and staff members collaborate on tion in the Muslim World, with work- Honorary Geographer) presenting on projects as teams. shops scheduled in Davao, Philippines, his book 1491, an interview with Noam Richardson noted that the first set of and in Tunis, Tunisia; and the AAG’s My Chomsky by Doug Richardson, and the donor bricks was now in place and there Community, Our Earth involvement with the opening keynote speech by Jeffrey Sachs. is room for additional bricks. New carpet United Nations Commission on Sustain- A larger format for the printed program is being laid now while the staff is at this able Development. Additional propos- was noted. AAG continues its internation- annual meeting. Main initiatives for the als are in development or under review. al reception, and numerous other special next two years include the AAG’s Devel- Richardson reported that the AAG has events and plenary speakers. Also, Solís oping Regions Membership Program, the been involved in several specialty con- noted that the new child care information web site redesign, and establishing a disci- ferences: GIScience 2008; Race, Ethnic- exchange had been launched and was plinary data clearinghouse. A new web site ity, and Place; and Global Dialogues on being used via the online e-community as redesign contract was bid and awarded to Emerging Science and Technology. He well as through the on-site bulletin board. BrowserMedia. The new AAG website will recently traveled to Eastern Africa and AAG is putting together the local include a “content management system” South Africa for State Department spon- support committee for Las Vegas meeting which will allow for easier updating by sored dialogues on geospatial science for (2009), and has planned newsletter articles staff and for new features such as flash sustainable development, and on building on the venue. media, podcasting, discussion modules, collaboration between US and African sci- Future meetings will be held in Wash- and a job bank module. Richardson antici- entists. He noted that a key aspect of the ington, DC (2010), Seattle (2011 – with pated one year until the new system is initiative included working with ongoing a contract being finalized), and Council fully operational. local projects and networks rather than discussed options for 2012. Council sup- displacing local initiatives. ported exploring facilities and options in Educational Affairs Richardson reported on efforts to Tampa and Miami. Michael Solem, Director of Educational enhance information on careers and Council also discussed the need to Affairs, highlighted current AAG educa- employment in geography, including a consider various options for dealing with tional programs. The EDGE (Enhancing series of AAG Annual Meeting sessions larger meetings: including pod casts (which Departments for Graduate Education) on career opportunities, and the growth also may support the AAG Developing project is entering a no-cost extension of Jobs in Geography events at the AAG Regions Membership Program). Council period to further analyze data collected; meetings and on the AAG’s website. AAG considered exhibit space costs for small He noted the publication of two books is also watching certification efforts. presses: AAG will develop option for small resulting from the project (Aspiring Academ- Franklin reported that opportunities are presses to share booth space. Council dis- ics and Teaching College Geography) along good for geographers and noted that the cussed needs of attendees with disabilities with several articles; additional material AAG is applying for a position on the as the conferences exceed the capacity of a can be found on the AAG website. The Census Bureau advisory committee, adding single hotel. Attendees with disabilities face Association is working on an NSF-funded that the Census offers great employment challenges moving between venues. Juana Center for Global Geography Education possibilities and also supplements educa- Ibanez continues her excellent service Program. The AAG is also participating in tion of employees. as Disability Coordinator. AAG accepts a program to develop ethics for geospatial AAG continues work on a number of applications for special services and makes professionals. Project GeoStart is prepar- public policy efforts including No Child an effort to accommodate special needs. ing materials to help teachers develop Left Behind and aftermath of the MAPPS Council revisited the issue of overlapping geo-spatial thinking activities; and devel- lawsuit. AAG was named a Washington Post specialty group sessions such as the bio- opment of material for teachers linked Non-Profit of the Year finalist. Richardson geography, paleoenvironmental change, to standards. Richardson reported that regularly writes columns in ArcNews for geomorphology, and mountain geography the AAG continues to support NCGE, is media outreach. The AAG is taking respon- specialty groups. With limited time slots working with GENIP, and continues to sibility for digitizing and making accessible that are not concurrent with sessions, manage the visiting Geographical Scien- the Geographers on Film project, an unrivaled Council requested that Wright seek the tist Program with GTU. The AAG also archive. AAG continues to work to advance input of SG Chairs on the possibility of is collaborating with CIRGE on its study international collaboration in education and early morning specialty group meetings. of recent Ph.D. graduates examining the research through many programs, including Wright and Marston introduced some movement of graduates into the workforce the recent NSF-funded AAMIGA project. ideas to make the AAG conference more

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environmentally sustainable. Suggestions The secretary moved that the Council Publications Committee, and Harden included recyclable tote bags, requesting accept the slate of new members for seconded the nomination. The question recycling bins from hotels, requesting AAG standing committees developed by was raised whether this presented any pitchers of water rather than plastic bottles, the Committee on Committees. Agnew potential conflict with Price’s position possibly recycling bouquets and unused seconded. Following discussion the council on the AGS council. Colten noted that food, and podcasting plenary sessions. approved the slate unanimously. AGS council had little direct involvement Richardson noted the AAG already now A Councillor is often named to serve with its journal. Council approved Price uses shopping bags that attendees can use on each committee. With departures from unanimously as Chair of the Publications at the grocery story after the conference; council, a few vacancies remain to be Committee. AAG requested and the hotel supplied filled. Colten would call for volunteers Agnew discussed the upcoming AAG recycling bins at this Boston conference; among Councillors to serve on these Leadership Workshop to be held at UCLA, and recycling for name badge sleeves is committees. Once finalized, the updated June 20-22, 2008. The event will follow also available. He also noted other ways committee listing for 2008-2009 will be the basic pattern of its predecessors, but in which the AAG reduces environmen- circulated to Council, and published in the it will also have a panel representing tal impact, including online registration AAG Guide. comprehensive and hybrid departments. which reduces paper use; and greater Colten made the following motion A field trip is also planned. Attendance emphasis on online publications will have which was suggested by the International is open to those who may be chairs in similar benefit. For the future, AAG staff is Research and Scholarly Exchange Com- the future and not just current chairs. investigating pod-casting; and is consider- mittee: Chairs of regional specialty groups Council noted the new name broadens the ing making the final program available or their designees will serve on the International reach of the series. Council recommended for downloading with print copies upon Research and Scholarly Exchange Committee.” seeking additional discussion topics from request. The AAG is also providing an Regional specialty groups include: Africa; Asian; attendees. option for members to receive the AAG Canadian; China; Developing Areas; European; journals online only. Latin America; Middle East; and Russia, Central Honors and Awards Eurasia, and Eastern Europe. The council approved Richardson reviewed AAG Honors for Visitors to Council the motion unanimously. 2008: Alexander Murphy and Barbara Mark Weiss of the National Science Solís reported that the restructured Hildebrant, Gilbert Grosvenor Honors Foundation’s Division of Behavioral and committees are working well with their for Geographic Education; Paul Knox, Cognitive Sciences visited the AAG newly clarified charges. Richardson indi- Distinguished Scholarship Award; Council. He discussed current budget cated that he encourages communication Richard Wright, Ronald F. Abler Honors uncertainties. He also noted that NSF from committees and that the AAG has for Distinguished Service; Michael panels will look for proposals that offer been working well with the new com- Sutcliffe, Gilbert F. White Distinguished “transformative” capabilities. NSF remains mittee structure to move several initia- Public Service Honors; Lawrence Brown, concerned about bringing under-represent- tives forward. The Enhancing Diversity Lifetime Achievement Honors; Harm ed scholars into the funding cycle. Council Committee report had not been received De Blij, AAG Media Achievement Award. by the time of the meeting, and Council suggested that NSF consider targeting a Others included Charles Mann, AAG portion of funds to comprehensive univer- requested a copy when it was submitted. sities to reach under-represented scholars. Kaplan who serves as Councillor on that Honorary Geographer; David Ward, Weiss noted that NSF supports collabora- committee indicated that the committee AAG Presidential Achievement Award: tive work, so although it cannot directly was busy at work. Jacqueline Beyer and Jan Monk, AAG fund international scholars, it can support Baerwald reported that the Constitu- Enhancing Diversity Award; Trudy international collaborative research. tion and Bylaws Committee is in the midst Suchan, Marc Perry, James Fitzsimmons, of clarifying the process for submitting Anika Juhn, Alexander Tait and Cynthia Election Results and approving resolutions and petitions, Brewer, Globe Book Award; Diana Davis, AAG Secretary Colten read the fol- examining electronic voting, and review- Meridian Book Award; Eric Olmanson, lowing AAG 2008 election results: The ing other points in the AAG Constitution. Jackson Prize; Wendy Bigler, Mel Marcus AAG membership elected John Agnew as Richardson pointed out that the commit- Award; and others. incoming President and Carol Harden as tee did not need to craft a document for Solís mentioned that not all AAG Vice President. The new National Coun- legal purposes since AAG will have its awards are bestowed annually, as in cases cillors are: Leslie Duram and William lawyers review the proposals before final where nominations are not received or are Mosley. Members elected to the Honors approval. not deemed sufficient. Committee are: Paul Knox, Maureen Hays- Discussion continued on the need to Friend moved and Kobayashi seconded Mitchell, and Frank Magilligan. The new update the AAG’s governing documents, the adoption of two special citations: nominating committee includes: Sheryl standing rules, ad hoc policies. The staff Whereas, Maynard Weston Dow and the Luzzadder-Beach, James Shortridge, and has compiled a digital newsletter archive late Nancy Freeman Dow have made Elizabeth Wentz. Douglas Gamble is the of recent Council resolutions and will be significant and unique contributions to the new SEDAAG councillor and Lisa Har- reviewing these and earlier hard copies of history and particularly the oral history of rington will serve a full term as council- past resolutions to inform the overall effort. the discipline of geography through the lor elected from the Great Plains-Rocky Agnew nominated Price to fill the Mountain region. position of new Chair of the AAG Continued on page 22

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AAG Council Meeting Minutes from page 21

Geographers on Film project, a collection of exceptional service in documenting the approve the creation of the AAG Business 306 filmed interviews totaling 151 hours history of the Association of American Geography Specialty Group was made by with prominent geographers, including Geographers and of the discipline. Harrington, seconded by Wright. Council hundreds of other thematic film shorts Council approved the resolution unanimously. approved unanimously. totaling 137 hours that document various Richardson reported that the new aspects of geography. Editors Stand Alone Geographers Affinity Group Whereas, the Geographers on Film project Baerwald welcomed AAG Editors meeting was successful. He suggested that provides tremendous insight into the to meet with Council. Kobayashi the AAG Regional Division should name a thought, opinions, circumstances, and lives thanked Richardson and the Publications Stand Alone Geographer coordinator and of a very large number of our discipline’s Committee for the new contract and that this group could serve as the core for leading scholars and has proven to be a recognized Maier for her excellent perfor- a national level effort. Regional Division resource of inestimable value, functioning mance as Managing Editor. Editors expressed Councillors noted the need for regions as a repository of geographical lore and their continued commitment to standard to compile an inventory of where Stand information, as a tool for classroom instruc- criteria: manuscripts must advance the Alone Geographers were working in their tion, and as a source of basic data for the discipline and reflect original scholarship. regions. furtherance of geographical research. She noted being pleased with the topics of Therefore Be It Resolved that the Association the special issues of the Annals and of the Future Council and Executive Com- of American Geographers, assembled in response to the initial call for submissions. mittee Meetings Boston, Massachusetts on the occasion of Harden expressed enthusiasm about the Richardson recognized the efforts of its 104th Annual Meeting, hereby bestows special issues stating that they represent the AAG Local Support Committee for special recognition of gratitude and honor the best of everyone’s expectations. Kwan the Annual Meeting in Boston. Future to Wes Dow and his late wife Nancy for echoed her enthusiasm for the fifth issue meetings: Executive Committee on their vision, years of dedication, and truly and praised the excellent work of Maier November 8 in Miami; Council will meet unique contribution to the Association’s and of manuscript reviewers. Bagchi-Sen in conjunction with the SEDAAG Regional history and the history of the discipline reiterated appreciation for the work of Meeting in Greensboro on November broadly. Maier and referees. She noted that the PG 22-23. Council will meet March 20-22 in Council approved the resolution unanimously. plays an important role as an outlet for Las Vegas (the weekend before the annual . . . . . emerging scholars. Baerwald thanked the conference). editors for their care and effort with the Whereas, Geoffrey Martin has served the journals. Richardson noted that the AAG Resolutions AAG in the official capacity of Archivist is conducting a survey of readers to help Council considered the following reso- since 1986, and has dedicated decades of guide publications in the future. Richardson lutions: exceptional service to documenting and discussed printing extra copies of special Whereas, Kavita Pandit, as Vice Presi- archiving the history of the association, issues, publishing the table of contents in the dent, and President of the Association and more broadly of the history of the newsletter, international distribution, and of American Geographers has exercised discipline; and has offered his vision and efforts to launch special topical fora within exceptional leadership in assisting the efforts to the establishment and functioning the journals. Richardson noted that his goal Association to address the challenges facing of both the AAG Association Archives and is to have the Annals become the highest the discipline of Geography, has contrib- History Committee as well as the AAG ranked geography journal and for the PG to uted valuable efforts to improve diversity Archives themselves. rise into the top five. within the association and the discipline, Whereas, Geoffrey Martin has edited and has played an important role in supporting produced a serial, articles, publications, and Specialty Groups healthy geography departments, and has most notably a trilogy that provides deep Wright reported she will continue to advanced efforts at internationalization insight into several historical geographic explore ways to respond to the suggestions of geography departments and programs, leaders and the history of the discipline and of Specialty Groups, and would convey and recognized international members of has provided both detailed and comprehen- items of interest from the Council Meeting the association; sive treatment of the history of geography at the Specialty Group Chairs’ meeting in Therefore Be It Resolved that the Associa- and of the AAG, taking him to 123 archival Boston. Specialty group annual reports are tion of American Geographers, assembled deposits in 19 countries. made available online for review by AAG in Boston, Massachusetts on the occasion Therefore Be It Resolved that The Associa- Councillors prior to their meetings. of its 104th Annual Meeting, heartily tion of American Geographers, assembled Council considered a petition for the thanks Kavita for her leadership of the in Boston, Massachusetts on the occasion creation of a new Business Geography Association during the past three years, of its 104th Annual Meeting, hereby Specialty Group. Over 100 signatures were and especially for her efforts to enhance bestows special recognition of gratitude submitted, along with creation documents diversity within the discipline and the and extends warm appreciation to Geoffrey and supplemental responses to the Execu- association, and for her role in supporting Martin for his long term dedication and tive Committee’s questions. A motion to internationalization.

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A motion to approve was made by Harden, Mei-Po Kwan, and Tyrel Moore Committees for their service to the Asso- Marston, and Harden seconded. Council for the energy, time, and talent they have ciation, the discipline and the profession approved the resolution unanimously. contributed to the Association during their during their committee terms. terms on the AAG Council. Kwan moved and Moore seconded to . . . . . Kaplan moved and Friend seconded approve the resolution, which was passed Whereas, Councillors of The Association to pass the resolution, which was unani- unanimously by Council. of American Geographers expend substan- mously approved by Council. Marston offered a word thanks from Council to President Baerwald for his tial time and effort advancing the causes of . . . . . the Association and the discipline; and guidance and inspiration. Wilkinson Whereas, the Council of The Association Whereas, Members of The Association of moved and Agnew seconded a motion to of American Geographers has confronted American Geographers offer their talents, adjourn which passed unanimously. numerous challenges and responded to time, and ideas to support the activities of With no further business, Council many opportunities during the last three the Association as Chairs and Members of adjourned. years; various association committees appointed Therefore Be It Resolved that The Associa- by the AAG Council; Respectfully submitted, tion of American Geographers, assembled Therefore Be It Resolved that The Associa- in Boston, Massachusetts on the occasion tion of American Geographers, assembled Craig E. Colten of its 104th Annual Meeting, extends in Boston, Massachusetts on the occasion AAG Secretary warm appreciation to Past President Kavita of its 104th Annual Meeting, thanks the Pandit and retiring AAG Councillors Carol outgoing Chairs and Members of the AAG

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AAG Council Meeting Minutes

Greensboro, North Carolina Vice President’s Comments the variability of local economies (e.g. oil November 22–23, 2008 Harden stressed making geography and gas in some areas). There is support more visible in public domains. A top-down for implementing rules of participation at Attending: John Agnew, President; Carol approach is essential to integrate with cur- the annual meeting to limit the number of Harden, Vice President; Tom Baerwald, Past rent administration change; a bottom-up concurrent sessions. President; Craig Colten, Secretary; Doug approach is imperative to rethink our in- Richardson, Executive Director; National Coun- ternal culture, to communicate outside the Pacific Coast cillors: Leslie Duram, Audrey Kobayashi, discipline, to make geography the “go-to” Wilkinson reported on the successful William Moseley, Marie Price, Dawn discipline. She also supported the idea for regional meeting in Alaska; that there are Wright; Regional Councillors: David Kaplan the AAG to continue to ensure that the many new chairs in the region who might (East Lakes), Lisa Harrington (Great Plains- association is inclusive and supportive of all benefit from the leadership workshop; that Rocky Mountains), Molly Brown (Middle specialties and practitioners in the fold. She the economy on the west coast is experi- Atlantic), Keith Henderson (Middle States); encouraged stronger participation of physi- encing a serious downturn; that because Cathleen McAnneny (New England/St. cal geographers to publish in the Annals. many Stand Alone Geographers in the Lawrence Valley), Nancy Wilkinson (Pacific Also, she remarked that inclusiveness ex- region may not already be AAG mem- Coast), Doug Gamble (Southeast); Donald tends to international members, integrating bers, different challenges in engaging with Friend (West Lakes); and AAG Staff: Patricia physical and human, and revitalizing inter- them are notable; and that interdisciplinary Solís and Rachel Franklin. est in human-environmental interaction. programs seem to experience rifts among She also noted that she is working on the disciplines during economic hard times. PRELIMINARIES 2009 department leadership workshop. Agnew mentioned that one theme at Agnew called the meeting to order, the recent AAG Departmental Leadership welcomed the council, and led introduc- Past President’s Comments workshop was to encourage deans to use tions. Council unanimously approved the Baerwald reflected on his current and enrollment in courses and not numbers minutes of the spring 2008 meeting. previous years of service on the council, and of majors for evaluating programs, since noted his appreciation of a greater continuity geography tends to do well in enrollment. President’s Comments in recent years; presidents showing explicit Agnew encouraged initiatives to re- desire to perpetuate the association’s and engage physical and human geography their predecessors’ agendas. Two important New England/St. Lawrence Valley around common or synthetic topics, begin- areas where there has been recent prog- McAnneny reported that 80 people at- ning with sessions at regional and national ress are: (1) strengthening interdisciplinary tended the regional meeting, and that the meetings. The prospects for intra-disciplin- interaction (to be the subject of his Past region is preparing to launch a journal. All ary collaboration have never been better. Presidential address in Las Vegas, entitled, states are suffering in terms of budgets, In this vein, the Presidential Plenary session “Prospects for Geography as an Interdisci- although majors were up, so departments at the Las Vegas Annual Meeting has been plinary Discipline,”) and (2) changes to the are being asked to do more with less. She organized on the “Future of Water in the constitution and bylaws that will enhance remarked that larger geography programs American West.” Agnew will also devote the association. Resolutions on this second seldom participate in their regional meet- columns in the AAG Newsletter to the theme point will be discussed at this meeting. He ings, but a few Canadian students attend. of integrative geography. He expressed also reported on news from the National support for continuing emphasis on rep- Science Foundation. Middle Atlantic resenting geography as a vital subject in Brown reported on the regional meeting helping to develop both the tools for active Reports from Regional Councillors at Salisbury University. The region desires citizenship and marketable skills in educa- Middle States to establish a regular meeting date, seeks tion at all levels, including reinvigorating the Henderson reported that the region now to get departments in peripheral locations teaching of world regional geography with has an online journal. Chairs relayed that (Salisbury and Frostburg) more involved, a focus on such themes as climate change, they are seeing growth in environment and and aims to increase attendance. MAD globalization, political change, and social GIS; economic concerns are prominent; also plans to revise its bylaws. The region is inequality. He noted that the strength of and most thought that interdisciplinary sending an all-star geography bowl team to geography as a subject depends very much programs were positive, except in cases national meeting; will provide local support on the strength of the public universities where they feel competition for majors. for 2010 national meeting. She noted that in which it is most embedded, a linkage departments and agencies are expanding he intends to emphasize during his year as Great Plains-Rocky Mountains and Census Bureau is hiring now in antici- president. Finally, he expressed strong sup- Harrington identified several stand- pation of the decennial census. port of continuing recent initiatives such alone geographers who were interested in Council discussed opportunities for geo- those of strengthening department leader- participating in SAGE; chairs reported that graphers working in government; with a new ship, further internationalizing the AAG, the economy was a serious issue and will administration beginning in January, they and emphasizing the role of geography in impact Kansas universities and elsewhere, interdisciplinary endeavors. but the impacts will be uneven due to Continued on page 16

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AAG Council Meeting Minutes from page 15

expressed hopes for more science hiring. West Lakes (and the lack of much systematic effort Opportunities in federal government are not Friend reported on a good meeting at to do anything about it and fears about limited to the DC area; the expansion of Indiana University and announced plans resource shortages (witnessed by recent opportunities raises the bar for training our for the next meeting to be held at Macal- rapid increases in food prices and worries students; and an aging federal work force will ester. The region supports protecting the about increased interstate competition for likely create more openings in coming years. AAG’s recently developed financial health industrial raw materials), what do we as through creation of an endowment to en- geographers have to say about (a) what Southeast sure the long-term future of the AAG. precisely is at stake in specific issue areas Gamble reported on a good meeting in Several Stand Alone geographers have (e.g. fisheries, agriculture, world trade, Charleston last year with 500 attending. been identified, but no coordinator has yet urbanization)? And (b) what ameliorative Budgets in Florida, Georgia, and North volunteered. strategies can we begin to envisage that of- Carolina present considerable challenges Council discussed the Stand Alone Geo- fer plausible responses to these problems? for departments there. Several chair posi- graphers (SAGE) efforts. Kaplan pointed Wright noted that global change is a tions in the region are open and he ex- out the need to help stand alone geogra- classic human/environment topic and sug- pressed concern that new leadership may phers find one another; Moseley expressed gested strategies to permit geographers be challenged during tight budget times; interest in stand alone geo graphers in small to offer solutions. There are geographers Southeastern Geographer is moving toward liberal arts colleges; he has received a grant on National Academy committees, such online listings. The region is engaging to do an exchange with other comparable as the three serving on America’s Cli- with geographers in the Caribbean. Their places and to open lines of communication. mate Choices Committee which will have next meeting is planned for Knoxville. Brown pointed out that sometimes individu- a chance to make recommendations to Officers are looking at bylaws and the als in government positions do not identify Congress and the White House. Also, the possibility of electronic voting. themselves as geographers, and urged think- National Academy has recently announced ing of additional ways to provide meaning the Science and Entertainment Exchange East Lakes and value to those geographers; Wilkinson which will seek to produce high-quality Kaplan noted that the region revised its reported that there have been several geo- media with science content—one theme bylaws to permit electronic ballots. Their fall graphy hires at San Francisco State in other will be climate change and a geographer is regional meeting was an experimental joint (non-geography) departments, so there are involved. Finally, she encouraged geogra- meeting with West Lakes and 216 attended. stand alone geographers in other disci- phers to publish broadly, outside disciplin- Next year Wright State will host. Higher plines even at universities that have larger ary journals. education has not been hit as hard as might geography departments who should be Agnew said that is it important for be expected yet in the region, but the eco- included; Richardson also urged including geographers to bring human/physical ele- nomic situation is still a challenge; there is a those geographers in universities but not in ments together; this makes geographers tendency for universities to focus on areas of departments, and underscored the growing more likely to be invited to participate in strength and geography must make its case. employment success of geographers as a interdisciplinary efforts. Price mentioned In terms of interdisciplinary activity, some message during economic tough times. that one perspective geographers offer universities have constructed a model that Harden stressed that community colleges is a sensitivity to scale; in part, this view works against participation—a “pay as you have many SAGE members, and they also comes from blending our technologies with go” format tied to departments. Successes have extremely diverse student bodies. ground truthing, particularly where global include a new Ph.D. program at Toledo and a Gamble noted that care should be taken warming has different impacts at different new department at Saginaw State. with SAGE to also consider the needs of locations and at different scales. She noted some members who may not be “alone” but that migration/mobility is one example but Southwest find themselves in very small numbers. lamented that almost no Americans are Colten reported that departments across Richardson encouraged regional coun- currently participating in the Canadian and the region have been able to refill vacan- cillors to submit next year’s regional division European-based Metropolis Project (which cies and that oil rich states have been meeting dates to AAG as soon as possible. seeks to inform public policy on migration protected at this point from economic He also encouraged the divisions to try to and urbanization with basic research). Ko- strains, but with falling gas prices this will coordinate dates that may not have been bayashi agreed that in other countries there probably change. He received an enthusi- set yet, in the interest of avoiding overlap, is greater support for immigration studies, astic response for SAGE and identified a and also so that AAG officers may be able particularly for efforts such as the Me- regional representative. SWAAG requested to attend as many as possible. tropolis Project. She suggested that NSF that the AAG help assemble and distribute grants could provide links to Metropolis available information on how departments National Councillors—Topical Project through international involvement have succeeded with recruiting undeclared Developments by geographers on migration. majors. Chairs identified a primary chal- A common theme across geography Moseley added that Africa presents an lenge to effectively define geography to in recent years has been the impact of obvious example of how geographers can multiple audiences such as administrators global change on life in different places contribute to research on climate change and the public, while maintaining quality across the planet. In light of both recent and related human struggles; projections programs. pessimistic forecasts about global warming forecast desertification in much of West

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Africa, and food supply will become an STATUS OF THE ASSOCIATION The AAG has a total of $7.9 in cash ever more pressing issue. He noted the role and investments. Richardson noted that of China in capturing resources and the Executive Director’s Comments the AAG’s bank, SunTrust, received some growing food crisis. Another issue in Africa Richardson provided an overview of bailout funds, and that he stays in touch is environmental security and fear of upris- the association’s trajectory between 2000 with the bank’s financial advisor to try to ings over resource struggles. He argued that and 2008. At the beginning of the century, monitor any risks. this is an impoverished discourse that geo- the society faced serious financial and Richardson requested Council’s concurrence to graphers could contribute to. Research in other challenges. The AAG responded by continue his current conservative investment policy sustainability science; vulnerability; double seeking to synchronize itself with larger and requested Council support for the current invest- exposure (climate and globalization) pres- trends, to push for an integrative role ment allocation; Harden moved; Friend seconded, ent opportunities for geographers in areas and central place for geography, and to motion passed. where real connections are highlighted. establish a financial foundation. The AAG’s Richardson proposed allocating a portion Moseley encouraged publications that assets have risen steadily since 2003 and of the association’s recently developed funds reach general audiences, such as editorial membership has climbed during the same to create a new endowment focused on long- pages. Agnew added that indirect contact timeframe. Annual Meeting attendance has term financial stability of the AAG. He noted with column writers can also prompt inclu- grown, our publications reflect an effort to that the resolutions presented to Council to sion of geography content. reach out to the world, and there has been create this endowment have been reviewed Kobayashi asked where can Americans an emphasis on growing the discipline and and approved by the AAG attorneys. make contact with large international pro- not just the association. Investments have Richardson noted that the power to cre- grams? She noted efforts such as the Inter- been made in improving the association’s ate the endowment rests with the council national Commission on Global Change organizational infrastructure. There have and encouraged the council to think of the at the IGU. Geographers are doing work- been initiatives to reach out to all sectors, new endowment as a means to sustain the shops in locations around the world on subfields, and perspectives of the discipline, long-term financial health of the AAG and emerging issues on climate change and and to create a place for all geographers in support special programs. Richardson is public health. Commissions are doing the AAG, including geographers in devel- confident that, with other income streams cutting-edge work in the areas of educa- oping regions. The association has stepped he has now developed, the association can tion, health, and gender and she encour- up efforts to showcase geography in the still function on a day to day basis. With this aged more American geo graphers to get media, to strengthen geographers’ career new endowment, the association would be involved in the IGU. Ron Abler is the newly and employment opportunities, to monitor well positioned to navigate through difficult elected IGU President. The UN is another and influence public policy, and to play a times. body with global climate concerns. Other role in improving geographic education. Agnew presented the following resolu- substantive research areas where geogra- Overall, recent efforts have been directed tion: phers can participate: global change and toward transforming geography for the 21st Whereas, human rights, neoliberalism, refugee/labor century: establishing long-term financial 1) the Association of American Geographers flows and migration, economic issues fac- stability; articulating what geography has (AAG) has developed substantial new funds in ing developing regions, and movements to offer society; leveraging technologies to recent years and established a solid financial foun- of people in regions facing change (e.g. work for the association; expanding public dation for the organization; and whereas Pacific Islands). Richardson mentioned understanding of the work geographers 2) the AAG wishes to provide for the long-term numerous ways in which the AAG has do; supporting interdisciplinarity; foster- future and viability of the AAG with a portion the initiated and currently participates in ing synergies among previously disparate new funds generated during the past several years; international programs. The AAG also trends in the discipline (e.g. GIScience and whereas directly supports participation in the IGU, and critical theory), increasing interaction 3) the AAG believes it is in the best interests of the including by funding U.S. geographers’ among public, private, and university geo- Association and its members to establish a fund to attendance (with NSF support), and by graphers; and preparing to address key provide income for the staffing, development, opera- hosting geographic education workshops issues of the future, such as sustainability, tions, and implementation of the educational and other in Tunisia. AAG will also offer travel sup- global economy, and public health. professional goals of the Association; and whereas port for geographers attending the 2010 4) the AAG wishes to establish and perpetuate IGU regional meeting in Tel-Aviv. a fund for such purposes with certain monies and Finances properties it will deliver to the fund; and whereas, Brown suggested a series of news- Richardson welcomed AAG Treasurer 5) The AAG Council at its Meeting in Boston, letter articles on the topics discussed Marston via Skype who led a review of as- Massachusetts on April 13-15, 2008, unanimously here. Richardson indicated that perhaps we sociation finances. At the end of FYE 2008, adopted a resolution stating that, “The AAG Coun- could request brief updates on IGU ac- total assets stood at $8,012,188, with fixed cil resolves that $5 million in assets of the Associa- tivities to publish. Agnew also suggested assets of $238,651. In FYE 2008, the AAG tion of American Geographers should be placed in pieces on food supply, citizenship and had a total income of $5.6 million and total an endowment to support the long-term development related topics that refer specifically to expenses of $4.4 million. of the AAG.”; and whereas what geographers are doing. Price noted Currently (as of October 31, 2008), the 6) the AAG or other persons may wish, from time geographers are writing for the UN and majority of the association’s investments to time, to contribute additional irrevocable gifts of their work could be showcased. Friend are conservatively invested in Certificates money or property to the fund; added the work of mountain geographers of Deposit ($5.8 million) and were not as a rich source for articles. heavily impacted by the market downturn. Continued on page 18

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AAG Council Meeting Minutes from page 17

Now, therefore be it resolved, that there is hereby the AAG Council prior to the meeting at which the Reynolds, a student at the University of created and established the Douglas Richardson amendment or modification is adopted, must be made Oklahoma who recently passed away after Endowment for Geography’s Future, an endowment a part of the minutes of that prior meeting and must making his first visit to the Boston meeting. fund of the Association of American Geographers, to be approved by a majority vote of the entire AAG The association has also circulated a fund be funded by funds recently developed and available Council; and raising letter requesting members to con- to the AAG, and by future donations, gifts, sub- G) that the purposes for which the assets of sider making bequests to the association. scriptions, bequests, or other moneys to be designated said Fund are to be expended may not be changed therefore; and resolved further: unless the Association is to cease to exist, in which Membership A) that the AAG Council authorizes the ir- case the AAG Council may designate the assets of At the end of 2008, the AAG had over revocable transfer of $5,000,000 in AAG funds the Fund to be used for another charitable purpose 10,300 members, a slight increase over the developed over the past several years and currently which is reasonably similar to the original purpose, previous year. In addition, there are about invested in Certificates of Deposit, to the Douglas provided the proposed changes are introduced at the 100 members as part of the Developing Richardson Endowment for Geography’s Future, meeting prior to the meeting at which the changes are Regions program, with projections of 500 (hereinafter referred to below as the “Endowment adopted, are made a part of the minutes of that prior within the next year. Fund”) and, meeting and are approved by a two-thirds vote of the Richardson asked for council’s con- B) that the assets of said Endowment Fund shall entire AAG Council. currence to remove optional discounted be held separate and apart from the general fund Marston moved to approve the resolution to journals on the membership form and to or other funds of the Association, shall be kept in establish the endowment; Friend seconded; with a replace them with several Routledge jour- perpetuity, and shall be invested under the direction friendly amendment to consider its name in closed nals. Members will be eligible to receive of the AAG Council. The accounts of the Endow- session; the motion passed unanimously. one of the new journals online at no charge. ment Fund shall be audited annually by the same A Closed Executive Session was convened Selection includes a range of topics to cover auditor and at the same time as the other accounts of to discuss naming the new endowment. the field. Council supported discontinuing the Association; and Baerwald moved to name the new endowment discounted journals and their replacement C) that the AAG Council may, at its option, fund the Douglas Richardson Endowment for Geo- with free online options. engage the services of professional fund management graphy’s Future; Friend seconded; Council passed Following up on a request to review the such as, but not limited to, a bank trust department, unanimously. AAG dues structure from past council meet- in which case the AAG Council may transfer cus- ings, Franklin reviewed different progres- . . . . . tody of all or certain assets of the Endowment Fund sive rate structure options for membership to a manager who shall have the right to register Agnew presented the following resolu- dues. She calculated estimated revenue from any securities and other property held hereunder in tion: old dues structure and three new possible the name of its nominee, with the understanding that The AAG Council hereby authorizes the addi- structures (based on $25,000 increments as the professional fund management shall have no say tion of those AAG assets received and designated for requested by council, with a total of eight in the expenditure of the income from the Endowment endowment purposes during the period from 2003 brackets. Each of new the new structures is Fund and that it shall be willing to accept investment to 2008, of approximately $336,506 (as of August effectively revenue neutral. She pointed out guidelines from the AAG Council; and 31, 2008), and identified on the AAG’s audited maintaining revenue is less important than D) that the income from the Endowment Fund financial statements’ Supplemental Schedules of offering fair dues to lower-income groups shall be used only as specified by the AAG Council Restricted Net Assets as the Adv Geog Endowment and that student, retired, and other category for special (non-recurring) initiatives or expenditures B, to the Douglas Richardson Endowment for of dues will be unaffected by any proposed endorsed by the Council that will aid in promoting Geography’s Future. changes. Richardson indicated he would pre- the discipline of geography and the goals of the Baerwald moved to adopt the resolution to merge fer to see more members rather than raising AAG, and that are beyond the normal capabilities the Adv Geog Endowment B into the new endowment; dues to maintain revenue neutrality over a of the AAG to fund from its regular budget, and Gamble seconded. Council passed unanimously. transition. Agnew favored Structure III which for the reasonable administrative costs necessary to In open session, Richardson noted that included three categories above $100K, not- maintain the Endowment Fund. Projects on which Harm deBlij has made an initial donation ing also that most other associations have the Fund's income may be spent include, but are to establish the AAG Globe Award. The higher dues than the AAG. Friend moved ac- not limited to, education and dissertation support, general concept is to establish a high profile cepting dues structure III effective January 1, 2009; research grants, and special projects. Any income award that would be presented to highly McAnneny seconded; motion passed unanimously. not so expended may be added to the principal of the accomplished and internationally known Richardson recommended that the Fund, at the discretion of the AAG Council. The recipients who have contributed greatly to AAG keep dues low, and waive the an- AAG Council may at its discretion classify doubt- the world. The Executive Committee has nual dues increase that adjusts for the ful items as either income or principal; and established a committee to define specifics. Consumer Price Index (CPI) for 2009. E) that the decisions by a majority of the AAG Richardson relayed a message from Peter Agnew moved that the AAG make no net dues Council regarding administration of the Endowment Yawkey at University of New Orleans that increase for 2009, Harrington seconded motion, Fund, including the investment and distribution of post-Katrina emergency funds to distressed motion passed unanimously. assets of the Endowment Fund, shall be conclusive universities were used to support student Richardson announced that the AAG and shall be in writing; and travel and expressed his gratitude to the will offer a one-time, 5-year membership F) that any amendments to or modifications of AAG. The association has established the special online. This responds to recom- this Resolution must be introduced at a meeting of AAG Disability Fund in memory of Todd mendations for a longer-term member-

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ship category to help members avoid the submission form. Kobayashi will draft office space. Staff numbers are growing inflationary dues increases. The one-time wording for the AAG lawyer to review. and their professional expertise increasing. offer will help gauge interest. Kobayashi relayed that editor Aspinall Efforts are underway to continue to green proposed that the Annals change its defini- the AAG, including the online option for tion for an Environmental Science paper journals, publishing the AAG Newsletter on Publications and suggests shorter length for this section partially recycled/sustainable forest paper, Price reported that the Publications (5000–7000 words). Council supported and underwriting the use of public transit by Committee met in Washington, DC where this change. staff. The web site is under redevelopment. it discussed the 5th issue of the Annals, edi- Baerwald moved to accept the addition of new tor term renewals, the survey of the Annals, editorial board members for the Professional Geo- and the environmental sciences section. She Research and Outreach grapher (Dan Arreola, James Dyer, Suchi Gopal, Richardson reported on new AAG projects indicated there was some concern that it and Bimal Paul); Friend seconded; motion passed including the NSF-funded Quantitative Social might be time to change the format for unanimously. Science Digital Library project (together with environmental sciences submissions to more In other publication matters, Richardson the University of Michigan) and the NEH- closely mirror other environmental science directed council’s attention to the journal funded historical GIS online archive. An publications. She reported that Kobayashi survey results and suggested that they AAG disciplinary data project is underway in has shouldered a large load with editing the review the summary. Turnaround time at response to frequent requests for association first 5th issue; borders among the various journals has improved. The association is membership and other data on the discipline. Annals sections are not hard and fast and collecting information on departments for AAG will co-sponsor a symposium with NIH editors have collaborated; over the past the AAG Guide to Programs. Recent publi- on Geography, Drugs, and HIV/AIDS; is few years, there has been an improvement cations now available through the AAG participating in the creation and launch of the in the time from submission to decision include Geography and Drug Addiction, Aspiring Science and Human Rights Coalition in col- and electronic submissions has enhanced Academics and Teaching College Geography, and laboration with the AAAS; and plans to co- the journals’ effectiveness. Price also noted the Teaching Geography CD. sponsor another GIScience conference. The that the Professional Geographer editor received Agnew opened discussion on the pos- association is collaborating with EIS-Africa; 100-plus manuscripts annually and has an sibility of bringing African Geographical Review hosted two geographic education workshops exceptionally heavy work load which con- (AGR) into the set of AAG publications. in Tunisia, and continues its involvement in tributes to slightly longer turnaround time. Moseley provided background that it origi- the My Community, Our Earth program Price noted that the Environmental Science nated in 1963 as an African-based journal, in Latin America and Southeast Asia. Solís editor term ends December 2009. To ensure East African Geographical Review. After a brief reported that teachers were very pleased with an editor in place by July 1, the Council lapse, the AAG Africa Specialty group re- the US State Department funded workshop recommended the Publications Committee sumed publication in the U.S. and currently in Tunisia and it was a good way to use the conduct a search immediately with the pos- publishes one issue a year with 300 individual talent of the membership. Agnew reported sibilities of personal interviews at the Las and 30 institutional subscribers. The journal on the Department Leadership workshop. Vegas meeting and a final council decision. includes work by African scholars and is He noted that many participants came from The first Annals 5th issue’s theme will considering moving towards two issues an- small or hybrid departments. Richardson re- be Peace and Conflict and is currently in nually. Richardson pointed out that adopting ported that the AAG continues to do work preparation; over 200 abstracts were re- the AGR would be a major step for the AAG on career and employment development, ceived; 40 papers submitted from that field. and would require additional investigation including the Jobs in Geography Center and The fifth issue is a two-year process from and deliberation. Brown asked whether it special sessions at the annual meeting. The solicitation to publication. Next three special would lead to similar efforts for other regions. AAG is now supporting and working with the issues expected are: 2010—climate change, Richardson pointed out that the journal al- faculty development workshops organized by 2011—energy, and 2012—health. Price ready has an AAG affiliation through the Ken Foote in an effort to make that program asked Council to get the word out on special Africa Specialty Group and that only the sustainable and continue its good work. issues; that format and topic will change from one journal was under consideration. Kaplan issue to issue; and there is a potential role for asked if there was need for publication sup- guest editors in special issues. Public Policy port or distribution. Moseley responded that Kobayashi provided a Report from the Richardson noted that geography educa- the journal currently is self-sustaining, but Editors. Editors favored an increase in the tion issues likely will heat up under the new not prepared financially to ramp up to larger size of the PG to that of the old Annals. administration and when Congress consid- distribution and more frequent publication. Richardson recommended waiting on pro- ers “No Child Left Behind” legislation. Baerwald moved that central office and Publica- posing any changes in format since we are AAG is monitoring federal and state pro- tions Committee investigate the possibility of making still in the first year of a new publication curement guidelines for GIS and mapping AGR an AAG publication; and they will explore contract, which was supported by council. services. Richardson has contributed regular the full range of options, Friend seconded; motion Kobayashi noted the upcoming 100th an- columns for several years to ArcNews which passed unanimously. niversary of the Annals. Editors also raised has an international circulation of about the question of Institutional Review Board 600,000. AAG has members on the NRC approvals for authors. Richardson recom- Meridian Place committee considering strategic directions mended obtaining statements from authors Richardson reported on improvements for geography. The association is working that they have met any human subjects that have been made to the infrastructure with the Library of Congress on a potential required, such as through a checkbox on and the association is renting additional Continued on page 20

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AAG Council Meeting Minutes from page 19

agreement to digitize the Geographers on pre-organized sessions, but organizers con- members to vote on changes to the AAG’s Film collection and eventually make them tinue to be overly optimistic about atten- Constitution and Bylaws were ready to be available to other archives. An advisory dance. Panel attendance is frequently not considered by the Council. They have been committee has been established to provide high and it was thought that panel organiz- considered by the Constitution and Bylaws direction regarding possible continuation of ers might be encouraged to meet informally Committee and also have been reviewed the series. In terms of international outreach, and not use formal meeting space at future by the AAG law firm. Baerwald praised the developing regions membership is as- meetings. Richardson also noted that a new Darrell Napton and the committee for excel- sisting geographers from around the globe feature on the AAG web site allows session lent work dealing with the issues of these to join the association. There is an effort to organizers to locate potential participants important proposed changes. Friend praised spotlight Africa on the web site and links to for sessions and will enhance their ability to Baerwald’s diligent efforts and council agreed. African geography departments are listed fill up organized sessions. One resolution allows for the possibility online. Some specialty groups are offering Richardson introduced an essay pub- of electronic voting and the other clarifies free memberships to geographers who join lished by James McCarthy on mandatory the procedures for petitions and resolutions. the AAG under the Developing Regions limiting of participation at annual meet- [Note: the full resolutions are published in Membership program. The AAG is also ings to enhance attendee participation and the AAG Newsletter (Volume 44, Number 1, administering a journal exchange program increase attendance at remaining sessions. January 2009), pages 33–34.] to place geography materials in African and It suggests limiting participation to two Baerwald moved the adoption of the resolution Latin American libraries. presentations (one paper or poster and one regarding electronic voting, Price seconded; motion role as panelist). Council discussed the mer- passed unanimously. Education its of the proposal, which closely resembles Baerwald moved the adoption of the resolution re- Franklin reported on behalf of Michael AAG’s current voluntary policy. garding petitions and resolutions, Harden seconded; Solem that new resources are now available Wright moved and Harrington seconded motion motion passed unanimously. on the AAG Faculty Development web- that participants should be limited to a total of two Richardson said that the resolutions will site as well as online resources for global public presentations at the meeting: a maximum of also be voted on by the membership as part geography education. The association has one paper or poster and one role as a panelist, or of the spring 2009 ballot and will be repro- been successful with new grants such as two roles as panelist if they do not present a paper duced in their entirety in the AAG Newsletter NSF funding that will extend the EDGE or poster. Exemptions can be made for individuals in and on the AAG website. program, and new proposals are in prepara- official capacity. Motion passed unanimously. tion for the NSF and NASA. Collaboration Richardson relayed a request from Honors and Awards with the NCGE continues with hopes to Richard Peet for a free exhibit table for a The AAG Honors Committee presented increase cooperative research efforts. Susan new journal at the Las Vegas Exhibit Hall. to council: Donald G. Janelle and Lawrence Gallagher of the AAG is working with Agnew noted that currently there is an J. C. Ma as nominees for the Ronald F. Abler GENIP organizations on the updated ver- option for small presses and non-profits to Honors for Distinguished Service; John R. sion of the national geography standards. share a table and that this option should be Jensen and Audrey Kobayashi as nominees relayed to Peet. Council concurred. for Lifetime Achievement Awards, David Annual Meetings F. Ley as nominee for the Distinguished Registrations for the Boston meeting Committees and Council Scholarship Award; and Donald J. Zeigler were 7,168, another record high. The Presi- Solís reported that GPOW had requested as nominee for Honors for Geographic dential Plenary at Las Vegas will showcase that a member of their Specialty Group be Education. Friend moved accepting the nominees water issues in the American West. Other made an ex officio member on the Women for AAG Honors, Harden seconded; motion passed special session tracks will include African in the Status of Geography Committee. unanimously. research, human rights, GIScience and eth- The item was placed on the agenda of the The AAG Executive Committee se- ics, and developing regions. Future meet- Committee of Committees. lected Nobel prize-winning economist Paul ings: Washington, DC in 2010, Seattle in Council voted on the slate for the 2009 Krugman as the next Honorary Geographer 2011, and three options are under consid- election of AAG Nominating and Honors for his economic geography scholarship eration for 2012: New York, Tampa, and Committee members. The final ballot will that has drawn attention to geography in a Miami. The Association is cautious about include: Honors A: Sarah Bednarz and positive way. finalizing contracts due to current national Richard Wright; Honors B: Eric Sheppard, The AAG Diversity Task Force recommended economic uncertainties. Lynn Staeheli, Fahui Wang, and May Yuan. that Council name Reginald G. Golledge for the Solís reported that a survey of users of Nominating Committee: J.P. Jones III, 2008 Enhancing Diversity Award; Baerwald the AAG’s Childcare Reimbursement pro- Robert Lake, Bimal Paul, Susan Roberts, moved the council approve the nomination; Wright gram show member satisfaction with the Dorthy Sack, and Julie Winkler. The AAG seconded; motion passed unanimously. AAG’s subsidy of member-selected childcare Secretary will notify nominees and request Baerwald, in consultation with the Ex- services during meetings. Franklin pointed biographical statements for publication in ecutive Committee, recommended that the out that the session attendance survey from the newsletter. AAG Presidential Award will be presented to Boston provides limited additional insight Following deliberations from action Thomas J. Wilbanks for his contributions to to what was learned from San Francisco, items of the council of the past two years, geographic researcher and excellent service namely that session attendance is better in Richardson reported that two resolutions for to geography. He has served on several Na-

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tional Academies committees and the IPPC group wishing to submit a proposal receives appoint a SAGE regional coordinator, who panel. Friend moved to approve; Wright information about group responsibilities, will receive an invitation to the breakfast seconded; council passed unanimously. including reporting policies, as well as a meeting for regional councillors and re- notice that spells out the council’s concern gional chairs in Las Vegas. Specialty and Affinity Groups that new proposals do not conflict with Wright reviewed the status of AAG Spe- existing groups or be established unneces- cialty and Affinity Groups, 60 in all. She sarily. Harrington moved to approve the creation of Future Meetings noted 58 percent of them submit annual re- the Animal Geography Specialty Group, seconded The AAG Executive Committee will ports. Association is keeping an eye on those by Henderson; the motion passed unanimously. meet in Washington DC on February 20, not reporting in order to identify lapsed Richardson reported that AAG Staff is 2009. The AAG Council Meeting in Las groups, but she emphasized that the lack of working closely with two affinity groups, Vegas will commence on March 20th and reports does not mean a group is inactive. Stand Alone Geographers and Public/ conclude on the 22nd. Wright introduced a newly proposed Private Affinity Group, to help increase Agnew thanked the AAG staff and coun- specialty group: the Animal Geography membership and activity. Franklin reported cillors and adjourned. ■ Specialty Group which seeks to enhance that the AAG is organizing federal em- research on animal studies. Its proposal in- ployee sessions for Las Vegas and that the Respectfully submitted, cluded bylaws and signature pages. Durham co-Chairs have a number of ideas for the raised the question of the growing num- annual meeting in Washington DC in 2010. Craig E. Colten ber of groups. Solís emphasized that each AAG encourages all regional divisions to AAG Secretary

Longtime AAG Members Honored at 2009 Annual Meeting A number of AAG members were recently recognized at the 2009 AAG Annual Meeting for having achieved notable benchmarks in their professional lives. The following people were honored as 50-year AAG members: Charles Bussing, Howard J. Critchfield, William Denevan, Herbert M. Eder, Frank Friedman, Robert W. Kates, Richard F. Kott, Theodore W. Kury, James B. Lindberg, Paul Lovingood, Julian V. Minghi, Debnath Mookherjee, Paul J. Rich, and Vincent

K. Shaudys. John Fraser Hart was honored as a 60-year member. CREDIT: JIM KETCHUM John Fraser Hart was honored for 60 years of AAG membership at the 2009 AAG Annual Meeting.

Members of Note

Grant I. Thrall, professor in the depart- Daniel A. Griffith, Ashbel Smith Pro- Environment and International Affairs” at ment of geography and the Warrington fessor of Geospatial Information Sciences the University. School of Business at the University of at the University of Texas at Dallas, has Florida, has been elected President of the been elected a Fellow of the Regional Roger G. Barry, Distinguished Professor American Real Estate Society Science Association Interna- of Geography and Fellow of the Coopera- (ARES) for 2012/2013. ARES tional by its 2009 selection tive Institute for Research in Environmental is an association of real estate committee. Sciences at the University of Colorado, leaders whose members are Boulder has been awarded a Humboldt drawn from academia and the Tim Beach, Professor of Fellowship for 2009–10. Barry will spend profession at large, both in the Geography in the Science, mid-May to mid-November at the Glaciol- United States and internation- Technology, and International ogy Commission of the Bavarian Academy ally. The society is dedicated Affairs Program of George- of Sciences, Munich working on a book to producing and disseminating town University’s School of about the cryosphere. ■ knowledge related to real estate Foreign Service, has recently decision making and the func- been named to the endowed tioning of real estate markets. Thrall “Cinco Hermanos Chair in

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AAG Council Meeting Minutes

Las Vegas, Nevada contribute to critical world problems, and Many programs are anticipating an in- March 20-22, 2009 we need to be engaged in developing and crease in Masters, but not PhD students. leading research efforts, and in shaping the Funding for advanced graduate students is Attending: John Agnew, President; Carol questions asked – particularly in times of extremely tight and external funding is of- Harden, Vice President; Tom baerwald, Past tight budgets. ten necessary, which may be forthcoming President; Sallie Marston, Treasurer (via Skype); given the federal government re-emphasiz- Craig Colten, Secretary; Doug Richardson, past president’s Comments ing climate change and expected NSF fund- Executive Director; National Councillors: Les- baerwald expressed satisfaction with the ing increases in the short term. With fewer lie Duram, Audrey Kobayashi, William efforts by presidents to continue promoting advanced students, departments are having Moseley, Marie Price, Dawn Wright; Re- long-term AAG initiatives. He noted that to realign labs and introductory courses that gional Councillors: David Kaplan (East Lakes), his presidential address will focus on inter- rely on TAs. Lisa Harrington (Great Plains Rocky Moun- disciplinarity, a key interest area over his Techniques that departments are using tains), Molly brown (Middle Atlantic), Keith term on the Executive Committee. He also to ward off cuts included entrepreneurship, Henderson (Middle States), Cathleen underscored the importance of the mem- creating revenue streams from GIS labs, and McAnneny (New England-St. Lawrence bership having passed the resolutions to alliances with other departments. Certificate Valley), Nancy Wilkinson (Pacific Coast), amend the constitution and bylaws to allow programs are expected to grow during peri- Donald Friend (West Lakes), and AAG Staff: for electronic voting and to clarify the use ods of high unemployment as workers seek Patricia Solís and Rachel Franklin. of petitions and resolutions. He mentioned to retool and gain new credentials. Council that in this meeting the Council would also observed that geographers could play an Opening consider updates to the standing rules. He advisory role in budget oversight required Agnew called the meeting to order and added that he was pleased to see these ad- by the federal government economic stimu- welcomed the council. vances and to have played a role in both lus funding program. Also, geography can of these tasks that contributed to the op- emphasize socially relevant topics includ- Marston moved to approve the minutes of the fall erational functioning of the association. He ing climate, economic development, en- meeting, Moseley seconded; approved unanimously. closed by noting that the newly renamed ergy, and hazards. Globalization and inter- Marston moved to adopt the agenda, Harrington National Science Foundation’s Geography nationalization are key trends that provide seconded. Council approved the agenda unani- and Spatial Science (GSS) program web continued and growing need for geography mously. page had just been posted and that the GSS education. Preparing students for a global program had received the largest Fy 2009 society underscores the increasing central- president’s Comments percentage budget increase among all the ity of geography to university and society. Agnew reiterated his principal goal to programs in the Division of behavioral and Departments in private universities that encourage interaction between physical Cognitive Sciences. depend on tuition are fearful of declining and human geography. The president’s ple- enrollment, as some students opt to attend nary session on water in the West will ex- Reports from Regional and national less expensive public schools. Loss of fac- plore this intersection by considering the Councillors ulty lines in small departments can be more sustainability of cities and agriculture in an Regional councillors solicited comments detrimental than in larger departments. arid region. He encouraged the continua- from their respective divisions on the issues To weather tough economic times de- tion of efforts to develop interdisciplinari- facing geography as a discipline and geog- partment chairs work with administrators ty, internationalization, and strengthening raphy departments in times of budgetary to focus on metrics that demonstrate the geography as a discipline in the academy. contractions. Councillors reported that a contributions of their departments. For ex- consistent response from administrators is ample, since geography often plays an im- Vice president’s Comments that they are trying to avoid faculty layoffs. portant service role and has large sections; Harden reported that the theme of her Some better-managed or endowed schools chairs may do well to convince administra- tenure will center on the word “engage.” are facing less severe cuts. There are a few tors to emphasize head count in addition to She noted that we do interesting work, major threats to departments, although this majors. Concern was expressed over losing but that too often we talk to ourselves. She differs by region. Some chairs reported fac- a cohort of geographers during a time of hopes we can continue to do more to pro- ulty were deferring retirement to avoid the widespread hiring freezes, and if unable to vide leadership on crucial issues, particular- loss of positions, while others reported re- find work, they may move away from aca- ly as the new federal government adminis- tirements have enabled some departments demia. To mitigate this prospect, Council tration settles in. We are well positioned to to save graduate lines. suggested that departments might encour-

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age faculty to consider soliciting funds for servative investment strategy and requested publications post-doctoral positions to provide tempo- authorization to invest up to 10 percent of Richardson mentioned that the April is- rary opportunities for quality graduates un- CD investments into securities, if market sue of the AAG Newsletter will be distributed til the economy turns around. Most impor- conditions improve. in all AAG Annual meeting registration tantly, we need to maintain a strong sense of Harrington moved that the Council affirms continu- packets, and that it features a number of solidarity and work collaboratively. ing the AAG’s current conservative investment strategy, events at the conference as well as special Richardson noted that this subject would and that the AAG Executive Director may move up articles about Las Vegas and surrounding be the focus of discussion at the departmen- to 10 percent of money market or CD investments into areas. Several years ago Council discon- tal chairs’ luncheon later in the week. The stocks with the concurrence of the AAG Treasurer if tinued books on conference host cities for AAG Departmental Leadership Workshop in their judgment market conditions warrant. Agnew logistical and financial reasons, and they will deal with these issues as well. seconded the motion, which passed unanimously. were replaced with “Places On Line,” an on- Richardson reported that a fundraising line portal to links selected by geographers STATUS OF THe ASSOCiATiOn letter focusing on an appeal for support of about the meeting location, and with a fea- Finance the next generation of geographers was de- tured series of articles on the host region in Marston reported that the AAG Finance veloped and distributed. He explained that the AAG Newsletter and on the AAG website. Committee met in February 2009 and the he focused a good deal of time and energy He noted that the AAG Newsletter is printed association’s auditor was very complimen- to maintain relationships with donors, an on partly recycled paper. Richardson passed tary about the condition of its finances, par- important and pleasurable duty. He will around a copy of the new AAG Guide to Ge- ticularly with respect to other non-profits, meet with the AAG fundraising committee ography Programs in the Americas, just released. and also its internal accounting procedures. during the upcoming AAG conference. He noted that this publication may eventu- The FyE 2010 budget is conservative and ally go online due to the expense of printing projects slightly less income and expen- Membership and shipping, as well as the consumption of ditures in the coming year. The Finance Richardson reported that at the end of paper. AAG is currently exploring a busi- Committee reviewed the proposed budget calendar year 2008, AAG membership was ness model to recover production costs if for FyE 2010 and recommended that the over 10,000, although he anticipates a pos- this publication were to be moved online. council approve it. sible slight decline in 2009 due to the cur- Robin Maier reported that the AAG Richardson noted that AAG’s net as- rent national economic context. The cur- journals are being published on schedule. sets increased by $1.17 million during FyE rent AAG membership form includes the She noted that the new team at Routledge 2008. revised fee structure approved by Council has been a pleasure to work with, and very Richardson noted that the AAG has at its Fall 2008 meeting, which reflected no responsive. been cautious with its investments and, un- net increase in dues. There also will be no Kobayashi reported that the Special Fifth like most other organizations, had a sub- dues increase this year (2009). Issues of the AAG Annals are on schedule for stantial positive return on its investments Council discussed the set of topical and production. The first Fifth issue is now at for FyE 2009. He still remains cautious due area proficiencies listed on membership about 27 articles. She noted that there had to national economic uncertainties and an- forms. Richardson proposed a subcommit- not been much time for authors to produce ticipates some impact on membership and tee to review and recommend a gentle revi- completely new work after the call for pa- annual meeting attendance in the coming sion to this taxonomy to update it without pers. Nonetheless submissions tended to be year. He expects the staff level to gener- losing the ability to track proficiencies over solid and contain substantial original work, ally remain the same, fluctuating depending time. This committee will include brown, and that it will be an exciting issue. The based on grants received. He noted that the Mosley, Harden, Harrington, and Franklin 2010 Fifth issue focused on Climate Change AAG staff has experienced very low turn- (staff liaison), to report to Council at its Fall is progressing and will be published in Oc- over during the past seven years. meeting. tober 2010. The 2011 special issue will fo- Marston noted that most of the AAG’s Richardson noted that the AAG Devel- cus on energy, and a pre-call for papers has investments are held in money markets and oping Regions Membership Program had already been issued. The 2012 topic will be CD’s, according to a conservative invest- already signed on several hundred members on health. Council recommended that the ment strategy initiated by Richardson and from around the world. He noted that any editors provide status updates of special is- approved by the AAG Council and Finance AAG member can also sponsor developing sues on the AAG web site. Committee. region geographers, and several have done Price, Chair of the Publications Com- Duram moved for the approval of the FYE 2010 so already. Harrington asked whether it mittee, added that the first fifth issue has budget; Friend seconded; Council approved unani- would be possible to set up a system to help shorter articles. In the future, articles are mously. match potential donors with recipients, and expected to be longer, but length will hinge Richardson requested Council’s reconfir- Richardson agreed to look into how the mation to continue the AAG’s current con- idea could be implemented. Continued on page 22

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on topic and the number of submissions. All publish obituary essays. AAG also will pre- to enable geographers to attend the IGU prior Annals issues are now also online and pare a memorial web page for broader access Regional Meeting in Tel Aviv, Israel 2010, accessible from the AAG website, thanks to to and distribution of memorials and tributes with anticipated funding for about 27 geo- a donation from the National Geographic to deceased members. graphers. The Decade of behavior Distin- Society of the remaining missing early is- guished Speaker program provided AAG sues. Richardson noted that the number of Meridian place with funds for honoraria and travel for this color pages that are being published is still Richardson noted continued improve- year’s Presidential Plenary. A current project well under the allotment available under our ment in the AAG central office capacity on the History of AAG is receiving funding contract and that the Annals will provide up over the past several years. The AAG has from the NSF to allow PI Geoffrey Martin, to six free color maps, photos, or figures per expanded its staff and fostered teamwork, AAG Archivist, to complete association article. streamlined workflow, and implemented archives. The AAG is a collaborator on an Regarding Editorial Terms, the Council new technologies and capabilities. Op- NSF grant underwriting a graduate ethics interviewed applicants for the position of erational and infrastructure improvements seminar for future geospatial technology Annals Environmental Sciences editor and have been significant. Recently the AAG professionals at Oregon State University. appointed Mark Fonstad of Texas State has been working on “greening” practices as (Many other AAG research projects are University. Council expressed its support well, which have been described in the Me- discussed below in the Education section.) for extending outreach for environmental ridian Place columns of the AAG Newsletter. Richardson reported on the AAG col- science manuscripts, seeking increased flow laboration with EIS-Africa, and noted that of submissions, and a strengthening of the Research Sives Govender, Executive Director, will Environmental Sciences section. Solís and Richardson reviewed the list be a guest at this meeting. AAG and EIS- Council reviewed other editorial terms of AAG active research projects, which Africa have been working to build and that will end soon, including the book re- comprise external projects involving sev- strengthen a network of geographers and view editor and The Professional Geographer eral staff who work together as a team, related scientists and professionals across Editor after 2010. with shifting responsibilities from project the continent. AAG staff are also at work The AAG Publications committee re- to project. She noted the ongoing Global on many internal projects such as devel- viewed a proposal for the African Geographi- Dialogues on Emerging Science and oping an AAG Geo graphy and Human cal Review (AGR), published by the AAG Technology (GDEST) initiative around Rights Clearinghouse and a Disciplinary Africa Specialty Group, to potentially be- Geographic Technologies for Sustainable Data Clearinghouse; Richardson noted that come a formal AAG publication or to con- Development in Africa, with support from the AAG was working closely with the US sider other avenues of support. The council the US Department of State; and the My Library of Congress to preserve, archive, discussed the advantages and disadvantages Community, Our Earth project (MyCOE), digitize, and make available digital films of these options for AAG publications. The which recently received funding from of the Geographers on Film project. Pub- council concluded that the AAG can assist NASA to implement a biodiversity and GIS lications related to Geo graphy and Drug with the AGR publication for the near term, program in nine countries in Africa. The Addiction in collaboration with National given synergies with current outreach and AAG is also working in collaboration with Institutes of Health and the GIScience and external projects with federal research funds the University of Michigan on an NSF- Technology Body of Knowledge publication are for Africa, but that AAG not adopt AGR as funded project to develop a quantitative now available from UCGIS and AAG. an official AAG publication. social science pathway for the National Proposed projects include additional Council discussed the current policy re- Science Digital Library, a program that will proposals to the State Department for ex- garding the publication of obituaries. Agnew introduce geographic capabilities to prom- panding work in Africa related to sustain- reviewed the current obituary policy and sug- inent scholars and educators from other ability; an InterAmerican Development gested adding extended essays in the AAG fields. The AAG’s Historical GIS project, bank Knowledge Partnership Korea Fund Newsletter as an option. Richardson suggested funded by the National Endowment for the project to develop a Latin American Center the creation of a memorial page on the AAG Humanities, will create an online discus- of Excellence on Geographic Technologies website where all obituaries as well as tributes sion forum and clearinghouse of informa- for Innovation and Economic Development; could be posted. Council supported continu- tion about GIS-based historical archives a GIS and biodiversity project to the JRS ation of its current Annals memorial policy and research projects, an effort that grew biodiversity Foundation; and two propos- that “Memorials will be printed in the Annals from the AAG’s Geography & Humani- als to the NSF in the Geosciences and the for AAG Presidents and for exceptionally ties Symposium, which also spawned two Geography and Spatial Sciences Program distinguished geographers as determined by forthcoming books. The AAG will man- for enhancing diversity in the discipline, the Council” and that the AAG Newsletter may age an NSF-funded travel support program among others.

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baerwald reported that a program name Council recommended that Alexander work with the AAAS Science and Human change at the NSF to Geography and Spa- Murphy, as one of the authors of the cur- Rights Coalition (Richardson serves as tial Science seeks to capture a broader range rent AAG Ethics Statement, serve on the Chair of the Coalition’s Steering Commit- of people whose research is intersecting task force. Council members also suggested tee). He also announced that the new AAG with geography, and to be more inclusive including members from the Indigenous Geography and Human Rights Clearing- and more interdisciplinary. The change has Geography Specialty Group and the AAG house bibliography is now available on- received positive feedback from inside NSF Scientific Freedom and Responsibility Com- line. The AAG is playing a major role by and from proposal submitters. Richardson mittee. The AAG’s current ethics statement promoting collaboration between scientific praised baerwald’s contribution to geo- is available online at www.aag.org/Info/eth- associations and human rights organiza- graphy through his service at NSF. He sug- ics.htm. tions, and in exploring how science and gested that departments could make a strong geography can help address human rights case to university administrators by noting Outreach abuses around the world. This coalition is that geography received the largest Fy 2009 Council reviewed outreach efforts, in- also seeking to defend the human rights of percentage budget increase of all programs cluding special conferences such as the scientists and to underscore the importance in the Division of behaviorial and Cognitive AfricaGIS Conference; Department Lead- of human rights in the conduct of scientific Sciences. baerwald noted that the increased ership Workshops; Geography Faculty research. funding reflected the quality of proposals Development Workshops; My Commu- International Activities at the AAG have received by geographers and scholars in re- nity, Our Earth Workshops; Race, Place continued to expand, particularly with de- lated fields who are engaged in geographical and Ethnicity Conference: and GIS Ethics veloping nations, including initiating pro- research. Workshop; careers in geography activities, grams to emphasize internationalization; Richardson referenced a column pub- such as plans to update the AAG website making stronger connections with interna- lished in the AAG Newsletter about the federal for careers and employment, Annual Meet- tional scientists; working with existing or- government stimulus package, and indicated ing sessions devoted to career opportuni- ganizations; promoting the AAG Journals that NSF funding would largely go to pro- ties, with one specifically on federal em- Exchange Program and others. This AAG posals already in the pipeline. He also noted ployment options, and other activities. Annual Meeting in Las Vegas includes spe- that the National Science and Technology Ongoing Public Policy activities include cial visits from sister societies around the Center issued a report on Social, behavioral continued monitoring of restrictive mapping world. For example, the AAG will receive a and Economic Research in the Federal Con- and GIS procurement efforts, to which the national delegation from the newly formed text (2009), which summarizes key social sci- AAG, USRISA, and others have responded Professional Association of Romanian Geo- ence challenges and identifies research areas in the past. In addition, many private sector graphers, including a meeting with AAG that can inform policy decisions. organizations have joined AAG’s position President John Agnew to explore collabo- It was noted that the National Geo- and stated that they are also opposed to re- ration opportunities; and the AAG will be graphic Society is experiencing economic strictive procurement practices. signing a memorandum of understanding challenges related to the way in which the John Wertman reported on AAG-con- with the Association of Professional Geo- downturn has affected the publishing indus- ducted educational briefings on geography graphers in India (APGI) following a spe- try, and that this will likely impact its ex- for House of Representatives staff and on cial session chaired by AAG Past President ternal funding programs this coming year. requested discussions with policymakers re- Kavita Pandit. The NGS Foundation will still embark on garding inclusion of geography in revisions its new Geographic Literacy program. to the No Child Left behind legislation. education The Council discussed an item recently He noted that the new federal administra- Michael Solem and Susan Gallagher pro- brought to the AAG regarding ethics and tion was alert to science and areas of inter- vided a report on educational affairs and re- research practice related to the American est to geographers such as climate change, search at the AAG. The NSF-funded AAG Geographical Society’s bowman Expeditions and other topics. AAG is collaborating with Enhancing Departments and Graduate Ed- México Indígena Project. Although this is the Coalition for National Science Funding ucation in Geography (EDGE) project has not an AAG project, the Council decided to to enhance the position of science funding produced two books, Aspiring Academics, and examine the AAG’s own ethics statement in as part of the federal recovery act of 2009. Teaching College Geography, which are avail- light of the issues raised by the AGS project. Wertman added that the AAG Annual able from the AAG. AAG continues to seek Baerwald moved that the executive committee appoint Meeting to be held in Washington, DC ways to expand and extend the work of the a task force, to be approved by council, to examine the in 2010 will present a rich opportunity for successful EDGE project. AAG Ethics Statement and make recommendations for geography to showcase its capabilities and AAG is now supporting the Faculty De- modifications to the AAG Ethics Statement to Council engage with federal government. velopment summer workshops, for which for consideration at its fall 2009 meeting. The motion Richardson updated the Council on sub- was seconded by Agnew, and passed unanimously. stantial new developments in the AAG’s Continued on page 24

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this year’s institutes are now being arranged. of AAG Presidential Achievement Awards, of Women in Geography. Harrington seconded; the AAG also conducts research on employ- to be followed by the AAG international motion passed unanimously. ment helping to reveal employable skills networking reception in the Exhibit Hall. Council discussed the Committee on the to direct training, and a new national level Program tracks include an Africa Research Status of Women in Geography (COSWG) project to study career paths will offer ad- Track, Geography and Human Rights Track, request for funding and other assistance. ditional insight to opportunities. Graduates Historical GIS Track, and HIV and Drug Committee on Committees acknowledged at Penn State hosted a NO boundaries con- Abuse Track. Some sessions will be filmed that the requests are for worthy activi- ference building upon the results of AAG and made available on the AAG website. ties, but current policy is that the associa- Educational research and activities. An edu- At its Fall 2008 meeting, the AAG tion does not normally fund committees cational CD on fostering spatial thinking Council passed a resolution for mandatory directly. The Council concurred that the is now available as well as flyers on spatial restrictions on paper and panel session par- COSWG work within its current charge in thinking as applied to learning frameworks ticipation for future meetings, which will liaison with the AAG staff to discover ways within various other disciplines. Gallagher be implemented with the 2010 conference. in which its ideas could be integrated with reported on the update of the National The new restrictions will be included in the ongoing activities and potentially within fu- Geography Standards. Solem added that upcoming call for papers. ture proposals for external support. staff have been working with the Interna- Wright reported on the agenda for the tional Network for Learning and Teaching Honors and Awards annual AAG Specialty and Affinity Group geography. AAG continues to liaison with Council reviewed the list of honors and Chairs Meeting to be held at this confer- NCGE. AAG’s Center for Global Geo- awards for 2009. AAG Honors Awards: ence. She added that the AAG Staff will graphy Education continues its work, and AAG Gilbert Grosvenor Honors for Geo- also hold a new technical orientation session offers online resources and collaboration graphic Education to Donald Zeigler; later in the week for new specialty group opportunities. Staff have given presenta- AAG Distinguished Scholarship Honors chairs. Solís noted that the draft of the AAG tions to the US Department of Education. to David Ley; AAG Ronald F. Abler Distin- Specialty and Affinity Group Handbook is Proposals for new activities have been sub- guished Service Honors to Donald Janelle complete, and will undergo revision after mitted to the NSF Research and Evaluation and Laurence Ma; AAG Lifetime Achieve- feedback from these meetings, with a final on Education in Science and Engineering, ment Honors to John Jensen and Audrey version to be released online this summer. NASA, the MacArthur Foundation, and Kobayashi; 2009 AAG Honorary Geo- Richardson reported that the Stand other organizations. grapher Paul Krugman; AAG Presidential Alone Geographers Affinity Group and the Council reviewed and discussed a mes- Achievement Awards to Thomas Wilbanks Public and Private Sector Affinity Group sage from Eugene Scott of the National and Douglas Richardson; AAG Enhancing are taking shape. Kaplan has been leading Center for Science Education. It requested Diversity Award to Reginald Golledge; SAGE organizational efforts within the re- AAG’s endorsement of a statement to the AAG Globe book Award for Public Under- gional divisions. SAGE regional representa- Texas State board of Education opposing ef- standing of Geography to Owen Dwyer tives will attend a breakfast meeting with forts to “undermine the teaching of biologi- and Derek Alderman; AAG Meridian book the regional councillors and officers during cal evolution and related subjects in earth Award for Outstanding Scholarly Work the AAG Annual Meeting. The Public and and space sciences.” Council voted unanimously in Geography to Robin Leichenko and Private Sector Affinity Group has organized in favor of endorsing the NCSE letter. Karen O’brien; J.b. Jackson Prize to blake several sessions for the Las Vegas meeting. Gumprecht; AAG burrill Award to Sylvio COnTinUing And new bUSineSS Mannel; and the AAG Mel Marcus Fund election Results Annual Meeting for Physical Geography Award to Jack Colten reported that the 2009 AAG Tell- Upcoming meetings are scheduled for Shroder and brandon Weihs. ers Committee (Robert Rice, Chair; Mark Washington, DC (2010), Seattle (2011), butman, Daniel Cole, Ryan Engstrom, and options still under review for 2012 in- Committees Qifeng Lu, Marc Perry, Trudy Suchan, Paul clude Tampa, Miami, and New york. The Colten presented a slate of nominees young, and Edmund Zolnik) convened at AAG Annual Meeting in Las Vegas is ex- for AAG standing committees as recom- the offices of McMaster & Associates, PC., pected to draw more than 6,000 attendees. mended for approval by the Committee on Certified Public Accountants, on March 13, The Presidential Plenary will focus on a re- Committees. The slate of appointments to AAG 2009, and reported the results of the AAG gional theme, Water in the West and will committees passed unanimously. 2009 Election, as follows: feature Jim Powell, author of Dead Pool. The Colten moved that the Chair of the Geographic Past President’s address will examine inter- Perspectives on Women Specialty Group or its desig- President: Carol Harden, University disciplinarity and include the presentation nee will serve as a member of the Committee on Status of Tennessee; Vice President: Ken Foote,

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University of Colorado; National Coun- tion Foundation, addressed the Council and broaden its connections to expand the cillors: Amy Glasmeier, Massachusetts and described the society’s plans for its relevance and reach of geography in a va- Institute of Technology, and L. Allen Geographic Literacy program. Its objective riety of ways. James, University of South Carolina; Hon- is to raise geographic literacy to a thresh- Whereas, Councillors of The Association ors Committee A: Sarah bednarz, Texas old level for citizens to operate in the 21st of American Geographers expend substan- A&M University; Honors Committee b: century by 2025. NGS seeks to continue to tial time and effort advancing the causes of May yuan, University of Oklahoma; and cooperate and collaborate with the AAG the Association and the discipline; and Eric Sheppard, University of Minnesota; around geographic education. Whereas, the Council of The Association Nominating Committee: John Paul Jones Sives Govender, Executive Director of American Geographers has confronted III, University of Arizona; Susan Roberts, of EIS-Africa, reported that his organiza- numerous challenges and responded to University of Kentucky; and Julie Winkler, tion for twenty years has been dedicated many opportunities during the last three Michigan State University. Resolution To to GIS, planning, environmental manage- years; Revise the AAG Constitution and bylaws ment, and sustainable development in Af- Therefore Be It Resolved that The Associa- to Allow for Electronic Voting: Approved rica; conducts work throughout the con- tion of American Geographers, assembled by membership vote. Resolution To Revise tinent; is working with the UN on AIDS in Las Vegas, Nevada on the occasion of the AAG Constitution and bylaws to Facil- in Africa; and frequently represents Africa its 105th Annual Meeting, extends warm itate the Use of Petitions and Resolutions: to Global Organizations with interest in appreciation to Past President Thomas Approved by membership vote. geospatial data. He noted his appreciation baerwald and retiring AAG Treasurer and and the positive feedback among their National Councillor Sallie Marson, AAG election of Councillors and Officers members for the valuable interaction and Secretary and Southwestern Regional Di- collaboration with the AAG, Richardson, vision Councillor Craig Colten, National AAG Regional Councillors elected and staff. Councillor Chair Dawn Wright, Regional were: Dagmar budikova (Illinois State Division Councillor Chair and West Lakes University), West Lakes; Laurie Hummell Resolutions Councillor Donald A. Friend, East Lakes (West Point), Middle States; other region- Regional Division Councillor David H. al elections are still underway. Whereas, Thomas J. baerwald, as Vice Kaplan, and Middle States Regional Divi- The Executive Committee nominated Lisa Har- President, and President of the Association sion Councillor Keith Henderson for the rington to serve as AAG Secretary. Council voted of American Geographers has exercised energy, time, and talent they have contrib- unanimously in favor. exceptional leadership in assisting the As- uted to the Association during their terms The Executive Committee nominated Nancy sociation to address the challenges facing on the AAG Council. Wilkinson to serve as AAG Treasurer. Council the discipline of Geography, particularly Whereas, Members of The Association of voted unanimously in favor. as an inclusive and interdisciplinary disci- American Geographers offer their talents, The National Councillors elected bill pline; has contributed valuable efforts to- time, and ideas to support the activities of Moseley as National Councillor Chair. ward greater outreach to university admin- the Association as Chairs and Members of The Regional Division Councillors elected istrators, at national level science agencies, various association committees appointed Cathleen McAnneny as Chair of Regional and with leading organizations in related by the AAG Council; Division Councillors. disciplines; has facilitated efficiencies, clar- Therefore Be It Resolved that The Associa- Solís, Richardson, and baerwald pre- ity, and responsiveness within the associa- tion of American Geographers, assembled sented a revised document of the AAG tion’s institutional governance and toward in Las Vegas, Nevada on the occasion of Standing Rules. Baerwald moved adoption of the increased integration with AAG Regional its 105th Annual Meeting, thanks the out- standing rules. Marston seconded the motion, which Divisions, and has supported the AAG’s ef- going Chairs and Members of the AAG passed unanimously. forts to broaden the awareness of the con- Committees for their service to the Asso- Council observed its schedule of fu- tribution of geography in public policy, ciation, the discipline and the profession ture meeting dates: Executive Committee, decision making, and society as a whole. during their committee terms. October 3, 2009 in San Diego, California Therefore Be It Resolved that the Associa- Agnew thanked Council and AAG and Council, October 30 to November 1, tion of American Geographers, assembled staff. 2009, in St. Paul, Minnesota. in Las Vegas, Nevada on the occasion of Council adjourned. n its 105th Annual Meeting, heartily thanks Visitors Tom for his leadership of the Association Submitted respectfully by Daniel Edelson, Executive Director of during the past three years, and especially Craig E. Colten, AAG Secretary the National Geographic Society Educa- for his efforts to promote the discipline

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Saint Paul, Minnesota Vice President’s Comments the future, with creation of policies to leave open October 31-November 1, 2009 Foote noted that over the last decade he slots unfilled. In general, departments are focusing has worked on efforts to support early career on trying to keep the faculty they have, and Attending: Carol Harden, President; Kenneth Foote, academic geographers. He now will be working they are at least for awhile shelving any plans for Vice President; John Agnew, Past President; Nancy with Solem and others to extend these efforts to expansion. Budget problems have affected course Wilkinson, Treasurer; Lisa Harrington, Secretary; geographers going into non-academic careers offerings in geography; common themes include Douglas Richardson, Executive Director; National Coun- -–about a third of PhD graduates actually enter more courses being taught by adjuncts, a reduction cillors: William Moseley (Chair), Amy Glasmeier, L. non-academic positions. Foote also wants to in non-introductory course offerings, and raising Allan James, Audrey Kobayashi, Marie Price; extend leadership opportunities within Geogra- the minimum number of students required to offer Regional Councillors: Cathleen McAnneny (New phy: the annual AAG Departmental Leadership a course. These factors make it difficult to offer England-St. Lawrence Valley; Chair); Dagmar Workshop will be in Boulder in conjunction the upper-division courses that geography majors Budikova (West Lakes), Doug Gamble (Southeast), with the early career workshop in 2010, and will need, and field courses are also at risk. Budget Alyson Greiner (Southwestern), Lisa Harrington extend content regarding departmental status reductions for AY 2010 are quite common; nine (Great Plains/Rocky Mountains), Laurie Hummel and conditions to the early career group. Foote schools reported a mean 10.4 percent decrease. (Middle States), Nancy Wilkinson (Pacific Coast), also expressed a desire to provide much better Several department leaders felt that AAG can assist Antoinette WinklerPrins (East Lakes); AAG staff support to foreign-born faculty, who make up navigation through tough economic times by member: Patricia Solís. about one-third of the U.S. total. For this group, capping annual meeting costs through choosing a number of tensions need to be addressed, in more modest venues and eliminating activities OPENING addition to early career issues. that don’t contribute to basic scholarly exchange. Harden called the meeting to order and Requests were also made for AAG to continue to welcomed new Council members. Harden Past President’s Comments widely promote how important geography has reviewed the agenda. James moved that the agenda be Agnew reiterated his emphasis on the interac- become in society.] adopted and McAnneny seconded. The agenda was adopted tion between human and physical geography. His unanimously. The minutes of the spring Council meeting had politics of water meeting session illustrated how Southwest (SWAAG) been approved via e-mail. Gamble moved that the Council the two sides could engage more often than they Greiner reported that the impact of the reces- reaffirm approval of minutes. Wilkinson seconded. The spring normally seem to do. This is important at a time sion has been highly variable, both within and minutes were reaffirmed unanimously. when many departments appear to be undergoing among states in the region. In general, the tenor transitions; it is important to keep people engaged of feedback was cautious, with many departments President’s Comments and talking to one another—not past one another. expressing reservations about budget scenarios Harden’s comments focused on the visibility He also has continued interest in internation- without stimulus monies, especially one or two of geographers to the public and decision-makers. alization of the discipline and of AAG. Related years into the future. Several programs are coping Geographers need to reach out to people and let activities will be continuing with connections to with budget cuts and hiring freezes. Departments them know what we do, and the importance of Harden and Foote. reported a mix of stable or strong enrollments, our work. She noted that at all times, but par- Following the Past President’s remarks, and in as well as areas for program growth. Factors ticularly when resources are short, it’s important response to comments initiated by Glasmeier, there and strategies cited as contributing to program for geographers to be visibly engaged in issues was discussion of the need for additional opportuni- success include successful internship programs, important to the broader society. The AAG staff ties for continuing professional and intellectual sustained demand for graduates with geotech- has made outstanding efforts to advance geogra- development of geographers. Comments focused niques skills, state-of-the-art facilities, aggressive phy and build relationships between geography on keeping up with new ideas, and retaining con- web presence, and wise use of lab fees. and other disciplines. The rest of us also need to nections with geographers who go into government put a public face on the important research we work at all levels. West Lakes do and the interesting issues we discuss. We can Budikova reported that budget cuts are more Reports from Regional Councillors do that by disseminating our work more broadly, common than not. Indiana and Iowa have seen McAnneny led the review of the status of seeing our work as newsworthy, and reaching out cuts of about 10 percent, partly due to inflation- geography programs by region. The Executive to other constituencies (potentially extending our ary losses. At least one department had to return Committee had asked that reports focus on strate- personal comfort zones). excess funds to the university. There are concerns gies and successes in these difficult economic One issue to which geographers can con- about what conditions will be like, post-stimulus times. tribute in many ways is helping the broader spending. There has been some hiring, although population consider how to respond to climate freezes on raises and hiring are common. There Middle States change scenarios. The Presidential Plenary at the are challenges related to retention of support staff Hummel noted that Villanova is doing very 2010 AAG meeting will feature geographers who and covering teaching needs. Strategies include well. It has a new Department of Geography and are helping lead the National Academies’ study of promoting the discipline and finding ways to the Environment with 75 majors and approval America’s Climate Choices. Harden noted that she is increase its visibility and relevance on campus and for a master’s program. [N.B. The following infor- excited about this event, which is to include four in the community, increasing fund-raising efforts, mation for Middle States was added after Council met: geographers who have leadership roles in the and increasing student recruitment efforts. Climate Choices initiative; the report will not yet Programs reported that no staff positions had been have been released, so the event will, in a sense, eliminated as a result of the economic downturn, be the Washington debut for the study results. although departments anticipate attrition losses in Continued on page 18

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Southeast (SEDAAG) by other programs to help students get the for increasing visibility in short to long term Gamble had distributed a written survey to coursework not currently available in their own in the U.S.? and 3) What are major national programs. He received about 22 responses, from program); and departments charging for services issues today in which geographers can play an which he concluded that the states worst off are that used to be free. Other strategies are to “go important role? Florida, North Carolina, and Tennessee (in that hide, or get bold and propose a new program”— Each national councillor expressed the opinion order). There are comparative advantages for with no queue of new proposals based on current that, despite recent progress, visibility remains an programs that are seen as “good and cheap.” This conditions, it is actually a fairly good time to be issue for the discipline. A variety of ideas regard- can be surprisingly positive, with Geography considered, although it would have to be possible ing opportunities for increasing visibility and key doing well compared to more expensive disci- without new resources. Very small programs are national issues were expressed. plines in some locations. in danger, particularly because they can look James expressed the opinion that we have There was discussion of economic condi- vulnerable from non-replacements. come into our own regarding the relevance of tions, the status of geography programs/geogra- what we do. We need to let other disciplines know phers, and AAG activities. This included coping Great Plains/Rocky Mountain that we’ve been doing many of these things for a mechanisms, activities at the annual meeting, Harrington reported that a number of depart- long time–other disciplines have been trying to and effects on the annual meeting. Richardson ments are, as expected, experiencing problems, reinvent the wheel. Universities are restructuring: noted that, despite difficult economic times, the including budget cuts, an inability to run searches we need to position ourselves in the growth cycle, number of 2010 meeting registrations received for needed faculty positions, very low travel funds, and to be alert and well-represented. Restructuring by the initial abstract deadline were the highest insufficient assistantships, and lack of raises, in spite coincides with renewed environmental awareness, ever (more than 5,000) and he expects that by of having successful programs. Strategies appear to which probably will come about as whole new the April event, registration may reach an all-time have seen mixed ‘success’: some have been helpful, cycle of growth. Other opportunities exist in local high of around 8,000. some are simply the necessities of getting by, and government, planning and management organiza- some exist, but without clear indications of success. tions, and higher levels of government. As far as East Lakes On the ‘getting by’ side are consolidating classes a key theme, James focused on interdisciplinary WinklerPrins reported that although East Lakes into much larger sections in order to reduce the work and the integrative nature of geography, is one of the most economically depressed parts of number of sections that must be covered, reducing listing a number of societal needs and areas where the country, she was surprised at how well geogra- course offerings, hiring into lectureships rather the discipline can contribute, including globaliza- phy is doing. Based on input from her region, the than tenure lines, and hiring work-study students tion, social justice, global change, climate change, discipline seems to be faring very well, in spite of rather than staff. Defending against encroachment sustainability, human impacts on the physical cuts. She mentioned that having active, dedicated, by other disciplines, particular related to teaching environment, landscape sensitivity, biodiversity, engaged faculty pays off, and that work is being ‘earth system science,’ GIS, and remote sensing, and water and energy linkages, geographic technolo- done with curricular offerings, including work maintaining the status of other courses as general gies, and multi-scale analysis. addressing how to strategically use environmental education credits have been necessary. Proactive Kobayashi agreed and added that visibility science or environmental studies to increase geo- strategies include a number of actions as mentioned very definitely is an issue, although Geography graphy majors. Strengths and strategic positioning for other regions. is more visible than it used to be. She noted also come through community engagement and that many PhD students come from other fields; attention to green, sustainability, and tourism New England-St. Lawrence Valley (NESTVAL) there are both potentials and problems associated studies. Grand Valley State University is getting a McAnneny reported that across the region, with this. This can be seen as expansion of the new major. Enrollments across the region are not geography seems to be stable. Severe cuts have discipline. Geography needs to be expansive, declining–they are stable or up. At Michigan State been made and rescissions have been required, for example, show that it’s not just about doing University the Geography department may grow but there also have been some bright spots. Some specific research on climate change, but that there as related departments are eliminated. If hiring is position replacements have been possible, enroll- are opportunities to link climate change to other frozen, departments in the region seem to have ments have been increasing, and the number of issues (social, economic justice, etc.). Visibility already hired enough personnel to weather this. Geography majors is up. Programs have been fol- and relevance are linked to the synoptic quality One program asked about standard part-time pay lowing a variety of strategies to maintain health. of the discipline. At this particular moment, it’s rates; there was discussion of part-time positions, The regional reports were followed by a dis- important to forestall or limit and respond to dis- pay rates, and the need for living wages. cussion of concerns regarding the status of the information, which has increased spectacularly in ‘Geography Graduate Group’ at the University of the media. With respect to marketing ourselves, Pacific Coast California at Davis. There was Council consensus Kobayashi noted that if it is simply being able to Wilkinson noted that economic conditions for President Harden to write a letter of support if contribute in order to get funded, we are taking and the status of programs was a major topic of requested by the group. an extremely dangerous route: this can damage discussion at the regional meeting’s department academic freedom and the ability to be critical. chairs session. Oregon seems to be benefitting Reports from National Councillors Price noted that one of the visibility concerns from growth related to California’s economic As Chair of the National Councillors, Moseley is the issue of students going to universities not conditions. Success in the Pacific Coast region led the discussion based on their input. He knowing that geography exists as a potential has come from finding new kinds of money and explained that President Harden had asked the discipline (or parents recognizing this, either). using indirect costs differently; offering more National Councillors to consider the visibility We can do things in our own universities, such summer sessions, GIS certificate programs, and of geography, with three questions posed to the as linking teaching and outreach through service distance education (in two ways: offering it councillors: 1) Is visibility an issue, or are we learning. 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visibility to the point that outsiders come to you. we need to undertake research on big, socially- of the work geographers do; supporting interdis- As we send undergraduates out into jobs, we can relevant questions, including the global food crisis, ciplinarity; fostering synergies among previously improve how we present them in a professional global environmental change, urbanization, neo- disparate trends in the discipline (e.g., GIScience light through tools like a senior portfolio. Price geography, and conflict and development. and critical theory); increasing interaction among agreed with other national councillor comments, Moseley also noted that Leslie Duram could public, private, and university geographers; and focusing on sustainability, urban issues, and a not attend due to her sabbatical overseas. preparing to address key issues of the future, such perspective that links human-environmental However, she had communicated to him that as sustainability, the global economy, and public dynamics. We do need to make sure geography she sees one of the major issues in the U.S. as health. is at the table, and to reach out beyond our being the absence of geography from the regular comfort zone: we need to talk to people in other K-12 school curriculum, unlike other parts of the disciplines. world where geography is better understood and Finances Glasmeier noted that all of the preceding has a higher level of recognition. Wilkinson and Richardson provided an comments are relevant at different scales. Geo- Discussion suggested that Geography has overview of the organization’s financial status. graphy is visible, and the relevance of geo- far greater visibility and is held in higher regard The auditor’s report for fiscal year ending August graphy is understood. The question is whether by the public than 15 years ago, and focused on 31, 2008 (FYE 2008) was good and indicates that geographers are the source of the message being how we might expand on this. Geography is now the organization is on firm footing. Total assets conveyed. Geographers are now more present more central place in society, and more central are at $7.8 million and liabilities are substantially at policy-level discussions than in past, but still in university settings based on interdisciplinary less than assets. For FYE 2008, change in net assets not large enough in number. There is a need connections and a shift in understanding of what was a positive $1.17 million. AAG accounting for geographers who can communicate across geography has to offer other programs. In order is conservative regarding what is considered as boundaries. The issue is how we have better to strengthen external ties, James made a motion to revenue and expected revenue, and conserva- communication; different levels of analysis are authorize the Executive Director, at his discretion, to select up tive on depreciation and discounted cash flow. important. Non-geographers can mimic a lot of to 30 individuals for courtesy associate (non-voting) mem- The FYE 2009 draft balance sheet was reviewed. what we do; for visibility, we need geographers in berships. Kobayashi seconded; the motion passed. Richardson noted that final accruals are not yet the New York Times. In terms of reaching the K-12 Councillors were encouraged to provide names completed for FYE 2009, but the current estimated level, maybe we need computer games and appli- of recommended individuals to Richardson. net income is over $500,000. Total investment cations identified as geography. Geographers can returns have been substantially positive. Richardson provided an overview of the FYE contribute where there is a need for connections STATUS OF THE ASSOCIATION between policy and science. Glasmeier suggested 2010 Budget. The FYE 2010 Budget had been that a databank making policy-relevant studies Executive Director’s Comments reviewed in detail and had been recommended available would be useful, and would illustrate Richardson provided an overview of the asso- by the AAG Finance Committee and approved some of the relevance of geographers’ activities. ciation’s trajectory between 2000 and 2008. At by the AAG Council at its Spring 2009 meeting. Moseley began by agreeing that the issue is not the beginning of the century, the society faced Richardson requested Council’s reconfirma- just about capturing resources. As Alec Murphy serious financial and other challenges. The AAG tion to continue the AAG’s current conservative has noted, we want geography to be a part of responded by seeking to synchronize itself with investment policy, which emphasizes no-risk debate because we have something to contribute. larger trends, to push for an integrative role and or low-risk investments (such as CDs) for the Geography has gone through several decades of central place for geography, and to establish a majority of AAG’s investments, and a conserva- wrestling with an inferiority complex and identity financial foundation. The AAG’s assets have risen tive bond to stock ratio for the smaller amount (1970s-early 90s); Moseley thinks we’re beyond steadily since 2003 and membership has climbed of AAG’s assets which are invested in securities. that now, but we can’t stop minding the store. during the same timeframe. Annual Meeting atten- Council concurred. We’re likely to see population of students in U.S. dance has grown, our publications reflect an effort starting to decline, and competition for students to reach out to the world, and there has been an Membership will grow fiercer. Geographers need to be active emphasis on growth of the discipline. Investments Richardson reported that membership numbers in developing a K-12 “farm system.” Changes are have been made in improving the association’s are still strong. At over 10,300, membership cur- occurring: there is a new national administration, organizational infrastructure. There have been rently is slightly higher than in 2008. He expects the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) legislation is initiatives to reach out to all sectors, subfields, membership numbers to remain flat for a couple being considered again, and progress with AP and perspectives of the discipline, and to create of years, then go up more. There was discussion geography has been huge. Geography continues a place for all geographers in the AAG, including of member sources (academia; public and private to suffer from paucity of public intellectuals, geographers in developing regions. The associa- sector; developing regions), whether there is an however; AAG could do more to send signals that tion has stepped up efforts to showcase geography upper limit to membership, and dues structure. being a public intellectual is important and valued. in the media, to strengthen geographers’ career Richardson noted that students have been a We should provide people with training and skills and employment opportunities, to monitor and growing proportion of membership, with the pace to deal with the media. Geography is strongest at influence public policy, and to play a role in of growth of student memberships being slightly public universities and weak in the nation’s private improving geographic education. Recent efforts higher than regular memberships. schools. One key pathway into these is through have been directed toward transforming geogra- At the last Council meeting, a committee interdisciplinary programs. Geographers should phy for the 21st Century: establishing long-term chaired by Moseley (with members Harden, continually build bridges to other disciplines, financial stability; articulating what geography has Brown, and Harrington) was asked to review getting published in interdisciplinary journals to offer society; leveraging technologies to work topical and area specialties listed on the AAG and going to interdisciplinary meetings. Lastly, for the discipline; expanding public understanding Continued on page 20

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Membership Form. Moseley presented initial tive Committee has reviewed this suggestion and the discipline, and support integration of quan- recommendations and asked for feedback. The recommended its adoption. There was discussion titative geographic data; and specializations (“proficiencies”) check-offs are of the importance of the AAG Guide, and how • Geography and Human Rights Clearinghouse mainly used for queries at AAG, and to identify an online version might be handled. WinklerPrins launched by AAG with funding from and in people with particular interests. Suggestions were moved to approve transition of the AAG Guide to Geography collaboration with the American Association to be provided to Moseley; the committee will Programs to an online publication beginning with the 2010-11 for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). The work on this further and give recommendations version, and that the Executive Director be authorized to begin AAG also has played a leading role in the devel- to Council at the next meeting. plans for this. James seconded, and the motion passed unani- opment of the AAAS Science & Human Rights Richardson noted that special sessions are mously. Kobayashi suggested that the business plan Coalition, and Richardson currently chairs the being organized by the membership to recognize include a provision for maintaining historical data Steering Committee of the coalition. some recently-deceased members at the 2010 from year-to-year in some kind of archive due to Richardson also noted that a number of other meeting. the importance of those past records. groups have been participating in the AAG‘s Price asked councillors to encourage applica- NEH-funded Historical GIS Clearinghouse and Publications tions for PG editor and PG book review editor. The Online Research Forum. The purpose of the Regarding journal operations, Richardson deadline for both is January 1. Richardson noted project is to create an online clearinghouse of observed that AAG publications come out on that PG citations have gone up under Sharmistha information about GIS-based historical archives time, and that the first 5th (and special thematic) Bagchi-Sen’s editorship, for which Councillors and to provide an interactive research discussion issue of the Annals is coming out this year, under expressed appreciation. Richardson noted that forum. The Geography and Mental Health initia- Kobayashi’s editorship. There will be a centenary Miranda Lecea is working on publications during tive also has received very strong interest. issue in 2010. It was noted that the PG citation Robin Maier’s maternity leave; she may continue to Solís described the ALIGNED (Departments rate has gone up significantly over last few years. work with publications as part of her staff responsi- and Underrepresented Students ALIGNED: There was discussion about an Annals memorial bilities after Maier returns. Addressing Locally-tailored Information Infra- for Reg Golledge. Price moved that Bob Stimson be structure & Geoscience Needs for Enhancing invited to write the memorial for Reginald Golledge. Wilkin- Meridian Place Diversity) program, which was funded for three son seconded. The motion passed unanimously. Richardson reviewed the status of personnel, years by the NSF’s Opportunities for Enhancing Richardson described an AAG memorials benefits, and infrastructure. Of particular impor- Diversity in the Geosciences program. The basic website under development, which will include tance, the AAG website is being completely idea is to provide support mechanisms to depart- all existing Annals memorials and necrology entries redesigned. The upgraded website and content ments related to student recruitment and retention from the AAG Newsletter. It will be searchable, management system is due and should be opera- to enhance diversity. A toolkit for support is being with entries alphabetical by last name, and will tional in early 2010. developed and pilot study will be done with seven include links to additional memorials. If there is hybrid (geography-geoscience) departments. no published memorial for an individual, members Research and Outreach There will be a track of sessions on enhancing can write memorials for posting. The association has a large number of currently diversity and broadening participation at the next In 2008, Council approved a policy that edito- funded and ongoing projects, including: annual meeting. rial board members not overlap between the Annals • A follow-on from the Global Dialogues on In addition to the above funded projects, AAG and the PG, grandfathering those already on both. Emerging Science and Technology (GDEST) continues with a number of internal activities that Mei-Po Kwan and Mark Fonstad have submitted Program: Geospatial Science for Sustainable Richardson and Solís described, including: editorial board requests for their Annals sections, Development, with funding from the US • AAG’s Disciplinary Data Initiative – an online but overlap exists with the current PG board. There Department of State and including extensive clearinghouse of data related to geographers was discussion, and an observation that there is interactions with EIS-Africa, African universi- and geography from a variety of sources, an ongoing search for a new PG editor, who will ties, and NGOs active in Africa; including the AAG membership database, choose a new board for Council approval once • My Community, Our Earth (MyCOE) Using information gathered from individual geogra- appointed. Price moved to approve the editorial boards that Geographic Technologies for Biodiversity phy departments, data collected through AAG have been submitted by Mei-Po Kwan and Mark Fonstad, and in Africa program conducted by AAG with supplemental surveys, and data collected by those three individuals who already are on the PG Board will USAID, NASA-SERVIR, and the Regional third party surveys and research; begin their terms on the Annals editorial board on completion Centre for Mapping of Resources for Develop- • Geography and Climate Change Clearing- of their current terms. Agnew seconded. The motion passed ment (RCMRD) for geographers and scholars house – development of an interactive online unanimously. in 12 countries in Africa, including a November resource available to climate researchers, There have been a number of requests over 2009 workshop in Nairobi; AAG also received students, educators, and geographers world- the past few years that the AAG Guide to Geogra- an NSF Office of International Science and wide to cross-link new and ongoing research phy Programs in the Americas be published online. Engineering award to support integration of US in the field with classics, legacy materials, and Richardson noted that there are many arguments students in the AAG’s Africa-based programs; current research by geographers; and for this; the real reluctance has been that for many • Quantitative Social Science Digital Library • Geographers on Film – sustaining the contribu- members this has been an important reference, (QSSDL) Pathway for the National Science tions of Maynard Weston Dow and Nancy with an advantage to having it in hardcopy. He Digital Library (funded by NSF), in collabora- Freeman Dow, primary creators of the GOF suggested that AAG publish one more year in tion with the Inter-University Consortium for series. AAG is working on a plan for digitiza- hardcopy and start developing a business plan Political and Social Research at the University tion and active distribution of the collection for publishing online, including consideration of of Michigan, to assist with the NSDL pathway in several formats, including online, and is offering a print-on-demand version. The Execu- in spatial social science, provide outreach to Continued on page 21

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negotiating with the US Library of Congress him about speaking at the annual meeting; Secre- GEMDF, to help develop plans for the fund. Foote to archive, digitize, and distribute GOF in tary Duncan seemed quite interested and a formal moved that Council approve the recommendation that Sarah collaboration with AAG. invitation has been extended to him. Bednarz be appointed as coordinator of the Geography Updates on various other AAG initiatives were A variety of educational projects are new or Education Materials Development Fund. James seconded and provided, including Geography and Epidemiol- continuing. One of the important initiatives is the the motion passed unanimously. ogy, the Geographic Information Science and EDGE (Enhancing Departments and Graduate Council also was updated regarding other Technology Body of Knowledge Publication, Education in Geography) project, led by Michael activities, including the status of NCGE and Geography and Drug Addiction activities, the Solem. It is in its fourth year, and will be expanded AAG’s continued support via free rent to the Geography and the Humanities symposium and in a Phase 2 through a new three year NSF organization. related publications, USGS symposia and confer- REESE grant to focus on how geography graduate ences. programs prepare students for careers in business, CONTINUING AND NEW BUSINESS Richardson and Solís updated Council regard- government, and non-profit organizations. In ing AAG outreach and policy activities. These addition, AAG received funding from NASA for Annual Meetings include ongoing monitoring of activities which Teaching about Global Climate Change, led by Upcoming AAG meetings will be in Washing- could restrict participation by geographers and Susan Gallagher, to partner with Denver Public ton, DC, April 14-18, 2010; Seattle, Washington, other knowledgeable GIS and mapping special- Schools to develop online professional devel- April 12-16, 2011; and New York City, 2012. ists in governmental GIS and mapping projects. opment for geography teachers who are now Council will meet April 12-14, 2010. Richardson Richardson provided an update around current teaching climate change units. The AAG Center described some of the events being planned for attempts to impose licensure as an eligibility for Global Geography Education continues with the 2010 meeting. One overarching focus of criterion for contractors to the government on its grant from the NSF for online, open access the meeting will be on climate change. The mapping-related activities. Council expressed their con- curriculum modules on geographic issues from Opening/Presidential session will feature the sensus that the AAG oppose licensure or other restrictions on an international perspective. AAG staff members forthcoming NAS/NRC report, America’s Climate access to government mapping-related projects. Richardson are also involved in Graduate Ethics Seminars Choices, with panelists from leadership positions and Matt Koeppe currently serve as the AAG’s for Future Geospatial Technology Professionals, on the four Climate Choices study panels, including representatives to COGO, the Coalition of Geo- working under a grant from NSF to Oregon State Tom Wilbanks, Bill Turner, Diana Liverman, spatial Organizations, founded in 2008 by eleven University with AAG providing evaluation and and Marilyn Brown. Many other climate change member organizations, including the AAG. Rich- dissemination. sessions also are planned. ardson requested that Council confirm its wishes Richardson noted that an important part of Council’s creation of a new policy to limit the that they continue as the association’s delegates AAG activities is to work with GENIP (the Geogra- number of appearances of meeting participants as and representatives to COGO and to GISCI, phy Education National Implementation Project). paper presenters and panelists has garnered both the GIS Certification Institute. The Council expressed AAG, NCGE, NGS, and AGS are all involved praise and some opposition. Councillors expressed consensus for Richardson to serve as AAG’s Representative to and provide funding: GENIP provides a forum for interest in encouraging more posters and illus- COGO and to GISCI. coordinating geographic education efforts among trated papers as alternative formats to paper or Richardson and Solís provided other updates the groups. Susan Gallagher, AAG’s staff represen- panel sessions. about special conferences and events, Careers in tative, is leading the development of new national The AAG Socialist and Critical Geography Geography activities, public policy, media rela- geography standards. Roger Downs has served Specialty Group has proposed that the AAG tions and international outreach activities. Notably, well as an AAG representative on GENIP, and is Council consider an income-based sliding scale the AAG has submitted a request for institutional willing to serve a one year extension. Hummel moved registration fee for annual meetings. This was membership on the 2010 Census Advisory Com- that Council concur with the reappointment of Roger Downs discussed at some length at the October meeting mittee. The AAG/Harvard/State Department for another year. McAnneny seconded, and the motion passed of the Executive Committee. AAG already has a Geospatial Science for Sustainable Development unanimously. Duane Nellis also has been serving as number of progressive policies and cost-contain- in Africa conference proved to be very interesting an AAG representative to GENIP. ment measures. They include an existing income- and productive, and Richardson remarked how Geography Faculty Development Alliance based sliding scale for membership fees, reduced the AAG is building a strong network across (GFDA) workshops, led by Ken Foote, will be fees for students and retired members, student vol- Africa. AAG also is maintaining engagement with continuing next summer in Boulder, Colorado, unteer assistant positions which subsidize meeting relevant UN activities and programs (e.g., the UN with the addition of the AAG Departmental fees, and several grant programs which offer finan- Environment Programme, the UN Commission Leadership Workshop as an overlapping activity. cial assistance to AAG meeting attendees. Many on Sustainable Development, the UN Framework The early career portion of the 2010 workshops Specialty Groups also offer support. Richardson Convention on Climate Change). AAG continues will start June 13th and the AAG Departmental noted that administering more complex sliding- strong international outreach through its various Leadership Workshop will begin June 17th. scale meeting registration fee structures would programs and relationships with organizations and Ken Foote also described the AAG Geography be more difficult and expensive, would involve members from around the world. Education Materials Development Fund (GEMDF) substantial computer programming costs, and and the roles of the AAG Council, the AAG would make the process of registering more time Education Educational Affairs Director (Michael Solem), consuming for meeting attendees. Implementing Regarding educational affairs, Richardson and and the coordinator of the GEMDF in planning such a system would require some lead time for Michael Solem met with the new Secretary of and coordinating work under the program. Foote programming and testing, and since registration Education Arne Duncan. They talked about geo- has discussed the GEMDF program with Solem. is already underway, it would not be possible to graphic education, research, and other topics, He and Solem recommended that Sarah Bednarz implement such a change in time for the 2010 including online education. Richardson talked to be appointed to serve as the Coordinator of the Continued on page 22

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meeting. The Council concurred that a simpler composition and other issues relevant to the Atlas Seager (City University of New York), Paul approach to address the need that the SCGSG Award at the spring 2010 meeting. Robbins (University of Arizona), Lydia Savage raised for helping unemployed geographers might (University of Southern Maine), and Karl Zimmerer be better. AAG already has a student volunteer (Pennsylvania State University). Nominees selected program to help students defray costs by assisting Council & Committees by Council vote for the Nominating Committee at the conference. This existing program might Agnew led a discussion of the work and rec- are: Stuart Aitken (San Diego State University), be extended to include unemployed geographers ommendations of the AAG Ethics Committee. Fol- Kate Berry (University of Nevada – Reno), Jody as an opportunity to reduce their costs for this lowing consideration and a decision at the Spring Emel (Clark University), Susan Hardwick (Univer- upcoming meeting. Following discussion, James moved AAG Council meeting, the Executive Committee sity of Oregon), Glen MacDonald (UCLA), and that AAG create volunteer assistant positions available to appointed a task force co-chaired by Alexander Karl Raitz (University of Kentucky). Harrington unemployed geographers (who are AAG members) to help Murphy and Michael Goodchild and representing will notify nominees of their selection and that they reduce their registration fees at the 2010 annual meeting. a diversity of interests. Over the summer, the task will need to provide biographical statements for Moseley seconded and the motion passed unanimously. It force reworked the AAG ethics statement; Murphy publication in the newsletter. Gamble moved that AAG also was agreed that Council will discuss the issue met with the Executive Committee at its fall meeting accept the slate of candidates for the member ballot. Moseley of meeting registration rate scaling at the next to discuss the draft. Murphy was asked to work with seconded; the motion passed unanimously. meeting. the task force to address some concerns identified Solís presented a list of AAG Committee Richardson described various options for 2013- during this discussion. The Council considered the members that was updated since the AAG Council 1015 AAG Annual Meetings. Among the topics of resulting revised draft. Agnew noted that ethics had approved the appointments at its Spring 2009 discussion were locational constraints and issues statements should be regarded as in a process of meeting. Council expressed consensus in accept- related to the economy. Potential sites include perpetual re-creation, not as a final creed or list of ing the final version of Committee appointments San Francisco, Los Angeles, locations in Florida, commandments. The AAG ethics statement is a for the 2009-2010 term. Chicago, and other cities in the middle of the statement about how we expect people to engage Richardson updated Council on the Healthy country. in their various professional activities, given current Departments Committee. The annual AAG knowledge and norms. Agnew pointed out three Departmental Leadership Workshop will be held additions to the AAG’s current ethics statement to in conjunction with GFDA workshops in Boulder Honors and Awards summarize the recommendations from the commit- for the next several years. Foote volunteered to Council reviewed the list of Honorees received tee: consideration of 1) relationships with people coordinate the organization of both workshops from the AAG Honors Committee for 2010. Price places and things, which brings in the question in 2010. moved for approval of the Honors Committee’s recommenda- of IRBs; 2) research involving indigenous people, tions for 2010 AAG Honors. Hummel seconded. The slate of ethnic minorities, and other potentially vulner- Specialty and Affinity Groups honorees was approved unanimously. able groups; and 3) research involving geospatial Moseley reported on the status of specialty and Richardson noted that two awardees are selected technology. affinity groups. Most are in compliance with report- by the Executive Committee. Carol Harden James said that he was in favor of the new ing requirements, though some are not. There is a announced that the 2010 Honorary Geographer statement, but recommended added wording that three-year rule: if no report is submitted over the will be Nora Volkow, Director of the National reflects an ethos for the environment. He suggest- course of three years, the AAG Council may deter- Institute on Drug Abuse. John Agnew announced ed addition of a fourth, environmentally-oriented, mine whether the group is active or not, and if not, that the 2010 Presidential Achievement Awardee principle. There was further discussion, with addi- may begin steps toward decommissioning. Moseley will be Peter Meusburger of the Department of tional wording amendments. Kobayashi moved will remind Specialty and Affinity Group Chairs of Geography at the University of Heidelberg. to accept the ethics statement as provided by the the need for reporting to AAG Council. Council reviewed the recommendations for the ethics committee and amended by the Council AAG has received a petition for the forma- AAG Enhancing Diversity Awardee(s) received in discussion. Foote seconded. The Council approved tion of a new AAG Landscape Specialty Group. from the AAG Enhancing Diversity Committee. the revisions to the AAG Ethics Statement as submitted by The paperwork was previewed at the October Solís noted that this will be the fifth year of the the AAG Ethics Committee, and as modified by the AAG Executive Committee meeting, and the proposers award, which was established to “honor those Council. The motion passed unanimously. The updated were asked to clarify a portion of their application, geographers who have pioneered efforts toward or AAG ethics statement will be available online. which they have done. Greiner moved that Council actively participated in efforts toward encouraging Harrington presented the nominees for the approve the formation of the AAG Landscape Specialty a more diverse discipline over the course of several AAG Officers, including President, Vice-Presi- Group. Foote seconded. Following discussion, the motion years.” The committee recommended that Council consider dent, and National Councillors, as determined passed unanimously. naming two recipients this year, John Frazier and Glen by the 2009 AAG Nominating Committee. Har- Richardson updated the Council on the Stand Elder (posthumous). Wilkinson moved that both nominations rington presented the nominees for the 2010 Alone Geographers (SAGE) Affinity Group. be accepted. Greiner seconded, and the motion was passed Nominating Committee and Honors Committee Most regional divisions have now designated a unanimously. ballot, as made by the membership at-large and SAGE coordinator. Some activity has begun to Richardson presented the inaugural AAG Atlas the AAG Committee on Committees. Council take place at level of regional meetings. More Award recipient, Jane Goodall, who was selected voted to determine the slate for the 2010 election activity is needed, however. Council has voted by the appointed committee, and asked that the of AAG Nominating and Honors Committee to subsidize the designated regional SAGE full Council endorse the selection. Gamble moved that members. The final ballot nominees selected by coordinators to attend and meet at the national Council endorse the selection of Jane Goodall as the first recipi- Council vote for the Honors Committee (A and meeting, and the central office will help to get ent of the AAG’s Atlas Award. James seconded; the motion B) are: John Jensen (University of South Carolina), passed unanimously. Council will consider committee Alexander Murphy (University of Oregon), Joni Continued on page 23

22 AAG Newsletter www.aag.org

22342AAG_March_Proof#5.indd 22 3/11/10 4:46 PM Volume 45, Number 3

AAG Council Meeting Minutes continued from page 22

a website running (Jim Ketchum on AAG Staff Future Meetings Final Business will work with SAGE). Past AAG Councillor The schedule of future Council and Execu- There being no other business for open David Kaplan is interested in continuing to tive Committee meetings was reviewed. There session, Council went into closed session. Fol- liaise with SAGE, for which Council expressed are two meetings of each unit both fall and lowing closed session, Council was adjourned. consensus. Richardson recommended creation spring. The AAG Executive Committee will of an online newsletter by the group. It also is meet February 20 21, 2010, in San Diego, Respectfully submitted, important that stand-alone (or nearly alone) California. The AAG Spring Council Meeting geographers be identified by each region; it is will be held April 12-14, 2010, in Washington, Lisa MB Harrington not necessary that they be AAG members to be DC, just before the Annual Meeting. AAG Secretary identified for the SAGE list.

Forthcoming in AAG Journals The Annals of the AAG Table of Contents April 2010, Volume 100, Number 2

ARTICLES Spatializing Social Networks: Using Social People, Place, and Region Environmental Sciences Network Analysis to Investigate Geogra- The Influence of Selective Migration Social-Ecological Impacts of Concurrent phies of Gang Rivalry, Territoriality, and Patterns Among Smokers and Non-Smok- Reservoir Inundation and Reforestation in Violence in Los Angeles ers on Geographical Inequalities in Health the Three Gorges Region (China) Steven M. Radil, Colin Flint, and Jamie R. Pearce and Danny Dorling C. Y. Jim, Felix Y. Yang, and Liming Wang George E. Tita Buying Local Food: Shopping Practices, Methods, Models, and GIS Nature and Society Place, and Consumption Networks in Local Indicators of Network-constrained Scaling Up Political Ecology: The Case Defining Food as “Local” Clusters in Spatial Patterns Represented of Illegal Pesticides on Fresh Vegetables Megan K. Blake, Jody Mellor, and by a Link Attribute Imported into the United States, 1996- Lucy Crane Ikuho Yamada and Jean-Claude Thill 2006 Ryan E. Galt Uncovering the Friction of Globalization: Robust Geographically Weighed Regres- American Commercial Embeddedness and sion: A Technique for Quantifying Spatial Water Planning Under Climatic Uncer- Landscape in Revolutionary-era Russia Relationships Between Freshwater Acidi- tainty in Phoenix: Why We Need a New Mona Domosh fication Critical Loads and Catchment Paradigm Attributes Patricia Gober, Craig W. Kirkwood, Popularization and Geography: An Insepa- Paul Harris, A. Stewart Fotheringham, Robert C. Balling Jr., Andrew W. Ellis, rable Relationship Steve Juggins and Stephanie Deitrick Roger M. Downs

A Bug’s Life and the Spatial Ontologies of Mosquito Management Ian Graham Ronald Shaw, Paul F. Robbins, and John Paul Jones III

AAG Annual Meeting Registration form is available on page 11. Deadline for registration discounts is March 30. www.aag.org/annualmeetings/2010.

www.aag.org AAG Newsletter 23

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AAG Council Meeting Minutes

Washington, DC Vice President’s Comments Ideas brought forward include the April 12-14, 2010 Foote stressed two points: the need for importance of several specifi c technologies continued effort to promote good profes- and concepts to our identity, particularly Attending: Carol Harden, President; Kenneth sional experiences of early career geogra- with respect to other disciplines. Geo- Foote, Vice President; John Agnew, Past phers as they move into both academic spatial technologies and GIScience are of President; Nancy Wilkinson, Treasurer; Lisa and nonacademic careers, and the need great importance, and can be particularly Harrington, Secretary; Douglas Richardson, to be very aware of what’s happening in benefi cial to the discipline when geogra- Executive Director; National Councillors: William geography education. phy departments are seen as the ‘go-to’ Moseley (Chair), Amy Glasmeier, L. Allan places for this type of work. It is benefi cial James, Audrey Kobayashi, Marie Price; Past President’s Comments that more people are fi nding the usefulness Regional Councillors: Cathleen McAnneny Agnew touched on budget concerns, not- of geospatial techniques. Setting geospa- (New England-St. Lawrence Valley; Chair); ing that they may not be as bad as they might tial analysis standards and doing spatial Dagmar Budikova (West Lakes), Doug be, but the direction of the next two to three research in new topical areas, creating more Gamble (Southeast), Alyson Greiner years is quite unclear. His second point was connections with and learning from other (Southwestern), Lisa Harrington (Great that there are a lot of ways the different parts disciplines, would be helpful. When we pay Plains/Rocky Mountains), Laurie Hummel of geography can be related to one another. attention to social signifi cance and rigor of (Middle States), Nancy Wilkinson (Pacifi c Many of us ought to be thinking about con- core concepts, we can best reach out for Coast), Antoinette WinklerPrins (East nections. Third, he expressed continued inter- interdisciplinary connections. In connec- Lakes), Molly Brown (Middle Atlantic); est in the internationalization of geography: tion with the NRC report, it was noted that AAG staff members: Candida Mannozzi, enhancement of the discipline is very much “geography wins when we’re more outward- Patricia Solís. an international phenomenon. looking and inclusive.” “Sustainability” and human-environment connections are areas Reports from Regional Councillors where the discipline has a level of depth; Opening McAnneny led the review of the sta- we need to make sure we are taking part in Harden called the meeting to order tus of geography programs by region. Each these areas where there has been growth in and reviewed the agenda. The agenda was regional councillor presented an update based interest among multiple disciplines. One adopted. The minutes of the fall Coun- on regional events and experiences. Com- Councillor observed that geographers have cil meeting had been approved via e-mail. mon themes included continued operational a disadvantage with teaching loads (vs. the Greiner moved that the Council reaffi rm (budgetary and staffi ng) challenges, program ‘hard’ sciences), even in same institutions. approval of the fall minutes. McAnneny sec- reorganizations, and growth of enrollments. It also was noted that it is important to get onded. The spring minutes were unanimously A few departments are seeing hiring opportu- students involved in government at all lev- reaffi rmed. nities and development of new programs and els, and that AAG should do a new labor other opportunities. Regional Councillors also market study. President’s Comments expressed concerns and questions on behalf of Having charged the national council- their constituents. Additionally, it was noted STATUS OF THE ASSOCIATION lors with thinking about challenges and that the Southeastern Geographer is having its 50th opportunities facing the nation, Harden’s anniversary. Executive Director’s Comments comments focused on budgets, funding, Richardson provided an overview of and relationships between Geography and Reports from National Councillors the status of the Association, and com- other disciplines. She said that her sense is As Chair of the National Councillors, mented on the program for the upcoming that we’re in a holding pattern; conditions Moseley introduced President Harden’s focal annual meeting. At the time of the Coun- are uncertain for a year from now, when questions for discussion. These questions cil meeting, the projected registration was stimulus funding dries up. This is a con- addressed the role of geography and of the more than 8000 people, with 7800 already cern, but it also provides an opportune time AAG in advancing geography and geographic registered. He also noted the attendance for enhancing visibility. She also expressed knowledge, given the spread of geographic of numerous non-members and interdisci- mixed feelings about other disciplines concepts and approaches across disciplines plinary participation at the annual meet- ‘creeping into our space’ in human-envi- (see Understanding the Changing Planet: Strategic ing. In addition, he discussed expenses ronment subject matter. On one hand this Directions for the Geographical Sciences, 2010, p. associated with meetings, comparative is very affi rming, but it is also unsettling: 18 [NRC]), and whether this situation poses costs relative to other organizations, and we need to be a little on our guard to avoid a challenge or an opportunity related to our AAG’s efforts to contain annual meeting being eclipsed. identity. costs and membership fees.

18 AAG Newsletter www.aag.org Volume 45, Number 7

Richardson reviewed the overall Coun- also expressed some caution about potential in three to four ongoing projects (REESE, cil meeting schedule, and noted special attendance at the 2011 meeting in Seattle, education projects, climate change, and even- events at the AAG annual meeting. based on a small drive-shed and the national tually some of the GIScience and policy proj- economy, and about the higher costs involved ects); there are two new interns, and Marcela Finances in meeting in New York City. In addition, the Zeballos has become full-time employee. Richardson and Wilkinson reviewed the New York meeting is scheduled for earlier in John Wertman was part-time for about three fi nancial status of AAG. Wilkinson summa- the year, so there will be less time for prepa- years; he is now back to a full-time position rized the March fi nance committee meeting ration. Wilkinson moved acceptance of the as Senior Program Manager for Government and discussed AAG’s investment strategy: FYE 2011 budget, Kobayashi seconded. The Relations. This is a critical time for a variety of conservative investments have worked out motion passed unanimously. activities, including actions related to geogra- very well. AAG is audited annually. Auditors Councillors commended Richardson on phy education legislation, mapping procure- reported that books look good, and com- professional management of the organiza- ment issues, and a new AAG-NIH initiative. mended Richardson’s management and the tion and organizational funds. Price sug- Robin Maier is back from maternity leave and work of Teri Martin, AAG accounting man- gested that a column be written by the Presi- working almost full time; Miranda Lecea was ager. Richardson went through the organiza- dent about fi nancial management. Glasmeier promoted to editorial associate; Richardson tion’s fi nances, noting a change in net assets and McAnneny also commented on the complimented her on her work on publica- of +$552,684 for FYE 2009 (fi scal year end- importance of the professionalization of the tions during Maier’s absence. Lecea will now ing August 31, 2009), a period when very few organization and its activities. take the lead on the PG; Maier continues to organizations saw positive change. Richard- lead on the Annals. A new part-time employee, son also noted that accounting requirements Membership Marsha Goldberg, is working on urban are extremely complex, and the AAG’s invest- Richardson reviewed membership status, sustainability projects. Richardson noted ment and accounting policies are very conser- which remains above 10,000, with regular and commended the work of several other vative. There are new federal auditing require- members making up about 54 percent of the employees. In addition to the key person- ments, and AAG will need to develop a few membership, students 38 percent, developing nel, Richardson also mentioned that lawyers new policies during the next year to address regions members 2 percent, and other catego- for the AAG are used sparingly, but for some these. ries (corporate, associate, partner, and admin- activities they make sure agreements and pro- In terms of total cash and investments as istrative assistant) the remainder. Growth of cedures are legally correct. of January 31, AAG has 9.9 million dollars. student memberships has been higher than AAG has relocated its satellite offi ce space Stocks and bonds make up only about 20 other categories. There was discussion about (related to aiding NCGE), moving to smaller percent of investments; this has turned out tracking and retention of student members space on Q Street, with good savings and to be a good choice for the recent period, into regular memberships and whether inter- payment to AAG of $10,000 to vacate the old but may change in the future depending on national membership is increasing (it has). space for another tenant. The new website is market status. James made a motion to recom- Richardson noted that AAG has an extremely fi nally coming to fruition and is expected to mend that we continue a conservative invest- progressive membership dues rate structure - be launched in late spring or early summer. ment policy with continued concentration on more so than most other organizations. fi xed income or CD investments, and that the As chair of the committee working to Research and Education Executive Director is authorized to continue update topical and area specialties, Mose- Solís reported on the My Community, Our to monitor the market and to increase stock ley led discussion of recommended changes. Earth program (MyCOE). The AAG has long and securities investments by up to 10% if, in A number of suggestions beyond the work served as Secretariat of this public-private his judgment and that of the treasurer, market discussed at the fall Council meeting were partnership. Currently, NASA and USAID are conditions warrant. Glasmeier seconded the discussed. Kobayashi noted that from the providing support to the AAG to organize 15 motion, which passed unanimously. standpoint of editors who use listings to help teams of African researchers working on GIS Wilkinson reviewed the 2011 budget. The identify reviewers, the more categories, the and Biodiversity in 12 African countries. NSF Finance Committee had discussed the FYE better. WinklerPrins moved that Council has also provided funding to AAG to support 2011 budget (effective Sep 1, 2010) in detail, accept the suggested changes, with the revi- the engagement of three U.S.-based fellows and recommended Council approval. sions made during discussion. McAnneny sec- in AAG’s work in Africa, including with the Richardson pointed out that the chart of onded. The motion passed unanimously. Regional Centre for Mapping and Regional accounts have been simplifi ed, and that the Councillors also made some suggestions Development (RCMRD) in Nairobi, EIS only signifi cant change in the budget cat- for a few courtesy memberships. Africa in South Africa, and the Wildlife Con- egories over the past several years are those servation Society in Rwanda. dealing with publications (due to changes Meridian Place Operations Richardson noted that the AAG’s NSF- in royalty arrangements with the new pub- Richardson discussed new employees and funded quantitative social science digital lisher). Richardson noted several donations, AAG personnel status. New AAG Senior library (QSSDL) project, in collaboration and answered budget-related questions. He Researcher Jean McKendry will be involved Continued on page 20

www.aag.org AAG Newsletter 19 July/August 2010

Council Meeting Minutes from page 19 with the University of Michigan, is coming assignment documents with the AAG lawyers. development curricular materials, includ- along well. He also noted AAG’s continu- The GOF materials are currently physically ing identifying and addressing misconcep- ing work on geography and human rights, located at the AAG offi ce, and will soon be tions (especially for those without an earth including a workshop which will be held at transferred to the Library of Congress. Once science background). Materials are being the upcoming annual meeting in Washington, digitized, the collection will be made available piloted in the Denver area at the middle and DC. AAG received funding from the AAAS online via both the Library of Congress and high school levels. Resources will be avail- and the MacArthur Foundation of about the AAG. AAG also will receive high quality able online; teacher needs will be addressed $15,000 for related research. A bibliography digital master copies from which very good and materials will be broadly available in the on geography and human rights developed duplicates can be made. Richardson noted Fall. Regarding the GENIP standards proj- by the AAG has been posted on the AAG’s that he would like to have the GOF collec- ect, the standards are now in fi nal draft form. website. Richardson continues to be very tion widely distributed at no charge through They should provide a comprehensive view involved in the AAAS Science and Human libraries, and made broadly available for edu- of grades 4, 8, and 12. Process has been very Rights Coalition, and chairs the Coalition’s cational and research purposes. long, but funding and support for this round steering committee. Richardson described a new AAG Initia- has been much lower than for the 1992- AAG also has established a Historical GIS tive for an NIH-wide GIS Infrastructure. 94 effort. It is being sent out for one more clearinghouse, with National Endowment for The idea is compelling, and so far everyone review, and hopefully will be ready to release the Humanities (NEH) funding. Historians with whom he has discussed the project has by the next NCGE meeting. There were and others in the humanities more broadly expressed support. A steering committee questions and discussion of these and other are active participants with the AAG in this for the Initiative has been established, and educational issues. Richardson spoke highly endeavor. includes Mike Goodchild, Mei-Po Kwan, of the creative, cutting-edge geography edu- Activities continue to build from the recent Jonathan Mayer, Sara McLafferty, and Doug cation programs and research staff at AAG, AAG-Harvard Conference on Geospatial Richardson. An advisory committee will also who work well together as a team. Science and Sustainable Development. The be developed. The project is moving forward AAG, the Harvard Kennedy School of Gov- rapidly. McAnneny moved and Gamble sec- Publications ernment and the Department of State were onded a motion expressing Council support Robin Maier and Miranda Lecea reported the co-organizers. There is a lot of foundation for the AAG Initiative for an NIH-wide GIS on the status of AAG publications. In 2009 interest in this topic. Infrastructure. The motion to endorse the the fi fth Annals issue came out on time in Solís reported on the ALIGNED (Address- project passed unanimously. December. It has resulted in a lot of positive ing Locally-tailored Information Infrastructure feedback. The fi fth issue for 2010 is ahead and Geoscience Needs for Enhancing Diver- Education of schedule, the one for 2011 is progressing, sity) project, a three-year effort supported by Michael Solem and Susan Gallagher pre- and abstracts are due soon for the planned the NSF Opportunities for Enhancing Diver- sented an update on educational initiatives. 2012 fi fth issue. Starting in 2013, the spe- sity in the Geosciences Program (OEDG). Solem is taking the lead on higher education cial issue will come out in January each year. Ten pilot departments were selected for test- and Gallagher on K-12; both are supported Kobayashi noted that papers in the issue she ing and developing the department toolkit. by other AAG staff members. Solem noted edited for December went to a maximum of Also, Diversity Ambassadors have been orga- that the AAG is now to the point that there is 5000 words, less than half the usual length, nized at the AAG Annual Meeting again this an infrastructure of resource materials to sup- basically sacrifi cing literature reviews. Robin year. Richardson announced that Solís has port younger faculty, developed by projects noted that submissions for the environmental been appointed as the Geography Commis- like GFDA and EDGE. The focus of EDGE is sciences section are up, perhaps partly due to sion Representative of the US National Sec- shifting from early career faculty development new section editor Mark Fonstad soliciting tion of PAIGH (Pan-American Institute for to the preparation of geography students for submissions. PG submissions have been down Geography and History). Richardson also careers outside of academia. The hope is a little. Turnaround times have been good for noted the climate change webpage (https:// to create similar professional development both journals. Currently there is a backlog sites.google.com/a/aag.org/c2heke/) devel- resources for BGN (business-government- of accepted articles; there may be a desire to oped through an NSF-funded Pan American nonprofi t) preparation. There will be a book increase pages (which could impact the bud- Studies Institute program focused on integrat- similar to the Aspiring Academics volume. Jean get) in order to take care of some of the back- ing research and education on climate change McKendry will be helping lead enhance- log. There was discussion of the journals and and hazards in the Americas under the leader- ments to the AAG Careers in Geography submission rates. Price suggested that it might ship of Solís, and invited input. website. There was discussion of these and be good to let membership know about new Richardson reported good progress on other activities. issues of the AAG journals when they come negotiations with the Library of Congress to Gallagher reviewed a project funded by out, and provide the link to the online version. archive, digitize, and co-distribute the Geogra- NASA’s global climate change education Maier noted that members can sign up for phers on Film collection. He is working on the program. She is working on professional new issue notifi cation from Taylor & Francis.

20 AAG Newsletter www.aag.org Volume 45, Number 7

Richardson said that AAG might send out a close. WinklerPrins was unanimously elected Pulsipher, Mark Rosenberg, George White, note to membership about the availability of as Chair of the Publications Committee. and Conrad (Mac) Goodwin make up the this service. There were expressions of appre- Richardson complimented Price on exem- group. ciation of Maier and Lecea from Council, and plary service as Publications Chair. Council Harden reported on a geography program from Kobayashi as an editor. expressed appreciation. that had been in trouble but was now making Price, chair of the Publications Committee, progress. She also noted that early interven- described the status of Annals editors, and sug- Outreach tions have best chance of success, and asked gested that it may be good to consider doing Richardson reviewed AAG-sponsored spe- that Councillors pass information along if interviews at the fall Council meeting to have cial conferences, including several meetings they hear of programs facing diffi culties. On a new editor in place for January. She noted in the U.S. and elsewhere. Richardson also a positive note, Richardson shared news that a that a new book review editor for the Annals is has been working with AAAS on a number new program was approved in Anthropology- needed. There was discussion of publications. of activities, including participation in a pro- Geography at Cal-Poly. Price reviewed applications for PG editor and posed upcoming AAAS symposium, entitled PG book review editor, including procedures Borderless Science and Human Rights. CONTINUING AND NEW BUSINESS for determining interviewees. Terms will A written report by John Wertman, Honors and Awards begin January 1, 2011. AAG Senior Program Manager for Gov- AAG Honors for 2010 were noted. These Richardson noted that Megan Overbey ernment Relations, helped to summarize include Ronald J. Johnston, AAG Lifetime did excellent work on the AAG Guide to Geo- policy outreach activities, with further Achievement Award; James S. Duncan and graphy Programs. Next year will be a transition comments by Richardson. The AAG is Daniel A. Griffi th, AAG Distinguished Schol- in moving to online publication of the Guide. creating a blueprint for geographic edu- arship Honors; David A. Lanegran, Gilbert Richardson described a proposal from cation, to supplement President Obama’s Grosvenor Honors for Geographic Educa- Wiley to publish an Encyclopedia of Geogra- blueprint for education and revisions to tion; Victor H. Winston and Bellwether Pub- phy. The Executive Committee was in favor of ESEA (the Elementary and Secondary lishing, AAG Publication Award; and Joshua looking at this in more detail. Richardson pre- Education Act, also known as ‘No Child Muldavin, AAG Award for Media Achieve- sented an overview of the publisher’s concept Left Behind’ [NCLB]). Wertman continues ment. Additionally, the 2010 AAG Atlas for a 15 volume encyclopedia. Harden com- to contribute to the AAG Newsletter through Award recipient will be Jane Goodall; the mented on behalf of the Executive Committee, the ‘Washington Monitor’ column, and Honorary Geographer is Nora Volkow; and expressing its support. There was extensive both Richardson and Wertman meet with Peter Meusburger will receive the 2010 AAG discussion, with consideration of the potential public offi cials about issues important to Presidential Achievement Award. Glen Elder place of the publication, benefi ts, and chal- AAG. Members of Congress will partici- (posthumously) and John Frazier will receive lenges. Richardson recommended formation pate in the AAG annual meeting, includ- Enhancing Diversity Awards. The 2012 Atlas of a subgroup of Council to work with him ing Representatives Van Hollen and Walz. Award and committee will be discussed in the on the possible development of an agreement Richardson described AAG’s activi- Fall Council meeting. with Wiley on this encyclopedia. There was ties related to GIS certifi cation and the GIS consensus to continue pursuit of the project. Certifi cation Institute (GISCI). Richardson Committees The committee to work with Richardson on serves on the boards of both the Coalition Harrington presented information on rec- this includes John Agnew, Allan James, Marie of Geospatial Organizations (COGO) and ommended standing committee nominees, Price, Antoinette WinklerPrins, Molly Brown, GISCI. Richardson asked for suggestions of and recommendations of the Committee on and Ken Foote. people that could potentially be approached Committees regarding reduction of some for memberships in these groups. Council committee sizes. McAnneny moved and Council approved by consensus the appointment of Gamble seconded approval of those nomi- Harrington announced election results as John Wertman as an AAG alternate delegate nees who have agreed to serve. The motion they appeared in the newsletter. Foote noted for COGO representation, as a backup for passed unanimously. Provisional nominees that the departmental leadership workshop Richardson. Council also approved a short list will be considered later (via e-mail). There planning is on track. of seven names for the Executive Director to was consensus agreement that several com- Harden reported that the Executive Com- approach as the AAG’s second GISCI board mittees should be reduced in size over the mittee recommended the nomination of Amy member. next three years, with phased reductions to Glasmeier as new Treasurer. Harrington sec- A group of six AAG and Council mem- maintain committee membership rotations. onded. Glasmeier was elected unanimously. bers will be visiting Romanian geography Wilkinson moved that the treasurer no Doug Gamble was elected Chair of the programs in May, in response to their invita- longer be an ex-offi cio member of the pub- Regional Councillors. tion. They would like to create more contacts lications committee. James seconded. The Harden noted that we need a new pub- in the U.S. in support of building the disci- motion passed unanimously. The Commit- lications chair. Agnew nominated Winkler- pline (particularly the human geography side) Prins. Kobayashi moved that nominations in Romania. Kobayashi, Harrington, Lydia Continued on page 22

www.aag.org AAG Newsletter 21 July/August 2010 tee on Committees presented several minor ing edge, largely through its environmentally- with one abstention based on confl ict of inter- clarifi cations to the website descriptions of oriented aspects, and also because of recogni- est. Moseley moved that Bimal Kanti Paul be the Marcus, Burrill, and Miller Awards, as rec- tion of the importance of spatial components offered the position of book review editor. ommended by their respective committees, across the sciences. The inclusion of SEES With a second by James, the offer and con- which were accepted by the Council. (Science, Engineering, and Education for tingent case were passed with one confl ict of A letter of thanks from the AAG Executive Sustainability) in the President’s budget has interest abstention. [N.b. Both Warf and Paul Director and President to Bill Carstensen for mobilized NSF leadership to think about new accepted the offered positions.] many years of service as coordinator of World interdisciplinary ways to work together. SEES Geography Bowl was approved by consensus. represents a very substantial commitment to Future Meetings Letters of appreciation for editorial service support for research that links to environment, The next AAG Council meeting will be also will be sent to retiring editors. energy, climate change over fi ve years and held in conjunction with the fall meeting of beyond. Gutmann invited communication NESTVAL, in Storrs, Connecticut, on Octo- Member Request of new interdisciplinary & disciplinary direc- ber 28-30. Harden presented a letter from the editor tions that NSF/SBE should be thinking about. Future AAG Annual Meetings will be in of the publication Historical Geography request- Weiss spoke based on the division level, and Seattle (2011), New York (2012), California ing AAG fi nancial support. This was dis- reiterated several points, including the impor- (2013), Tampa (2014), and Chicago (2015). cussed, with the conclusion that this would tance of environmental issues in the Adminis- The AAG meets at union hotels whenever not be an appropriate activity for AAG at this tration’s and NSF’s priorities. He announced possible, and this continues to be an impor- time: many journals are in this situation. (A that Antoinette WinklerPrins will be added in tant consideration in the selection of AAG past decision to provide bridge support for a August (Scott Freundschuh’s slot), and David conference hotel venues. special publication was linked to other AAG McGinnis will begin in January 2011, as a projects and grants.) Council did support fourth BCS geographer. Baerwald noted that Final Business Harden read resolutions for consideration provision of advisory aid for the journal or its Ezekial Kalipeni will remain another year, and by Council. The resolutions recognized and possible transition to a commercial publisher, that the GSS strategic plan will be revisited. thanked Past President John Agnew; retiring if desired. The fi ve current and future offi cers will meet Pacifi c Coast Councillor and Treasurer Nancy on this over the summer; thoughts on the Wilkinson, retiring National Councillor Visitors strategic plan were invited. A variety of topics Audrey Kobayashi, retiring National Coun- Guests from NSF were welcomed by were addressed through questions, answers, cillor and Publications Committee Chair Harden and introduced. Guests were: Myron and discussion. Gutmann, NSF Assistant Director, Director- Marie Price, retiring Middle Atlantic Coun- ate of Social, Behavioral, and Economic Sci- Interviews cillor Molly Brown, and retiring NESTVAL ences (SBE); Mark Weiss, Director, Division Interviews of two Professional Geographer editor Councillor and Regional Councillor Chair of Behavioral and Cognitive Sciences (BCS); applicants and two PG book review editors Cathleen McAnneny; and outgoing chairs and Tom Baerwald, Senior Science Advisor, were held. Price presided and led the ques- and members of AAG committees. Greiner SBE, and Program Offi cer, Geography and tioning, as Chair of the Publications Com- moved and McAnneny seconded passage of Spatial Sciences (GSS). Council members and mittee. Other Councillors also questioned the the resolutions; they were passed unanimously. AAG staff introduced themselves. Gutmann applicants. Following questions and answers, Council was adjourned at 12:45, April noted that GSS is at the core of the director- Council members discussed the applicants, 14, 2010. ate, particularly with broad scientifi c interests their qualifi cations, and their ideas. James and interdisciplinary moves that are occurring moved that Barney Warf be appointed PG Respectfully submitted, at the present time. Geography is at the lead- editor, Greiner seconded. The motion passed, Lisa Butler Harrington, AAG Secretary Geographers in the News

Jeff Onsted, Assistant Professor, Earth Bryan Schoonard, a former Florida State Barry Wellar, Professor Emeritus, Uni- and Environment/Global Sociocultural University Department of Geography gradu- versity of Ottawa, and a consultant on Studies, Florida International University, ate student, appears in a White House video transportation and safety matters, was inter- was interviewed recently by the Fresno Bee (www.restorethegulf.gov) documenting re- viewed for a feature article, “Roads Scholar in California regarding California farmland sponses to the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. Takes Stand for Pedestrian Safety,” Ottawa policy. www.fresnobee.com/2010/07/03/v- He is employed by Florida Fish and Wildlife Citizen, June 29, 2010, City section, page 4. textonly/1994706/farmland-tax-breaks-fail- in Tampa as a GIScientist. The video will to-hit.html. appear on the right-hand side of the screen Please submit items for "geographers in the and is titled, “Inside the Response.” news" to [email protected]. ■

22 AAG Newsletter www.aag.org March 2011

AAG Council Meeting Minutes Fall 2010 October 29-30, Storrs, Connecticut Attending with the new publishing contract providing dressed through AAG. Skills development is Executive Committee: Kenneth Foote, Presi- many new benefits for our journals and the one possibility. She is very deeply commit- dent; Audrey Kobayashi, Vice President; Carol association. Richardson also reviewed chal- ted to addressing racialized minorities, both Harden, Past President; Amy Glasmeier, Trea- lenges and opportunities for the future. in the discipline and in society as a whole. surer; Lisa Harrington, Secretary; Douglas Internationalization is another important Richardson, Executive Director. President’s Comments issue; as AAG becomes more and more National Councillors: William Moseley Foote mentioned enjoyable visits to re- international, it is important to think about (Chair), Leslie Duram, Amy Glasmeier, L. gional meetings in the fall. He noted their international issues in terms of wider ex- Allan James, Karen Till. intimacy and meaningfulness to students change and interaction among geographers. Regional Councillors: Doug Gamble and early career faculty. Foote described his (Southeast; Chair), Cathleen McAnneny continuing efforts regarding early career de- Past President’s Comments (New England-St. Lawrence Valley; proxy velopment, and hopes to keep this going for Harden noted that rather than start a for Bryon Middlekauff); Dagmar Budikova some time to come. James (JW) Harrington, brand new initiative during her presidency, (West Lakes), Alyson Greiner (Southwest- Jr., also has been working on early ca- she wanted to pick up on themes and ern), Lisa Harrington (Great Plains/Rocky reer development, and WinklerPrins will continue momentum. Going to regional Mountains), Laurie Hummel (Middle be spending time on the coming summer meetings and interacting with people, in- States), Antoinette WinklerPrins (East workshop. The AAG and President Foote cluding really good students, has been Lakes), Michael Scott (Middle Atlantic). also are looking ahead to non-academic de- a great opportunity for her. She noted AAG staff members: Candida Mannozzi, velopment, as well as working on leadership that we need to empower people to look Patricia Solís. in the field through the Healthy Depart- outward and interact with others, and to ments Workshops initiative. In 2010, the raise consciousness about the need to com- Opening AAG Departmental Leadership Workshop municate about Geography. We also need Foote called the meeting to order at 8:30 overlapped with the early career GFDA to promote the idea that the times we’re in am and asked attendees to introduce them- Workshop. There will also be a chair’s now have many accelerating changes: we selves. The agenda was presented; Winkler- symposium at the 2011 annual meeting, could be doing a lot more regarding people Prins moved approval and Duram seconded. to extend interactions beyond the annual and the environment. The agenda was adopted unanimously. chairs lunch. More attention to international The minutes of the spring Council meet- faculty and graduate students also is being Reports from Regional ing had been approved via e-mail. Kobayashi pursued: there are now many international Councillors moved that the Council reaffirm approval of faculty in the discipline in the U.S. Till Foote introduced the questions that had the minutes. McAnneny seconded. The mentioned that mid-career attention also is been asked of Councillors. They are meant spring minutes were affirmed. needed, particularly for women who have to address the status and changes in the been ‘stuck at’ the Associate Professor level discipline: we need to look very carefully Status of the Association due to administrative responsibilities and at ways we might strengthen programs and Richardson led an overview of the status family/lifestyle choices. how to approach things strategically. He of the AAG, including current activities. The 2011 Presidential Plenary will fo- wanted us to look at some of the things that He began with a summary of his goals for cus on geography and the changing world we can do strategically as an organization to the association at the time of his assum- of higher education. There are challenges, focus on moving our discipline forward. We ing the Executive Director position and but it is also a very exciting time. Three also need to support programs that might the progress that has been made. These confirmed participants at this time include need help. include new management systems, appropri- Duane Nellis, President of the University Gamble led the review of the status of ate technology; use of a team approach in of Idaho; Maresi Nerad, Center for Innova- geography programs by region; each of the AAG operations; development of new initia- tion and Research in Graduate Education regional councillors reported on status and tives; increased membership and provision (CIRGE) at the University of Washington; trends in their regions based on questions of services; greater interaction with society; and Orlando Taylor, President of the Chi- posed by President Foote, in the context of strategic grants and contracts; fundraising; cago Professional School of Psychology, both fiscal difficulties and other global and a dynamic annual meeting with growth in Washington, DC campus. national trends. Each councillor described, attendance; and supporting broad growth of in both general and specific terms, how the discipline. Member numbers at the end Vice President’s Comments departments are responding to challenges of 2009 had reached 10,765. The impact and Kobayashi commented on some of her and opportunities, whether programs have reach of AAG journals have been expanded, interests and potential topics to be ad- gained from any of the changes, and whether

22 AAG Newsletter www.aag.org Volume 46, Number 3

AAG Council Minutes from page 22 departments or programs are challenged or Several themes again arose, with various a question, Richardson noted that AAG are under threat based on current conditions comments related to the status of the disci- budgets are based on estimated conference and trends. Recurring themes from the pline, concerns, and opportunities. Several attendance: the organization makes money regions included loss of some positions, but councillors noted that the discipline has tra- only if attendance is over the estimate, and also some ability to connect with other pro- ditional strengths that represent opportuni- loses if attendance is under the estimate. He grams or needs, or using enrollment-based ties at this time, including interdisciplinarity. also noted that if all AAG staff time spent arguments, to gain new lines. GIS/GISci has Connections to several important societal on annual meetings were included with been particularly important to a number of areas of interest can be a key opportunity other meeting-related costs, the association programs, but there are concerns that other for strengthening Geography programs, would generally not make money at all on specializations within the discipline may including environmental issues, globaliza- meetings. As part of Glasmeier’s report, it be under threat. A common action is an tion, international studies, urban studies, also was noted that a large portion of AAG’s increase in online course offerings. These area studies, and spatial technologies. The expenditures is in support of its staff; excel- help to maintain or increase enrollments, importance of building bridges or creating lent employees keep the association healthy. while making it possible for faculty mem- interdisciplinary alliances (and linking to the Glasmeier commented that Richardson bers to concentrate on teaching of more increasing importance of certification) was has a good developmental approach to upper-level courses in the classroom. In stressed. Linkages also need to include com- organizational management. Investments some cases, adjunct faculty lines have been munication with the general public about the have been managed conservatively and ef- cut, with graduate students being given importance of Geography, and outreach to fectively—they are highly diversified and more teaching responsibilities. Additional publics like parents to convince them that designed to provide financial integrity. Fol- changes to address current societal concerns Geography and geographic employment are lowing discussion of assets and financial and to appeal to students are being made, viable possibilities for college students, and management, Foote moved that $1 million of including course additions and revisions to to business and industry to help them see assets be added to the Richardson Endow- address topical interests (e.g., sustainability, how geographers can contribute to their ment for Geography’s Future. Gamble sec- social justice, and environmental health), enterprises. It also will be important to rec- onded, and the motion passed unanimously. additional fieldwork and study abroad op- ognize—and convince graduate students— Foote moved that Council reaffirm portunities, and certification programs. that careers outside academia are viable and Richardson’s ongoing financial management Foote noted that the consistent message can be rewarding. The current and growing policy, and also approve the written AAG he’s heard at regional meetings has been the emphasis on enrollments is leading to more Investment Policy of October 29, 2010, need for web support. There was some dis- competition for students, so stressing the distributed to Council. James seconded. The cussion of AAG and regional memberships strengths and opportunities offered by Geo- motion passed unanimously. and voting privileges. WinklerPrins also graphy is likely to continue to be important. Richardson presented the FYE 2011 bud- noted some confusion about how chairs are Foote thanked the councillors for their get as a matter of information. It had been updated on the AAG chairs listserv. reports, and noted that we will focus on previously approved. There was discussion of possible de- same questions again in spring, as follow-ups. partmental closures and ‘reorganizations’, It was also noted that regional councillors Membership including the role of AAG when suggestions should provide their more detailed reports Richardson noted that membership has of departmental closures are known. It was back to their regions. remained steady during the economic down- also noted that enrollments are up in many turn, and highlighted the very progressive programs, but this does not necessarily mean STATUS OF THE ASSOCIATION AAG membership dues structure based on positions–there can be a “squeeze” based income-level, and which also includes very on workloads. Other discussion focused Finances low membership fees for students and retir- on communication needs with departments Glasmeier reported on the meeting of ees. There was extensive discussion of dues, that house geographers, although they may the AAG Finance Committee, which re- dues structure, and help to those in financial be in other fields. viewed in detail the financial status of the difficulty. Regional councillors met during lunch to organization. AAG is in good fiscal health, discuss issues. in contrast with many organizations, and Publications has a consistent record of increasing net Richardson presented informational ma- Reports from National assets over a number of years. AAG is terial regarding publications. He pointed Councillors predominantly funded from membership out that the second Annals special issue has As Chair of the National Councillors, dues, annual conference income, research been published. The idea to have an annual Moseley introduced President Foote’s fo- grants, publications, and donations. The special issue has worked out well. The AAG cal questions, asking that National Coun- contract with the new publisher (Routledge) will now publish six Annals issues each year cillors identify key opportunities, crucial has been important. AAG generates a sig- (up from four issues previously), at no ad- challenges, and how to address challenges. nificant amount of income from the national ditional cost to the members or to the AAG. Discussion of these issues was wide-ranging, conference, but also spends a significant as was the regional councillors’ discussion. amount on the meeting. In response to Continued on page 24

www.aag.org AAG Newsletter 23 March 2011

AAG Council Minutes from page 23 Several editorial terms will be expiring Specialty Group (ASG). It fills a unique EDGE program. Foote noted that the REESE in the near future. Kobayashi’s Annals term niche. There is now possible interest from project is now in its second year. It includes ends on July 1, when she becomes AAG Routledge to publish this journal. As Spe- a good deal of research, as well as prepara- President. The search will continue until 20 cialty Groups do not have a separate legal tion of a book on business, government, January; there are currently six applicants. identity from AAG, it would be logical that and non-profit careers (Practicing Geography). The Annals Book Review editorship also is AAG would contract for the journal’s publi- GFDA-like workshops may be developed for open for applicants until 20 January, but cation. The AAG could have it labeled as a future summer offerings. Foote feels that the the current editor’s position does not end publication of the ASG. If AAG is involved project is making good progress. Richardson until December 2011. The Annals’ Nature in any way, net income would be allocated to noted a second undertaking, an NSF-funded and Society editor’s term also ends Decem- support the publication. Moseley described project on global climate change educa- ber 2011. Council will be interviewing for the mission of the journal, which particularly tion. This project involves development of these three editorial positions in Seattle. publishes Africa-based geographers. AAG materials that can be used in public schools. The Publications Committee will review has supported AGR as a part of its Africa The AAG Center for Global Geography applicants first, then the Executive Commit- outreach grants. The current editor is asking Education has hosted a large number of tee will determine interviewees. Richardson for one more year of support, until a publish- workshops. AAG is still providing free office asked Foote to review the Council meeting ing contract can be obtained. Richardson space to NCGE, although they are operat- agenda for Seattle to determine an earlier asked whether the AAG should enter into ing more on their own now. A good working Council meeting start time, to allow for the the publication agreement, and whether relationship continues. AAG works with a additional interview time requirements. it should extend publishing support one number of other organizations (e.g., AAAS, A new editorial board has been submitted more year. There was discussion; Kobayashi GENIP, IGU-CGE, INLT). by Barney Warf for the Professional Geographer. noted that there is a unique and particular Other projects include the Institute for Richardson noted that it has been checked rationale for this publication, and this should the Integration of Research on Climate for potential duplication with the Annals not be viewed as a general policy. Foote Change and Hazards in the Americas, a (serving on both boards at the same time moved that AAG provide an additional workshop funded by the NSF PanAmeri- is not allowed). Harden moved and James $2000 to support the publication of the Af- can Advanced Studies Institute (PASI) pro- seconded a motion that Council accept rican Geographical Review through 2011, while gram; Departments and Underrepresented the editorial board proposed by Warf, with a publication contract is being negotiated. Students ALIGNED: Addressing Locally- the recommendation that two to three ad- Hummel seconded, and the motion passed tailored Information Infrastructure and ditional persons be submitted, representing unanimously. Geoscience Needs for Enhancing Diversity pragmatic approaches to environmental and (funded by NSF); the AAG Initiative for an resource management issues. The motion Operations NIH-Wide GIS Infrastructure; work with passed unanimously. It was asked that Warf Richardson described AAG personnel NSF and the University of Michigan to de- be commended for his inclusion of interna- and their contributions. He noted the work velop a Quantitative Social Science Digital tional editorial board members. done by interns and efforts to involve them. Library, and others. Richardson presented proposed language Auditing services were put out for competi- AAG has been working to provide edu- for guidance of authors of AAG journals tive bid; the AAG kept the same auditors, cational materials to Congress regarding articles, to assure that research submitted for but costs were reduced. geography. The Elementary and Secondary AAG publication has complied with all legal The new AAG website was discussed, Education Act (ESEA), commonly known requirements regarding human subjects and and Richardson described the Geographers as No Child Left Behind, did not fund K-12 the conduct of research. on Film agreement with the Library of geography education. An AAG Blueprint Richardson described negotiations with Congress. As films (by Wes Dow) are con- for Geography Education has been devel- Wiley regarding development of an In- verted to a high quality digital format, oped and Richardson invited comment. The ternational Encyclopedia of Geography; they will be made available online through ESEA education legislation probably will be there still are six items to be addressed. both LOC and AAG. They will also be taken up in the next Congress. Richardson expects to hear back soon, and archived at LOC, with a master-identical set The AAG Resolution supporting K-12 then will bring the contract back to the at AAG. There was discussion, and Council- Geography Education has been endorsed by Executive Committee or Council for ap- lors expressed a desire to consider means of many high-profile signatory organizations, proval. There were a number of comments continuing film development. representing hundreds of thousands of peo- by councillors, and extensive discussion of ple. The resolution recommends inclusion of the project. It would be a four-year project. Research, Education, and Public Geography in STEM (science, technology, Foote noted that the agreement seems to be Policy engineering, and mathematics) projects, and getting close, and hopefully work toward The AAG has a large number of ongo- urges funding consistent with other core the Encyclopedia could begin before the ing research and outreach projects. AAG disciplines supported in K-12 education. The Seattle meeting. research, education, and outreach projects AAG will be seeking additional high-profile Richardson noted that AAG has provided often have synergistic components. The signatures, and members can seek additional three years of help for the African Geographical largest education-related project is the NSF signers (e.g., university presidents, NGOs, Review, a publication of the AAG African REESE project, an extension of the earlier Continued on page 25 24 AAG Newsletter www.aag.org Volume 46, Number 3

AAG Council Minutes from page 24 and business leaders). Council members related to the President’s Council of Advisors future. Potential awardees were discussed, discussed framing of the discipline. on Science and Technology (PCAST) and the as well as the significance of the award to issue of inclusion of social sciences as STEM AAG. The next Atlas Award will likely be Outreach disciplines. The AAG Newsletter’s Washington conferred at the New York meeting in 2012. AAG outreach was described by Monitor section reports describe the kinds of There is a committee to work on this, and Richardson. The AAG has organized and co- issues that AAG follows. Kobayashi will be added to the committee. organized a number of specialty conferences Among the AAG’s many international Richardson asked for additional potential over the past several years, including Mapping activities, Richardson noted that the most awardee suggestions. the News, for journalists/the media. Another is significant is probably the developing regions Race, Ethnicity and Place, which has become an membership program. A number of interna- Committees important event. Specialty conferences and tional outreach activities are being pursued, An updated list of committees and com- collaborations with other organizations and though, including overseas workshops and mittee members, including new Council institutions, such as PAIGH and Harvard conferences. UNEP and UN Habitat have members for committees that needed new University have strengthened, and AAG is expressed interested in funding a meeting be- Council representation, was shared with actively participating in several associations of ing planned for Nairobi. Kobayashi requested Council by Harrington (Chair of the Com- associations (e.g., COSSA, ACLS). further information on developing regions mittee on Committees) and Solís. Foote AAG pursues many activities related to memberships, specifically the locations that moved and Greiner seconded approval of geography careers, career development, and are eligible. the committees. The committee member- employment. AAG’s Departmental Leader- ships were approved. The Committee also ship Workshops seem to be working very well Annual Meetings presented the slate of individuals for consid- in conjunction with GFDA. In 2009, there Highlights for the 2011 Seattle meet- eration for the Nominating Committee and were an exceptionally low number of jobs in ing were described, including special events Honors Committee (A and B). Councillors the newsletter, but 2010 is showing a marked (opening plenary, presidential address, space- were asked to submit votes for those to uptick. Richardson projects the higher num- time integration, geography and the humani- appear on the ballot to Harrington on or ber of position advertisements will continue ties, and others). The Executive Committee before November 1. [N.b. Harrington tallied for the next two to three months. There was and Council will meet beginning Sunday votes and reported on those selected for the discussion of geography employment issues; prior to the opening of the annual meeting. ballot.] ideas included the need for academic depart- There was discussion of annual meeting size The Nominating Committee’s selections ments to consider how to deal with shifts in and our ability to limit size, as well as the of nominees for Vice President and for employment, integration of GIS into other benefits of very large meetings. National Councillors were announced to aspects of student training, and interdisciplin- There was discussion of options for Council, as an information item. ary collaborations. The AAG Newsletter jobs helping those in economic need (based on listings are almost exclusively academic, but unemployment or underemployment, given Final Business a broader online job bank is being developed. national economic conditions) to attend na- There was discussion of departments The REESE project is working on analysis tional meetings. Richardson suggested that under stress or threat and actions to be of the types of jobs available, which should we modify the existing AAG unemployed considered. be of great interest to both departments and conference assistance program to also include Moseley presented a report on Specialty students. There also was discussion of labor those who are underemployed or are experi- Group activities and their annual reports. data and its geographic analysis, as well as encing financial hardship; assistance from this Reports were down this year, possibly due to ongoing threats to mapping and geographic program will be extended to those who make the transition to the new website. Moseley information systems-related careers. $15,000 or less. James so moved and Scott passed along specific concern items from AAG continues to be involved in outreach seconded. The motion passed unanimously. specialty groups. Several were related to related to Haiti and rebuilding Geography electronic communications and information there [see the October 2010 AAG Newslet- Grants and Awards management. Richardson noted that AAG is ter]. AAG staff members have been working AAG Honors recommendations are seeking a new association/member manage- with AAAS to issue a report on rebuilding made by the Honors Committee. Gamble ment system and provider. This would be programs and scientific capacity in Haiti. moved and James seconded approval of the a major undertaking. Kobayashi noted that Richardson also noted that AAG continues Honors Committee’s recommendations for there are some issues with Manuscript Central to receive expressions of appreciation for AAG Honors awards. There was unanimous that also should be addressed as part of this its activities following Hurricane Katrina. approval. Solís described the nominee for process. Richardson also described AAG’s role in the the Enhancing Diversity Award. The Hon- Council went into closed session. creation and ongoing leadership of the AAAS ors Committee is supportive of the proposed Council was adjourned, 11:50 am on Science and Human Rights Coalition, and awardee. McAnneny moved and Till sec- October 30. provided a Coalition report. AAG has a very onded approval of the Enhancing Diversity strong relationship with AAAS. awardee; the decision was unanimous. Respectfully submitted, Two Congressmen spoke at the 2010 Richardson mentioned that the Atlas Lisa MB Harrington, AAG Secretary AAG meeting. AAG is quite involved in issues Award will need to be discussed in the www.aag.org AAG Newsletter 25 September 2011

AAG Council Meeting Minutes

Spring 2011 ress towards publication of Practicing Geogra- Regional Councillors April 10-12, Seattle phy is also proceeding smoothly. Gamble, Chair of the Regional Council- Kobayashi described her plans to ad- lors, led the discussion, starting with the Attending: Executive Committee: Kenneth dress different issues from Foote’s, but also SEDAAG report. He noted a SEDAAG Foote, President; Audrey Kobayashi, Vice to maintain links to current projects during proposal to add a Caribbean representative President; Carol Harden, Past President; Amy her AAG presidency. Two things are on her to the region. Glasmeier, Treasurer; Lisa Harrington, Sec- agenda. First, at the level of the Associa- Each regional councillor reported on retary; Douglas Richardson, Executive Direc- tion, she’d like to focus on equity and social conditions in his or her region, including tor. National Councillors: William Moseley justice issues, with clear links to Foote’s past and upcoming fall meetings. A number (Chair), Leslie Duram, Amy Glasmeier, activities. Kobayashi is planning for next of common themes appeared, including con- L. Allan James, Marilyn Raphael, Karen year’s AAG meeting in New York and ex- tinued economic stress, but feelings of more Till. Regional Councillors: Doug Gamble pects to make social justice a major theme stability due to a better understanding of (Southeast; Chair), Bryon Middlekauff (New for the plenary sessions. It is likely that state situations. Geography programs seem England-St. Lawrence Valley); Dagmar the Atlas awardee will have strong links to be doing relatively well: the discipline Budikova (West Lakes), Alyson Greiner to the social justice theme. Kobayashi’s has benefited by being entrepreneurial, (Southwestern), Lisa Harrington (Great second focus is strengthening international good at credit hour production, and multi- Plains/Rocky Mountains), Laurie Hummel relations (connected with the social justice disciplinary in nature. Numerous programs (Middle States), Antoinette WinklerPrins theme). At the last Council meeting there are seeing shifts in curricular offerings to (East Lakes), Michael Scott (Middle Atlan- was some discussion of the creation of more online courses and ‘hybrid’ courses, tic), Jenny Zorn (Pacific Coast). AAG staff an International Geography Day. In May, as well as reframing of courses to capture members: Candida Mannozzi, Patricia Solís. Kobayashi, Richardson, and others will be more current/popular topics. Concerns in- discussing the development of this at the clude: being able to support professional Opening National University of Ireland Maynooth. development of younger faculty without President Foote welcomed Councillors It is anticipated that this activity will also travel funding; aging of faculty members in to the spring meeting. Foote described the help support international collaborations some departments and the lack of replace- agenda, which had a few recommended among geographers. ments; growing reliance on part-time and additions based on an earlier Executive Harden noted that she has greatly en- temporary (‘contingent’) faculty and gradu- Committee meeting, and asked for any joyed her service as Vice President, Presi- ate students; recruiting contingent faculty; additional items. Foote moved and Harden dent, and Past President (as well as her prior continued budgetary uncertainty; threats to seconded approval of the agenda as three years as a councillor). Her activities collective bargaining rights in some states; amended; the motion passed unanimously. focused particularly on the idea that if and potentially disproportionate effects The minutes of the spring Council meet- other disciplines had a better idea of what on human geography. Public universities ing had received preliminary approval via geographers do, we would be more likely in some states (e.g., California) are under e-mail. Foote moved and Duram seconded to make a difference. To Harden this has particular duress. With a particularly large reaffirmation of approval of the minutes. meant focusing on better communication number of federally-employed geographers The minutes were approved. Given sev- of what we do to colleagues outside our in the Middle Atlantic Division, Scott noted eral decisions reached by the Executive discipline, empowering geographers to be that federal budget issues and the politi- Council during its March 2011 meeting, more visible, and making the AAG mem- cal situation in Washington are creating a Foote also noted inclusion of the Executive bership more aware of what is happening “very sketchy” picture. A broad trend of Committee meeting minutes in Council at the national level. She complimented the anti-intellectualism and mistrust of science information packets. AAG’s outreach and educational activities in the current Congress was discussed as a as an organization, and has tried to foster concern. Presidential Reports more communication from a wider number Foote commented that he has been of geographers at the grassroots level. She National Councillors pleased with progress on areas he had fo- has received a lot of positive response As Chair of the National Councillors, cused on as a candidate for VP/President, related to her focus. Moseley led the discussion with contri- particularly professional development. He butions from the National Councillors; has been trying to look very broadly at Councillors’ Reports they reflected more broadly on the disci- professional development and improving the Councillors had been asked to provide pline and its place in the rapidly changing culture of leadership. He referred to several updates and comments relevant to geogra- economic-political-academic environment. events scheduled for the annual meeting, phers and the changing landscape of higher Key ideas discussed at the fall meeting successful career and leadership workshops, education, a follow-up to the discussion at were reiterated and elaborated upon. Na- and some of his presidential columns. Prog- the Fall 2010 Council meeting. tional Councillors focused on strengths

26 AAG Newsletter www.aag.org Volume 46, Number 8 and aspects of geography that appeal to feel tremendous pressure during economic process with the Geographical Society of other disciplines, students, and employers, downturns; using many new—often geo- China. Richardson noted that he is very and also mentioned areas of weakness and graphic—technologies in undergraduate grateful for the sabbatical. Michael Solem needs for improvement. teaching; encouraging students to continue has been asked to serve as head of of- Geography benefits by its interdisci- thinking of government as potential career; fice during Richardson’s absence. Candida plinarity, its integrative and holistic ap- connecting the theoretical and the techni- Mannozzi, Jean McKendry, and Patricia proaches, and by geographers’ educational cal/entrepreneurial/practical areas of the Solís will assist in this; Teri Martin will be traditions. Areas of opportunity include discipline; sharing of means or metrics to heading up financial monitoring. sustainability, environmental impacts, and assess student learning outcomes, transfer- the human-environment part of traditional able skills, and various metrics; changing Finances curricula, although moves of other disci- the perception of a lack of jobs for students The financial status of the association plines into these areas may constitute a graduating with degrees in geography, so has continued to be healthy. Changes in threat. However, we should be connecting that there is a realization that geographers revenue over the last decade have come to energy issues—especially social science are qualified for many positions not labeled about by streamlining operations and add- aspects of energy—much more strongly. as geography; participating in university ing revenue sources. The Finance Commit- Water issues were also mentioned, although administration processes and looking for tee met in early March, and met with the geographers are in a better position with links to other units on campus, including association’s auditors. Glasmeier summa- water resources. Geography’s technical and cross-listing courses, to make the discipline rized the Finance Committee meeting. The applied aspects are attractive to students; more visible; seeking funding for increased committee discussed banking and a pro- geographers have been good at translating diversity; developing technology platforms posed new budget for the next fiscal year theory into practice, and it is important to help with visualization of the things geo- (Sep 1, 2011-Aug 31, 2012). AAG has had to acknowledge connections between the graphers are involved with and that fit in another good year, with a continued net two (or to reject false dualisms separating with widening opportunities for web-based gain on investments over the past several them) and incorporate this into graduate education; and having important points difficult years (unlike most associations). student training. There were suggestions of and narratives ready when seeking support. The AAG has nearly $7 million in endow- a need to continue to build entrepreneurial Till suggested creation of a classics in ments, with the majority of those funds held activities, as well as connections with other geography library for e-readers, with AAG in CDs. The Finance Committee members disciplines. Changes that may represent commissioning short introductory essays and the AAG auditing firm were very opportunities include a generational shift for entries. impressed with the financial management occurring in the discipline, as well as glo- Richardson suggested that each national of the Association by Richardson and AAG balization and internationalization. councillor write an op-ed for the AAG accounting staff. According to the lead au- A variety of challenges were identified: Newsletter, with perhaps two at a time being ditor, Bill Astrab, the AAG is very well run, a lack of racial and ethnic diversity in the published. Foote asked that comments be transparent, and effective. The AAG also discipline, which makes it more difficult to shared via webmail, and that councillors has diversified its organizational revenues, reach out to all students; greater scrutiny of think about ideas and ways to collaborate developing multiple income sources, so academic units at various levels, with more relevant to helping the discipline adapt. that now neither the conference nor the reporting requirements; increased focus on dues represent a majority of organizational completion ratios, with challenges to retain STATUS OF THE ASSOCIATION revenues. Glasmeier also noted “epochal and recruit undergraduate students—the Richardson reminded Council that he change” in the AAG’s finances, including tendency for undergraduate students to find will be taking a six-month sabbatical, with the diversification of revenues and the geography late in their studies can make Council approval, beginning a few weeks negotiation of the ten-year contract with recruitment and retention more difficult; after the annual meeting. He has been Routledge. She said that some of the major reducing the cost of education; a need for working to make sure that the more complex Finance Committee discussion issues were humanities and social sciences to legitimate parts of organizational operations are taken about actions that will help AAG operate themselves with a growing focus on jobs and care of before early May. Interim goals and more efficiently. One of these is the AAG’s disciplinary applications; a need for adap- milestones for each employee have been plans to upgrade the software used for tations in how we teach because students developed for each project for the period conference and membership management. and learning styles have changed; and the of time he will be on sabbatical. Richardson Richardson reported that the AAG will changing nature of careers (with a reduced and AAG staff members have been working implement major changes to its existing as- role for tenure in academic positions, and an on assignments of duties commensurate sociation management system, adding new increase in privatization in general). with backgrounds and talents. During his modules and a new social networking sys- Councillors suggested a number of sabbatical, Richardson may be developing tem. The new social networking software strategies: diversifying more into private a number of new relationships with other will be state-of-the-art and will also be inte- universities or government could help ad- geography organizations and associations. grated with the AAG’s current membership dress the difficulties of so many geogra- He will spend two months in China and phers employed in public universities that hopes to set up a formal collaborative Continued on page 28

www.aag.org AAG Newsletter 27 September 2011

Council Meeting Minutes from page 27 management system. The user interface of quests from the Republican Party of Wis- subscriptions are declining but online sub- this social networking system will be much consin, and others, to obtain a potentially scriptions are increasing and exceeding more intuitive and is expected to provide large set of email correspondence to and AAG expectations. Efforts continue for many new functions and benefits to the from William Cronon, Professor of History, reduction of manuscript turnaround times; AAG’s Specialty Groups. Implementation Geography, and Environmental Studies at significant variability in section turnaround of these changes and improvements is ex- the University of Wisconsin-Madison. This and in submissions to sections remains. pected to take approximately six months. is an apparent response to an editorial Barney Warf became PG editor and Bimal The 2012 proposed budget was also by Cronon. Some of Cronon’s colleagues Kanti Paul PG book review editor on Jan discussed. Richardson noted that both had contacted AAG to request assistance, 1, 2011, with three-year terms. A key task the Finance Committee and the Executive and the AAG’s Committee on Scientific for this Council Meeting was to select two Committee had reviewed the budget and Freedom and Responsibility drafted a new editors for the Annals, for the People, recommended that it be accepted. James resolution. The draft was distributed and Place and Region and the Nature-Society moved and Till seconded approval of the discussed by the Executive Committee and sections. A total of six applications were proposed budget for FYE 2012. The mo- by an ad hoc Council subcommittee made reviewed and ranked by the Publications tion passed unanimously. up of Kobayashi, Foote, Duram, Till and Committee; the Executive Committee Richardson circulated the current in- Richardson. Recommended final resolution selected four candidates for interviews. vestment policy, and recommended that wording was distributed. Foote said that WinklerPrins developed a set of questions the AAG maintain the investment strategy the statement would be posted on the AAG for Annals editorial candidate interviews, to as outlined in the document. He asked that website, sent to Cronon’s department, and serve as a guide for Council interviews with Council consider this and confirm sup- circulated to other organizations that had candidates. port for continuation of the conservative circulated similar resolutions. Richardson The search for the Annals Book Review policy which he has undertaken to date. stated it should be recognized that the editor has been extended, with interviews There was consensus approval. Richardson issue is much larger than the specific FOIA expected in the fall. There was discussion noted that, time permitting, he would like demand for Cronon’s correspondence. of editors’ needs, including monetary and to undertake a new focused fundraising Council voted unanimously in support of operational support. There has been a campaign in support of important AAG the “AAG Resolution in Support of William growing issue of recognition and valuing programs, most likely in 2012 or 2013. Cronon.” Moseley suggested that it would of major editorial services at educational be appropriate to share the document with institutions. The key question is how to Membership local U.S. Representatives. continue to recruit more good editors and Membership status was reviewed by suggestions were made for Councillors to Richardson. Membership is holding steady Operations reach out to individuals and encourage at this time; the AAG had achieved rapid Kailey Paul and Sarah Siegel have both them to apply. Richardson proposed a mo- increases from about 2002-7, then member- joined AAG staff, as Administrative Spe- tion that all eight editor stipends be raised ship started to plateau. Membership reached cialist and Research Assistant, respectively. to $10,000 beginning in 2012. WinklerPrins 10,794 at the end of 2010. Generally there Richardson noted that he is trying to seconded. The motion passed unanimously. have been increases across all categories, solidify several international collabora- Richardson said that the two books but the most rapid growth has been in tions for AAG, including working with the developed from the AAG Geography and the graduate student category. Richardson Geographical Society of China and the the Humanities initiative — Envisioning also noted the AAG’s progressive member- Chinese Academy of Sciences. During his Landscapes, Making Worlds: Geography and the ship dues structure, and the fact that dues sabbatical he will attend a meeting of the Humanities, and Geography and the Humanities: have not increased for several years despite Geographical Society of China. A new Art, History, Text at the Edge of Place — have inflation. AAG members also receive a free geography news service for AAG mem- had good advance reviews. He described online subscription to one of a selected set of bers—AAG SmartBrief—has recently be- the complementary nature of the two vol- Routledge journals, and reciprocal member- gun. Richardson said that he has had good umes. ships are available with IBG and CAG at re- feedback so far, but that content will need The 2010-2011 AAG Guide to Programs duced rates. Kobayashi noted that the AAG continuous refinement over time. He thinks is the last paper edition. Harrington asked may have more Canadian members than that the Jobs and Careers section is one of about print on demand, which had been does the CAG; she wondered if regional the weakest parts of the AAG website; work discussed in the past. Richardson said that divisions could play a role in trying to get on it will continue over the summer. print on demand may be available. The a message across that associate membership membership directory is already available in the CAG could be a good thing. There Publications online to AAG members. This and related was discussion of regions, memberships, and WinklerPrins distributed the report of online-access issues will be explored by international relations. the Publications Committee, and high- AAG staff in preparation for the 2011-2012 A current issue in academia has been lighted that the journals are doing very edition. ‘Freedom of Information Act’ (FOIA) re- well, impact factors are high, and hardcopy

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There has been a good deal of discus- cal and other GIScience researchers. The meeting with representatives of organiza- sion of the Wiley-Blackwell International workshop was very successful and led to tions (e.g., federal agencies) with which Encyclopedia of Geography in Council over the better understanding of shared needs. A AAG has strong connections. Public policy last year and a half. A good agreement with draft report will be circulated soon. In concerns often are addressed as more Wiley was developed and signed. Richard- addition to the workshop and report, the formal outreach, with efforts to connect son will serve as the Editor-in-Chief, with AAG also has developed a proposal to NIH geography to STEM (science, technol- five to six general editors, each with six to to support research agenda workshops to ogy, engineering, and math) initiatives, eight section editors. General editors will develop more GIS capacity at NIH and to for example. There was also mention of include Michael Goodchild (GIScience and deal with key challenges to creating a major ongoing campaigns to deny public map- technology), Audrey Kobayashi (human national GIS infrastructure for medical ping contract work to geographers and geography), Richard Marston (physical research, including data privacy issues. academic institutions. These efforts have geography), and Weidong Liu (geography There was discussion of diversity and more recently shifted to the state level. and regional development). Liu and Rich- broadening participation in the discipline; Richardson noted that the AAG Execu- ardson will also be coordinating further Richardson noted that attention to diversity tive Committee discussed the potential of support and contributions to the Encyclope- is integrated across all of AAG activities. creation of a new organization to support dia in China. Each of the section editors will The EDGE project, the ALIGNED project, open and non-exclusionary GIS and map- coordinate about 30-50 entries. Richardson and the 2010 AAG survey of geography ping approaches for geographers, and the emphasized that this is an international, departments are examples where enhanc- academic and private sector communities. 15-volume encyclopedia, and is expected ing diversity within the discipline have He said that there may be a need to have to be available online and in hard copy. been key. Solís reported that the results an organization separate from COGO, but It is envisioned as the definitive reference from comparing the 2005 and the 2010 de- he doesn’t want the AAG to bear the major- work on geography. The next eight months partmental surveys indicate modest gains ity of the costs and labor of its creation. or so will be devoted to developing the overall in the numbers of graduate students Richardson mentioned that there are others encyclopedia’s structure/taxonomy. After identifying in non-white, non-Hispanic who support this concept. that process, key section editors will be racial and ethnic categories, but not at the Richardson and John Wertman obtained identified. Overall, this is expected to be undergraduate level. Women in geography wide support for the AAG Resolution Sup- a four year project, with the bulk of the have also increased in number, including at porting K-12 Geography Education, and writing process occurring in the third year. tenured faculty ranks, although the overall said that it is their sense that this might With respect to the African Geographical percentage of female participation is still be one thing that legislators decide they Review, the AAG will be working on a pub- lower than the national average for higher can cooperate on. Richardson pointed out lishing agreement with Routledge to help education. More details have been reported some of the signatories, which now in- sustain the journal and encourage it to grow. in the April 2011 issue of the AAG Newslet- clude the Governors of Maine and Florida. AAG will serve as contracting agent, but the ter, and data with analysis will be posted Richardson noted it would be very helpful AGR will be published as a journal of the online. Another new initiative for research if Council members could assist with the AAG’s Africa Specialty Group. Richardson on geographies of broadening participation recruitment of high profile signatories. hopes it will grow and become a major has been proposed by the AAG to NSF. Two additional important areas of contribution to scholarship in and on Africa. Richardson said that some AAG research outreach are AAG’s collaboration with The AAG has supported the AGR with mod- and outreach has been groundbreaking, EIS-Africa (Environmental Information est funding over last few years; Routledge such as the AAG’s work with NIH, the Systems-Africa) and with OES (Bureau of will now cover this and royalties will be Geography and the Humanities initiatives, Oceans and International Environmental and reinvested back into the journal. Moseley and the efforts on GIS and technology Scientific Affairs) in the Department of State. and Richardson noted that past AAG sup- cyberinfrastructure and capacity-building AAG has leveraged supplemental funding port was possible due to special AAG grants in Latin America for environmental pro- from other agencies (e.g., NSF, NASA) for to support geography in Africa. tection and economic development. Solís this collaborative project. Richardson has added that the innovation with these Latin also initiated and Solís has taken the lead Research and Outreach America efforts has been getting public, with MyCOE, which may become a show- Richardson described his satisfaction private, and academic sectors together to case example of a “sustainable development” with the excellent progress being made develop collaborations. In further discus- project for the new Rio+20 effort planned on the AAG NIH-wide GIS infrastructure sion of connections with other countries, by the UN for 2012. AAG also has ongoing initiative. AAG and NIH held a joint work- Richardson said that AAG can help bring NSF funding to provide travel support for shop in February that included the AAG’s university programs together. members to attend IGU meetings. NIH initiative steering committee mem- Richardson talked about AAG’s nu- A proposal from Will Graf for the AAG bers (Sarah McLafferty, Mei-Po Kwan, merous specialty conferences, and noted to join the American Geological Institute Jonathan Mayer, Michael Goodchild, and participation in a wide range of additional Doug Richardson), as well as key biomedi- conferences. Staff members are constantly Continued on page 30

www.aag.org AAG Newsletter 29 September 2011

Council Meeting Minutes from page 29 was distributed to Councillors. There was recommended new committee members pending review/approval. The AAG is also discussion, and Richardson suggested that was distributed. Foote noted that the com- developing a companion website to make the AAG ask AGI to support geography mittee nominations list came to Council as available educational materials related to by signing on to the AAG’s Resolution a motion from the Committee on Commit- the recently published NRC study, Under- in Support of K-12 Education. If they are tees. Council voted unanimously in favor of standing the Changing Planet: Strategic Directions supportive of geography, the AAG would the recommendations for new committee for the Geographical Sciences. Foote mentioned consider becoming an AGI member. memberships. the tenth anniversary of the Geography National Councillors and Regional WinklerPrins asked about increasing the Faculty Development Alliance (GFDA) in- Councillors met separately over lunch to amounts for AAG research and dissertation stitutes in Boulder; he noted that it has seen select new Council chairs and discuss is- awards. There was discussion, with the sug- 400-500 early career faculty participate sues. Alyson Greiner will serve as the new gestion that these awards and their amounts during its 10 years of operation. Chair of Regional Councillors and Karen be taken under consideration, pending a Susan Gallagher Heffron reported Till will serve as the next Chair of the review of available funds for each award. on some additional educational projects, National Councillors. including the NASA Global Climate Education Change Education project targeted at Annual Meetings Foote introduced Michael Solem and providing climate and earth systems sci- Richardson noted continued strong an- Susan Gallagher Heffron. He noted that ence curricular material for teachers who nual meeting attendance. Last year’s meet- Solem will be serving as Deputy Direc- are required to teach this subject area but ing in Washington, DC, was a record tor during Richardson’s sabbatical. Solem don’t have it in their background. This with 8,342 attendees; Seattle attendance thanked and congratulated Richardson on is geared toward K-12 teachers, and the is expected to be somewhat lower, but his sabbatical and talked about the AAG’s materials are now available online. Work still strong. Key themes this year include tremendous group of staff, having been is also being done in collaboration with geographers and geographic collabora- part of the organization for the last eight NCGE (National Council for Geographic tions in Asia and the Pacific Rim Region; years. Education) to host a national webinar on Space-Time Integration in Geography and Solem updated Council on the EDGE April 28, with a follow-up event at the GIScience; and Geography in the Chang- project (Enhancing Departments and 2011 NCGE meeting. ing Worlds of Higher Education. Graduate Education), which has received AAG was recently granted a subaward New York City will be the venue for two grants from NSF since 2005. It has from NGS (the National Geographic the 2012 meeting. Richardson described many components; Solem mentioned that Society; funded by NSF) for the “Es- the NYC Local Arrangements Committee, he, Ken Foote, and Jan Monk will be work- tablishing a Roadmap for Large-Scale which was recently formed, and also noted ing on a study of masters-level programs, Improvement of K-12 Education in the that New York is rich in potential speakers which appear to be less-well studied than Geographical Sciences” project. The and attendees. Meetings scheduled into the other degree programs. EDGE also focuses AAG will identify and develop research future include Los Angeles (2013), Tampa on outreach and engagement. Solem works topics that have important geographic (2014), and Chicago (2015). Richardson with Patricia Solís on outreach among components that can be used to build suggested San Francisco and Boston for AAG groups and committees and with the up basic geographic literacy; the AAG possible consideration for 2016 and 2017, ALIGNED project on diversity. Solem and has reached out to a diverse group of with Portland, Vancouver and Baltimore colleagues are also working on publication colleagues, including cognitive scien- as alternates. Council concurred with the of a book, Practicing Geography, to dissemi- tists as well as geographers. Gallagher suggested locations. nate EDGE research in a way that helps Heffron has also been updating the Richardson reviewed the AAG Atlas undergraduate and graduate students think GENIP (Geography Education National Award, which is awarded every two years, about their career pathways; related web Implementation Project) “geography for and shared the list of potential Atlas Award- resources are being developed for both the life” standards. These standards are ex- ees for 2012, as ranked by the Atlas Award “Healthy Departments” and “Careers” parts pected to be available in May, when it Committee. of the AAG website. Another project is the will be decided whether the standards Center for Global Geography Education, can proceed into publication, or whether Committees which is nearing the end of its second another review is needed. A related issue Gamble reported on the AAG commit- phase of NSF funding. Materials have been is the common-core standards adopted tee reports, and noted that the reduction developed collaboratively by geographers as part of the federal “Race to the Top” in the size of some committees last year across several different regions. A part of program. Development of the geography seems to be working out well. Harrington this effort has been work toward organiz- component of these standards may be described the slate of potential new com- ing workshops and new collaborations. very significant. Gallagher Heffron will mittee appointees, and gradual trimming There have been good outcomes, and be coordinating with representatives of down of large committees. The list of several proposals related to this project are NCGE (Joe Stoltman) and NGS (Danny

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Edelson) about this in May. Additional for each region. The motion passed unani- moved and Greiner seconded election of education-related AAG proposals have mously. Jenny Zorn to the position of Secretary. been developed in recent months. Her election was unanimous. Foote and Richardson thanked Solem Council and Gallagher Heffron for their significant Foote reviewed election results: President, Interviews contributions. Audrey Kobayashi (Queen’s University); Interviews for the Nature-Society and Vice President, Eric Sheppard (University People, Place, and Region (PPR) sections of the Regional Division Discussion of Minnesota); National Councillors, James Annals were held. The candidates for edito- There was discussion with Adam Tyner (Kent State University) and Richard rial positions were interviewed individually, Thocher and Gayathri Kher to address A. Wright (Dartmouth College); Honors and then discussed. Balloting resulted in questions about association management Committee A, Susan Hardwick (University the selection of Richard Wright as PPR systems, social networking software and of Oregon); Honors Committee B, Sarah editor and Bruce Braun as Nature-Society edi- related improvements. At the last Coun- Halvorson (University of Montana) and tor. Kobayashi recommended that the new cil meeting, additional support from the Joseph Poracsky (Portland State University); editors be asked to attend the afternoon AAG to the Regional Divisions had been and Nominating Committee, Katie Algeo editorial meeting. discussed. Gamble reviewed the requests (Western Kentucky University), James W. that came up during the regional council- Harrington, Jr. (University of Washington), New Issue lors’ meeting, including help with regional and Susanne Moser (Stanford University An important issue arose during the meeting registration management, regional and Susanne Moser Research and Consult- AAG Council meeting: the detention and website hosting, and a potential increase ing). Richardson noted that electronic vot- deportation of geography doctoral student of AAG annual direct financial support ing should be considered, and that this may (University of Nebraska-Lincoln) and AAG (from the current $1000 per region). Many increase participation. Gamble said that he member Angela Pochanasomburana. A res- Regional Divisions have struggled with can get information together about options olution supporting Ms. Pochanasomburana overhead and other issues of university for electronic voting for the regions. was drafted by Richardson and AAG staff. conference management. Richardson noted The next Council meeting will take Harrington moved for approval of the that while AAG’s meeting management place in conjunction with the SEDAAG resolution, subject to further fact-checking. system may work for Regional Division meeting, the weekend before Thanksgiving Gamble seconded; there was unanimous meeting registrations, it would entail sig- (November 19-21), in Savannah, Georgia. approval. nificant customization for each regional Foote said that John Harrington had meeting, substantial programming costs, written suggesting creation of a strategic Closing and additional staff time. planning committee; this suggestion was As final business, Foote presented reso- Richardson suggested the possibility distributed by email. Foote noted that this lutions of thanks and appreciation for the that the AAG-hosted ‘microsites’ might can be quite valuable. We also already have service of Carol Harden as Vice Presi- help fill some Regional Division web- a long range plan (distributed). Glasmeier dent, President, and Past President; of Lisa site needs, and that the soon to be suggested this could be done temporally Harrington as Secretary and Great Plains/ implemented social networking software or spatially; we may want to look at some Rocky Mountain Councillor; of National could help address many of the other re- of the things going on around us. She Councillor Leslie Duram; of National quests. Till suggested revisiting Regional said she thinks that we are at a time of Councillor and National Councillor Chair Division requests in the fall, once the discontinuity: things have been changing William Moseley; of Southeastern Regional capacities of the new software are better rapidly. Richardson supports the idea of Division Councillor and Regional Council- known. Richardson noted that regions strategic planning, but noted also the lor Chair Douglas Gamble; and of outgoing may need to evolve in the face of global great time and expense associated with AAG committee chairs and members. The dynamics and stresses. Moseley said that such processes; he believes that it should resolutions were unanimously approved. it might make sense to have some con- only be done strategically and in a limited Foote presented certificates of appreciation versations about potential consolidations way (not open-ended). Till suggested that for contributions to Council to Past Presi- or mergers. There was discussion, with Council take the time to think about it. It dent Harden and to outgoing councillors some agreement that it may be a good will take some time to consider this care- Duram, Moseley, Gamble, and Harrington. time to consider a possible reconfigura- fully. Kobayashi may distribute related Kobayashi presented gifts of appreciation tion of regions. topics for fall discussion. Scott remarked to Harden and Foote. Foote proposed increasing the annual that such an activity may help energize Council was adjourned, 12:50 pm, May amount of AAG support to each Regional the membership. 12. Division to $1500 for future years. There Foote noted that Harrington is finishing was discussion. Scott moved and Moseley her term on council, and a new secretary Respectfully submitted, seconded an increase to $1500 per year for 2011-13 needed to be elected. Foote Lisa MB Harrington, AAG Secretary

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AAG Council Meeting Minutes November 20-21, 2011, Savannah, Georgia

AAG Council members present: Audrey particular mechanism or activity, perhaps to equity and global learning from oth­ Kobayashi, Eric Sheppard, Amy Glasmeier, by inviting and linking with other interna­ ers through our international initiatives. L. Allan James, Antoinette WinklerPrins, tional geography associations around the Sheppard is impressed with the amount of Laurel J. Hummel, Kenneth F. Foote, AAG’s current MyCOE activities leading work of the AAG and the variety of AAG Michael Scott, Dagmar Budikova, Bryon up towards Rio+20 and beyond. She also initiatives. He seeks to find ways to bring Middlekauff, Jim Tyner, Derek Alderman, listed several other international activities geographic research to those affected by Brad Rundquist, Richard Wright, undertaken at the AAG such as the In­ the issues we study, to engage the public, Alyson Greiner, Jenny Zorn, and Doug ternational Encyclopedia of Geography, and to encourage geography departments Richardson. Karen Till from Ireland and outreach and collaborations with China, to take a lead in internationalizing the Marilyn Raphael from Los Angeles joined and other research and education activi­ scholarship at US universities. via skype. AAG Staff: Candida Mannozzi, ties that are underway or were recently Past President Foote commented that Patricia Solís, and Michael Solem. launched. The IGU in Chile saw increased the Geography Faculty Development Alli­ U.S. participation thanks to grants from ance (GFDA) and Department Leadership Opening the NSF to AAG, which supported 35 Workshops continue, with recruiting to Kobayashi moved to adopt the agenda. American geographers to attend this year’s begin after the first of the year. Focus in It was seconded by James and unanimously regional conference. summer of 2012 will be on how to promote approved. She moved to reaffirm Council President Kobayashi discussed political strategies of inclusion and diversity in Meeting minutes from the Spring 2011 issues related to some of our international geography departments, leveraging some meeting held in Seattle that had been ap­ ventures and suggested that while it might of the results from the AAG’s ALIGNED proved by email. Middlekauff seconded the not be appropriate for the AAG to take a and EDGE projects. There have been motion, which was approved unanimously. formal position on potential human rights productive panel discussions at Annual Kobayashi also welcomed new Council or similar disputes, we should continue Meetings and a special Chairs’ Symposium, members and the AAG Council welcomed to be supportive of geographers in other both of which continue to engage these back Executive Director Richardson from countries. Within the discipline, we are issues. These difficult budgetary times raise his sabbatical. far from representative of the population concerns about the merging of geography with respect to gender, race, ethnicity, programs with others, so a session is being Challenges and Opportunities disabilities, indigenous and sexual orienta­ organized at the New York City Annual for the Association tion, though we have done a great deal to meeting on blended Geography in Depart­ Richardson provided a detailed overview address so­called issues of diversity. She ments in Social Science and Earth Science of the progress at the AAG during the past urged all to continue to address these areas programs. A new GFDA workshop on writ­ decade, and discussed its current status and where achieving equity can be difficult, ing for publication is under development. potential future trajectories. He elaborated to continue working to overcome barriers on the challenges and opportunities facing to full participation. She added that it is Review of Topical Developments the AAG since the beginning of the 21st important to continue the recently im­ – National Councillors Century, and the organizational development proved communication begun by previous Kobayashi asked the National Council­ and structures he has put in place to address presidents Carol Harden and Ken Foote. lors to consider how there are many signs these. Multiple new initiatives were discussed, She anticipates the new AAG Knowledge across the US and in other parts of the world and the strong growth in AAG’s membership, Communities having an important impact that the relationship between civil society annual meeting attendance, international on communication. The question of open­ and the state is undergoing respatialization activities, research programs, and financial ing access to the Knowledge Communities in a number of significant ways. Examples situation were documented. Continued new to non­AAG members had been raised to might include the Occupy movement and projects and programs were also described. and discussed among the Executive Com­ other antiglobalization protests, the restruc­ Richardson thanked the AAG staff for their mittee, who recommended that this be a turing of the housing market, the impact strong efforts in implementing these ongoing service available only to AAG members. of international agreements on the lives of initiatives, programs and projects. Vice President Sheppard expressed ordinary people, the neoliberalization of the President Kobayashi discussed how that he feels privileged to serve the AAG third sector, and so on. She asked for brief international initiatives have expanded membership. He has attended some re­ comments on the nature of such respatial­ and her wish to advance this through a gional meetings already. He is committed Continued on page 14

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AAG Council Minutes from page 13 AAG Council Minutes from page 14 izations, with some suggestions of how the issues of our times. There are individuals, sions of whether the membership would AAG might facilitate discussion of the most people in life and death situations and not want to consider merging with West Lakes. timely scholarly interventions. enough work is being done, e.g., intimate The Middle States Regional Division Till began by remarking how the Oc­ partner violence, school violence, street meeting was held at Keene State in New cupy movements have attracted interest violence, abortion, capital punishment, gun Jersey. The lack of participation from and attention around the world. She noted control, arms trade, and border issues. It is Research I institutions continues to frus­ that it is more than just taking over public our obligation to engage in this research trate the leadership of the Middle State space and more than merely the unknown and public discourse. Division. The participation is largely from of the economic situations. She suggested James commented on how geographers bachelor­only institutions and so they Arts and Sciences. geographers could focus on efforts to get could examine respatialization involving a miss the energy of graduate students at interdisciplinary teams together to address variety of government agencies and stake­ the meetings. new theories and models to rethink what is holders, such as contributing to promoting The 2011 Middle Atlantic Division year’s meeting will be hosted by the happening. Raphael agreed that thinking the watershed management approach to meeting was held at the University of how space has been important in these parceling out space and its interrelations. Maryland College Park and next year they times seems to be relevant. She asked, Geographers are optimally positioned to will meet with the Pennsylvania Geograph­ what is the meaning of the spaces of where promote the need for intergovernmental ical Society in Salisbury, MD. Holding these Occupy movements have been? She coordination and interdisciplinary ap­ joint meetings helps get a critical mass. The suggested that perhaps the AAG could proaches in dealing with social, physical, division is different from other divisions They also hire adjuncts. Concordia has host a blog or point to existing online and political issues. as it is constituted by a great number of conversations or Social Media that could professional geographers. Coppin State, a culminate in a panel discussion at the New Review of Geography Programs Historically Black College (HBCU), just York City meeting. – Regional Councillors got approval to start a geography major Glasmeier said that she has seen many The Southwest Regional Division met and HBCU Morgan State has now been presentations and events related to the in Austin this year with next year’s meeting approved to hire a geographer. George Occupy movements using data and spatial planned for New Mexico State University. Washington University has incorporated presentations without consideration for To better reflect its expanded mission, the environmental studies into their depart­ bean representative on the Steering Com the ethical implications in presenting this department of geography at the University ment and doubled their major base without information, e.g., scale, patterns, subjects. of Oklahoma changed its name to Geo­ additional resources. She pondered to what extent there is a graphy and Environmental Sustainability Glasmeier suggested sending a message role here for the AAG to act as a steward, earlier this year. There’s a new stand­alone of support to our colleagues at Penn State a facilitator for others using data and its geographer at the University of Arkansas University. Hummel volunteered to draft representation, particularly where there Fort Smith. Discussions in the Southwest a letter with her, which Council later west Division or Pacific Rim for the Pacific is an unintentional vulnerability of the Division revealed a sense they have a approved. people who are impacted by the repre­ distinct regional identity. The West Lakes region has engaged in sentation of the data. How do we gain The Pacific Coast Regional Division preliminary informal discussions on poten­ teachable moments from these events? (APCG) meetings were hosted by San tial future directions for the Region and Why does the geography of these activi­ Francisco State University and next year ways to increase the import and significance ties matter? Geographers can demonstrate will meet at Evergreen State College in of the annual regional meeting by focusing that these events are happening in places, Washington. Geography at UC Davis is re­ on conference themes, a regional focus, not in the abstract. For example, the viving and they will host the 2012 Califor­ and increasing the diversity of participating They recently launched a new website. Occupy gathering in Boston is different nia Geographic Society meetings. Regional institutions. The 2011 regional meeting was from the one in Berkeley, Washington meetings are popular because of field trips, held at DePaul University in Chicago. With DC or New York. They occur in different networking opportunities, student research almost 250 people registered, it was one of web pages. environments, which impact their move­ awards, better mentoring of junior faculty the best attended West Lakes meetings in ment. Wright also agreed that AAG could and students, fewer concurrent sessions, recent years. The West Lakes Division’s act as a central clearinghouse, connecting and opportunities for leadership. poster competition was inaugurated at this web sites, databases, analyses – helping to This year East Lakes met in Youngstown event. Key presentations and overarching connect the wider public or media with and next year they will meet in northern themes at the meeting made this an engag­ the work of intellectuals who are mapping Illinois at DeKalb, in a joint meeting with ing and thought­provoking event. In the social and physical issues of our times. West Lakes. A resurgence of geographers fall of 2011, Northern Michigan University Tyner reflected that geographers have at the University of Michigan is evident. renamed their Department of Geography often neglected some of the most pressing They have had preliminary informal discus­ Continued on page 15

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AAG Council Minutes from page 14 sions of whether the membership would the Department of Earth, Environmental STATUS Of THE ASSOCIATION Membership want to consider merging with West Lakes. and Geographical Sciences and now offers Executive Director Richardson re­ The Middle States Regional Division four new majors: Earth Science, Environ­ finances and Accounting ported that membership continues to grow meeting was held at Keene State in New mental Studies and Sustainability, Envi­ Glasmeier and Richardson provided an steadily and referred to the report by AAG Jersey. The lack of participation from ronmental Science, and Geomatics. They update on the AAG finances. The finan­ Membership Director Adam Thocher. The have over 300 undergraduate majors and cial status of the association continues to AAG offers many new support services to trate the leadership of the Middle State eight tenure­track faculty in addition to Dr. be healthy. Strong growth and positive individual members as well within the AAG Division. The participation is largely from Michael Broadway, Dean of the College of changes in net assets over the last decade sub­groups. Improvements to the website only institutions and so they Arts and Sciences. have come about by streamlining opera­ have enhanced membership support. In miss the energy of graduate students at This year’s New England/St. Lawrence tions and adding revenue sources. The particular the new AAG Knowledge Com­ Valley meeting was in Montreal and next AAG also has continued to diversify its or­ munities that were launched this year have The 2011 Middle Atlantic Division year’s meeting will be hosted by the ganizational revenues, developing multiple created new spaces for interaction and meeting was held at the University of University of Maine, Farmington. A ses­ and balanced income sources. Revenues communication within the AAG. They Maryland College Park and next year they sion at the AAG NYC meeting on reinvig­ vary significantly from year to year, but have already been used extensively by orating regional divisions was organized. generally come primarily from these mul­ Specialty Groups, some of the committees, ical Society in Salisbury, MD. Holding Rhode Island College will double the size tiple sources: approximately 20% member­ and members generally for many purposes, joint meetings helps get a critical mass. The of its department from one to two faculty. ship dues and external donors, 40% events, including news postings, organization of division is different from other divisions They also hire adjuncts. Concordia has 20% research, and 20% publications. sessions and special events for the annual as it is constituted by a great number of 500 geography majors with 15 faculty The Finance Committee met with the meeting, and many other announcements. professional geographers. Coppin State, a members. association’s auditors in March. Glasmeier The AAG has worked to increase col­ Historically Black College (HBCU), just The Southeast Regional Division met summarized the Finance Committee meet­ laboration and engagement with develop­ got approval to start a geography major in Savannah, Georgia and hosted the Na­ ing, stating that the auditors praised AAG’s ing regions through many activities and and HBCU Morgan State has now been tional Council meeting. It appears that accounting and financial results as among programs and continues the AAG Develop­ approved to hire a geographer. George regional boundaries do not reflect regional the best that they have seen among similar ing Regions Membership Program. Washington University has incorporated identities. Southeast is adding a Carib­ organizations. According to the lead auditor, bean representative on the Steering Com­ Bill Astrab, the AAG is very well run, trans­ Publications ment and doubled their major base without mittee. The perception of inferiority of parent, and effective. The Finance Commit­ The AAG received a request from the regional organizations is a constant tee members were also very impressed with Geoffrey Martin, to publish a memorial Glasmeier suggested sending a message challenge. Perhaps a focused theme at the financial management of the association for Wes Dow in the Annals. Discussion of support to our colleagues at Penn State conferences would invigorate the regional by Richardson and AAG accounting staff. resulted in a motion by Richardson to grant University. Hummel volunteered to draft meetings, e.g., Immigration for the South­ AAG has had another good year in its an exception to publish a memorial for a a letter with her, which Council later west Division or Pacific Rim for the Pacific investments, with a continued net gain on non­AAG President in the Annals. James Coast Division. They were pleased with investments over the past several difficult seconded. The motion passed unanimously. The West Lakes region has engaged in the results of online voting, having used it years (unlike most of its peer associations). Mark Fonstad’s and Mei­Po Kwan’s terms successfully now. AAG is in the process of upgrading the are coming up for renewal in December tial future directions for the Region and The Great Plains/Rocky Mountains software used for conference and member­ 2013. Tom Hodler’s term ad Cartography ways to increase the import and significance Division’s Annual meeting was held in ship management. Richardson reported that Editor is also up for renewal in Decem­ of the annual regional meeting by focusing Denver and next year they will meet in the AAG also recently completed an expen­ ber, 2013. Upon recommendation from on conference themes, a regional focus, Provo, Utah at Brigham Young University. sive and time­consuming implementation the Publications Committee, WinklerPrins and increasing the diversity of participating They recently launched a new website. of major changes to its existing association moved for Council to renew all three institutions. The 2011 regional meeting was Some requests were made for the AAG social networking system. The new social editors’ terms for Jan 2014­Dec 2018. James held at DePaul University in Chicago. With to publicize more non­GIS careers on its networking software is state­of­the­art and seconded. The motion passed unanimously. almost 250 people registered, it was one of web pages. is also integrated with the AAG’s upgraded AAG received several applications for the best attended West Lakes meetings in It was suggested that the questions put membership management system. The user Book Review Editor for the Annals. The recent years. The West Lakes Division’s to the Regional Councillors regarding the interface of this social networking system Publications Committee identified the poster competition was inaugurated at this nature of regional divisions could benefit is much more intuitive and is expected to strongest candidates. The AAG Execu­ event. Key presentations and overarching from some more context, which Audrey provide many new functions and benefits tive Committee discussed the Publication Kobayashi agreed to provide. The same to the AAG’s Specialty Groups. Richardson Committee’s input at its Fall meeting and provoking event. In the questions will be extended for the Spring noted that, time permitting, he would like recommended that Council interview three fall of 2011, Northern Michigan University 2012 Council Meeting in New York, to to undertake a new focused fundraising candidates at the Annual Meeting in New renamed their Department of Geography allow for additional responses and more campaign in support of important AAG York. A motion was made by Winkler­ Continued on page 15 detailed discussions. programs, most likely in 2013. Continued on page 16

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AAG Council Minutes from page 15 AAG Council Minutes from page 16 Prins to conduct these three interviews, two conference­call meetings at the end of and Exchange Program, funded by the US seconded by Greiner. It was approved November, and to convene in person at the Department of State, Bureau of Educational unanimously. Council also discussed the AAG Annual Meeting in New York City. and Cultural Affairs, Office of Citizen possibility of having two Book Review Edi­ Exchanges, Youth Programs will develop tors for the Annals. Meridian Place Operations virtual learning collaborations and class­ WinklerPrins moved to approve the Executive Director Richardson identi­ room sustainable development projects on proposed People, Place, and Region (PPR) fied recently hired staff and interns and climate change, food security, and green board of the AAG Annals, seconded by gave a brief overview of the management of economy with US Geographic Alliances Scott. It was approved unanimously with the office. He thanked Michael Solem and and exchange sites around the world; The one abstention. WinklerPrins moved to Candida Mannozzi for their efforts during My Community, Our Earth: Geographic approve the Nature Society editorial board his sabbatical and in ensuring that the Learning for Sustainable Development ac­ of the Annals, seconded by Scott. It was office ran smoothly. He also commended tivities towards the Rio+20 United Nations approved unanimously with one abstention. Teri Martin, Director of Finance as well conference in 2012 has engaged many part­ The Annals are experiencing backlogs as Jean McKendry and Patricia Solís and ners in federal government and the private in two Sections: Methods, Models and other staff for their support during this sector, with funding support from USDA GIS, and People, Place, and Region with period. to showcase the past decade of MyCOE Dec 2013 as the publication date for ar­ activities; Development of Fundamental workshop in Bangalore, India, in March ticles accepted now. Several strategies were Research Geospatial Datasets in Africa, additional identified by the Publications Committee Solís and Richardson reported on a funding from the US Department of State and discussed and elaborated by the AAG variety of new AAG strategic initiatives for expanding reach of geospatial datasets Council. Richardson offered to discuss to that had been funded and approved since and capacity­building in the Lake Victoria with Routledge a number of the options the last Council meeting. They noted that region with UNEP, UN Habitat, RCMRD, by the and suggestions regarding the strategies these engage many of the AAG’s talented and in partnership with EIS­Africa; and Taylor & Francis, and the College Board. identified. staff around important disciplinary themes another five years of funding from the NSF The PG Editor had proposed an on­ for which AAG has a unique contribution Geography and Spatial Sciences Program was awarded funding from the NSF for line discussion forum in order to encour­ to make. Since the Spring 2011 Council to continue the long­term AAG program age greater interactive engagement with Meeting, the AAG was awarded funding providing travel support for US participa­ published articles. The PG Editor would for seven new research related initiatives tion in International Geographical Union monitor the forum, to maintain discussion or support for expanding current efforts, Events, from 2012 to 2016. momentum and moderate the tone of the totaling $1,008,385. These are the Geospa­ Richardson provided further updates on exchanges. Richardson moved to approve tial Frontiers in Health and Social Environ­ other numerous ongoing AAG initiatives, a one­year trial of an online discussion ments program funded by the National including: NIH­Wide GIS Infrastructure, forum for the PG, to be revisited in a year. Institutes of Health (NIH) for a two­year Geography and Human Rights, Historical Scott seconded. The motion was approved implementation of a series of three work­ GIS Clearinghouse and Online Research unanimously. shops assembling experts in GIScience, Forum, ALIGNED, Quantitative Social Richardson commended the work of social sciences, public health sciences, and Science Digital Library, Developing GIS&T AAG Staff Robin Maier and Miranda Lecea biomedical sciences; Catalyzing Research Infrastructure for Innovation and Economic on the operations of the journals. on Geographies of Broadening Participa­ Development, and NSF Travel Grants. Council discussed the format, digital and tion from NSF’s Geography and Spatial hard copy, of the AAG Newsletter. Richard­ Sciences (GSS) Program with support Educational Affairs son also noted that, pursuant to a previous from the NSF­wide Science of Broadening Solem reported on updates in various Council Resolution, the 2011­2012 edition Participation Program, focused on the con­ significant ongoing Educational Affairs of the AAG Guide is currently in production tributions of geography and the spatial sci­ initiatives. He noted the progress made as an online publication, with many thanks ences to catalyze research on broadening with new Careers­related publications and to AAG Staff Megan Overbey for her edi­ participation in higher education; RAPID research, with thanks to AAG Staff Joy torial work. This year, it will be published Outreach and Scaling­up Activities for Adams, Mark Revell, Jean McKendry and both online and by print­on­demand, and the ALIGNED Diversity Project from the others. The AAG will soon launch com­ ucation in the next “No Child Left Behind” is on schedule to be made available by the NSF to incorporate additional data from pletely revised and updated Jobs & Careers Annual Meeting in New York. 50 departments into the beta version of the web pages and has developed a wide range The AAG International Encyclopedia toolkit and production of new multimedia of careers­related activities and sessions for of Geography is currently under develop­ outreach materials; The My Community, the NY Annual Meeting. ment with the core editorial team to hold Our Earth (MyCOE) Global Connections Continued on page 17

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AAG Council Minutes from page 16 and Exchange Program, funded by the US The AAG’s “Enhancing Departments cluding former Secretaries of State George ally. Wright seconded, the motion was ap­ Department of State, Bureau of Educational and Graduate Education in Geography” Schultz, James Baker, Madeleine Albright, proved unanimously. Past President Foote and Cultural Affairs, Office of Citizen (EDGE) project, currently in its second and many other high profile individuals and agreed to draft an announcement regarding Exchanges, Youth Programs will develop phase of funding by NSF’s Research and national organizations. the Resolution for circulation to Specialty Evaluation on Education in Science and En­ Group Chairs in which he will also correct room sustainable development projects on gineering (REESE) program, features three Outreach the misleading information made by one climate change, food security, and green research components: Analysis of Business, AAG staff participate in or attend hun­ Specialty Group regarding the Council’s economy with US Geographic Alliances Government, and Nonprofit Profession­ dreds of meetings and conferences every previous actions on this matter. and exchange sites around the world; The als; Analysis of Business, Government, and year, including, among many, the Esri User My Community, Our Earth: Geographic Non­Profit Organizations; and Analysis of Conference, IGU, AAAS Science and Honors and Awards Graduate Geography Programs The AAG Human Rights Coalition, UCGIS, R.E.P., Kobayashi read the recommendations tivities towards the Rio+20 United Nations has received a grant for NASA’s Global NIH, COSSA, RGS­IGB and many others. presented by the AAG Honors Committee. Climate Change Education solicitation to AAG also undertakes many activities Greiner moved to approve the list of 2012 ners in federal government and the private Improve Teacher Competency for Global for Careers & Employment in Geography, AAG Honors. Wright seconded. It was sector, with funding support from USDA Climate Change Education. Also, NSF has including recently the AAG Careers in approved unanimously. Council continued to showcase the past decade of MyCOE awarded the AAG a grant to fund a CGGE Geography website overhaul; new Jobs in discussion of the AAG Honors with respect activities; Development of Fundamental workshop in Bangalore, India, in March Geography (JIG) activities for Seattle 2011 to identifying ways to increase recognition Geospatial Datasets in Africa, additional 2012 to foster new educational collabora­ and for New York City 2012; Departmental of women scholars and geographers from funding from the US Department of State tions with geography educators in India Data Survey Results; AAG presence on underrepresented and minority groups for expanding reach of geospatial datasets and other South Asian nations. Additional social media and networking sites (e.g. among the AAG honors and awards. Ko­ building in the Lake Victoria support for the workshop will be provided Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, etc.); and new bayashi asked for Council volunteers for a region with UNEP, UN Habitat, RCMRD, by the Journal of Geography in Higher Education, education and outreach materials develop­ small committee to work with AAG staff Africa; and Taylor & Francis, and the College Board. ment supported by activities of various on the issue of nominations’ diversity, and another five years of funding from the NSF The National Geographic Society external grants. to formulate a process. Scott and James Geography and Spatial Sciences Program was awarded funding from the NSF for AAG continues many activities related volunteered to work with Kobayashi and term AAG program “Establishing a Roadmap for Large­Scale to public policy, press and media relations, Solís on compiling ideas to discuss at the Improvement of K­12 Education in the external relationships with other organiza­ next council meeting. tion in International Geographical Union Geographical Sciences.” The AAG has a tions, including other associations in geo­ Richardson noted that Mary Robin­ sub­award contract to conduct research graphy and other disciplines. Many of son, the former President of Ireland and Richardson provided further updates on agenda work. Susan Gallagher Heffron and these are international activities. a leading figure in human rights, will re­ other numerous ongoing AAG initiatives, Niem Huynh are leading the AAG’s efforts ceive the AAG Atlas Award for 2012. Wide GIS Infrastructure, on this two­year project. Annual Meetings Foote announced that the 2012 Presiden­ Geography and Human Rights, Historical The AAG’s Susan Gallagher Heffron is Richardson commended the work of tial Achievement Award would recognize GIS Clearinghouse and Online Research coordinating the GENIP project to revise AAG Conference Director Oscar Larson Laura Pulido and Dawn Wright. Forum, ALIGNED, Quantitative Social the National Geography Standards. The regarding the organization of the upcom­ The recommendation was given from Science Digital Library, Developing GIS&T draft text is currently undergoing copyedit­ ing Annual Meeting. He noted that the the AAG Enhancing Diversity Committee Infrastructure for Innovation and Economic ing. The project, with additional funding AAG Annual Meetings scheduled for the for the 2011 AAG Enhancing Diversity support from AAG and NGS, will produce next few years are as follows: New York, Award to recognize Rickie Sanders of Tem­ an Executive Summary and a PDF version NY 2012, Los Angeles 2013, Tampa 2014, ple University. Sheppard moved to approve of the Standards document. The timeline Chicago 2015. the nominee, seconded by Alderman. The Solem reported on updates in various for release of this 2nd Edition of the Na­ With respect to AAG Annual Meeting motion passed unanimously. significant ongoing Educational Affairs tional Geography Standards publication is registration rates, a proposal for reduced The AAG Executive Committee selected initiatives. He noted the progress made scheduled for early 2012. Annual Meeting fees for unemployed and Saskia Sassen of Columbia University to related publications and An AAG Resolution Supporting K­12 under­employed geographers was dis­ receive the 2012 Honorary Geographer research, with thanks to AAG Staff Joy Geography Education is an initiative to cussed by the AAG Council. Vice President Award. Adams, Mark Revell, Jean McKendry and support federal funding for Geography Ed­ Sheppard moved that, starting with the ucation in the next “No Child Left Behind” 2013 Annual Meeting, the AAG add a reg­ Committees and Council pletely revised and updated Jobs & Careers authorization, and in other ways. Thanks istration option for unemployed and under­ The Council elected the nominees for web pages and has developed a wide range to the work of many, including Richardson employed geographers (earning less than the 2012 member election ballot from related activities and sessions for and also AAG Staff John Wertman, the $25,000 a year), allowing them to register among the nomination slates for Honors resolution has recently gained the support at the same rate as students/retirees. It was and Nominating Committees. Zorn pre­ Continued on page 17 of numerous high­profile signatories, in­ suggested this provision be revised annu­ Continued on page 18

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AAG Council Minutes from page 17 sented the results of the nominations pro­ around organizing for the AAG Annual Council and Executive vided by the AAG Nominating Committee Meeting in New York. Till suggested that Committee Meetings for the 2012 ballot. Council discussed the the length of the Specialty Group Chairs The Spring 2012 Executive Committee lack of gender parity on the ballot and will meeting during the Annual Meeting be will be held January 16­17 in St. Petersburg, further examine issues of inclusion in AAG extended to enhance communication with Florida. The AAG Finance Committee governance at its next meeting. and among the Specialty Groups. In par­ Meeting for Spring 2012 will be deter­ Zorn made a motion to approve the ticular, the extended session could enable mined at a later date. Council expressed current list of AAG committee members, some active participants with the Knowl­ thanks to Laurel Hummel who is attend­ with the addition of two new appointments edge Communities to share experiences, ing her last Council meeting. They also that filled vacancies for AAG Councillors as well as other topics. The AAG will expressed thanks to Doug and staff for on Standing Committees: Jim Tyner for again offer an orientation and technical hosting this meeting. the International Research and Scholarly assistance session towards the end of the Council met in closed session. Exchange Committee and Derek Alderman Annual Meeting week, to allow newly Meeting was adjourned. n for the Committee on College Geography elected chairs to understand how to use and Careers. WinklerPrins seconded the the many new AAG services and features Submitted Respectfully, motion. It was approved unanimously. for Specialty Groups. Jenny Zorn, AAG Secretary Council considered a request for the Specialty and Affinity Groups creation of a Geographies of Food and Till presented an update on the sta­ Agriculture Specialty Group. Council tus of activity by Specialty and Affinity expressed some concern about overlap Groups. Solís added information from the with other specialty groups and cautioned reports submitted to AAG Council. While against establishing Specialty Groups based there are a few groups that are less active on a current topical trend. Till moved to than others, overall the groups were func­ approve the formation of the group, sec­ tioning in accordance with established onded by James. The motion was approved levels of activity. Many are very active unanimously with one abstention.

MyCOE Invites Student Participation for Rio+20 Showcase he AAG’s My Community, Our Earth: appropriate for a MyCOE Project. Projects In 1992, representatives from nations Geographic Learning for Sustainable should be conducted by or with youth (includ­ around the world gathered at the Earth T Development (MyCOE) Partnership ing university students) whether as individuals Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil to consider is accepting submissions of student­led proj­ or in groups. A simple online submission how to promote sustainable development. ects that address sustainable development form requests contact information, a project In 2012, world leaders will again gather at challenges using geography, mapping, or GIS. title, at least one map with a description, at Rio+20 to discuss progress, evaluate needs, Entries will made available for public viewing least one photograph with a caption, and a and identify new priorities for how to ensure a and will be displayed during the Rio+20 brief project summary. Additional optional future world that is environmentally, socially United Nations Conference for Sustainable materials such as webpage links, full reports, and economically sustainable. MyCOE will Development in order raise awareness of the or videos can also be uploaded. showcase the results of a decade of encour­ importance of geography and geographic Full project guidelines are available at aging youth­led sustainable development learning for sustainable development. Select www.aag.org/mycoesubmit. A special set of projects from more than 100 countries around projects submitted by June 1 will also receive resources to assist with developing projects the world. special recognition and prizes. The Rio+20 along themes of Climate Change, Food MyCOE partners include the AAG, U.S. Conference will be held June 20­22, 2012 in Security, Green Economy, and more are Department of State, U.S. Department of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (www.uncsd2012.org/ available online at www.mycoe.org. In April, Agriculture, USAID, Esri, United Nations rio20). a digital gallery will be launched and will Environment Program, USGS, NASA, Any new or existing project that uses enable interaction, comments, and sharing National Geographic Society, and others. geographic methods or analysis and maps favorite projects on social media such as AAG serves as Secretariat. n to address sustainable development issues is Facebook and twitter.

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AAG Council Meeting Minutes

February 22-24, 2012 Kobayashi had also attended the Vice President’s Comments New York City Finance Committee meeting and added Eric Sheppard said he was honored to her thanks on behalf of the Council and have been elected as AAG President. He Present: Audrey Kobayashi, President; Eric the AAG membership. identified a few areas he’s been explor- Sheppard, Vice President; Ken Foote, Past Kobayashi requested a motion to ing in his role as Vice President, which President; Amy Glasmeier, Treasurer; Douglas approve the 2011 Fall Council Minutes. he hopes to further pursue in his next Richardson, Executive Director; Derek James moved to approve the Fall 2011 term: diversity, engaged pluralism, finding Alderman, Dagmar Budikova, Alyson Minutes, Bradley Rundquist seconded. ways to incorporate perspectives from the Greiner, Allan James, Bryon Middlekauff, The Minutes were approved unanimously. Global South in AAG activities, and com- Marilyn Raphael, Bradley Rundquist, Grant Greiner moved to amend the approved munication across the association. Saff, James Tyner, Karen Till, Antoinette Fall Minutes with a minor clarification Sheppard indicated that he hopes to WinklerPrins, Richard Wright. regarding the SWAAG regional division. continue to find ways to increase diversi- Absent on first day: Michael Scott; Jenny Glasmeier seconded the motion, the fication domestically by growing African- Zorn, Secretary amendment to the Fall Minutes was unani- American and Hispanic participation at AAG Staff: Candida Mannozzi, Michael mously approved. all levels and connect these domestic Solem, Patricia Solís diversity issues to international diversity Executive Director’s Comments challenges. He plans to continue President Opening of the Spring 2012 Richardson provided a brief overview Kobayashi’s focus on racism and bring out AAG Council Meeting of the major items on the Council Meeting the existing domestic and international President Audrey Kobayashi called the agenda and discussed progress and updates work of AAG in this area, especially with meeting to order at 3:10 p.m. in work at the AAG since the previous regard to African-American and Latino Kobayashi welcomed everyone. She Council Meeting in the Fall of 2011. Rich- communities. Sheppard stated he would requested adoption of the Meeting ardson noted that new information and support an award to recognize this. Agenda. Alderman moved to adopt the action items had been flagged for easier He wishes to try to find ways to com- Agenda, Sheppard seconded, and the overview in the Council packet. municate across self-imposed divisions in Agenda was adopted unanimously. the discipline and to instead create spaces In Secretary Zorn’s absence, Mannozzi President’s Comments for constructive engagement. and Solís were asked to take notes of the Kobayashi noted that she feels excited By further incorporating perspectives Meeting. by the health of the discipline and the from developing country students and Kobayashi welcomed new Middle organization, and also expressed her scholars, but also leveraging the AAG’s States Council member Grant Saff, whose thanks to Doug and all the AAG staff existing Developing Regions programs term begins July 1, 2012, attending on an for their work. She mentioned receiv- and the fact that geographers from informational basis for Laurie Hummel. ing strong reactions to her recent AAG around the world gather at the AAG to Doug Richardson introduced Teri Newsletter column on AAG regional divi- strengthen these connections, Sheppard Martin and Michelle Ledoux of the AAG sions. While she acknowledged that there hopes to create a platform where dif- Accounting office, and thanked them for continue to be questions about region size ferent views get more equal airing; as their important work. The AAG Finance and representation, she stressed that the well as supporting participatory action- Committee met just prior to the start of AAG is not planning to restructure the oriented research, community research, the Council meeting. Richardson reported regions, but remains available for help, etc. Sheppard mentioned that he may that the auditors praised the AAG’s orga- when asked for input or assistance. She address these themes in his Presidential nizational accomplishments and also the also noted the AAG has greatly increased Plenary in Los Angeles. accounting work of Teri and Michelle. Teri its financial and administrative support for Sheppard stated he had been unaware Martin noted that she enjoyed working for regional divisions over the past decade. of the scope and range of the AAG’s work the AAG. She was hired nine years ago and Kobayashi then referenced a list of and new programs in so many impor- has observed the financial foundation of the AAG manuals and guidelines included tant areas. He expressed his desire to Association improve greatly in the course in the Council packet. She hopes to help dispel any misperceptions among the of her time with the AAG. Michelle started provide periodic updates to these and to membership as to the AAG’s work and working for the AAG two and a half years the Standing Rules, which were recently service; to move nominating processes and ago and stated it was a pleasure to come to revised under President Tom Baerwald. national elections online to improve par- work and be able to do her job with the She invited Councillors to provide input ticipation; perhaps to create a President’s right support and procedures in place. or to suggest updates or clarifications. blog to interact with members on a more

24 AAG Newsletter www.aag.org AAG Council Meeting Minutes Volume 47, Number 8 direct and regular basis, again all with a The Department of Geography at the won the Geography Bowl. Attendance at view to giving membership easier access. University of New Mexico reports that it the conference was, however, well below The President’s Column in the AAG is hiring another tenure-track GIScientist that of the previous five years. The 2012 Newsletter was indicated as a possible precur- to start in Fall 2012. In addition, the name Middle States meeting will be held on sor and example of such a President’s blog. of the department is changing to “Geogra- November 2-3 at Shippensburg University phy and Environmental Studies.” in Shippensburg, PA, and it is expected Past President’s Comments In Oklahoma, the East Central Univer- that attendance will exceed that of 2011. Ken Foote stated that he has enjoyed sity (ECU) Department of Cartography All parts of the region reported issues his service on the Executive Committee and Geography continues to experi- tied to tightening budgets or cuts in State over the past three years. His focus has ence growth in its number of majors. A funding. In New Jersey, Pennsylvania and been on professional development, includ- record 70 were enrolled during the Fall New York there is concern over Gov- ing the 2012 AAG Annual Meeting. For 2011 semester, a three and one-half fold ernors’ plans to merge or cancel some New York, he co-organized a Department increase since Fall 2006. ECU faculty have programs and cut budgets. Chairs Symposium with over 45 registered been instrumental in authoring the cover There is a strong feeling among regional participants, and two panels on blended and inside-cover of the Journal of Geography members that the regional meetings are a departments. since mid-2010. useful and economical venue for students Department Leadership and GFDA There was some reaction in the region to exchange information and experience workshops are scheduled for June of 2012, to President Kobayashi’s column on the an academic conference. The Region is and registration is already underway. The question of “what is regional about our working to improve its effectiveness in organizers are also working with the AAG regions.” Misperceptions as to the intent serving its members (i.e. actively working ALIGNED project, to bring a stronger of the column have been addressed by on increasing participation in regional focus on diversity into the workshops. Kobayashi and Greiner. activities). Foote expressed his pleasure at the approval of the Routledge nomination for Great Plains, Rocky Mountains (GPRM) East Lakes the 2012 AAG Publications Honors. He Bradley Rundquist noted there is much Antoinette WinklerPrins stated that also supports increasing the number of enthusiasm among departments in this the East and West Lakes divisions will AAG Honors awarded each year. region for hosting GPRM meetings: 2012 be meeting jointly in DeKalb, Illinois Foote also distributed copies of the is scheduled Oct. 11-13 in Provo, UT, Oct. 25-27, 2012. Professor Jie Song, newly published NSF/AAG funded Practic- with Dr. Ryan Jensen of Brigham Young from the Department of Geography at ing Geography, which is expected to have an University serving as Regional Chair and Northern Illinois University is the contact important impact on the discipline. Both conference organizer. The 2013 meeting person for the event. In 2013, the joint Kobayashi and Richardson underscored will be in Omaha, NE, with Dr. Karen meeting will be hosted by the University the long term significance of Ken Foote’s Falconer Al-Hindi of the University of of Toledo (possibly with CAG-ONT) on initiatives for the discipline, and thanked Nebraska-Omaha planning the event. the occasion of the 50th anniversary of him for his many contributions during his Although not official, potential meeting the department at U. of Toledo. In 2014 presidency of the AAG. sites have also been identified for 2014 it will be held at Western Michigan Uni- and 2015. versity in Kalamazoo, then at Kent State Regional Councillor Reports Budgets remain a top concern for most University in 2015, and in 2016 a joint departments in the region. Some schools East/West Lakes meeting may take place Southwest (SWAAG) reported some salary increases, and some in Marquette, MI, hosted by Northern Alyson Greiner reported that the lifting of hiring freezes. Overall, majors Michigan University. SWAAG regional meeting will be held are on the rise or holding steady, and Overall the region’s geography depart- at New Mexico State University this fall. demand for graduate education is strong ments and programs continue to do well Across the region, a number of depart- with good candidates. despite continued economic challenges. ments report that they have hired or been A number of departments are hiring (e.g., given the go-ahead to hold searches for Middle States University of Cincinnati, Grand Valley faculty lines at the assistant, associate, and Grant Saff reported that the 2011 State University, Central Michigan Uni- full professor levels. Annual Meeting was hosted by the School versity, Western Michigan University), In November 2011, the State of New of General Studies on the Kean University especially for geographers with GIS and/ Mexico Board of Governors approved a campus in Union, New Jersey on November or planning skills. Departments are also proposal for an interdisciplinary Ph.D. and 12-13. The keynote address, Geography and remaining astute in terms of position- M.S in Water Science and Management, Social Justice: Some Challenges and New Direc- ing themselves to attract majors by which will begin in fall of 2012. NMSU is tions, was given by AAG President Audrey focusing on techniques, environmental also active with career service initiatives. Kobayashi. The SUNY Geneseo team Continued on page 26

www.aag.org AAG Newsletter 25 September 2012 AAG Council Meeting Minutes

Council Meeting Minutes from page 25 and global studies tracks. Enrollment in a PhD in Geography. If anything, the Smith from Macalester College will serve courses appears to be increasing or at least SEDAAG region seems to be dealing with a 3-year term beginning July 1, 2012. holding steady. Despite good enrollments growing pains. Discussion regarding the general topic in courses, some departments continue to SEDAAG established a student repre- of “What is regional about your region” struggle with adequate numbers of majors. sentative position on its Steering Com- will be continued at the next regional In the fall of 2011, the remaining faculty mittee, usually someone from the Depart- meeting in DeKalb to gauge the overall of the Department of Geography and ment that is hosting the regional meeting. sentiment towards a potential merger of Planning at the University of Akron trans- Alderman asked whether the AAG might the East and West Lakes divisions. Initial ferred to the Departments of Geology want to consider a student representative results from a survey conducted on the and Environmental Science and of Public to Council. Kobayashi asked for two vol- topic last October were submitted as part Administration and Urban Planning. The unteers to develop a statement describing of the regional report to the council in degree programs in geography and GIS the potential benefits of having a student the fall. No comments were made by (BS and BA; MA and MS) have been representative on the AAG Council, the membership who participated in the transferred to the Department of Geology including providing some background on survey about the possibility of a merger. and ES, and these degree programs will how SEDAAG has benefited from student Updates from programs in the region continue to be supported. This depart- participation on its Steering Committee. included a hire of a tenure-track faculty ment is considering a name change to WinklerPrins and Alderman offered their member at the Department of Geography the Department of Geosciences to better time. in UW-River Falls. The program boasts reflect the new combination. The degree 35 majors and 40 minors, but wishes to programs in planning (BA and MA) were NESTVAL further increase student enrollment. This transferred to the Department of Public Bryon Middlekauff reported that goal is proving to be challenging. Help is Administration and are being phased out. NESTVAL regional meetings are sched- requested from the AAG in terms of any In response to the ‘what’s regional about uled through 2014, so they’re doing well existing resources and best practices. the regions’ question, there seems to be an and seem popular. The 2012 meeting overall sentiment that the time has come will be held at the University of Maine- Pacific Coast (APCG) to rethink some of the regional divisions in Farmington. Jenny Zorn stated the APCG regional the AAG and that one ‘Great Lakes’ region The University of New Hampshire meeting is proving to be a diverse, stimu- might prove to be a good option. suffered 50% cuts; Rhode Island College is lating event. It attracts a range of par- doing well; Clark University is still going ticipants, from students getting their first Southeast (SEDAAG) strong; Westfield State reorganized its experiences at giving papers, to retirees Derek Alderman noted that the 2012 major. Two Canadian schools also partici- wishing to remain connected with col- SEDAAG meeting will take place in Ashe- pate in NESTVAL: Bishop’s University is leagues and the discipline. Travel support ville, North Carolina, and in Roanoke, doing well; Concordia University has an and scholarships are also greatly appreci- Virginia in 2013. SEDAAG has strong astonishing 1,000 majors. The NE Geogra- ated. The papers are very diverse and student registration numbers, and are pher is publishing its fourth issue this year. community college participation is high. seeking to increase faculty participation. For the Annual Meeting in New York, Field trips are also a big draw. They are grateful to the AAG for helping Middlekauff organized a session on how organize sessions at the New York Annual to improve Regional Division Meetings. Middle Atlantic (MAD) Meeting in memory of James Wheeler. He also expressed thanks to the AAG for Michael Scott reported that the question There is now a Caribbean representa- helping to organize a memorial reception from President Kobayashi initiated a dis- tive on the SEDAAG Steering Commit- for Maynard (Wes) Dow at the New York cussion within MAD, revealing that the tee. SEDAAG has been developing online Annual Meeting. general feeling is a desire to hold on to election options. the region as it has been traditionally, but Alderman mentioned the 51 volumes West Lakes some agreement that it’s small and quite of SE Journal, noting that 2012 will be the Dagmar Budikova noted that the 2012 diverse and may not be as effective as it fourth year the journal is published quar- regional meeting has been scheduled to could be. In order to garner stronger atten- terly. SEDAAG has been struggling to get take place at Northern Illinois University dance and participation, MAD may hold the SE Journal included in the ISI citation in DeKalb, Illinois between October 25 some of its annual meetings in conjunction index and is seeking insight and advice to and 27, 2012. This will be a joint meeting with other regions’ or other organizations’ this process. between the East and West Lakes Divi- meetings (such as Middle States, Pennsyl- Enrollments remain strong, despite sions. vania Geographical Society, SEDAAG, budget cuts and constraints in the region. A new regional councillor has been etc.). Some MAD geographers will meet The University of Alabama is planning elected by the division membership: Laura in New York City to discuss this.

26 AAG Newsletter www.aag.org AAG Council Meeting Minutes Volume 47, Number 8

National Councillor Reports have been challenged recently by exami- porations, governments, industrial groups) Richard Wright reported on being nation of high spatial resolution data sets respond, vs. the responses by local popula- currently half-way through a four year that demonstrate a great deal of variance tions. From this we deduce the potential NSF project on the recession and internal in river behavior in the downstream direc- for change in the relationship between migration of native- and foreign-born. tion. civil society and state. Within the AAG He suggested the AAG might consider How can the AAG facilitate this tran- we might consider developing a focus on developing a forum on the devolution sition? Special sessions and perhaps a these themes, or to ask Department Chairs to local and state authorities of national plenary can be devoted to hyperspatial to sponsor colloquia series to bring in the immigration policies, as geographers could data availability, effects on process rec- public and larger populations. The AAG contribute significant insight and analysis ognition and emergence of new theories could encourage research at the intersec- on these phenomena. as a result in a variety of fields. A special tion of climate and society/policy and ask Amy Glasmeier applauded the AAG’s issue of the Annals or PG could promote how geographers are helping to respond well tuned organization and its service to thought in this area as well. Speaker series to these challenges. members. She focused her comments on could promote visits to departments large Karen Till suggested alternative venues respatalization of labor market trends and and small. like blogs for raising awareness of what on how education is critical to the role of In short, it appears that the growing geography is at the same time as recogniz- gender in the marketplace and the national availability of hyperspatial information is ing engagement with the important issues economy. How does this raise opportuni- likely to result in fundamental re-evalua- of society. This is something that may ties and challenges for universities and tions of theory. While this may be disturb- be the Council’s task to lead and may the discipline of Geography? The current ing, what could be more geographic? admittedly be hard to do, but much work financial crisis and increasing unemploy- James Tyner pointed to various contest- at the AAG has already begun. Many of ment may require assistance parallel to the ed terms such as “state, respatialization, us already have some civic engagement: 1970s training act serving women entering people”. Space is something produced, Till asked for more encouragement and the job market for the first time. How can never static or neutral. When considering high-profile coverage of it, perhaps coor- geography be used to assist the military two criteria, bodies being productive and dinating it. She stated that geographers do returning from two ending conflicts into a responsible and the ability to partici- well with applied/theoretical connections, weak labor market? pate fully, spatial and geographic notions moving across those artificial boundaries. After 30 years as an AAG member, become fundamental. So we see instances She suggested using some AAG mate- Allan James expressed his appreciation of cutting services to weaker neighbor- rials in many of the programs within for his three years of service on the hoods, to those who do not contribute our institutions, as ambassadors within AAG Council. James reported on recent to the overall vision of progress. Tyner our institutions, to recruit geographers research that questions basic premises of feels it is important for the discipline to at younger ages. As an example, Till river science based on changing spatial engage in discussions of political and mentioned her work with artists who are scales of analysis. This example of respa- social justice, and to pay attention to these socially engaged, pointing out that those tialization from fluvial geomorphology is phenomena, with a view to providing just are good occasions to learn from the arts, intriguing in its own right, but takes on and human alternatives. too. Till also suggested the idea of Geo­ broader relevance as it may be indicative Marilyn Raphael framed the question graphy Classics on Kindle. Till updated of similar developments in other sub- in light of the AAG as an academic orga- the Council on Specialty Groups, and also disciplines. Due to greater technologi- nization which facilitates meetings, pub- encouraged them to submit annual reports cal capabilities, both data collection and lications, collaborations and discussions on time. Till also suggested the pos- analysis now can capture much higher among geographers. It represents geogra- sibility of an AAG-sponsored speaker tour spatial resolutions to examine physical and phy to the U.S. and the rest of the world. visiting? departments. Departments might human systems. Models of river response Climate change and global warming are put in proposals and have visitors speak have maintained forms of gradual change changing climatic variables over space to these issues. Richardson mentioned through space for more than 50 years. (e.g. large scale, extended droughts and a potential model for this under VGSP, Downstream hydraulic geometry holds floods, severe extended cold outbreaks, which is supported in part by GTU. that most hydraulic variables increase or reduction in Arctic sea ice, change in sea decrease gradually and predictably in the level leading to mass evacuation from Finance downstream direction. Similarly, the river- low-lying islands, etc.). These alterations Treasurer Glasmeier reported on continuum concept (Vannote et al., 1980) will continue to influence where and how the 2012 Finance Committee meeting. holds that biologic agents and processes people and animals live and how they The AAG auditors called-in during the change gradually and predictably down- move. However, often there is a discon- stream. Both of these prevalent concepts nection between how larger? entities (cor- Continued on page 28

www.aag.org AAG Newsletter 27 September 2012 AAG Council Meeting Minutes

Council Meeting Minutes from page 27 meeting, and reported the organization students, retired, unemployed and under- by the end of the year, as part of a larger is very well run and implements state-of- employed geographers to become and communications strategy, with a view to the-art financial management practices. remain AAG members, and to partici- implementing it by the end of the year. The auditors stated that the AAG was in pate in the Association’s many activities, WinklerPrins seconded the motion, which the top 2% of the non-profit organiza- including attending the Annual Meeting. was passed unanimously. tions they audit in terms of fiscal controls Richardson updated Council on and record-keeping, as well as in finan- Journal Operations progress with the International Encyclopedia of cial growth and performance. Glasmeier Richardson gave a brief overview of Geography, including the editorial meeting moved that Council accept the auditors’ journal operations, noting also that the organized in New York in February of report. Wright seconded, the motion was Annals Managing Editor Robin Maier was 2012 with the general and section editors, passed unanimously. currently on maternity leave. He con- and representatives from Wiley Publish- The proposed 2013 budget was firmed that all journals operations continue ing. reviewed and Treasurer Glasmeier moved smoothly in her absence, and thanked for it to be approved. Middlekauff PG Managing Editor Miranda Lecea for Meridian Place Operations seconded, the proposed 2013 budget was her support of the Annals as well during Richardson provided an update on per- approved unanimously. Robin’s maternity leave. He also reported sonnel at the AAG. He also announced Treasurer Glasmeier further moved to that the Honors Committee approved that the AAG elections in 2013 will be transfer $1million from the AAG’s general Routledge as recipient of the 2012 AAG held online. The AAG has researched investment account to the AAG’s Douglas Publication Award. several online election systems for accom- Richardson Endowment for Geography’s WinklerPrins gave an overview of the plishing this, and plans to select the final Future. Middlekauff seconded the motion editorial terms and renewals, and described system in the summer of 2012. and it was approved unanimously. the interview format for the Annals book Richardson discussed ongoing Council discussed formulating a stra- review editorial position. The interviews improvements to the AAG website, which tegic plan. Till moved that the Executive were held later in the Council meeting underwent a substantial overhaul and was Committee begin the process of formu- and Kent Mathewson was selected as the launched in the summer of 2010. The lating a strategic plan for discussion at Book Review Editor for the AAG Annals, Knowledge Communities were recently the Fall Council meeting. WinklerPrins effective July 1, 2012. implemented and the AAG has since seconded the motion, which was passed The backlog in the AAG journals was offered training and technical support to unanimously. discussed, as well as the suggested solu- members, including a special session at the Treasurer Glasmeier moved to tions previously proposed by the AAG New York Annual Meeting. commend Doug Richardson, Teri Martin, Council. WinklerPrins moved that the Richardson noted that a major upgrade to and Michelle Ledoux for their excellent Council authorize Richardson to negotiate the iMIS membership management system stewardship of AAG finances. James with Routledge to move forward with all would occur during the summer of 2012. seconded and the motion was passed but two of the suggestions. Middlekauff This will involve moving the entire system unanimously. seconded the motion, which was accepted to new servers, updating software, and unanimously. custom programming of several account- Membership Options for publishing book reviews ing, membership, and Annual Meeting data Richardson informed the Council that in an online format were also discussed. processing and interactive online features. AAG membership totaled 10,823 at the WinklerPrins moved that the Publica- The AAG is also making preparations end of December, 2011. tions Committee (in collaboration with to provide an option for the Los Angeles Richardson also described continued the Association’s current and incoming Annual Meeting attendees to have the progress since the launch of the AAG editors) investigate the vision for, and Meeting Program available also online for Knowledge Communities, using Higher implementation of an online AAG Review handheld devices such as smart phones, Logic software. The Knowledge Commu- of Books to be discussed at the Fall Council laptops, and tablets. nities provide interactive and user-friendly meeting. Wright seconded and the motion means for members of AAG Specialty was passed unanimously. Research Groups, Regional Divisions and others Council discussed the possibility of Richardson remarked that the many to communicate, share documents, and the AAG Newsletter being published online. currently funded research programs are engage in a variety of discussions and Discussion also included the need for proceeding well. He pointed to a strong exchanges. Richardson also referenced his a strategic communications plan for trajectory of projects, scheduled to last recent Newsletter column, Help Geographers the Association. Sheppard moved that well into 2013. in Need, which listed ways the AAG has ­Richardson begin the process of transi- Solís gave an overview on the launch responded to requests for support from tioning the AAG Newsletter functions online of several new projects in the second

28 AAG Newsletter www.aag.org AAG Council Meeting Minutes Volume 47, Number 8 half of 2011. She mentioned international Makerere University and will pair six for Business, Government, and Non-Profit activities under MyCOE and the AAG’s Ugandan urban planners with six univer- (BGN) careers, and the numerous paper multiple diversity programs. MyCOE is sity students into teams. The State Depart- and panel sessions on careers in geography focused on a partnership showcase at the ment will provide high resolution satellite organized for the Annual Meeting in New June 2012 Rio+20 conference, making images of the planners’ townships and York, with dozens of volunteer mentors good progress towards that goal. districts, while the University will host the participating. He shared the newly rede- A newly funded MyCOE program was trainers and participants in its computer signed EDGE brochure. recently launched, supported by the US lab. Training will include the analysis and The new AAG “Understanding the Department of State, with the goal of interpretation of high resolution satellite Changing Planet” website will also provide connecting 165 teachers in 23 secondary imagery and methods and procedures for extensions and multimedia add-ons for schools in the U.S., Bolivia, Nicaragua, deriving digital base maps and data layers. chapters in the newly published Practicing Ghana and the Philippines and to assist In connection with the AAG Initia- Geography publication. them in enhancing their capacity to use tive for an NIH-Wide GIS Infrastruc- Solem mentioned he is also working on social networking and online mapping ture, the AAG also recently received a a proposal to compare teacher preparation tools. Under this initiative, there are cur- competitively awarded grant from NIH’s internationally. rently over 150 teachers signed-up and cross-cutting OppNet Program entitled Solem pointed out that the AAG is using a dedicated Knowledge Community, Geospatial Frontiers in Health and Social Envi- completing a directory of all departments their Facebook page is very active, and the ronments. This funding supports a series of offering online or hybrid courses; current- project is proceeding well towards achiev- three scientific symposia to examine the ly this directory comprises a list of over ing the overall goals. possibilities and challenges for health- 900 courses, in more than 200 institutions. Richardson added that the AAG has and-environments research that are asso- Upon Rogers Downs’ retirement, Solem invited geographical organizations around ciated with innovative developments in will be joining the GENIP board this the world to participate in MyCOE, to the fields of geography and GIScience. year, along with Susan Gallagher Heffron help give geography a presence in Rio. Senior project personnel include: Douglas and Joseph Stoltman as AAG represen- Kobayashi added that the International Richardson (PI), Michael Goodchild, tatives. Solem also mentioned that the Encyclopedia will also be major vehicle to Mei-Po Kwan, Jonathan Mayer, and Sara Geography for Life: National Geography Stan- gather international participation. McLafferty. Each symposium will involve dards, Second Edition that Susan Gallagher Solís briefly also mentioned a number approximately 25 leading geographers, Heffron has been working to finalize, are of diversity sessions organized and co- GIScientists, biomedical scientists, public in the final editing phase and expected sponsored by the AAG ALIGNED project health researchers, and senior NIH offi- to be released in the course of 2012. for the Annual Meeting in New York. cials to encourage interactive dialogue. Richardson shared the AAG’s Resolution The Catalyzing Research project is now The first two symposia are scheduled in Support of Geography Education and poised for its first workshop with 20 new in April 2012 and July 2012. The April pointed out the many high-profile endors- participants, who will be meeting at the symposium will focus on the theme of ers from the government, business and end of March 2012 at Temple University. Spatiotemporal Analysis for Health Research. academic sectors who have signed-on to The AAG is also continuing to lead The July symposium will focus on the the AAG Resolution. He mentioned the a long-standing cooperative agreement, theme of Geospatial Frontiers in Health and possibility of eventually running this as an launched in August 2008 with the U.S. Social Environments: Enabling a National Geo- ad in the Washington Post, when Congres- Department of State, to provide support spatial Cyberinfrastructure for Health Research. sional efforts to fund geography education for local end-users of geospatial data in The third symposium, to be held in early move forward. selected African countries. Currently, 2013, has as its theme Synthesis: Towards a the AAG is making plans to co-host a Unified Vision. This final symposium will Outreach training workshop in Kampala, Uganda provide a capstone to the project, building The AAG continues an intensive with partners EIS-Africa and Makerere on the first two symposia, and result in an program of outreach to federal govern- University. Scheduled for June 25-29, innovative research agenda to enhance ment agencies; international geography 2012, the workshop will focus on enhanc- the integration and sophistication of organizations; dozens of other associa- ing the capacity of planners who work in GIScience-based approaches in health and tions such as AAAS, COSSA, ACLS, and the Lake Victoria Region of East Africa, environment research. AGI; educational and research organiza- to use geographic concepts and geospatial tions such as NRC, NCGE, NSF, NIH, data to address the consequences of urban Education NASA, USGS and many others; geogra- sprawl and increasing population pressure Michael Solem gave a brief update phy funding agencies; foundations; inter- affecting the natural environment there. on the EDGE project, researching and The Kampala workshop will be held at improving geography graduate education Continued on page 30

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Council Meeting Minutes from page 29 disciplinary outreach; developing regions organizations offer their members, and the A request to allow the formation of a institutions and colleagues; human rights implications of additional support. James Polar Geography Specialty Group was organizations; and many more. seconded the motion, which was unani- discussed. James moved to approve the Richardson also noted that, as a result mously approved. Richardson offered to request, seconded by Greiner. Further of his recent outreach efforts in China, the respond to the authors of the letter. Council discussion resulted in an agree- AAG will sign a Memorandum of Under- ment to table this decision to the Fall standing with the Geographical Society of Honors and Awards Council meeting, asking Councillors Till China at the New York Annual Meeting. Richardson gave an overview of the and Raphael to communicate with the He added that the AAG has joined the Honors and Awards to be distributed at chairs of the proposed Polar Geography American Geosciences Institute (AGI), in the Annual Meeting. Specialty Group and the existing Cryo- response to a request from Past Presidents Past President Foote proposed a motion sphere Specialty Group. Carol Harden, William Graf and Richard to increase the maximum number of Marston. Richardson continues to play awardees from the current six to eight. Council a leading role in the AAAS Science and Council discussed this proposal. Alderman Richardson announced the 2012 AAG Human Rights Coalition. seconded the motion, it was passed unani- Election results: mously. President: Eric S. Sheppard, University of Annual Meeting Council also expressed support for Minnesota Richardson mentioned several high- expanding the categories of awards. On Vice President: Julie A. Winkler, Michigan light sessions organized for New York, this subject, President Kobayashi put State University including the plenary honoring Mary forward a motion to reinstate the AAG National Councillors: John Harrington, Robinson as the AAG Atlas Awardee, Anti-Racism Award, at the same time Jr., Kansas State University; Elizabeth A. the AAG’s Human Rights session with keeping the existing Enhancing Diversity Wentz, Arizona State University Nicholas Kristof and Salil Shetty, and the Award. Honors Committee A: Richard A. Marston, AAG’s international geographical society Tyner moved to create the AAG Harold Kansas State University sessions titled “Snapshots: Geography in M. Rose Award for Anti-Racism Research Honors Committee B: John Kupfer, Univer- the World Today.” and Practice, Alderman seconded the sity of South Carolina; Diana M. Liverman, Kobayashi described her opening motion and it was passed unanimously. University of Arizona plenary, entitled: “The City Beyond Sym- Further Council discussion resulted in a Nominating Committee: Leslie Duram, bolism,” featuring panelists Frances Fox decision to create a three-member award Southern Illinois University; Robert Piven, Grace Lee Boggs, Scott Kurashige, committee for this award, and that future W. Lake, Rutgers University; Fausto O. Don Mitchell and Ruth Wilson Gilmore. committees should include at least one Sarmiento, University of Georgia At the time of the Spring Council previous recipient of this award. Council Regional Councillors elected Brad meeting, more than 8,500 attendees were also requested that the committee for the Rundquist as their Chair. registered. implementation of the award (criteria, Zorn nominated Derek Alderman deadlines, etc.) be formalized by the Com- to chair the Publications Committee. Future Meetings mittee on Committees after the Annual Alderman accepted the nomination, and The 2013 Annual Meeting will be Meeting in New York. Wright moved to Sheppard seconded the motion. The held in Los Angeles, California, the 2014 commend the Honors Committee for its nomination was unanimously confirmed. Meeting will be in Tampa, Florida, and work. James seconded, the motion was Glasmeier nominated Marilyn Raphael the 2015 Meeting in Chicago, Illinois. passed unanimously, with one abstention. to serve as Treasurer for one year. Raphael Council discussed several venues to be accepted the nomination, Sheppard considered for the years 2016 and beyond, Committees and Specialty seconded the motion. The nomination including Boston, San Francisco, Saint Groups was unanimously confirmed. Louis, Baltimore, Washington, DC, and Secretary Zorn presented the current The Fall Executive Committee and New Orleans. slate submitted by the Committee on Com- Council meeting dates were discussed mittees and moved for its approval. Wright and it was agreed that the Executive Letter requesting family/child support seconded the motion, which was passed Committee meeting would be held on the Council discussed a request for more unanimously. WinklerPrins moved to allow shoulder of the October APCG regional family and child support to facilitate the Nominating Committee to fill vacancies meeting, precise dates to be confirmed. attendance and participation in the AAG as needed (for this year); Wright seconded, The Fall Council meeting will run from Annual Meeting. Glasmeier moved to the motion was passed unanimously. the evening of Nov. 2nd, through mid-day table a response until Council is able to Till updated Council on the most on Nov. 4th in Washington, DC, to allow gather more information on what sister recently submitted Specialty Group reports. some Councillors to also participate in

30 AAG Newsletter www.aag.org AAG Council Meeting Minutes Volume 47, Number 8 the Middle-Atlantic and Middle States curricula and programs, and for encour- talent they dedicated to the Association regional meetings. aging us to challenge, at times, some during their terms on the AAG Council. President Kobayashi read the following of the fundamental assumptions of our Council Resolutions, which were unani- trade. Whereas, Members of The Association mously approved. of American Geographers offer their Whereas, Councillors of The Association talents, time, and ideas to support the Resolutions of American Geographers expend activities of the Association as Chairs Whereas, Kenneth E. Foote, as Vice Presi- substantial time and effort advancing and Members of various association dent, President, and Past President the causes of the Association and the committees appointed by the AAG of the Association of American Geo­ discipline; and Council; graphers has ably led the Association in addressing the challenges facing Whereas, the Council of The Association of Therefore Be It Resolved that The Associa- the discipline of Geography, particu- American Geographers has confronted tion of American Geographers, assem- larly by developing leadership within numerous challenges and responded bled in New York City, New York geography departments; building com- to many opportunities during the last on the occasion of its 108th Annual munity and inclusion throughout the three years; Meeting, thanks the outgoing Chairs discipline; fostering creative responses and Members of the AAG Committees to changing opportunities; supporting Therefore Be It Resolved that The Association for their service to the Association, the early career faculty as well as geo­ of American Geographers, assembled discipline and the profession during graphers the public, private and non- in New York City, New York on the their committee terms. profit sectors; and thus has contributed occasion of its 108th Annual Meeting, considerable and significant efforts that extends its appreciation and thanks to advance the AAG’s mission, goals, and Past President Ken Foote and retiring Council moved to closed session at activities; AAG Treasurer and National Council- 2:20 p.m. lor Amy Glasmeier, National Council- Therefore Be It Resolved that the Association lor Allan James, East Lakes Regional Respectfully submitted, of American Geographers, assembled Division Councillor and Publications Jenny Zorn, AAG Secretary in New York City, New York on the Committee Chair Antoinette Winkler- occasion of its 108th Annual Meeting, Prins, Middle States Regional Division heartily thanks Ken for his leader- Councillor Laurie Hummel, South- ship of the Association during the past western Regional Division Council- three years, especially for his efforts lor and Regional Division Councillor to develop individual and institutional Chair Alyson Greiner, and West Lakes capacities within geography depart- Regional Division Councillor Dagmar ments, his role in improving geography Budikova for the energy, time, and

Call for Nominations: AAG Vice President and National Councillor

The AAG Nominating Committee for As part of your nomination statement, Sarmiento, University of Georgia, Geog- the 2013 election is seeking nominations please confirm that your nominee Geol Bldg, 210 Field Street, Athens, GA for AAG Vice President (one to be elected) is willing to be considered by the 30602 ([email protected]); Robert W. Lake, and National Councillor (two vacancies). nominating committee for the position Rutgers University, Civic Square Building, Those elected will take office on July 1, for which you are nominating her or him. Room 483, 33 Livingston Avenue, New 2013. Members should submit the names Committee members: Leslie Duram Brunswick, NJ, 08901 ([email protected]). and addresses of each nominee and their (committee chair) University of Southern Lists of past and current AAG officers reasons for supporting nomination to any Illinois, Carbondale, Dept of Geography­ & may be found in the Handbook section member of the committee no later than Environmental Resources, Carbondale, Il- of the current issue of the AAG’s Guide to September 15, 2012. linois 62901 ([email protected]); Fausto O. Geography Programs in the Americas.

www.aag.org AAG Newsletter 31