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            Auburn University - University Relations
                         (334) 844-9999
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5/24/95                        Diane B. Clifton

AU OUTREACH CONDUCTS FIRST IN SERIES OF PUBLIC FORUMS
     AUBURN -- In an ambitious effort to determine the
effectiveness of Auburn University's outreach programs and future
efforts to better benefit Alabamians, AU Outreach is going directly
to the people.
     A series of seven public forums will be held in different
regions of the state. The first will be June 14, from 7 p.m. to
9:30 p.m., at Demopolis High School in Marengo County for people of
West Alabama. 
     "As Alabama's primary land-grant university, Auburn has close
ties with the people of the state," said David Wilson, associate
provost and vice president for University Outreach. "We need to
re-affirm those ties and our role of service to the people. I am
pleased to announce an Auburn University 'Partnership with the
People' program to begin this summer."
     The tentative schedule for the remaining six regional forums
includes: July 18, Tuscaloosa (northwest); Aug. 3, Decatur (north);
Aug. 10, Anniston (northeast); Aug. 15, Bay Minette (southwest);
Aug. 24, Enterprise (southeast); and Aug. 31, Montgomery (east).
     Maury Matthews, chair of the AU Public Forum Committee and
adviser to Wilson, said that the success of the effort will depend
on local collaboration.
     "Efforts such as these public forums depend upon the support
and guidance of local leaders," said Matthews. "Alabama is blessed
with leadership at the local level, and it is a great pleasure for
us to collaborate with outstanding community leaders."
      Matthews says most of the evening will be spent in small
group discussions of ways in which AU can assist with local
problems. Each meeting will conclude with a social gathering for
the informal exchange of views and ideas.
     Wilson also stresses community involvement.
     "We are planning the forums in conjunction with local
committees," he said. "They will bring together university
officials, including President Muse and Provost Parks, with the
people of the area to discuss real problems to which the university
can respond in very practical ways. 
     "We strongly encourage the residents of each area of the state
to attend and inform us of their views and concerns. This
information will enable Auburn University Outreach to develop a
practical agenda of action items to guide our work in the future." 

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     CONTACT: Wilson or Matthews, 344/844-5700