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WISP co-founder honored

MentorNet creates effective e-network for women

MentorNet, the e-mentoring network for women in science and engineering, was named a Grand Prize winner in the nonprofit category of the Cisco Growing with Technology Awards 2004. Cisco recognized MentorNet for effectively using a network to compete in a sustainable manner in the marketplace.

MentorNet was founded in 1998 by Carol Muller, a former associate dean of the Thayer School of Engineering and a co-founder of Dartmouth's Women in Science Program (WISP). Dartmouth students who participated in WISP served as some of MentorNet's first peer advisors.

Dartmouth established WISP in 1990 to address under-representation of women in science, mathematics and engineering. Its focus is on retaining women in science. The project encompasses a variety of programs providing undergraduate and graduate women with mentors and role models, information on educational and career opportunities, academic support and a community of women engaged in the study of science.

"First with the creation of the Dartmouth Women in Science Program and now with MentorNet, Muller's innovative work in education and mentoring has changed the lives of so many women interested in science and engineering," said Carol Folt, Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences.

"We are honored that Cisco Systems has recognized the value of MentorNet's work," said Muller. "Also, we are particularly pleased that Cisco Systems continues to sponsor MentorNet and provide volunteer mentors for our One-on-One program."

MentorNet relies entirely on the Internet to support one-on-one mentoring relationships for thousands of women in engineering and science. The program uses technology to link undergraduate and graduate students at universities across the United States and in several other countries with professionals in industry, government and higher education.

The Cisco Growing with Technology Awards program was created to recognize small and medium-sized organizations that demonstrate how networking technology solutions can effectively address business challenges. A panel of 10 judges selected 15 winners in five categories from more than 700 applications.

By LAUREL STAVIS

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