Dress casual -- and welcome

I've been starting Reynolds Institutes with this video for several years, so here you go. But the point of this post is to get our discussion started and to model a little.

Welcome to the Cronkite School. I'm Steve Elliott, a professor of practice who has directed ASU's Reynolds Institute since it came here in 2007. If you want to know more about me (who wouldn't?), here's my Cronkite School bio.

During your week here, you will work at a state-of-the-art complex that's unmatched in journalism education. You will work with renowned faculty and journalism professionals. And I hope you will form professional and personal relationships that will last many years.

So why the blog? I've found that doing this accomplishes two things:

(1) It makes you create content online and, if you aren't already, get comfortable working in an online CMS.

(2) It's a great way to share ideas and stimulate a conversation about journalism. Each of you has an inimitable perspective. Share it.

Many participants have made blogs part of their teaching because of this experience.

You'll use this blog to engage before and during the institute. Please review the syllabus for requirements.

I look forward to interacting with you before the institute and meeting you in person June 21.

Steve Elliott
Arizona State University
Phoenix

(This is how I want you to sign off all posts and comments, mostly for credibility but also so I can count your contributions.)