One of Extension's Rising Stars

Robert Johnson

Robert Johnson likes a challenge. He has sold computer software and hardware since 1984, and after working for several dot.com start-ups in the early 1990s, he decided to take a year off work and dedicate himself to learning a new technology to challenge and renew himself.

He discovered UCR Extension's Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Certificate Program and, after attending the first night of the introductory course, he was hooked on this new technology that manipulates, analyzes and presents information tied to a spatial location.

Robert took all 10 classes required for the certificate and now uses the knowledge he gained every day in his current position as a strategic account manager for ESRI, a world leader in GIS software development based in Redlands.

"The training opened my eyes to a better way of using data, which allows companies to make better decisions," Robert said. "I'm in sales and when I can solve problems that people don't know they have, I can make a sale."

Robert is a strong believer in education, no matter how much experience one has in their chosen field. "You need to advance your knowledge for internal satisfaction and so you can seize new opportunities when they come your way," he said. "Continuing your education is a very valuable thing to do."

The UCR Extension GIS Program became a family affair for Robert and his wife, Ann. She took a UCR Extension GIS course at Robert's urging and now the former college geology professor works for ESRI as its higher education solutions manager, where she helps other colleges add GIS to their curriculum.

Robert and Ann's desire for personal growth is exactly why more than 100 years ago the founders of the University of California created the University Extension concept. The need to improve oneself to secure a promotion or to pursue a new career hasn't changed in the last century.

UCR Extension strives to meet the educational needs of the community and develops many of its programs in conjunction with advisory groups made up of UCR faculty and experts in their professional fields. The advisory groups tell us what they need from their employees and what kind of education would help their staffs keep pace with the changing world around them.

During Winter 2003, Extension will present a number of conferences that explore specific topics in a variety of fields. For teachers we have the Successful Families Conference and the Celebrating the Dance of Childhood Conference. We will also offer the 5th Annual Juvenile Law Institute, the 6th Annual Family Law Developments and Strategies Conference, and the 2nd Annual Domestic Violence Legal Conference.

The fact that you are perusing this catalog is an important step toward challenging yourself, as Robert and Ann did, to learn something new and expand your horizons. If you, or someone you know, have benefited from Extension courses in the past, please let us know by sending an e-mail to studentsuccess@ucx.ucr.edu or calling (951) 827-1633.

May you and your family have a joyous holiday season and a happy New Year.

John F. Azzaretto
Vice Chancellor, Public Service and
International Programs; and
Dean, University Extension and
Summer Sessions, UC Riverside