I often close Comments with the invitation to send me suggestions or thoughts on Prism articles or other matters, and members have responded with good and constructive ideas. One suggestion has been that we publish the annual conference information in the double issue of Prism earlier than May. This would help members make advance travel plans and arrangements to attend ASEE's annual conference. We thought this an excellent idea but needed time to make this change because a double issue requires considerable planning and work. ASEE's publications department had a busier than usual holiday season—work begins on the February issue in December—but I am happy to say you are holding the first February double issue of Prism, which contains full information about ASEE's upcoming 2004 annual conference, June 20-23, in Salt Lake City. I certainly hope to see you there. Our annual conference is not only the largest meeting of engineering educators in the world; it is also the place to greet old friends and participate in a fine technical program.

In the conference half of this month's issue, you can read all about Salt Lake City in “Paradise Found.” This article gives an exciting rundown on the glories of Salt Lake City, a site of great natural beauty with a fascinating history and a downtown filled with restaurants, museums, and shops. Places of historic or unusual design and construction that will interest engineers include the Tabernacle (famed for its choir and organ), the Salt Palace (site of ASEE's conference), the city library resembling a Roman Coliseum, and the Kennecott copper mine.

The other half of February Prism has a timely mix of articles. “Opening a New Book” reviews the challenge of incorporating liberal arts courses into already-packed engineering curricula. “School for Wonks” examines public policy issues and their effect on the work of engineers. “Few and Far Between” points out the dearth of female students in engineering technology programs, and looks at what schools are doing to address this problem. “Miracle Workers” offers an optimistic look at the development of implantable microelectronic devices that might someday help the blind see and the paralyzed walk. As usual, we have tried to offer a variety of articles for your interest.

As if a double issue of the magazine weren't enough, we've also enclosed your 2004 ASEE national election ballot. Please use this ballot to cast your vote for the ASEE candidates you'd like to see in office. This is your opportunity to say who you'd like to see in leadership roles at ASEE.

If you have comments or thoughts you'd like to share, I would welcome hearing from you.

Frank L. Huband
Executive Director and Publisher
f.huband@asee.org