About Us
It is in this environment of collegiality, rich with resources, that the concept of a network was developed which would bring people together in new and powerful ways.
Think about the things you love about our little corner of the world: Delaware is a small enough state that ‘everyone knows everyone’. Yet it’s so close to major metropolitan areas that we have every cultural and recreational asset imaginable right at our fingertips. The University of Delaware enjoys the most collegial atmosphere most of us have ever experienced at an academic institution. And talk about cultural and recreational assets—art, music, theater, sports, continuing education, ‘The Epicenter of American Politics’—the University itself is an amazing resource.
It is in this environment of collegiality, rich with resources, that the concept of a network was developed which would bring people together in new and powerful ways, connect them to the vast resources this region offers, and support members of the community in their endeavors. The UD Community Network’s founding initiative is to reach out to newcomers to the UD community, particularly to the spouses and partners of new UD hires, as they are faced with particular challenges in relocating to a new area. The challenges faced by spouses and partners of new hires are such an integral part of the relocation process that the term, ‘trailing spouse’, was coined many years ago, and there are now blogs and support sites all over the internet to address these challenges. The transition experienced by the spouse, partner or children has a profound impact not only on their satisfaction level, but on the success of the family member who was hired.
UDCN offers spouses and partners of new UD hires, one-on-one contact with someone who can introduce them to others in the community who share personal and professional interests or who have information that would be helpful to them in their transition to this area. Events, such as ‘Newcomers and Networkers’ gatherings, help people make direct connections with others in the community. Networking benefits not only the newcomers, but those who have lived here for years.
The UDCN website provides information about a wide variety of topics about the area in which we live. It also allows people to connect to others with similar interests or to ask and answer questions. The content and design of the website will grow and mature as the needs of its members dictate, so give us your feedback! [Insert a link to the survey here]
At the heart of the UD Community Network is the notion: ‘One person can’t help everyone, but everyone can help someone.’ People connecting, informing and supporting each other is what community is all about.
The UDCN is not a subsidiary or affiliate of the University of Delaware. Facts, statements or opinions expressed by users of this site do not necessarily reflect those of the University of Delaware.