DARDEN COLLEGE OF EDUCATION THANKS GTE FOR $175,000 GIFT

GTE, in partnership with four Virginia universities, including Old Dominion, is tackling the issue of adult literacy. Through a $175,000 gift to the Darden College of Education's Reading Center, the GTE Links Virginia for Literacy project has proven successful since it began two years ago.

The GTE Links Virginia for Literacy project promotes workplace literacy skills using technology, explained Abha Gupta, director of the Reading Center. Old Dominion provides hardware and software training to tutors at organizations where adults need help with understanding and using technology, such as how to use a computer and the Internet.

The project provides technology training support to four programs in the Hampton Roads region � Opportunity House (Portsmouth), Chesapeake Adult Learning Center, Virginia Beach Adult Learning Center and Peninsula Reads.

"We have spent many years in the Darden College of Education building the technology capacity, and we have a longstanding commitment to literacy," said Donna B. Evans, dean of the college. The college sponsored a reception Feb. 21 for GTE to recognize its support.

"GTE, along with Old Dominion University, is doing tremendous things to support literacy efforts," said Steve Clementi, GTE's regional public affairs director. "GTE is proud to be a part of this program. Using the power of technology, the GTE Links program will serve as a tremendous tool in advancing literacy for adults with low levels of basic skills."