Betsy Van der Veer Martens
Candidate Statement
As a new assistant professor (University of Oklahoma School of Library and Information Science) and new editor for a new list (H-INFO) at H-NET, I am emboldened to run for H-NET Council simply because I feel that I am especially open through that very inexperience to the many possibilitiies by which H-NET might evolve. In particular, I believe that exploring collaboration and coordination with a wider variety of outside partnerships can only be beneficial in terms of making H-NET a more influential body of scholars in today's electronic environment. As a researcher in library and information science, I observe the current dominance of discourse in both popular and academic circles about Wikipedia and Citizendium as reliable sources of knowledge, and wonder whether H-NET has perhaps become too inwardly focused in its concerns. If elected to H-NET Council, I can safely promise always to ask the obvious newbie questions.
In any event, I am delighted to run among such a stellar group of candidates, because these discussions regarding the role of the H-NET Council should indeed provide a sharper sense of focus for that future. I appreciate your consideration of my candidacy.
