On October 23, the iSchool hosted 35 new employees of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation as part of their new employee orientation. The iSchool was selected from among dozens of possible partners to serve as the case example of what a successful, long-term relationship between the Foundation and a grantee can achieve.

The group was welcomed by Dean Harry Bruce and listened to a series of presentations about Gates-funded iSchool projects making a difference in the lives of individuals and communities throughout Washington state and around the world.

Highlighted projects included efforts to advance digital inclusion in the U.S. and in developing countries, and the role of libraries and telecenters in helping people deal with the aftermath of natural disaster in Chile.

“I was struck by the enthusiasm and interest of our guests as they listened to the story of how we’re working together to generate positive change within communities,” said Cheryl Metoyer, associate dean for research.  “Wow! It was clear to me that Gates will continue to be a great collaborator and thought partner for us.”

Since 2001, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has invested over 8 million dollars in UW iSchool research and scholarship.