Hey everyone.

So you’re probably here because I told you that I started a blog for the EWU Web redesign project. Great! We definitely have our work cut out for us, as we all know very well, but I know this will ultimately be a great challenge for us that we will all be proud to have been a part of.

Over the weekend I sat back and thought about this project and how many people will be involved. And I can honestly say this will be one of the largest cross-functional, cross-departmental, cross-college, cross-_____ projects the University has ever accomplished. As the University’s primary communications vehicle both internally and externally, the website redesign project will undoubtedly affect everyone on this campus (including those of you out at Riverpoint!) at some point in the next year.

It’s a behemoth of a task, but after having the opportunity to meet all of you, I can safely say that we’ll have no problem getting the job done and getting it done well. In all of the research we’ve been conducting its clear how much energy there is around getting EWU’s web presence to the point that it can be. Almost everyone I’ve spoken to — whether I know them or not — talks about the EWU website and how great it *could* be. It’s hard to deny the value of a well-done university website for audiences both near and far.

We have a fantastic University here in Cheney and Spokane replete with a brilliant faculty from all walks of life, thriving academic atmosphere, gorgeous campuses, bustling arts events and programs, and an energized athletics program. With so much going on, its hard to find a way to tell everyone about how awesome EWU is — but with a great website, it’s a piece of cake. People will come to expect greatness from us. And we will continue to grow and do great things with this momentum.

I’ll strive to keep this thing updated with the goings-on of the redesign and other tidbits. You can feel free to drop me an email any time (rbentz at mail dot ewu dot edu) or call me with questions you may have. Also, don’t be afraid to swing by Showalter 300 any time to say “Hi!” I’d love to meet all of you!