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An Enterprising Voyage of Discovery: The Legacy of Susan J. Ellis and the Journal’s Future

An Enterprising Voyage of Discovery: The Legacy of Susan J. Ellis and the Journal’s Future

This special issue devoted to e-Volunteerism’s Co-Founder Susan J. Ellis begins with a feature by Rob Jackson, the Journal’s new Editor-in-Chief. In this article, Jackson reflects on the legacy of Ellis and her life’s work, including how and why she started the profession’s first online journal 20 years ago. He also shares reflections on Ellis’ work that has emerged in the last 17 months since her passing. And he looks ahead to the future of e-Volunteerism by sharing, he writes, some “exciting news and plans about the future for the Journal.”

To read the full article

Wed, 07/15/2020
I am so excited for the future of Engage! I can tell from reading every word of this post that there were many nights spent pondering each issue and working with the e-volunteerism team to figure it all out. I think you've all made the right moves here.

Thu, 07/16/2020
Thanks Rob that was a great overview of the past and the future direction is inspiring. Susan influenced so many of us in so many ways regardless of whether it was in person, our writing, reading or just a really good email chat. Her commitment to mentor and push us to be strong advocates of our profession was incredibly strong and I am sure you will continue this important work. While I know change isn't easy as a profession we must remain current, relevant and viable and e-volunteerism helps us all achieve this. Thanks heaps. Sue

Tue, 07/28/2020

Rob, Just now getting around to reading your article – you know, COVID-19!

Yes, I was flattered to be invited to be part of the “Keyboard Roundtables” back in 2000! I had only been in my new/second career for seven years and flattered when Susan approached me to be part of “Do We Need New Models for DOVIA’s, Part I and Part II”. Talk about a term often not familiar these days.

I would eventually co-write two articles and solo another one back in 2018, with you as my editor. And YES, “…akin to getting back a school assignment covered in the dreaded teacher’s red pen! But in truth, Susan was always supportive with her feedback, encouraging you to be better and clearer so others could learn from what you had to say.” She challenged writers for the better!

I too was disappointed with the lack of responses/interactions from reader to the articles. Looks like you are exploring some exciting ways to address that.

Much success with, “Engage: The Global Voice of Leaders of Volunteer Engagement”.