Welcome to Jackson, Mississippi for the annual meeting of the Association of Social and Behavioral Scientists, Inc. (ASBS). A special thanks to the faculty, staff and students of Jackson State University, to the citizens of Jackson and to members of the other organizations and institutions hosting the Association’s 71st Annual Meeting. I would also like to thank the ASBS Board, members and guests for participating in this annual meeting and for keeping the Association vibrant and intellectually stimulating. The Association began with a small group of scholars seeking to improve social science teaching and has grown into a full-fledged scientific society engaging scholars throughout the world as they share their research and teaching philosophies. Without a doubt, the Association, although small in number, has through its contributions in the areas of teaching, research and outreach, help embellish the lives of individuals, families and communities throughout the nation and world. That tradition continues today with this gathering of professional social and behavioral scientists to share their work in areas such as: anthropology, science, geography, history, business, urban studies, international studies, political science, economics, psychology, sociology, African and African American Studies, women studies, education, social work, and related areas of interest for action in the 21st century.

The theme for the meeting is "DuBois, Century 21 and the Continuing Problem of the Color Line: Assessing How Katrina, New Orleans, and the Lower 9th Ward are a Metaphor for What it Means to Be Black in America." This topic is worthy of the Association’s attention, given the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina and this year’s meeting site.

As we assemble, we hold true to the Association’s purpose "to provide opportunities for scholars to engage in the exchange of ideas, information, thought, and theory." The meeting is designed not only to share research findings and engage in deliberative dialogues, but to provide rewarding cultural experiences of our "rich historical heritage." These integrative scholarly activities are critically important as the Association becomes more engaged in the social, economic and political concerns affecting society. As the Association continues to address problems and concerns that plaque society, it is important that we forge more collaborative ventures, thus ensuring the Association’s sustainability and value. This being said, participation and membership in the Association are open to scholars from all disciplines and ethnicities.

As we hold true to the Association’s raison d’etre, it is our hope that the sessions at this meeting will be positive, informative, professionally enhancing, intellectually stimulating and full of practical activities. You will be exposed to a diversity of research projects and activities in the social sciences. The Program Chair has developed a dynamic and engaging agenda.

I also encourage you to enjoy the many cultural activities and historical sites which help make Jackson one of Mississippi’s most interesting and progressive cities. We know that you will find the "rich historical heritage" to be a rewarding one that will augment the many activities planned for the meeting. We are delighted that you are here and hope that you will enjoy the three days of program activities. As you ponder about the many reasons for participating in this conference, please realize that you are among family, and we are eager to assist you in making this meeting a most enjoyable experience.

Donald R. McDowell, Ph.D.
ASBS President, 2005-2006

North Carolina A&T State University
Greensboro, North Carolina

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