Nearsighted No Longer

Yesterday's laser eye surgery was a success, and I now have 20/20 vision without glasses. My eyes are still dry and red (I have to take extra care for the next week), and I'll need to keep wearing sunglasses as usual. It's a big adjustment after 25+ years of wearing glasses all the time.

My new profile photo on Blogger, Facebook, LinkedIn, etc., was taken in March by Nat Clymer for my part-time job at Rutgers' School of Communication and Information. If I appear a little nearsighted in the picture, it's because I was.

Seth has been there the whole way to support me. Thanks, Honey!

Eric Schwarz Honored as SLA Diversity Leader

I'm pleased to announce that at the Special Libraries Association conference (SLA 2009, to be held June 14-17), I will be recognized as one of five winners of the 2009 Diversity Leadership Development Program Award for "up and coming information professionals."

In addition to my professional work, I've been fortunate to participate in two wonderful groups within SLA: the New Jersey Chapter (NJSLA) and the GLBT Issues Caucus.

In particular, I'm grateful to Barbara Burton, NJSLA immediate past president, for sponsoring my nomination for the award and for asking me to serve as chapter president. I'm sure the leadership skills I've learned serving members of both the chapter and the caucus were a key factor in my selection for the award.

I also extend my congratulations to my fellow awardees: Regina Beard, Julia Leggett, Nora Martin and Nedelina Tchangalova. I'm honored to be considered with these women who have accomplished so much in their careers.

A press release on this program soon will be posted on the SLA site.