The University Wisconsin is requesting funds to add 12 new 2 and 4 year colleges and universities to its state wide higher education network which already comprises over 30 institutions. The proposal requests partial funding for participation in NSFNET through an additional connection with CICNET, the regional network attaching to NSFNET in the Wisconsin Area as well as partial start- up funds for the necessary routers, circuits, and operating support to facilitate the fullest possible participation. The educational institutions that will participate include: Cardinal Stritch College, Concordia University, Marshfield Medical Research and Education Foundation, Mount Senario College, Northland College, Viterbo College, Wisconsin Board of Vocational, Technical and Adult Education, Chippewa Valley Technical College, Moraine Park Technical College, Wausheka County Technical College, and Western Wisconsin Technical College. The network will provide a consistent statewide architecture for NSFNET access for a broad variety of entities engaged in education and research. This cooperative network will provide gateways to regional, national, and international networks and will be consistent with their standards. It will further the institutions' work in enhancing the state's economic development through a well-educated workforce, accessible training opportunities, and research and development partnerships. Another goal of the network is to facilitate collaborative projects and sharing of resources between institutions, including those outside the state. The universities need greater functionality and network speed to be able to access supercomputers, libraries, and make file transfers along with being able to implement a more reliable mail system. Students and faculty research will benefit from the link. This is also a unique opportunity for the schools to explore innovative educational resources.
