By Trey Lyon
Norfolk, Virginia—Imagine a world with no Uber, no Lyft, no GPS; we're back to old road maps. Can't see it? Well, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is what makes it all possible. ODU's Department of Political Science and Geography will celebrate annual GIS Day in the Webb Center- Hampton Newport News Room on Wednesday, November 13, 2019, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. This is the unveristy's 12th year hosting GIS day.
As main organizer, Dr. Hua Liu have been working with her colleagues to develop GIS day since 2008 and has explained how each year the event has expanded to accommodate more students and professionals, to share the great achievements that are happening right here on Old Dominion University's campus. Gamma Theta Upsilon (GTU) - The International Geographical Honor Society has been playing an active role in sponsoring the event.
Over 20 years ago, Jack Dangermond, the founder and president of Esri, a GIS mapping software, envisioned people taking part and sharing how GIS affects absolutely everyone. This idea brought about the establishment of GIS Day, which was established in 1999. GIS day has expanded into a global event that shows how geography and how actual-global applications of GIS are impacting our society. This event is a chance for organizations to share their goals and accomplishments to teach and inspire others to use GIS.
As joint effort among ODU, Hampton Roads GIS User Group, City of Norfolk, and Virginia Space Grant Consortium, this event gives students the opportunity to network and connect with local GIS professionals/alumni who come out to speak about geographic information systems, and what roles they play in our society. Students can learn about future jobs and opportunities that the GIS program has to offer. This event will consist of refreshments, door prizes, a panel discussion, and student poster/map competitions.
For more information on how ODU's Department of Political Science and Geography is applying GIS, visit https://www.odu.edu/pols-geog/geography/certificates/gis-certificate/gis-day.