We invite potential participants in the symposium to submit abstracts for review. In addition to invited plenary addresses, presentations may be in one of three forms: posters, 20- to 30-minute papers, or panels of three or four papers.

The format that we use for poster presentations is unusual, and it has been appreciated by both presenters and audience members. Poster sessions are held in conjunction with receptions, and several posters are grouped because of similarity in topic or theme. At some point during the reception, all those present are invited to join in informal group discussions centered on the posters. Although participants’ suggestions about the format for their presentations will be considered, the organizers will exercise discretion in the choice of formats in the context of the program as a whole.

Abstracts of potential presentations should be focused on topics of relevance to the symposium theme. We are interested in presentations relating to both U.S. and international research on:
• the characteristics of inclusive communities,
• the means by which exclusion occurs,
• the linkages between community life and the well-being of children and families, and
• efforts to promote inclusion and diminish the effects of marginalization and exclusion.

Abstracts should be 500 to 800 words and, as relevant, should include brief descriptions of the rationale for studies, policies, or programs, the methods for study, and the nature and significance of the findings. Abstracts of possible analytic papers should include a brief discussion of the nature and significance of the pertinent issue, the arguments that the author will present, and the importance of those arguments for resolution of the relevant policy problems.

Abstracts may be submitted via conventional or courier mail, electronic mail, or FAX. Abstracts should be sent in time for receipt by January 25.* Early submissions are encouraged.

Proposals should be addressed to Ms. Sharon Crout, Institute on Family and Neighborhood Life, Clemson University, 225 South Pleasantburg Drive, Suite B-11, Greenville, SC 29607 (FAX: +1 864 250 4668; E-mail: scrout@clemson.edu).

*Potential presenters who wish to submit abstracts after January 25 should inquire about the availability of space in the program by contacting Ms. Crout.

Potential presenters will be notified promptly about the decisions regarding their submissions. To signify acceptance of invitations to make presentations, presenters should register for the symposium by February 12.

Proposals should include contact information for each presenter (name, title, affiliation, address, E-mail address, and, as relevant, voice phone, FAX, and cell phone numbers. If presenters will be away during the second half of January, please provide contact information for that period. Potential presenters should also denote whether the presentation is for a poster, a paper (oral presentation), or panel. If the proposal is for a panel, the overall abstract should be submitted in addition to an abstract for each paper.