4/2/97 Contact: Bob DeLong, Ohio University, 614/593-9898

ATHENS, Ohio -- Bob DeLong, former computer specialist for the College of Arts and Sciences, has been named assistant registrar for DARS and technical support in the Office of the Registrar at Ohio University.

DeLong's primary duties include supporting the Degree Audit Reporting System (DARS), Student Information System (SIS) security and providing hardware/software support for the Office of the Registrar.

As a computer specialist since 1991, DeLong coordinated planning and maintenance of DARS for 19 departments in the College of Arts and Sciences. He also coordinated preregistration and advising activities, and designed, developed and maintained information systems for reporting and record maintenance. DeLong served as records management officer in the college from 1984 to 1990.

DeLong, who joined the office Feb. 17, replaces Debra Benton, who was promoted to associate registrar in July.

"Bob has already contributed significantly to the Registrar's Office and the university," Benton said. "He is working with Computer Services to make improvements to DARS. He also is very competent with PCs and software applications, and in fact has already distributed computers and trained staff on how to use them. He is excited to be here, and we are very excited to have him join the Registrar's Office."

DeLong was selected after a national search to fill the position. "It is not easy to find people with Bob's very advanced-level DARS skills. He is one of the best in the business," University Registrar Bill Jones said.