As with the formation of most AERA SIGs, the startup efforts were burdensome and fell, primarily, to the two of them--Anderson and Berdie. For the first several years, these two "pioneers" held and juggled all of the SIG offices and attending responsibilities between them.

Another problem they faced in the beginning days of the SIG was that of having enough presentations (e.g., papers, posters, etc.) to fill their allotted number of sessions. The two remember designing symposia or panel sessions and then themselves providing the papers or programs for want of other presenters. In order to drum up interest in the SIG, and, thus, increase membership and participation, they developed and delivered AERA pre- and post-conference workshops and mini-courses on the topic of survey research methodology; during these sessions they advised attendees of the SIG and the many membership benefits.

The SIG membership gradually grew, and new members became interested in providing the energy and time necessary to see it thrive. In the early 1980s there were enough individuals willing to be active members that no one individual had to hold more than one office. In addition, a SIG newsletter editor position was created to meet the need for a formal method of communication among the SIG members.

The growth of the SIG and changes within it across time have been exciting and challenging to its many members. A review of the SIG offices and individuals serving in those roles since its inception will provide readers with an idea of the commitment to and affection for the SIG felt by its members.

Those Who Carried the SIG SRE Torch.pdf