The Southeastern Conference on Linguistics (SECOL), the oldest regional linguistic association in the U.S., was organized in 1969 by Professors James Gough of Georgia Institute of Technology, María Tsiapera of UNC-Chapel Hill, and Anthony L. Vanek of Florida State University. In addition Robert Scholes (U of Florida), Ronald Butters (Duke U), and John Algeo (U of Florida) signed the petition for the incorporation of the organization in Florida.
In March of 1969, SECOL held its first conference; 150 people gathered at the Florida State University to hear 33 papers presented. Each spring, SECOL members gather at host campuses in the region to meet, discuss their interests in linguistics, and present their research findings. Usually these meetings reflect local interests through a theme or special sessions. SECOL has a well-deserved reputation for support of research on a broad range of topics by established scholars and their graduate-students.
As we approach our 40th anniversary, SECOL continues to provide personal contact and professional opportunities for its members.
