The View from the Attic
From a perch well above the ground one can see long distances and view the world with greater perspective than at ground level. Twenty years ago I founded Hezel Associates working from the third floor of my home. Spartan but serene, the attic welcomed the southerly sun (good for winters in Syracuse). The sight of adolescent squirrels negotiating and balancing on the power lines 30 feet above the earth formed the emblem for that fledgling company: feet tingling from 220 volts, always the threat of falling, occasional traffic and cats below—and where’s the food for the long winter?
With the new year 2007 Hezel Associates begins a celebration of its 20th anniversary. Naturally, we’re proud of our business and our longevity.
Hezel Associates is possibly the oldest for-profit 
business with a historical focus on distance learning research. (There was no such thing as “online” or “e-learning” then.) Even more important, though, we’re proud that through our research and consulting we have made a positive impact on the quality and availability of education opportunities. Collectively, our clients have been leaders in the field of extending their institutions’ education mission and market.
Oh, the view we have enjoyed! The evolution of distance and extended learning over 20 years has been remarkable, even astounding. So much more than the earlier--mostly technical--innovations, changes in our understanding of learning in new environments have allowed us to create new organizational approaches in education.
Our heart has always been in learning, and we look forward to many more years executing our mission to help our clients serve their learners. At this time of the year we are especially thankful for the opportunities to serve. As we wish you a happy holiday season, we also invite you to join us in celebrating our 20th year. The party is just starting.
Best wishes,
Richard T. Hezel, Ph.D.
President