History

If it wasn’t for E. B. "Jiggs" Clark, there might not have been a SeniorNet of Puget Sound! Our founder, Jiggs, became interested in computers in 1986 when he saw a magazine ad that prompted him to apply to the University of San Francisco’s Technology Department to participate in their project, Computers for Kids Over Sixty. The project was researching how computers could enhance the lives of older adults. About 4 weeks later, Jiggs received four cartons of equipment, his new Apple IIe.

As Jiggs told his alma mater, Lakeside School in Seattle, since getting his computer "Life has not been the same!" (Incidentally, Lakeside School is also the alma mater of Bill Gates.) Jiggs’ involvement with SeniorNet began in 1986. He was among the first 20 members in the nation. By late 1987 Jiggs was Coordinator of the Bellevue Learning Center, one of only 12 in the nation at that time. He held that position for five years and built a learning center that was a model for other learning centers established throughout the nation.

Dr. Mary Furlong, the founder of SeniorNet, said of Jiggs’ contribution to the organization, "Jiggs dedication, enthusiasm and wisdom served as a source of inspiration to me personally in those early days. Jiggs has a wonderful ability to learn continuously and is very strategic in his thinking. He was the key to our ability to start a SeniorNet site in the Puget Sound area." She went on to say that Jiggs is "one of the five people who have made the most difference. He has integrity, warmth, humor and intelligence, plus a vision to create community for older adults – key characteristics of a SeniorNet leader."

Jiggs has now retired from active participation in SeniorNet of Puget Sound, but continues his interest and has attended recent annual meetings. He also maintains e-mail contact with many of the early members who helped Jiggs develop SeniorNet of Puget Sound.

Thanks, Jiggs, from all of us who have benefited from your leadership.

[Note: Much of the material for this article came from Lakeside Magazine, Fall 1995.]

For a more detailed history of SeniorNet of Puget Sound, click here.