May 11, 1998
Contact:  Donald Jones
	   (804) 924-6246

U.VA.'S MINORITY PROCUREMENT OFFICE TO SPONSOR SEMINAR
MAY 19

        The University of Virginia's Office of Minority Procurement
Programs will present its annual seminar for minority business
enterprises on Tuesday, May 19, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Zehmer Hall on
Midmont Lane.
	The event, titled "How to Develop and Maintain a Competitive
Advantage," is free and open to representatives of minority business
enterprises, including businesses owned by women.  Pre-registration is
required. 
	The mission of the Office of Minority Procurement Programs
(OMPP) is to strive for greater economic equity in our society by
encouraging, developing and expanding business opportunities for
minorities and minority-owned companies.  To fulfill this mission the
University has set a goal to purchase 5 percent of total goods and
services from minority firms. In fiscal year 1997 the University
purchased more than $6 million in goods and services from minority
firms.  Minority firms compete equally with majority firms and provide
the University with quality goods and services at competitive prices.  
	Lillian B. Handy, president and chief executive officer of TRESP
Associates, will deliver this seminar 's keynote address, titled "Doing
Business in a Global Society". Seminar participants will then meet in
small group sessions. Topics include financial management, information
technology, and subcontracting relationships.
                In addition to University faculty and administrators,
representatives from the State Department of Minority Business
Enterprise, U.S. Small Business Administration, and the Virginia
Regional Minority Supplier Development Council are expected to attend.
###
	Television reporters should call the TV News Office at (804)
924-7550.





U.Va. news online: http://www.virginia.edu.topnews