Abstract
In the wake of the economic downturn beginning in 2000 and the aftermath of September 11, 2002, many states made major cut backs in funding for higher education programs. To deal with severe state budget shortfalls, Florida's Extension system canceled all in-service training for county Extension faculty in 2002. This article explains the steps we took to continue to support this vital aspect of the professional education of county faculty. We offered an interactive distance education in-service program on fatherhood that used a multi-method interactive approach, including synchronous teleconferencing, instructional materials on CD, and a web page. The training was not only cost effective, but met faculty needs for current information about fatherhood research, policies and programs. We consider this a viable method for delivering professional trainings from a distance under certain conditions and present recommendations for other institutions and professional organizations considering this approach.