Students working on a highly collaborative project used social networking technology for community building activities as well as basic project-related communication. Requiring students to work on cross-program projects gives them real-world experience working in diverse, geographically dispersed groups. An application used at Appalachian State University integrates popular social networking tools, text messaging, and e-mail while maintaining student privacy and streamlining group communications. The authors discuss how the university used ConnectYard, communication, and social networking tools in facilitating cross-program collaboration. As one considers adopting social networking tools in future cross-program projects and in regular online and blended courses, the authors suggest to evaluate both the benefits and drawbacks of their use. They describe the benefits of using ConnectYard and social networking tools in the cross-program activity. (Contains 5 figures, 5 tables and 3 endnotes.)