Minutes

Faculty Senate

September 15, 2000

2:00 - 3:30

President Sadler welcomed the Senate back into session for the 2000-20001 academic year. Several housekeeping tasks were accomplished including a reminder about accessing Senate Minutes at the Senate Web site. It was decided to leave Senate minutes posted indefinitely in order to allow easy examination of Senate history.

Following introduction of all Senators and a welcome to all new Senators, President Sadler addressed the Senate. She articulated the need for all to reflect on the history of the Senate, its accomplishments over time and its approach to accomplishing Senate business. Drs.Szyliowicz, Von Stroh and Barbour, past presidents of the Senate, were invited to offer their perspectives on these issues.

Dr. Szyliowicz, president of the Senate at the time Chancellor Ritchie came to the University reflected on the Senate's role in the transition to new leadership. The Senate took as active position in helping the Chancellor to expand his contact with the academic mission and operation of the University. Dr. Szyliowicz noted that several issues are wont to recur in the work of the Senate. He specifically noted discussion of moving to semester and of standardizing teaching loads.

Dr. Von Stroh, president of the Senate for 1990 - 1994, stressed the importance of the Senate taking a lead in promoting and improving communication in the campus community. Dr. Von Stroh noted the changes that took place during his tenure as president including revisions to the APT document and re-organization of the Office of Provost. He lamented the demise of regular all-faculty meetings, saying that while not always popular with senior administrators, these meetings fill an important purpose. He emphasized the need for faculty involvement in all decision-making committees and processes, asserting that the faculty have the responsibility to help manage the University. He noted data emerging from the NCA process indicating that while the number of new faculty members is relatively small, there have been large increases in the number of staff positions. Dr. Von Stroh called on Senators to become more energized and involved.

Alton Barbour, a past president of the original University Senate reflected on his time and president and his service as a Senator. He noted that the Senate is a decision making group that is often charged with figuring out "what to do" with issues that have been referred by the administration. He suggested that the Senate should set its own agenda and be involved in the many decisions, small and large, which affect the community. He noted for example, the process of creating a new Alma Mater, a process that involved little input from the community.

Maritza Dominguez, a Junior from the Public Affairs Committee and Vice-President of the AUSA (All University Student Association = student senate) reported on student efforts to get out the vote. Several debates and dialogues are coming up, including speeches by Senator McCain and John Anderson. The state chairs of the political parties will face off at an upcoming event. A forum on the gun control initiative will also take place.

Suzette Reuschel-Gentry was introduced as the part-time support person for the Faculty Senate.

President Sadler presented the informational packet for al Senators. The packet includes meeting information, committee assignments, the Senate Constitution and an organizational chart for the Senate.

It was announced the two more representatives to the Faculty Athletic committee are needed. Volunteers (Tom Paskus [Education] and Christian Molidor [GSSW]) were immediately identified, and profusely thanked.

Gordon Von Stroh was selected to take Les Goodchild's position on Graduate Council during Les' tenure as an administrator.

A point was raised about the status of the form University College, no longer a "unit," now perhaps a "brand name." There are issues surrounding Senate membership. This was referred to the Academic Planning and Nominations, Rules and Credentials committee.

President Sadler reported on Executive Committee work during the summer, including the mini-retreat. EC members have identified potential agenda items for the year. Senators were encouraged to communicate their suggestions for Senate focus and work to President Sadler.

The full Senate broke into individual committee meetings.

Respectfully Submitted 10/2/00

Cathryn C. Potter

Secretary, Faculty Senate