MINUTES
University Faculty Senate
May 12, 2005
 

Call to Order – Ken Warfield called the meeting to order at 4:00pm

I. Taking of the Roll
Members Present: Trudy Bostick, Barbara Conn, Matt Cram, Steve Doster, Larry Estepp, Ginny Hamilton, Jean Houser, Ed Kehres, Shannon Lawson, Patric Leedom, Dan Moore, Clifford Poirot, Priscilla Pope, Carl Schwing, Krista Taylor, Ken Warfield

Members Absent: Janna Gallaher, Sibylle Hermann, Barbara Kunkle, James Miller, Debra Scurlock

Ex Officio: Martha Rader, Michael Field, Jerry Holt

Guests: Rita Rice Morris, Carl Hilgarth, Rob Mauldin, Dave Todt

II. Approval of Minutes: Ginny Hamilton motioned that we approve the minutes with the following corrections: Ginny Hamilton was present (not absent) and Dan Moore was absent (not present). Seconded by Patric Leedom, motion carried unanimously.

III. Approval of Agenda: Patric Leedom motioned that we approve, seconded by Krista Taylor, motion carried unanimously.

IV. Treasurer’s Report: Dan Moore reported there have been a total of $3,433.00 expenditures with a negative balance of $155.00. However, we have $11,741.00 in the Carry forward account leaving a total of $11,586.00 available. Krista Taylor motioned that we approve, seconded by Chip Poirot, motion carried unanimously.

V. Announcements and Remarks from Senate President – Ken Warfield
A. Distinguished Teaching Award – Dr. Doug Darbro, Assistant Professor,
Mathematics Department
B. Clarification Regarding Senators and Voting – Warfield announced that upon review of the UFS Constitution, substitute Senators may make reports but they may not make motions or vote. Poirot asked if Senators could arrange to vote by proxy. Warfield responded no because resolutions often have friendly amendments and that would make proxy votes null and void.
C. Administrative Reviews – Warfield announced that the administrative reviews have been tabulated; he will distribute the results to the administrators on Monday and meet with them over the coming month. Senators will receive copies of the results next month. Pope asked what kind of response we had on the reviews. Warfield responded that we had as high as 49% response on some down to 30% on others.

VI. President’s Report/Provost’s Report (as appropriate) – None

VII. Registrar’s Report (as appropriate) – None

VIII. Committee Reports
A. Educational Policies and Curriculum Committee – Krista Taylor motioned that we approve items 1 & 2 both of which passed EPCC unanimously, seconded by Matt Cram. Ed Kehres asked about a syllabus for SSPE 199 which was not attached to the proposal. Taylor said that there was one for EPCC. Steve Doster recalled that there was a syllabus presented to EPCC and asked if UFS could defer to his judgment, we agreed, motion passed unanimously.
1. SSPE 199 – new course
2. Engl 323 - change title & description
3. GEP for semesters – Taylor motioned that we approve, seconded by Poirot, discussion:
Moore asked why the GEP plan only has a minimum number of
hours but no maximum hours stated? Rob Mauldin replied that
we could add the phrase “up to 39 hours maximum”. Field
expressed concern that if we print a range of hours in the catalog
students might get confused. Moore suggested that we establish
a maximum of 39 hours in UFS but do not print it in the catalog.
Hilgarth expressed his concern with remediation in the content of
the 5 hour English course. Remediation should be done in the
developmental courses and we should make all the English
courses 3 hours. Field responded that although he initially
pushed for the 3 hour English course, he wants to support the
compromise which has distinct pedagogical advantages. Many of
our students need more time and instruction and the two levels of
English either 3 and 3 or 5 and 3 is a reasonable accommodation.
Vote: 12 for, 0 against, 2 abstentions
B. Committee on Committees – Senate Elections. Warfield announced that paper ballots will be distributed to faculty next week
C. Faculty Affairs and Development Committee – Warfield motioned that we create an adhoc committee to approve final proposal for Teaching and Learning Center to send to BOT, seconded by Leedom, approved unanimously.
D. Fiscal Affairs Committee - none
E. Student Affairs Committee - none
F. Facilities Planning Committee – Leedom announced that they will be meeting with UTAC next week to discuss plan for Energy Conservation. They are also creating a plan for the evacuation of disabled students in case of emergency.
G. Athletic and Intramural Committee – Pope indicated they are
finishing up a proposal for competition vs. participation.

IX. Old Business - none

X. New Business
A. Approval of Institutional Review Board Policy Revisions – Field formed an Institutional Review Board and the first task they were assigned was to review the existing policy and make revisions to make the policy in compliance with federal laws regarding human research. Research not intended for publication is not required to go before the Review Board. He predicts that we will see an increase in human research as the Psych dept grows and the OT Masters program develops. Ken motioned we approve the IRB Policy (in Senate Packets), seconded by Pope. No discussion, motion passed unanimously.
B. Semester Conversion
Before addressing the Senate, Dr. Morris passed out a paper entitled Semester Conversion at Shawnee State University listing fourteen anticipated benefits to the semester calendar. She made two points to UFS. One, she indicated that she is strongly committed to shared governance. Upon arrival at SSU, she asked each governance committee to identify problems and as a result she made some adjustments to the shared governance procedures. She sends questions to the chairs of the governance committees and responds quickly to their concerns. One of the questions that she asked was if we need additional or fewer committees. Ken Warfield, UFS president was part of those initial discussions. Dr. Morris even found herself explaining to some administration and staff when asked why the governance committees have such a high proportion of faculty and she feels strongly that faculty and curriculum are the life blood of the university. She indicated that she is open to discussing how the process works and will make changes that might be needed to facilitate better communication. She reiterated her commitment to shared governance.
Secondly, she indicated that the message to her as a candidate for the president’s position during the interview process involved the expectation from the BOT that SSU would move to semesters sooner rather than later. She discussed with the Vice Presidents the costs, practices and models at other institutions, and problems associated with semester conversion. She also created an adhoc committee from across campus to discuss problems at SSU. One of those problems involved the long break between fall and winter quarters, which converting to semesters would eliminate. In the Spring of 2004, she went to the various constituency groups on campus to help with the process of conversion. She did not ask for their approval of semester conversion because the decision to convert had already been made by the BOT back in 1998.

Poirot indicated that he recognized and appreciated Dr. Morris’s leadership and we do not hold her responsible for the BOT decision to convert to semesters. But SSU has a historical sense of faculty discontent with decisions and directives that are made by the BOT without discussing with faculty. The BOT appears to have a lack of understanding about how the governance process ought to work. As long as the BOT continues to issue directives, the vitriol will continue.
Morris responded that as she understands it, the faculty was consulted and a study was conducted regarding semester conversion. Faculty neither endorsed nor rejected semester conversion at which time the BOT made the decision.

Doster indicated that consultation also involves timeliness. This consultation took place several years ago with different faculty, before moving ahead at this time, we should have been consulted again. He also expressed concern over the fact that OU & OSU have decided not to convert to semesters. Since with semesters, a full-time student will be required to attend five days a week instead of just four, we may lose substantial students to OSU & OU.

Taylor responded that while she does not have the exact figures, Rio Grande recently converted to semesters and they did not lose great numbers of students to OSU & OU.

Morris agreed that Rio Grande had been consulted about the conversion process and losing students was not one of the problems they identified. Furthermore, research shows that schools that make the conversion to semesters do not experience a drop in enrollment.

Field indicated that the administration did do the research and the administration will be held accountable for the decisions they make. He has good reason to believe that the impact of semester conversion will improve SSU rather than cause trouble for SSU.

Bostick conducted informal discussions with faculty and the majority of those she talked to support semesters but it will mean less time to teach because labs will eat up time.

Morris responded that the calendar decisions haven’t been finalized yet.

Doster suggested that reasons for conversion must be presented to faculty and that administration needs to reconcile the faculty perception that consultation did not occur.

Morris indicated that consultation did occur regarding how to do the semester conversion however, consultation did not occur on whether or not to convert.

Field agreed that consultation about how to do the semester conversion did occur. The BOT made the decision to do it.

Morris indicated that one important factor that the BOT considered is the fact that we are pushed to the limits regarding space. Semester conversion will help with that.

Poirot indicated that if the information on the Semester Conversion had been more widely disseminated on campus, faculty probably would have been on board with conversion.

Dr. Morris indicated that she hopes the problems over Semester Conversion are just a bump in the road – she wants to continue and work to improve shared governance.

In response to a question regarding the $550,000 savings projected as a result of Semester Conversion, Field explained that Roger Murphy indicated that the figure is based on current enrollment and retention figures – if those figures remain the same as they have over the past two years, then could result in savings up to $595,000 but that number could change if the way subsidies are calculated at the state level changes. The current funding formula is biased toward semesters. There is less opportunity for students to drop out under semesters.

Dr. Morris also projected that down the road we may have a smaller pool of students to draw from. Many non-traditional students like semesters because they have more time to learn. More time to learn should improve graduation rates. Graduation rates are important because this is what legislators are looking at.

Doster reiterated that we seem to be moving too quickly. If UFS votes no to semester conversion then this will be a starting point for discussion. If we defer until OSU and OU decide to convert, we will have more time.

Morris further defended semesters because students need to get into the job market sooner – adding a December graduation will enable them to do so. There are reasons to be unique and unlike OSU and OU.

Field questioned Doster’s comment that we are moving too quickly. The conversion process will occur over three years…why isn’t that adequate time?

Houser asked whether or not we could look at the UFA minutes from 1998. Field replied that he summarized the minutes in his white paper. Houser requested the UFA minutes and a copy of the BOT resolution be sent to Senators. Morris agreed to send copies.

Taylor asked Senators whether they had any questions regarding the semester conversion papers that she sent out via email.

Doster called for a vote on the resolutions.
1. Resolved, Shawnee State University formally withdraw its Semester Conversion Plan pending revision to address the significant unanswered financial, pedagogical, contractual and procedural questions and concerns expressed by the academic community in e-mail, the UFS minutes and other such venues. Any revised semester conversion plan shall be drafted in close consultation with the UFS and submitted to the UFS for a formal vote prior to its implementation.

Lawson read Doster’s resolution; written ballots were collected and counted.
7 for, 8 against, no abstentions.

2. The Faculty Senate wishes to affirm its role as the primary body to recommend for and against changes to the University administration on matters of academic importance. The Faculty Senate is the appropriate faculty voice in the University governance system. It is our view that governance is a shared responsibility and that faculty must play a unique and primary role with respect to all other University Constituencies in the shared governance system. Major changes in academic policy, such as the transition to a semester system, or major changes in the method and procedures for obtaining accreditation are legitimately matters of faculty concern.

Therefore, the Faculty Senate respectfully voices its dissatisfaction over the manner in which decisions to convert to a Semester System and to adopt the AQIP system were made. We respectfully request that all similar decisions in the future be submitted to the Faculty Senate for a formal recommendation.

Lawson read Poirot’s resolution; written ballots were collected and counted.
13 for, 1 against (one Senator left after the previous vote)

Bostick resolved that UFS endorse a tip of the hat to Nursing Staff for their great work. Chip seconded it, vote was unanimous.

Morris then asked for recommendations to improve the communication process. Doster suggested that faculty be polled and that a formal vote is conducted in UFS. Poirot indicated that we need to have faculty discussions. Doster said that the administration should take the initiative to ask for a vote in UFS. Morris felt that while she would bring issues to the Senate, it is not her place to tell the Senate President that he must have a vote in UFS. Warfield responded that it is each Senator’s responsibility to take the initiative to ask for a vote on issues. Field questioned the need for government by referendum. Doster replied that polls among faculty help Senators determine how to vote in UFS. Morris reiterated her feeling that shared governance is a priority.

Dan Moore motioned that we adjourn, seconded by Priscilla Pope, motion carried unanimously.


Respectfully submitted by,
Shannon Lawson

 

MINUTES
University Faculty Senate
April 14, 2005
 

Call to order – Ken Warfield called the meeting to order at 4:00 pm

I. Taking of the Roll
Members Present: Trudy Bostick, Barbara Conn, Matt Cram, Steve Doster, Larry Estepp, Janna Gallaher, Ginny Hamilton, Jean Houser, Ed Kehres, Barbara Kunkle Shannon Lawson, Patric Leedom, James Miller, Dan Moore, Priscilla Pope, Carl Schwing, Krista Taylor, Ken Warfield

Members Absent: Sibylle Hermann, Dan Moore, Clifford Poirot, Debra Scurlock

Ex Officio: Martha Rader, Michael Field, Jerry Holt

Guests: Dave Todt, Gene Burns (representing Sibylle Hermann)

II. Approval of the Minutes: Priscilla Pope motioned that we approve, seconded by
Matt Cram, no discussion, motion carried unanimously.

III. Approval of Agenda: Krista Taylor motioned that we approve, seconded by Matt
Cram. No discussion, motion carried unanimously.

IV. Treasurer’s Report: Ken Warfield read Dan Moore’s report. There has been a total
of $3,247.00 expenses with a balance of $31.00 in the regular operating account.
The balance in the carry forward account remains at 11,741.00. Krista Taylor
motioned that we approve, seconded by Carl Schwing, no discussion, motion carried
unanimously.

V. Announcements and Remarks from Senate President – Ken Warfield
A. Administrative Reviews – results will be tallied by May 1st. Ken will meet with the administrators and the results will be shared at the June meeting. Last years results will also be shared with the administrators and the Senate.
B. Senate Bill 24 Resolution - the final draft that was approved by the Senate is attached to the minutes.
C. Semester Calendar - There is a draft of a semester calendar in Senator’s packets. Send questions or concerns to Steve Midkiff. No vote is required. Shannon Lawson asked about the fact that according to the Summer 2007 Proposed Academic Calendar, grades are due the day after final exams which would not allow faculty much time to grade final exams. She is concerned that such a deadline will cause faculty to give final exams during the last week of classes rather than waiting until the day before grades are due to give finals. Dean Rader explained that such a short turn around time is necessary to ensure that students can register for classes by August 20th.

VI. Registrar’s Report (as appropriate) – Steve Midkiff

VII. President’s Report/Provost’s Report (as appropriate) – Michael Field

A. Class Lists – No attendance reporting – Michael Field announced that while the majority of faculty completed the electronic reporting of no attendance, it was a low majority. He asked for ideas as to what prevented faculty from complying. Faculty gave the following responses: The reporting period closed at noon, when it should have been open until 5pm. Apparently it was opened back up in the afternoon but faculty was not informed of the extension. Why did we have to wait a week? Why not allow reporting sooner? Some faculty still does not know their new id numbers. Need an email reminder, perhaps with a link to reporting page.
B. Senate Bill 24 – might pass therefore we need to ensure that all students regardless of their religious or political affiliations have the opportunity to be heard.
C. Enrollment increase is flattening out which means that there has been an increase in the number of students dropping out after fall and winter quarters.
D. State Budget – bill is still up in the air but we are hoping for the best.
E. Semester Conversion – Dr. Morris wanted to come to today’s UFS meeting but she is on a conference call regarding the budget. She is, however, willing to meet with faculty who has compelling reasons to be concerned about semester conversion.

VIII. Old Business – Semester Conversion – Ken Warfield announced that all Senators have received a second copy of the Provost’s plan for Semester Conversion (copies were originally distributed last fall). He prefaced the discussion with information regarding the history of conversion. The proposal for conversion went before the predecessor to the Senate (UFA) in 1997. It was discussed until 1998 when no recommendation was made. At such time the proposal was sent to the Board of Trustees. The BOT made a resolution to convert to semesters but not before 2000. The current president made the decision that now is the time to make the conversion. Dr. Morris’s decision was made after consultation with numerous constituents across the campus. He went on to state the role of the Senate as follows:
1. UFS is an advisory committee – We do not make policy. Pres. Morris made the decision. All this arguing is not accomplishing anything. Get over it. We are moving forward. Pres. Morris is open to consider that this is not the appropriate time for conversion but she needs compelling reasons.
2. UFS is an oversight governing body. SEA will oversee that faculty are treated fairly in areas of workload and compensation. The Senate’s responsibility is to make sure that during the implementation of semesters, students are treated fairly and the academic integrity of the institution is maintained.
If Senate wants to form a committee to present reasons to the president that we should not go to semesters at this time, it must go through the Senate. All the rhetoric back and forth via email doesn’t get anywhere.
Michael Field reiterated that Dr. Morris is willing to look at anything Senate wishes to send her. However, the train has left the station. Senate should consider carefully any objections. We are on a schedule. He also consulted with various constituency groups, including the Senate before he prepared his white paper plan for semester conversion.

Steve Doster agreed that we need to move on, if it is an appropriate decision. And that is why he has proposed to continue the discussion among our constituents for a month. The decision has been applied and we have moved forward too quickly. Ken has trivialized the concerns with the conversion process. Whether those concerns are serious enough to stop the conversion remains to be seen but a month of academic discussion will help to determine that. The decision to convert to semesters, while it is a matter of university policy, is also one that affects the academic integrity of the institution. He agrees that the bottom line is that we do need to move on, and there should be compelling reasons to make the conversion. Thus, he proposed that after a month of discussion, Senate should vote on a resolution at our May meeting.

Barbara Kunkle spoke as a representative of the English and Humanities Department. She noted that the conversion plan states that it “requires substantial effort” which she agrees with. However, she disagrees that there was a lot of consultation before the decision was made. She would like to see UFS recommend that the process of conversion be tabled for three pressing concerns:
1. Faculty as a whole has not been polled on the issue
2. widespread concern among faculty about the process by which semester conversion has been moving forward
3. revised rationale needs to be developed in view of the fact that OSU and OU have retained the quarter system. They had a train that left the station and somebody stopped it.
If we have a committee that goes to Pres. Morris, she would like to be on it so that the voices of her department can be heard.

James Miller suggested although he favors semesters, that part of the problem lies with the fact that we abdicated our responsibility back in 1998 when we made the decision not to decide. The idea that a decision made back in 1998 should not be binding is flawed because many decisions made back in 1998 are currently binding. He would like someone to give a compelling reason why we should not be on the semester system.

Krista Taylor asked Kunkle to clarify her reasons especially regarding the process. The guidelines were given to department chairs and faculty last fall when the decision to convert to semesters was made. Kunkle indicated that it is not the process of implementation that faculty object to, rather it is the process with which the decision to begin conversion was made, namely without faculty consultation. Field responded that the process has not been too rapid. Faculty was consulted back in 1998 and the process has been occurring since then. He stated that semester conversion is not a faculty decision. It is an administrative decision. He suggested that rather than spend a month discussing the issue, that UFS should form a committee to go the president with our concerns. Doster replied that a month of discussion won’t make much of a difference with regards to slowing down the process. Janna Gallaher asked if BOT is a legal governing body and even if faculty do convince Dr. Morris to put off conversion, can the BOT be forced to change their decision? Field begged the question, do we really want to put our president in the position of having to go to the BOT and tell them because faculty wants me to, we need to stop semester conversion? Taylor indicated that waiting for a month of discussion is a bad idea because the Math dept will be meeting at the end of the month to finalize curricular changes and EPCC will be voting in two weeks on the GEP conversion recommendations. Field asked why the complaints were not made last fall. Kunkle replied that our voices just haven’t been heard. Field indicated that 94% of American universities are on the semester system and that Ohio is simply behind the rest of the country. Miller indicated that he does not believe the process has been problematic.

Kunkle moved that UFS form a committee of Senators to express our concerns to Dr. Morris. Trudy Bostick seconded it. More discussion followed. Gene Burns indicated that he supported Kunkle’s motion to talk with the president but would rather have the senate pass a motion that we are opposed or not opposed to the process with which the decision was announced to UFS rather than asking for UFS recommendation on semester conversion. Discussion occurred as to whether Burns could make a motion as a substitute senator filling in for Sybille Herman. Ken Warfield indicated that as her representative, he could vote.

Shannon Lawson called for a vote regarding Barbara Kunkle’s motion to send a UFS committee to the president to express our concerns. For: 5 Opposed: 8 Abstentions: 2

More discussion ensued. Lawson attempted to second Burn’s motion that we vote to oppose or not oppose the process with which the decision (that affects academic integrity of SSU) to convert to semesters was made. However, no vote was taken because there was not a quorum of Senators left in the meeting.

IX. New Business – none

X. Announcements from the Senate Floor – none
Clarification from Ken Warfield – any faculty member that has an item for the Senate
agenda, must go through a Senator who will then bring the item before the Senate.

XI. Committee Reports
A. Educational Policies and Curriculum Committee – Krista Taylor reported that the
engineering dept are cleaning house, basically removing prerequisites that are no
longer required. All items passed EPCC, Krista motioned to pass all changes in one
vote, seconded by Priscilla Pope, motion carried unanimously.
1. ETEV445 Hazardous Site Remediation
2. IET Course Deletions
3. Add pre-engineering general course sequence to Associate of Science degree
A. Committee on Committees – Ken Warfield asked Senators whose terms are expiring to please email him. Senate elections will occur next month.
B. Faculty Affairs and Development Committee – Barbara Kunkle indicated that FAD will be meeting in the next couple of weeks. They are working on two areas. One, the selection of student for faculty scholarship – the deadline may need to be permanently extended because the current deadline falls too close to Spring Break. Two, they are reviewing application for faculty leaves which will be announced on May 15th.
C. Fiscal Affairs Committee – Steve Doster reported that at their last meeting, the discussion focused upon Conversation Day. He asked for clarification of the timetable following Conversation Day. Dave Todt responded that after Conversation Day, the various threads will be pulled together in a report to SSU campus for individual depts. To discuss and prioritize. Doster asked whether or not the report will come before the Senate for approval. Todt responded that AQIP will go through the existing governing boards. The Strategic Planning Committee will report to Senate regarding AQIP.
D. Student Affairs Committee – Barbara Conn reported that they are waiting for a response from President Morris regarding their proposed smoking policy.
E. Facilities Planning Committee – Patric Leedom reported that it was his understanding that they will not be hearing from President Morris regarding the smoking policy because they have simply given her what she asked for. He clarified that this is not an anti-smoking policy but rather an attempt to regulate where smoking can occur. As for the Energy Conservation Policy, the committee has temporarily paused work as they are attempting to contact UTAC regarding the 39 labs on campus (this is the highest number for any Ohio campus). Gene Burns indicated that they should talk with Science dept who will have trouble with changes in temperatures.
F. Athletic and Intramural Committee – Priscilla Pope reported that Dr. Morris has accepted their proposal for Title IX compliance. Now committee is working on how we can provide more activities for students in view of the fact that we have more students living on campus. They are in the process of surveying students to see what they want.

XII. Adjournment – Krista Taylor motioned that we adjourn, seconded by Trudy Bostick, motion carried unanimously.

Respectfully submitted,
Shannon Lawson
 

MINUTES
University Faculty Senate
March 10, 2005

Call to order – Ken Warfield called the meeting to order at 4:00 pm

I. Taking of the Roll
Members Present: Barbara Conn, Matt Cram, Steve Doster, Janna Gallaher, Ginny Hamilton, Sibylle Hermann, Jean Houser, Ed Kehres, Shannon Lawson, Dan Moore, Clifford Poirot, Carl Schwing, Debra Scurlock, Krista Taylor, Ken Warfield

Members Absent: Trudy Bostick, Larry Estepp, Barbara Kunkle, Patric Leedom, James Miller, Priscilla Pope

Ex Officio: Martha Rader, Michael Field

Guests: Steve Midkiff, Dave Todt

II. Approval of the Minutes: Janna Gallaher motioned that we approve, seconded by Ginny Hamilton, no discussion, motion carried unanimously.

III. Approval of Agenda: Ken Warfield proposed that we discuss item X. Committee Reports before we discuss item VIII. Chip Poirot’s proposal for Senate Bill 24. Chip motioned that we approve the agenda with the aforementioned amendments, 2nd by Dan Moore, no discussion, motion carried unanimously.

IV. Treasurer’s Report: Dan Moore reported expenses of $2,932.00 with a balance of $346.00 in the regular operating account. The balance in the carry forward account remains at $11,741.00. Krista Taylor motioned that we approve, seconded by Chip Poirot, no discussion, motion carried unanimously.

V. Announcements and Remarks from Senate President – Ken Warfield
A. Blood drive – UFS was contacted by the Red Cross about holding another blood drive. The date they offered is during the week of finals in spring quarter. The UFS Executive decided to decline the Red Cross’s offer for this year and ask them to give us a date in the middle of fall or winter quarter next year.

B. AQIP Conversation Day – All classes up to 4:00 will be cancelled on April 26th so faculty can participate in Conversation Day. The AQIP survey had a 93% participation rate.

C. The Semester Conversion process is on target, several members of the Conversion Committee went to Central State on March 4th to see how they made the conversion.

D. The Ohio Faculty Council will meet Friday. One item on the agenda will be to create a resolution regarding Senate Bill 24 which will represent all the universities in Ohio.

E. Administrative Reviews will be conducted the first week of spring quarter. Senators should encourage faculty to participate.

F. Women’s Forum – the women’s edition of the Silhouette that UFS helped to fund is now out. It is entitled A Woman’s Journey.

VI. President’s Report/Provost’s Report (as appropriate) – Dave Todt thanked the Senate for their participation in the AQIP Survey

VII. Registrar’s Report (as appropriate) – none

VIII. Committee Reports
A. Educational Policies and Curriculum Committee – Krista Taylor made an announcement regarding a PowerPoint that is available for viewing at ssu.data.info created by Ted Kosan and Janna Gallaher that provides an analysis of the 2/3 semester conversion rule.
B. Committee on Committees – None
C. Faculty Affairs and Development Committee – None
D. Fiscal Affairs Committee – Steve Doster reported that they are in the process of locating a list of peer institutions to use for comparison for AQIP
E. Student Affairs Committee – Barbara Conn handed out a Second Hand Smoke Policy created jointly by the Student Affairs Committee and the Facilities Planning Committee. Dr. Morris endorsed the need for such a policy on campus and will be taking the policy to the BOT.
F. Facilities Planning Committee –
G. Athletic and Intramural Committee – None 

IX.Old Business – Chip’s Proposal for Senate Bill 24 – a copy of Chip Poirot’s proposal was given to all Senators. Dan Moore motioned that we approve Chip’s draft, seconded by Steve Doster. Discussion: Janna Gallaher asked what the advantage for SSU is to endorse a proposal opposing Senate Bill 24 in view of the fact that so few other universities have one. Ken indicated that three Ohio universities have created documents opposing Senate Bill 24. Chip indicated that he felt compelled to create a resolution because some of the discussion he witnessed via list serves was rather simplistic with the notion that there was no need for such a bill. He felt there is a need for a bill but that this bill is a bad bill. In other words, the “principle of protecting academic freedom of all faculty and students in higher ed, both public and private by legislation has merit and should be discussed by faculty and students as well as the public at large”. Ken Warfield proposed that we add the phrase Be it resolved; before the final paragraph. The question was asked as to whether the punctuation after each Whereas should be a comma or a semi-colon. Senators agreed to have Shannon Lawson check on the correct punctuation, make the proposed addition and forward a copy to Ken Warfield to take to the Ohio Faculty Council and our resolution will be put out electronically to all Ohio Universities. The vote was as follows: For: 13, Opposed: 1, Abstentions: 0.

X. New Business - none 

X. Announcements from the Senate Floor – 
Shannon Lawson asked if the Senate could conduct a vote or straw vote of some kind to determine whether or not a majority of faculty support the semester conversion. She indicated that the faculty in the Engl and Humanities Dept has raised the concern as to exactly how the semester conversion process began and whether or not faculty had ever been consulted. She indicated that she was not necessarily against the conversion in that change often forces us to evaluate current practices; however, a vote could help to clarify where the majority of faculty stands on the issue of semester conversion. 

Ken Warfield indicated that the issue of semester conversion had already been put before faculty and voted on back in 1998. This issue was hashed out among faculty for several years. The last time it was voted on, there was a tie so faculty turned the decision over to the administration; thus there is no point in taking a vote today on a decision that has already been made. He also indicated that the system for funding at the state level has changed considerably since 1998 and a conversion to semesters is in our best interests at this time.
. 
Michael Field elaborated explaining that the history is explained in the white paper document that he created. In 1997, the faculty sent the BOT a report regarding the advantages and disadvantages of semester conversion. They declined to endorse either side because faculty was equally divided. The BOT then approved the conversion and Pres. Morris recently made the decision that the time was right to begin the conversion. The white paper document is a plan for conducting the conversion; however, it does not supplant the normal governance procedures in place on campus. All curriculum changes as a result of the conversion will go before EPCC and then be voted upon in the Senate.

Dave Todt indicated that while at Central State, he felt the universal opinion expressed by the faculty they met with was that the process of semester conversion offered an opportunity for curricular renewal.

Steve Doster indicated that there are some instances where decisions can be undone. He posed the question as to whether the primary motivation for the conversion is to facilitate cost savings for SSU. Field indicated that he should consult the white paper document then went on to explain that cost savings is not the primary reason. There will be a substantial improvement in the retention rate because faculty and support programs will have more time (16 wks as opposed to 10) to work with and “rescue” students who are floundering. However, the budgeting system used by the Board of Regents favors universities on the semester system. If you begin with x number of students and end up with x number of students there is an opportunity to save money because there will be one less opportunity for students to drop out. He indicated that we are laboring under a funding system that penalizes universities who are on the quarter system. 

XII. Adjournment – Krista Taylor motioned that we adjourn, seconded by Ed Kehres, motion carried unanimously.

Respectfully submitted,
Shannon Lawson

MINUTES
University Faculty Senate
February 10, 2005

Call to order – Ken Warfield called the meeting to order at 4:00 pm

I. Taking of the Roll
Members Present: Trudy Bostick, Barbara Conn, Matt Cram, Steve Doster, Larry Estepp, Janna Gallaher, Ginny Hamilton, Sibylle Hermann, Jean Houser, Ed Kehres, Shannon Lawson, James Miller, Dan Moore, Priscilla Pope, Clifford Poirot
Carl Schwing, Krista Taylor, Ken Warfield

Members Absent: Barbara Kunkle, Patric Leedom, Debra Scurlock

Ex Officio: Martha Rader, Michael Field

Guests: Steve Midkiff, Dave Todt

II. Approval of the Minutes: Ginny Hamilton motioned that we approve, seconded by Krista Taylor, no discussion, motion carried unanimously.

III. Approval of Agenda: Chip Poirot motioned that we approve with request to discuss Registrar’s Report prior to the Provost’s Report, seconded by Krista Taylor. No discussion, motion carried unanimously.

IV. Treasurer’s Report: Dan Moore reported expenses of $2,523.00 with a balance of $755.00 in the regular operating account. The balance in the carry forward account remains at 11,741.00. Krista Taylor motioned that we approve, seconded by Chip Poirot, no discussion, motion carried unanimously.

V. Announcements and Remarks from Senate President – Ken Warfield
     A. AQIP info sessions announced via email from Kris Liles. Ginny talked   to Dave Todt. The info sessions are the same as the info session that Todt presented to UFS 
last month.

     B. Ohio Faculty Council – “Blue Ribbon Panel” Economic Research Project Ken is working on a project to determine the regional impact of SSU.

     C. UFS Administrative Reviews – Procedures for the Administrative Reviews will be as follows: reviews will be done over a two week time period early in Spring Quarter. The results will be tabulated by staff in Ken Warfield’s department. The UFS President will then discuss the results face to face with each administrator before results are disseminated to Senators via the last UFS meeting of the academic year. Ken also suggested that we go ahead and complete an administrative review for the associate provost too. Senators should encourage their constituents to complete the reviews.

VI. Registrar’s Report (as appropriate) – Steve Midkiff
Steve presented a model for a Proposed 3-Hour Credit Hour Semester Course Schedule Format. He was asked to explain why he felt that offering 4 credit hour courses would cause chaos. He offered the following four reasons for the 3 hour model:
     1. Efficiency – proposal will provide 13 daytime 3-hour time blocks and 6 evening 3- hour time blocks. Friday evening and Saturday are open for the development of weekend programs. By contrast, the most efficient 4-hour schedule format provides only 9 daytime time blocks. The 3-hour time blocks will reduce pressure on heavily utilized computer labs and/or allow the reduction in the number of computer labs needed to meet institutional needs.
     2. Flexibility – proposal provides sufficient rooms to accommodate all existing 4 credit hour quarter courses once translated into 3 credit hour courses and has 5 additional time blocks daily to accommodate growth in the curriculum and enrollment. Allows for scheduling of a very limited number of courses serving a small number of students. For example a 4-hour credit course could be scheduled 10-10:50 MTWR; a 5-hour course could meet MTWRF.
     3. Compliance with Transfer Articulation (Ohio H.B. 95) – while the
implementation of a “universal state-wide transfer equivalency system” is still under development, the 40+ “Transfer Assurance Guides” (TAGS) currently provide for one 3 semester hour English composition course. If SSU were to require more semester hours, it would place us out of compliance and could place us at a disadvantage competitively because students who complete a 3 hour English Composition course at another institution would be guaranteed credit for a 4 hour credit course.
     4. Ease of scheduling for students – Students must be guaranteed that the change will not require them additional time, additional courses or additional fees. Scheduling 4 credit hour courses by Developmental English, English Composition and Developmental Math would require about 70 such courses out of the approximately 180 course projected to meet in the most frequently used classrooms.

A great deal of discussion followed Steve’s report.
Janna Gallaher asked Steve how labs would be handled. He responded that labs will cause some difficulties with scheduling however; it is good that labs are in their own rooms. 

Krista Taylor presented a modified version of Steve's proposal that would allow for flexible scheduling of 4 or 5 hour credit courses on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Her model will allow for between 11-13 daytime sessions. Evening remains the same as Steve’s model. She recommended that the 4 hour blocks be limited to one or two time slots on a rotating basis.

Shannon asked Steve to present a model of the 4-hour version that he mentioned that provided only 9 daytime blocks so that we could compare it to his model and Krista’s model. He responded that he could do that. Krista responded that her proposal was not a 4 hour version but rather the 3 hour version with modifications to enable a block of time to be used as a 4 hour course as needed.
Ed Kehres asked what other institutions are doing with regards to scheduling 3, 4 and 5 hour courses. Why are we trying to re-invent the wheel? Krista asked a Math list serve what they do about scheduling. Many replied that the registrar provides the blocks of time and the departments decide how to divide up the blocks to accommodate the courses they offer.

Jim Miller expressed that his department had considered two arguments. On the one hand, they are sympathetic to the problems that less contact hours with English composition will cause for students. However, they are also concerned that support for 2-4 hour English courses will cause students to lose hours in their major. He asked how much they would have to give up if English and Math were allowed to have 4 hour courses. It will be impossible to make a decision without knowing the impact of the 4 hour courses. 

Michael Field acknowledged that we are an open admissions university, but questioned how many students who can’t complete Math or English in a year are not college material in the first place. He cautioned us to limit the amount of time, effort and resources that are spent with developmental students, especially in view of the possibility that they may never make it to their second year of college in the first place. He wondered what the drop-out rate is for developmental students. He also expressed his hope that people could come up with creative options such as perhaps making the IDST GEP course a writing intensive course. He also asked faculty to consider the fact that if English or Math faculty are allowed to have 4 hour courses, they will have a problem meeting a 12hr per semester teaching load. Shannon responded that the problem can be solved by simply teaching an 11 hour load one semester and a 13 hour load the second semester. Several departments are doing this currently. 

Pricilla Pope asked how the conversion will be done. Krista responded that you will follow a 2/3 rule to convert courses. Pope wondered about converting the lecture lab hours, if she does 3 hour lectures then she should have 2 hours of lecture, and if she has 6 hours of lab, that would convert to 4 hours of lab but that can’t be done under the 3 semester hour model. Steve responded that she could have 4 hours of lab because she has her own lab. Krista asked if 4 hour labs wouldn’t cause scheduling problems. Steve responded that they wouldn’t because there is a smaller number of students in the APTP than in the GEP.

VII. President’s Report/Provost’s Report (as appropriate) – Michael Field
     A. Special Supplement – we could lose 10% if the Governor’s current proposal is 
passed. This will be a blow but not devastating because of the level of funding. He does not believe we would lose any of the positions advertised. The governor also changed the subsidy formula to include a “hold harmless provision” that may help us to get dollars back. There will be no more subsidy for general classes.
     B. Enrollment growth – has always helped SSU to “look good”. However the Chancellor suggested that we need to stress graduation rates of full time students who graduate in 4, 5 or 6 years to measure the success of an institution. If our current growth continues, in 2007 we may have 100 more incoming freshmen which would necessitate 5 more sections of English Comp.

VIII. Old Business – Faculty Party – Krista Taylor announced that the faculty party will be held Feb 19th from 6-9:00 at Noggins. She suggested that this be made an annual event so that planning could be done in advance.

IX. New Business Ken Warfield Ohio Faculty Council/Senate Bill 24
(Discussion to follow committee reports)
Ken asked the senate if they wished to write a resolution regarding Senate Bill 24. Jim Miller indicated that we should adopt a wait and see attitude to see what others do first. He is hesitant to endorse a resolution as SSU might be sticking their necks out. Rest assured the issue won’t go away anytime soon. Chip Poirot volunteered to write a proposal to present to the senate at next month’s meeting.

X. Announcements from the Senate Floor – none

XI. Committee Reports
     A. Educational Policies and Curriculum Committee – None
     B. Committee on Committees – None
     C. Faculty Affairs and Development Committee – None
     D. Fiscal Affairs Committee – None
     E. Student Affairs Committee – None
     F. Facilities Planning Committee – Patric Leedom informed Ken via email that they are currently trying to find locations for smokers away from the doorways.
     G. Athletic and Intramural Committee – None

XII. Adjournment – Dan Moore motioned that we adjourn, seconded by Trudy Bostick, motion carried unanimously.

Respectfully submitted,
Shannon Lawson

MINUTES
University Faculty Senate
January 13, 2005

Call to order – Ken Warfield called the meeting to order at 4:00 pm

I. Taking of the Roll
Members Present: Trudy Bostick, Barbara Conn, Steve Doster, Janna Gallaher, Ginny Hamilton, Sibylle Hermann, Jean Houser, Ed Kehres, Barbara Kunkle, Shannon Lawson, Patric Leedom, Dan Moore, Priscilla Pope, Debra Scurlock, Carl Schwing, Krista Taylor, Ken Warfield

Members Absent: Matt Cram, Larry Estepp, James Miller, Clifford Poirot

Ex Officio: Martha Rader

Guests: Dave Todt, Dale Taylor, Teresa Redoutey

II. Approval of the Minutes: Ginny Hamilton motioned that we approve, seconded by Krista Taylor, no discussion, motion carried unanimously.

III. Approval of Agenda: Dan Moore motioned that we approve, seconded by Barbara Kunkle, no discussion, motion carried unanimously.

IV. Treasurer’s Report: Dan Moore reported expenses of $2,206.90 with a balance of $1,071.10 in the regular operating account. The balance in the carry forward account remains at 11,741.00. Janna Gallaher motioned that we approve, seconded by Trudy Bostick, no discussion, motion carried unanimously.

V. Announcements and Remarks from Senate President – 
     A. Management Accountability System for reporting anonymous concerns about violations of university policy. Ken Warfield announced that the system is available for a 6 month trial period. There is a link ANONYMOUS COMMENTS on SSU’s homepage.

     B. Ohio Faculty Council – at the meeting, two issues of importance to SSU were discussed. OFC discussed ways to convince the governor to continue the Special Supplement for Central State and SSU. They also decided to try to make clear to the governor exactly what faculty actually do to convince the state govt. of higher ed’s impact upon feeding the economic engine for the state of Ohio. They are creating a survey for faculty.

VI. President’s Report/Provost’s Report (as appropriate) – Dave Todt, Associate Provost/Director of Planning 
A. AQIP – Todt announced that SSU has begun the process of this alternative route for accreditation through North Central that focuses upon the continual identification of problems and process for self-improvement. He announced that in February, all faculty will be asked to take an electronic survey of self-assessment called Vital Focus. Vital Focus contains 80 survey items that will be tabulated to determine areas at SSU which need addressing. A Conversation Day will follow in April in which the results of the survey will be discussed and problems will be prioritized. He encouraged all Senators to go back to their departments and encourage 100% participation in the Vital Focus Survey.
B. Todt also explained that the budget planning was done differently this year. Approvals for new positions were made contingent on the outcome of the State budget so that advertisements could be made earlier this year.

VII. Registrar’s Report (as appropriate)

VIII. Old Business – none

IX. New Business
A. Teresa Redoutey – SSU’s new tutoring program. Handouts were supplied explaining Supplemental Instruction (SI) which is a series of weekly review sessions for students facilitated by SI instructors (students who have previously taken the course). The SI model is based on the University of Kansas City model. SI was made available on a trial basis to the Nursing and Math depts. fall quarter. Barbara Conn indicated that some of the nursing faculty was unaware of SI. Dr. Rader explained that there were some scheduling challenges but affirmed that the concept of SI is a good one. Krista Taylor indicated that SI has been used in the Math dept and they have found it very helpful. Dale Taylor also handed out information on the electronic assistance available through SMARTHINKING which offers 24/7 assistance that is being used with Chemistry on a trial basis and ASK Online which links students to peer to peer assistance. All programs are in the pilot stage at this point and are not yet available to all students campus wide.

B. Krista Taylor – Winter Faculty Party
Krista announced that we would like to have a party similar to last years since it was so successful. We can rent the same facility – Noggins and have another Friday 6-9pm Happy Hour arrangement with catering. She will get some dates that Noggins is available and send an email to faculty with suggested dates.

X. Announcements from the Senate Floor – none

XI. Committee Reports
A. Educational Policies and Curriculum Committee – None
B. Committee on Committees – None
C. Faculty Affairs and Development Committee – None
D. Fiscal Affairs Committee – Steve Doster reminded us that this committee is a subset of the Strategic Planning Committee and will reconvene if there is an issue raised in the Strategic Planning Committee that needs further discussion. He informed us that the SPC also had an AQIP presentation and discussed goals for implementing the Strategic Plan at the last meeting.
E. Student Affairs Committee – still needs one more member
F. Facilities Planning Committee – Patric Leedom informed us that their focus will be upon developing an Energy Conservation plan. It is difficult because of two variables. Firstly, computer closets need to maintain a certain temperature range and any adjustments to the building’s heating or cooling needs to take that into account. Secondly, 24 hour access to offices for faculty is guaranteed by the current contract. The committee has also been asked to help find places for new organizations to meet and keep files.
G. Athletic and Intramural Committee – Priscilla Pope announced that she met with Dr. Morris and that Dr. Morris gave her a list of projects that she would like the committee to work on. When she went back to the committee with the list, committee members indicated that they had already reported on some of the items on the list. A decision was made to ask Dr. Morris for feedback on the reports that have already been submitted before further action is taken by the committee.

XII. Adjournment – Krista Taylor motioned that we adjourn, seconded by Trudy Bostick, motion carried unanimously.

Respectfully submitted,
Shannon Lawson

MINUTES

University Faculty Senate

November 18, 2004

Call to Order – Ken Warfield called the meeting to order at 4:00 pm.

 I.                   Taking of the Roll:

Members Present: Matt Cram, Steve Doster, Larry Estepp, Janna Gallaher, Ginny Hamilton, Sibylle Hermann, Jean Houser, Ed Kehres, Barbara Kunkle, Shannon Lawson, James Miller, Dan Moore, Clifford Poirot, Priscilla Pope, Debra Scurlock, Carl Schwing, Krista Taylor, Ken Warfield

 Ex Officio: Martha Rader; Michael Field

 Members Absent: Trudy Bostick, Barbara Conn, Patric Leedom

 Guests: Carl Hilgarth, Dave Todt, Steve Midkiff, Tom Stead

        II.                 Approval of the Minutes:  Dan Moore motioned that we approve,       seconded by Priscilla Pope, no discussion, motion carried unanimously. 

 III.               Approval of Agenda: Ken Warfield announced that Dale Taylor listed under New Business is postponing his presentation until January.  Dan Moore motioned that we approve, seconded by Chip Poirot.

IV.              Treasurer’s Report: Dan Moore reported there was one expense of $217.00 leaving a balance of $2997.00 in the regular operating account.  There was no activity in the Carry Forward Account.  The balance in the Carry Forward Account is currently $11, 592.00.  Larry Estepp motioned that we approve, seconded by Krista Taylor, motion carried unanimously.

         V.                 Announcements and Remarks from the Senate President-

Ken Warfield announced that the AQIP application has been sent and we are waiting to be approved.  He also indicated that the semester conversion committees have started meeting.  

VI.        President’s Report/Provost’s Report (as appropriate)

              Michael Field reported that he has met with Dean Rader, the Natural    Sciences Dept.and the architects about the design for the Massie Auditorium renovation.  The funding for the renovation is in place and they hope to be completed by Fall 2005.   He also announced that the new positions requested will be a priority at the Budget  Hearings.  Despite the $5 billion budget deficit the state of Ohio is facing, enrollments justify the new positions so we will go ahead and pursue new hires early, with the understanding that they will be affected by budget changes that may occur.  

VI.              Registrar’s Report (as appropriate)

Steve Midkiff thanked faculty for using MySSU with student advising.  He reported that students really appreciated the new system as evidenced by the fact that 61-64% of students used My SSU for registration.  

VIII.    Old Business – None  

IX.        New Business

A.  Dale Taylor, Director of Student Success Center

      Postponed until January

B.  UFS Endorsement of Proposed Revision to Board of Trustees Policy –

Ken Warfield called for a motion to endorse the proposed changes to Policy 5.14 Commencement Planning, Policy 2.04 Faculty Development, Policy 3.21 Student Assessment, Policy 5.13 Grants Management, and Policy 5.31 SSUDF.  Larry Estepp motioned that we approve, seconded by Jean Houser.  Michael Field endorsed the proposed revisions which are not major changes but simply help to clarify and/or simplify existing procedures. Priscilla Pope endorsed the Grants Management policy in view of her experience with managing a grant where the BOT had made changes to the proposal which she was unaware of.  Such a policy will help to facilitate communication between all parties.  Shannon Lawson asked where the Grant Management dept will be housed.  Michael Field replied that all grant related activities are currently, and will continue to be facilitated through Cathy Mullins in Outreach Services.  

X.  Announcements From the Senate Floor – Ginnie Hamilton reported that Senators have been given a copy of the minutes from the Ohio Faculty Council meeting and recommended that they read the highlights, especially re Rod Chu and the budget.  He emphasized that funding is based upon the number of graduates rather than the number of credit hours.  She also asked Ken Warfield to speak to Dr. Morris about going to OFC for help much in the same way that Central State has done.  Dr. Field indicated that it is good to align ourselves with Central State ; however, our subsidy is much less than Central State ’s.  The likelihood of the state cutting Central State ’s subsidy is low because of racial politics.  Chip Poirot indicated in the event of our subsidy getting cut while Central State ’s does not, we could challenge the decision on two points: racial discrimination and equal funding.  Michael Field responded that we should be able to benefit from an alliance with Central State .  Furthermore, he would like SSU to get off our dependence on the special subsidy and raise tuition in the long run.   

XI.       Committee Reports

A.      Educational Policies and Curriculum Committee – Krista Taylor

1.      Proposed Fast Track Procedure – as long as depts. don’t add significant changes to content, follow 2/3s rule, not counting the GEP, then your entire program can be submitted under one proposal.  Approved unanimously.

2.      Krista motioned that we vote on the entire packet as a whole since all proposals passed EPCC, seconded by Debra.  Pricilla Pope asked for clarification on how a new course could have “no impact”.  Krista responded that it means current staff is available to teach the course.  Michael Field added that the course might be offered on demand or perhaps every other year.  There is no presumption that we will have to hire new faculty.  Packet approved unanimously.

B.     Committee on Committees – none

C.     Faculty Affairs and Development Committee – Barbara Kunkle has nothing to report.

D.     Fiscal Affairs Committee – Chip Poirot reported that he has formed a committee but they have not met yet.

E.      Student Affairs Committee – needs one more member for CAS.  Has decided to focus on smoking and non-smoking areas.

F.      Facilities Planning Committee – Ken Warfield reported for Patric Leedom that the committee met Wednesday and will focus on creating an Energy Conservation Policy esp. dealing with temperature control during evenings and weekends.

G.     Athletic and Intramural Committee – Pricilla Pope has scheduled a meeting with Dr. Morris for Dec. 1^st as she has indicated that she “has things for them to do”.  All Senators who served on the committee last year will be on it again this year.  

XII. Adjournment – Barbara Kunkle motioned that we adjourn, seconded by      Priscilla Pope, motion carried unanimously. Meeting adjourned at 4:45pm

Respectfully submitted by Shannon Lawson

MINUTES

University Faculty Senate

October 14, 2004

Call to Order – Ken Warfield called the meeting to order at 4:10 pm .

 I.                   Taking of the Roll:

Members Present: Barbara Conn, Steve Doster, Larry Estepp, Janna Gallaher, Jean Houser, Ed Kehres, Barbara Kunkle, Shannon Lawson, Patric Leedom, Priscilla Pope, Carl Schwing, Krista Taylor, Ken Warfield

 Ex Officio: Martha Rader

 Members Absent: Trudy Bostick, Matt Cram, Ginny Hamilton, Sibylle Hermann, James Miller, Dan Moore, Clifford Poirot, Debra Scurlock

 Guests: Dave Todt, Gene Burns

 II.                 Approval of the Minutes:  Krista Taylor motioned that we approve, seconded by Larry Estepp, no discussion, motion carried unanimously. 

III.               Approval of Agenda: Krista Taylor motioned that we approve, seconded by Barbara Kunkle with the following correction: Patric Leedom was a guest at the June meeting.

IV.              Treasurer’s Report: Ken Warfield read the report submitted by Dan Moore.  There were no expenditures over the summer.  The balance in the regular operating account is $3214.00.  There was no activity in the Carry Forward Account in over the summer.  The balance in the Carry Forward Account is currently $11,592.00.  Dan noted that there is one outstanding invoice of $120.00.  Priscilla Pope motioned that we approve, seconded by Shannon Lawson, motion carried unanimously.

V.                 Announcements and Remarks from the Senate President-

Ken Warfield announced that the EPCC will be very busy  over the next three years as we work toward the semester conversion. A new catalog will be coming out in January.  He also announced that SSU has started the AQIP application.  He acknowledged that all three processes required a great deal of work and cooperation among faculty.  He also passed out a schedule listing all the UFS meetings for the upcoming year.  

VI.        President’s Report/Provost’s Report (as appropriate)  

VII.      Registrar’s Report (as appropriate)  

VIII.    Old Business – None  

IX.        New Business

A.  Dale Taylor, Director of Student Success Center

      He is out of town and will be put on the November agenda.

B.  Thanksgiving Luncheon – Request for $100 contribution - Krista Taylor motioned that we approve, seconded by Patric Leedom, no discussion, motion carried unanimously. 

                  C.  Women’s Forum special edition of the Silhouette – Request for   $1000 –   Priscilla Pope motioned that we approve, seconded by Steve Doster.  Shannon Lawson passed around a few copies of last year’s special edition of the Silhouette and indicated that this was a great project to encourage collaboration between faculty, students and staff at SSU. Motion carried unanimously.

                  D.  Faculty Party – Krista Taylor – She indicated that SEA leadership has agreed to help fund another faculty party during winter quarter.  She also announced that the owner of Noggins did not send a bill for a portion of the expenses associated with last year’s party.  When asked about it Cheryl (the owner) told us not to worry about it.  We would like to have another party at Noggins.  Priscilla Pope, Shannon Lawson and Krista Taylor agreed to make plans for a winter party.  

        X.       Announcements From the Senate Floor - none  

XI.       Committee Reports

A.      Educational Policies and Curriculum Committee – Krista Taylor

1.  SSPE 353 Proposal (see packet) – Krista Taylor motioned that we accept the proposal, seconded by Barbara Kunkle, motion carried unanimously.

2.  Semester Conversion Sub-Committee Report – Krista Taylor passed out a draft of a Support Course Content Worksheet to facilitate the collection of information needed by the Faculty Program Committee for semester conversion.  Gene Burns raised concerns about the form’s power to allow faculty outside the dept to dictate content, a decision that should be done by the experts within the dept.  He is also of the opinion that if the faculty do not get what they ask for on the form, that it will promote hard feelings between depts. Furthermore, it will widen the gap that already exists between CAS and CPS.  Krista responded that the form is just a worksheet designed to help depts. make decisions about what content to include and what content to drop as service courses are converted from quarters to semesters.  Jean Houser suggested that the information needed could be collected from a syllabus for the service courses.  Janna Gallaher indicated that many depts. have needs based upon accreditation requirements. Ed Kehres suggested that the worksheet be given only to dept chairs.  Gene indicated that he would be okay with dept chairs talking with one another about service courses but not filling out the worksheet.  Krista indicated that this form was based on a worksheet that helped to facilitate Rio Grande University ’s transition to semesters and the information that the forms would provide would help to facilitate informed decisions about what content to keep and what content to remove from service courses. 

B.     Committee on Committees – Ken Warfield requested members of the committee to email him their preferred meeting times.

C.     Faculty Affairs and Development Committee has not met yet. However, Barbara Kunkle announced that SSU currently has 4 Learning Communities – Cybernauts (15 members), Publishing (10 members), Early Service FLC, and the Women’s Studies FLC.  Gene Burns and Barbara will be presenting at the Ashland Teaching and Learning Conference in November.  She also mentioned that she may be asking UFS for some money to send people to conferences.

D.     Fiscal Affairs Committee – has not met yet

E.      Student Affairs Committee – has not met yet

F.      Facilities Planning Committee – Patric Leedom reported several completed projects.  Four new parking lots have helped to ease student demand for parking.  Two new residence halls with a total of 48 beds were completed last year including handicapped housing. The committee also discussed the future of Campus View.  The auditorium in the basement of Massie Hall is up for renovation this year.  They are still looking at Energy Conservation as the long term project and will look at creating a smoking policy to look at where students are smoking and smoke is blowing back into the buildings.  Barbara Kunkle asked Patric to ask the city to put in a traffic light at Waller Street .  Patric responded that it took a great deal of work to get the traffic light at Sinton Street and doubted that the city could be convinced to approve one at Waller Street too.

G.     Athletic and Intramural Committee has not met yet.  

XII.  Adjournment – Shannon Lawson motioned that we adjourn, seconded by      Priscilla Pope, motion carried unanimously.

Respectfully submitted by Shannon Lawson