St. Mary’s University

Minutes for 412th Meeting of the Faculty Senate

January 25, 2008  1:30 p.m

Alkek 106

The complete 2007-2008 Senate was present for the meeting.

1.         Opening Prayer offered by Carol Redfield.

2.         Approval of Minutes

The motion to approve made by Bob O’Connor, second by Roy Robbins, was approved unanimously.

3.         President’s Report

                        Academic Affairs Committee for Board of Trustees

                        International Relations Graduate Department

            Institute for Diplomacy, Strategic and International Studies

                        Enrollment Management Report

                        Graduation and Retention Rate

4.         Old Business

            Proposed revisions to sabbatical policy – Peggy Curet, Chair

Discussion of the latest draft proceeded with questions.  The membership of the Faculty Sabbatical Review Committee was discussed in terms of representative numbers.  The wording of the election process was adjusted to clarify language.  Likewise the language was clarified to indicate that “key role in selecting” meant “selects”.   Carol Redfield moved to approve the amended proposal.  Steve Neiheisel seconded the motion.  The vote was 17 in favor, 1 against, 0 abstain.

5.         University Committee Reports:

                        Alumni Association – Mike Martinez, Mike Forrest

Alumni Awards Dinner was mentioned and the Alumni Association Board meeting for January 26^th was also announced.  The Association has always appreciated the faculty (Senate) presence.

                        Athletic Cabinet – Terri Boggess       

                        Budget Committee – Terri Boggess, Leona Pallansch

All vice-presidential areas have submitted budget requests which are currently being discussed in meetings between the president and each vice-president. Some budget parameters will be presented to the Board of Trustees at the Feb. 8th meeting such as proposed increase for tuition, cost of meal plans and residence halls.                                   

                        Campus Beautification/Design Comm. – Caroline Byrd

                        Facilities Master Planning – Terri Boggess

                        Strategic Initiatives in Internat’l Educ. – Leona Pallansch

                        Student Judicial Comm. – Peggy Curet

                        University Benefits – Rosie Cutting

Expenditures by Aetna for health costs for St. Mary’s Insured are exceeding desired levels; i.e. actual costs are higher than desired.  However, the use of generics is above expectations, which cuts costs.  Health and wellness initiatives are recommended by AON and Aetna.  A survey, a hotline, and availability of health related information online are all resources the community could use more effectively. 

                        University Parking – Bob O’Connor, Roy Robbins

Construction of the new residence hall will temporarily reduce residence parking in the outback area.  The additional faculty spaces by the Law School are now marked.  The “raffle winner” spot was approved by the Committee for Midnight Madness.  Faculty and staff can park anywhere in Lot B.

                        Retention – Dan Higgins

                        University Technology – Carol Redfield

                        Safety Committee – Emily Hartigan

                        Feasibility Study for Center for Teaching Excellence – Caroline Byrd

6.         New Business

Dispute Resolution Policy (Proposed Change to Faculty       Handbook) – to be discussed in February meeting.         

7.         Adjournment: 

Bob O’Connor moved and Roy Robbins Seconded the motion to adjourn.

Motion passed unanimously.

            Next Meeting:      February 22, 2008, Alkek 106, 1:30 p.m.