Present: Boggess, Byrd, Curet, Cutting, Higgins, Lesher, Martinez (M), Novoa, O’Connor, Uhlig, Wolff.

The meeting was called to order by Terri Boggess at 1:39 p.m.

Ms. Louisa Martin was invited to the Senate to give a report on IT at St. Mary’s. She expressed her gratitude for the invitation and welcomed the opportunity to address any questions brought to the table for conversation. In addition to the systems that the community at large deals with daily, there were a number of upgrades to support systems within the University. There will be more features forthcoming. Questions about “channels” and how these can address faculty issues regarding rosters and student information were discussed. There was a request that communication from IT be improved so that all parties affected by changes or problems can be aware and respond appropriately. Concern was also expressed regarding the disappearance of the University Technology Committee, the “live” relationship between Gateway and Blackboard 7, as well as other practical IT/faculty/student issues. The Senate thanked Louisa for her attendance and reiterated that special attention needs to be given to all the issues raised, especially as to how students are affected.

The President’s report was offered by Terri Boggess. The convocation for September 24^th about faculty scholarship was discussed. She reported on the Core Curriculum process that the committee is meeting weekly and there is a possibility that the October convocation will invite faculty to respond to work presented by the committee.  The Senate asked the executive committee to discuss the timing of Pre-tenure and Senior Faculty Review with the Academic Vice President.

Senator Curet moved to adjourn; Rosie Cutting seconded the motion. All approved.