Faculty Senate
March 21, 2003
The meeting was called to order at 2:08
Members Present: Meyer, Powers, Walsh, Parker, Murphy, Scott, Simone, B. Jones, and H. Hamilton
The minutes from the February 28th meeting were amended and approved.
Because of conflicting committee responsibilities and demands the agenda was adjusted so that certain items might be discussed prior to senators having to leave.
A general concern regarding the physical appearance of the bookstore was discussed. There was a feeling that the “out of business” look gave a negative impression; not only of the bookstore but of the university. It was noted that significant renovations were taking place in Farmer Hall and that this was a major factor in the current physical state of the building. Out of this discussion a number of other concerns related to the bookstore were mentioned. They included: an inconsistency in pricing of items, errors regarding proper editions of books requested, the availability of basic office supplies, the lead time required in placing orders for classroom materials, and the premature returning of “extra” books. There was consensus that the operation of the bookstore would be high on the agenda for next year’s faculty senate.
Senator Scott then reported on an issue raised in CDC (Council of Department Chairs) concerning student absences related to university business. Dr. Seelbach has requested representatives from the CDC and the faculty senate form a committee to address questions such as: Who decides what is legitimate university business? How much reasonable notice should be given? Should there be a system of accountability ensuring that absented students attend the cited events? Should there be a ceiling on the number of excused absences? by student? by course requirements? Senator Parker agreed to serve on such a committee with Senator Scott (representing the CDC).
A request from Mary Horton concerning a faculty senate representative on the faculty grievance committee was presented. Senator Puleo agreed to serve as the senator representative. Senator Simone agreed to serve as alternate.
Urgent, pressing, and crucial university business requiring the presence of certain senators resulted in the loss of a quorum. Informal discussion of a number of topics followed.
The meeting was officially adjourned at 3:00
Open to One’s Imagination,
Stephen Parker, recording secretary