REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF WESTERN CAROLINA UNIVERSITY
Room 510, H.F. Robinson Building March 14, 2008
The Board of Trustees of Western Carolina University met in regular session on March 14, 2008 in Room 510 of the H.F. Robinson Administration Building. The meeting was called to order at 9:30 a.m. by Chairman MacNeill.
ATTENDANCE
The following members of the Board were present: Mrs. MacNeill, Mr. Warren, Mr. Kiser,
Mr. Worley, Mrs. Wyche, Mr. Metcalf, Mr. Little, Mr. Bloemsma and Mr. Carlisle.
The following members of the Board were absent: Mrs. Burda, Mr. Phillips, Mr. Burgin, and Mrs. Williams.
Others present: Chancellor Bardo; Dr. Carter, Provost and Senior Vice Chancellor; Mrs. Lynch, Chief of Staff; Mr. Smith, Athletic Director; Vice Chancellors Metcalf, Miller and Wooten; Mr. Kucharski, Legal Counsel; Dr. Beam, Faculty Senate Chair; Dr. Sanger, Director of the Center for Integrated Technology in Engineering Technology; Mr. Tate, Staff Forum Chair; Mr. Bobby Justice, University Controller; Mrs. Ashe, Administrative Assistant; and Ms. Welch, Assistant Secretary to the Board.
ETHICS STATEMENT
Mrs. MacNeill read the following: “As Chair of the Board of Trustees, it is my responsibility
to remind all members of the Board of their duty under the State Government Ethics
Act to avoid conflicts of interest and appearances of conflict of interest as required
by this Act. Each member has received the agenda and related information for this
Board of Trustees’ meeting. If any Board member knows of any conflict of interest
or appearance of conflict with respect to any matter coming before the Board of Trustees
at this meeting, the conflict or appearance of conflict should be identified at this
time.”
There were no conflicts disclosed.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Mr. Warren moved that the minutes of the November 30, 2007 regular meeting and the
minutes of the January 23, 2008 teleconference of the Executive Committee be approved
as distributed. Mr. Worley seconded the motion, and it was approved unanimously.
CLOSED SESSION
Mr. Warren moved that the Board go into closed session to consider the qualifications,
competence, performance, condition of appointment of a public officer or employee
or prospective public officer or employee and to prevent the premature disclosure
of an honorary degree, scholarship, prize or similar award. Mr. Little seconded the
motion, and it was approved unanimously. Dr. Bardo asked that Dr. Carter and Mr.
Metcalf stay for the closed session.
RETURN TO OPEN SESSION
Mr. Worley moved that the Board return to open session. Mr. Warren seconded the motion,
and it was approved unanimously.
REPORT OF THE ACADEMIC AFFAIRS AND PERSONNEL COMMITTEE
Mr. Worley made a motion on behalf of the committee that the Board approve tenure
for Dana Sally, Dean of Library Services; Robert McMahan, Dean of the Kimmel School,
Construction Management and Technology; and Steven Brown, Department Head of Applied
Criminology, College of Health and Human Sciences; and tenure for eight faculty within
the College of Arts and Sciences, three faculty within the College of Business, one
faculty within the College of Education and Allied Professions, two faculty within
the College of Fine and Performing Arts, two faculty within the College of Health
and Human Sciences, and one faculty within the Kimmel School of Construction Management
and Technology. The motion was approved unanimously.
Mr. Worley stated that General Administration released the final report on UNC-Tomorrow
following Board of Governors' approval in January. He also stated that campuses have
been instructed by GA to respond to each of the 29 recommendations contained in the
report by May 1st. Mr. Worley further stated that these recommendations are grouped
across seven themes: Economic Transformation, Environment, Global Readiness, Public
Education, Access, Health, and Outreach and Engagement.
Mr. Worley reported that the Chancellor has designated Dianne Lynch, Chief of Staff,
to act as the campus liaison to coordinate the campus' response with General Administration
and Provost Kyle Carter to organize the campus input through the Strategic Planning
Committee (SPC).
Mr. Worley gave the Board an update on CourEval. He mentioned that during the 2006-2007 academic year each UNC institution was commissioned by General Administration to either develop a campus wide process for evaluating instruction or have one imposed state wide. Mr. Worley stated that the Provost assigned a Task Force to develop a transition plan to move the University from its paper/pencil process to a web based course evaluation process—a savings of approximately $200,000. It was decided to move forward with a campus wide on line evaluation for fall, 2007. Mr. Worley further explained that as a result the CoursEval Implementation Team and a Faculty Senate Task Force have worked collaboratively to establish policies and procedures for immediate action during spring, 2008. The goal is to establish an assessment process that will provide thorough and relevant feedback to faculty about their teaching.
Mr. Worley stated that The UNC Board of Governors approved Western Carolina University’s new Employment Policies, Terms and Procedures guiding the annual faculty evaluation and tenure/promotion processes in the fall of 2007. Since that time the department heads, deans, and Office of the Provost have developed a template to guide departments in establishing criteria to reflect the new standards, including the Boyer model of scholarship and the service engagement responsive to the region.
REPORT OF THE ADMINISTRATION, FINANCE AND AUDIT COMMITTEE
Mr. Kiser reported on parking rule modifications. Mr. Kiser explained that the focus
of the changes concern penalties for impeding traffic flow within campus parking lots
as well as modifying language to discourage pedestrians from obstructing normal traffic
flow. He gave the example that pedestrians should use designated sidewalks rather
than walk or jog on streets. Mr. Kiser made a motion on behalf of the committee to
approve parking rule modifications that reword the definition for stopping or standing
as it relates to the impediment of traffic flow, to add a violation for interference
of traffic and to add a new offense entitled “queuing.” These modifications should
be implemented at the beginning of the fiscal year 2008-2009. Mr. Warren asked Mr.
Wooten to tell them about parking changes, parking spaces, and parking decks. Mr.
Wooten stated that, at this time, there are more spaces available on campus than we
have cars registered. He also stated that parking is moving to the perimeter of campus
for commuter students and that they can ride the shuttle into campus. Mr. Wooten
explained that the issue is that commuters tend to arrive late and expect to park
at their academic building. He also explained that our students are queuing for more
than a few seconds while waiting for a parking space to become available. Mr. Wooten
further explained that we will not be building a parking deck in the near future due
to the expense. He stated that the university has implemented a shuttle service on
the West side of campus to go to students’ apartments and encourage them to ride the
shuttle into campus. There was discussion among the Board members. The motion was
approved unanimously. (PARKING RULE MODIFICATIONS ON FILE WITH MINUTES MATERIALS
IN TAB D-2)
Mr. Kiser made a motion on behalf of the committee to approve the resolution Approving the Issuance of Special Obligation Bonds to complete construction of the student recreation center. The motion was approved unanimously. (RESOLUTION ON FILE WITH MINUTES MATERIALS IN TAB D-3)
Mr. Kiser reported that last year, the Board authorized the sell of stock that the University had accumulated as part of an employee life insurance program. The Board had agreed to utilize the stock proceeds to establish an endowed account in support of a scholarship program for employees and their families. A simple set of rules with which this scholarship program will be administered recommends that 25% of the available funds would be set aside to support employees who are taking courses toward a degree at Western Carolina University and the remaining 75% would be used to award scholarships to spouses and children of employees who meet the admissions requirements to attend Western Carolina University. He stated that awards would be up to $1000 per semester and would be renewable for 8 total semesters as long as the student remains in good standing with the University. Mr. Kiser also stated that a scholarship committee would be formed utilizing representatives from each division of the University and this committee would review applications and recommend awards. He further stated that the funds available would be calculated utilizing the endowment spending rate and $46,752 is available for award in FY 08-09. The actual number of awards will be dependent upon the actual demand. Mr. Kiser made a motion on behalf of the committee to approve the Scholarship for WCU Employees and Their Children: A Benefit of Employment. The motion was approved unanimously. (SCHOLARSHIP ON FILE WITH MINUTES MATERIALS IN TAB D-4)
Mr. Kiser mentioned that the Committee reviewed the FY 06-07 unaudited annual financial statement. He asked Bobby Justice, the University Controller, to provide the Board with a brief overview of the highlights of this report. Mr. Justice thanked the Controller’s Office staff for all of their help with Banner. He then stated that nothing suggests that there will be audit findings. Mr. Justice explained the core issues in the report. Mr. Kiser suggested to the Board that they read pages 5-15 of the report. Mr. Wooten stated that this has been a difficult year with the transition of software and commended Mr. Justice and the staff for a job well done.
REPORT OF THE ALUMNI, HONORS, AND EXTERNAL AFFAIRS COMMITTEE
Mr. S. Metcalf made a motion on behalf of the committee to accept the nomination of
the candidates for election to the Western Carolina University Foundation Board of
Directors Class of 2011 as identified in closed session and authorizes Chancellor
Bardo and Mr. Clifton Metcalf to contact and determine the willingness to serve of
the five remaining members of the Foundation Board’s Class of 2008; and to contact
and determine the willingness to serve of a sufficient number of the nominees to fill
the identified vacancies subject to election to the Class of 20ll at the Board of
Trustees’ next meeting. The motion was approved unanimously. (SLATE OF CANDIDATES
IN MINUTES MATERIALS IN TAB E-1)
Mr. S. Metcalf reported that the Campaign for Western continues to progress nicely, as do gifts to the Foundation receipted this year. He also reported that pledges and contributions to the Campaign total $46,334,818, including $45,649,491 in documented contributions with $8,531,480 in documented contributions received in the past eight months, since July 1, 2007 – an increase of 20 percent. Mr. S. Metcalf further reported that documented endowment gains during the Campaign total $33,939,488, also an increase of 20 percent in the last eight months.
Mr. S. Metcalf mentioned that, to date, the Family Gifts Division has accounted for $7,374,406 in Campaign gifts and pledges. He also mentioned that eight of 13 trustees of record during the Campaign have committed $1,269,339. Mr. S. Metcalf further mentioned that fifteen Foundation Board of Directors members have committed $5,589,067. Mr. S. Metcalf said that active and retired faculty and staff have committed $516,000 to the Campaign since February 2007. He also said that more than 80 areas of campus will receive funds from faculty and staff contributions.
Mr. S. Metcalf stated that the Foundation is preparing to award two full, merit-based scholarships to freshmen entering Western for the 2008 academic year, with a third full scholarship to be awarded to a member of the entering freshman class in fall 2009. He also stated that all of the scholarships will be renewable annually.
Mr. S. Metcalf reported that Stamats, the firm leading Western’s marketing and branding program, is nearing completion of the seven-part research initiative designed to ascertain views of Western held by students, faculty, staff, prospective students and their parents, regional and state governmental and business leaders, donors and prospective donors. He also reported that the findings are expected to be presented to the campus in April.
REPORT OF THE STUDENT AND ATHLETIC AFFAIRS COMMITTEE
Mr. Warren stated that he was pleased to be introduced to the new football coach this
morning. He asked Mr. Smith to speak a few minutes about his perception of how things
are going. Mr. Smith said that the new coach is organizing and disciplining really
well. Mr. Smith also talked about the new football procedures. He further stated
that Coach Wagner has contacted Western alumni who are teaching school in North Carolina,
for their contacts. Mr. Smith talked about the coaching staff. Mr. Warren mentioned
that the coaches have better salaries which shows the commitment of this administration
to the football program.
Mr. Warren reported that the Southern Conference All Academic Team recognition (3.2
GPA, played at least one-half of the season) were as follows:
o Placed 25 student-athletes – 14 soccer, 5 football, 3 volleyball, 3 cross country.
o 5th of 11 teams
Mr. Warren stated that the Soccer team’s academic achievements were as follows:
o Named by National Soccer Coaches Association of America
o Must have at least 3.0 GPA
o Seventh in NCAA division I, 13th across all NCAA divisions
Mr. Warren reported that the overall GPA for all student athletes in the fall was 3.0+.
Mr. Warren reported on the Catamount Club reorganization. He stated that the department has moved from the Office of Advancement to the Department of Athletics; however, all development efforts are in coordination with Advancement.
Sports Update
1) Football
a) Signed 19 to incoming class
b) Spring practice will begin on March 31
c) Spring game will be held April 19
2) Men’s Golf – ranked 71st– among nearly 300 NCAA Division I golf programs, team
is playing well
3) Women’s Basketball
a) 25-8, first 25 win season in program history
b) Two back-to-back 20 + win seasons
c) Placed second in Conference – regular season and tournament
d) Will receive invitation to play in either NCAA or WNIT post-season tournament
4) Men’s Basketball
a) 10-21 record
b) Good second half of season, good foundation for next year
c) Assistant coach Bobby Woollum resigned at end of season
5) Indoor Track
a) Won both Men’s and Women’s Indoor conference Championships
b) Danny Williamson named Coach of the Year
c) WCU student-athletes were named Outstanding Performers of Meet for both Men and
Women
Mr. Warren stated that this is the last meeting for Mr. Bloemsma, the current Student
Government Association President. He also stated that it has been a joy to have Mr.
Bloemsma on the committee, as he has been a great liaison between the Board and the
student body. Mr. Warren further stated that the Board wishes him the best of luck.
Mr. Warren reported that the new residence hall construction project will be an 800 bed facility which is proceeding and a groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for April. He also reported that the new residence hall will include offices for the Honors College and feature a conference ballroom style multipurpose space.
Mr. Warren explained that the WCU Creed is being rewritten to focus on the core values of the institution. He further explained that it will serve as the basis of a new values-based code of conduct which is also being rewritten. Mr. Warren also explained that both documents will be finalized and implemented in time for the fall semester.
Mr. Warren reported that WCU is working to update and enhance the campus crisis preparedness plans. He also reported that new tools for communicating with the campus during a crisis are being purchased and installed. Mr. Warren further reported that questions about campus safety and crisis plans are anticipated during orientation. He mentioned that as the first anniversary of the Virginia Tech tragedy approaches, a number of campus-wide communications will be forthcoming to update the campus community on campus crisis preparedness.
COMMENTS FROM CHAIRMAN MACNEILL
Mrs. MacNeill thanked everyone for their commitment to the Board. She referenced
the discussion at the last Board meeting on attendance. Mrs. MacNeill stated that
every time a Board member misses a meeting, she will send out a friendly reminder.
(Mr. Bloemsma left at 10:00 a.m.)
Mrs. MacNeill mentioned that it was great to be back in hard hats and that ribbon-cutting ceremonies soon will follow. She further mentioned that the Christa McAuliffe award banquet was outstanding. Mrs. MacNeill reported that Western’s production of Guys and Dolls went well.
Mrs. MacNeill reminded the Board that their Statements of Economic Interest are due by April 15.
Mrs. MacNeill stated that the Board should attend the Association of Governing Boards meeting in April. She mentioned that the meeting last year was great and that they came back with a lot of information.
COMMENTS FROM CHANCELLOR BARDO AND PROGRESS REPORT ON ENROLLMENT
Dr. Bardo stated that there is a new undergraduate admission report format that is
more accurate. He also stated that we are up about 60% on applications, which is
the largest growth of applications of any University in the system. Dr. Bardo reported
that we anticipate between 1475-1550 new freshmen.
Dr. Bardo further reported that the average retention rate is currently at 88%. He added that the retention rate last year from the fall-spring semester was 83%.
Dr. Bardo reported that Dianne Lynch is coordinating the UNC-Tomorrow effort. He also reported that Kyle Carter is working with the Strategic Planning committee to get this report finalized and to the Board of Governors by May 1. Dr. Bardo mentioned that the community is giving input for the UNC-T report. He also mentioned that one element of UNC-Tomorrow is the possibility of a branch campus in Hendersonville. Dr. Bardo further mentioned that the University will proceed to look at this possibility. He stated that we will possibly create a joint-use site with Blue Ridge Community College. Dr. Bardo also stated that a branch is different from a teaching site in that faculty are actually stationed there.
Dr. Bardo mentioned that, at the last national conference, Western was sixth in the nation and the first among UNC campuses in the undergraduate research program. He also mentioned that the Honors College is one of the ten largest in the United States. Dr. Bardo further stated that Bob Bucker directed the first All-American band for the NFL.
Dr. Bardo reported that the legislature is going into short session on May 13 and that legislative chair persons start meeting on April 1. He also stated that we have a number of items in the UNC budget and asked the Board to ask legislators to support the UNC budget as written. Dr. Bardo mentioned that there are two Western items: first, funding for the forensics program and planning money for the College of Education. Dr. Bardo mentioned that we are asking for one non-budget item. He stated that we are asking for the R&D Corporation, a not-for-profit LLC, to be eligible for a sales tax rebate to avoid paying taxes on the construction of residence halls.
REPORT FROM THE FACULTY SENATE CHAIR
Dr. Beam reported that the Senate revised the Curriculum review process in an attempt
to simplify and speed up this process by delegating routine curriculum matters to
the University Curriculum Committee prior to discussion and approval by the Senate.
Dr. Beam mentioned that the Senate passed a resolution requesting that the Provost create the position of Faculty Ombudsperson and provide appropriate resources for training and supporting this position so that there may be a less formal means of dealing with individual faculty concerns before reaching the step of formal hearing or grievance procedures.
Dr. Beam also reported that the Senate passed a resolution requesting that domestic partners of Western employees be granted the same access to University facilities and services that spouses receive. Dr. Beam further stated that the Senate passed a revised version of University Policy #84 (which addresses Copyright issues) and encouraged the task force which has been working on such issues to continue its work in clarifying/revising the university policy on patents and trademarks. Dr. Beam also mentioned that the Senate passed a resolution affirming the right of faculty to request a secret ballot on all issues and at all administrative levels (department, college, and university).
Dr. Beam stated that the Senate has recommended some revisions to the procedures for administration of the Student Assessment Instruments as a part of the faculty evaluation process for Annual Faculty Evaluation and the tenure process.
REPORT FROM THE STAFF FORUM CHAIR
Mr. Tate reported that there will be smoking policy changes. He also reported that
the Forum had a town hall meeting regarding the smoking policy to gain feedback.
Mr. Tate further reported that the University Advisory Council will have information
to make recommendations to the Chancellor. He stated that recommendations are coming
from the HR task force to see if there are things that need to be changed in our personnel
system to create flexibility. Mr. Tate reported that the Forum is focusing on fundraising
for its scholarship.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, Mr. Worley moved to adjourn the meeting. Mr. Warren
seconded the motion and the meeting was adjourned at 12:00 noon.