Board of Regents
May 2003 - MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING
of the
BOARD OF REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN SYSTEM
UW-Stevens Point
Held in the University Center, Laird Room
Thursday, May 8, 2003
11:00 a.m.
- President Gottschalk presiding -
PRESENT: Regents Amato, Axtell, Boyle, Bradley, Burmaster, Gottschalk, Marcovich, Mohs, Olivieri, Randall, Richlen, Rosenzweig, Salas, Smith and Walsh
ABSENT: Regent Davis and Gracz
- - -
welcome to new regents
Regent President Gottschalk welcomed to the board Regent Mark Bradley, who succeeded JoAnne Brandes, Regent Beth Richlen, who succeeded Tommie Jones as student regent, and Regent Nino Amato, who succeeded Jonathan Barry as representative of the WTCS Board.
- - -
Budget Update
Regent President Gottschalk reported that the Joint Finance Committee had concluded its hearings on the Governor’s proposed biennial budget and had begun to vote on budget items. Expressing appreciation for the many visits and conversations that regents, chancellors, President Lyall and university relations staff have had with Joint Finance members, he indicated that members understand the magnitude of the cuts the UW is facing and the pain they will cause on the campuses. They realize that the university is taking an unfair proportion of the cut and understand the importance of the tuition increase to minimize the impacts of the GPR cuts on students and instruction.
At the same time, he cautioned, there is growing concern that revenue sources in the Governor’s budget may not materialize and there is strong pressure on legislators to restore transportation fund money and to hold the line on cuts to shared revenue. It will be necessary, he stated, to continue to make the case that, to quote a recent editorial in the Wisconsin State Journal, “enough is enough” in terms of cuts to the university. In that regard, he indicated that there are four concerns that must be stressed:
- Cuts to the UW should go no deeper. Ninety-nine cents of every state dollar goes directly to UW campuses, which have developed carefully considered but painful plans to deal with the Governor’s cut. Additional cuts, coming when students have already been admitted for the fall, could be devastating.
- Approval is needed of the proposed tuition increases of $350 per semester at UW-Madison and UW-Milwaukee and $250 per semester at all other campuses. There is support for the increases from students, including resolutions of support from student governments, who would rather see their tuition go up than see their educational quality and choices decline. Even with those increases, the UW would have to cope with a $100 million cut.
- Approval is needed of the Governor’s proposed financial aid increases in order to make the tuition increases affordable for the neediest students. Legislative leaders acknowledge the unfairness of taking these funds from UW auxiliaries and have pledged to find a long-term funding source for financial aid.
- Finally, legislators need to be urged not to micromanage the university. The cuts present an enormous management challenge to the president and chancellors who have been working for months on plans to meet them in ways that best preserve student access and services. In order to achieve those goals, it is important that the cuts be made by those closest to the operation. It also is important to explain the efficiency of the UW in educating one-third of Wisconsin’s high school graduates for $1,000 per student less than the national average and with very low tuition.
Expressing appreciation for the great show of public support for the university coming from around the state, Regent President Gottschalk indicated that letters are being sent every day to Joint Finance members and legislative leadership from alumni, business leaders, former regents and other friends of the university.
It is important, he pointed out, to continue to put these cuts to the university in context. The UW is being asked to take 38% of the cuts to state spending even though it is only 9% of the state budget. Ten years ago, Wisconsin ranked 13th in the nation in per capita state appropriations for higher education. Today it ranks 28th. In this measure, Wisconsin has fallen faster than any state in the nation. In contrast, Arkansas ranks 17th, and Mississippi ranks 9th. In the K-12 system in Wisconsin, $10,000 public dollars are spent per student. In the university system, $6500 is spent per student, an amount that will fall to about $5,000 once the budget is passed.
Noting an encouraging budget development, Regent President Gottschalk indicated that the Joint Operating Committee on Employment Relations approved the pay package for classified employees, which was signed by the Governor this week. Classified workers will receive a 1% raise retroactive to July 2001, a 2% raise retroactive to July 2002, and a final 2.5% raise retroactive to April 2003. Noting that the UW has 10,000 classified employees who had been working for nearly two years without a raise, Regent Gottschalk observed that these employees are essential to the smooth operation of the university and that these adjustments are well-deserved.
Turning to the future, he noted that the Governor has indicated that future negotiations will include a health insurance co-payment plan for both classified and unclassified staff.
Noting that the UW’s most important asset is its faculty and staff, Regent President Gottschalk stated appreciation for all that they do for students and the state. With fall classes largely admitted, the university has committed to teaching the classes advertised in the timetables and to housing students in its residence halls. Whatever the budget outcome, faculty and staff will honor these commitments.
Regent Olivieri noted that the UW Colleges have proposed an approach to dealing with the budget cuts that would reduce fewer of the faculty and academic staff positions needed to meet heavy student demand for admission. He asked if legislators were being urged strongly to provide position flexibility without necessarily reducing the size of the cut, so that the UW could continue to serve as many students as possible.
President Lyall replied that, while this point has been made repeatedly, the trend in legislative actions has been not to provide that kind of flexibility. The university has urged for years that the state manage the UW by dollars and not positions because the choice of hiring one higher-paid faculty or two lower paid ones should be an academic management question, rather than a fiscal budget question.
Regent Amato added that Joint Finance had cut the WTCS System by an additional $14.1 million, eliminating discretionary funds that make managing the cuts more difficult.
Regent Salas expressed concern about the impact of the cuts on Milwaukee Area Technical College’s Allied Health programs, pointing out that there are hundreds of qualified students on waiting lists for these programs at a time when the state faces shortages of nurses and other medical personnel.
Regent Mohs commented that it is critical to have a salary and benefit package that will allow the UW to recruit top quality faculty and staff in the national market. In order to remain competitive, he emphasized, the UW needs to be seen as a great place to work and an institution that can compete nationally for the best people.
- - -
Online Learning in Wisconsin: Access Through Collaboration
Introducing the presentation, Senior Vice President Cora Marrett noted that the UW System rests on the principles of access and quality, continually seeking ways for providing outstanding educational experiences for all state citizens. The topic of the presentation centered on one path through which the UW aims to enhance access to quality. Whether web-based instruction is blended into residential instruction or used for delivery at a distance, attention is focused around its enhancement of learning and of opportunities to learn.
To make the presentation, she introduced Barbara Emil and Marv Van Kekerix. Dr. Emil, Dean of Outreach/E-Learning Extension and Director of Learning Innovations, works with the 26 UW campuses to support independent learning programs and manages an array of services to support the degree and certificate programs that UW campuses offer online. Prior to joining UW-Extension a year ago, she held administrative positions at the University of South Florida, the Florida Virtual Campus, and the University of Nebraska. Dr. Van Kekerix, Provost and Vice Chancellor of UW-Extension, oversees operations that include the outreach functions. He received his doctorate from the University of Nebraska and served as Director of Academic Telecommunications at that university, after which he managed extension programs at UW-Stevens Point. His book, Reaching Learners through Telecommunications, won an award for advancing distance education.
In opening remarks, Dr. Emil noted that part of the original vision of the Wisconsin Idea was taking education directly into the home. The UW-Madison Survey Center’s recent poll showed continuing support for the Wisconsin Idea, with 86% believing that the university should reach beyond the campus, and another poll showing 73% of respondents believing that the state should fund outreach education.
In 1996, the Board of Regents study of the UW System in the 21st Century concluded that the Wisconsin Idea should be expanded through technology in order to enhance access; and in 1997 the board approved the creation of Learning Innovations – a partnership between the UW System and UW-Extension to support online learning. Among the goals articulated by the board were to provide access by removing barriers of time and place; to create student-centered learning environments and service systems; and to encourage collaboration across the system.
Turning to the history of UW leadership in distance education, Dr. Emil indicated that the earliest form was print-based independent learning with the Wisconsin program, which began in 1892, being the first of its kind in the country. In addition, Wisconsin Public Radio and Television continue to lead the nation in terms of educational uses of technology. While the technology changes, the commitment remains strong to reach adults and others not readily served on campus.
Noting that there are a variety of ways in which online education removes barriers to learning, Dr. Emil indicated that there is a continuum of models from blended courses in which an online dimension is added to the classroom to fully online learning, any time and any place.
System-wide, the UW currently has 26 degrees with significant distance education components, enrolling 17,800. There are 126,800 enrollments in courses with online components.
As to demand, a recent poll by the Chronicle of Higher Education showed that 90% of Americans believe that it is important for universities to provide education for adults, so they can qualify for better jobs.
While access used to refer to place, Dr. Emil indicated, it now also refers to time as increasing numbers of people work in businesses that operate around the clock. People working in such areas as transportation, hotels, hospitals, long-term care, fire protection, police and corrections need education, and they need it all around the clock.
To determine what programs should be offered, Learning Innovations works with UW System’s Market Research unit to identify needs and with campuses around the state to find programmatic and faculty resources. LI supports faculty in developing and building online courses and programs and provides technology support to students and faculty. This collaborative process involves surfacing differences and working together to resolve them with focus on the student in mind.
There currently are 14 programs, with enrollments of 3,600 students, fully online supported through Learning Innovations, in addition to other programs offered and supported at the campus level. The largest enrollments in these programs are at the UW Colleges, the most programs are offered by UW-Platteville, and the oldest and most well-established collaborations are in nursing and business programs.
Noting that these collaborations take time and resources, she observed that it is necessary to be accountable for how those resources are used in cost-effective ways to provide student access. Careful coordination is needed to determine what should be done locally and what can be scaled for efficiency. Making choices to collaborate and scale for efficiency can save money and can make money when new populations of learners are served. In that regard, she said that about half of the students enrolled online this semester indicated that they could not take the course if it were not offered online.
Among such choices, Dr. Emil explained, are linking of resources. For example, the UW College associate degree programs also provide general education courses for students in nursing, business and other degree completion programs, and certificate programs link to graduate degree programs. Instead of building it twice, she noted, the UW builds it once for multiple purposes – the type of collaborative effort with which many states are still struggling and of which Wisconsin can be very proud.
Indicating that online enrollments in LI supported programs had grown from 392 in 1999 to 2,215 in 2001 and 3,630 in 2003, Dr. Emil said that 10%-12% growth is anticipated in the next year as well.
As to economic impacts, she pointed out that more citizens with college degrees and certificates equals a more highly skilled workforce, increased earning power, and a healthier state economy.
As to program directions going forward, Dr. Emil indicated that UW-Madison already has a number of engineering programs online, one of which won the top award from the U.S. Distance Learning Association. New programs are being started this spring in specialized areas of engineering studies. UW-Milwaukee is launching the first doctoral program online in nursing. Beginning in the fall, a gerontology program will be offered in partnership among Marquette University, UW-Extension and seven UW institutions; and a criminal justice program is under discussion. With addition of the gerontology certificate program, 13 of 15 UW institutions will be engaged in some form of online collaborative programs.
Benefits of collaboration, she indicated, include expansion of access, efficiency, convenience for students, simplification of learner services, ensuring quality and avoidance of duplication. As an example of simplified services, she explained that students wanting to take courses from more than one campus used to have to repeat the application and enrollment process at each campus. Today, one application provides information that also can be shared with other campuses.
UW-Extension recently hosted the Sloan Symposium on the economics of online learning. It was found that the range of funding models varies widely across the nation, as do approaches to setting tuition. More national research is needed to better identify best practices and ways of sharing those practices among states.
Turning to financial history, Dr. Emil indicated that, since the founding of Learning Innovations, the UW System needed to fill a funding gap between the resources provided by UW-Extension and the revenues earned by the program. That gap has been narrowing and is expected to be eliminated completely by 2004, with revenues and investments coming into balance.
Revenues from tuition total about $3 million this year, of which about 22% stays with UW-Extension to support the programs, and about 78% goes to the tuition pool and to the campuses. Looking to the future, UW-Extension will continue to provide about 40% of the budget. Tuition and program development funds will cover 20%, with the rest coming from application fees collected through the Higher Education Location Program and from contracts and independent learning.
Concluding her remarks, Dr. Emil indicated that Learning Innovations is well-positioned in national benchmarking, having just completed a study for accountability purposes that included Penn State, the University o f Washington, the University of California-Irvine, and UC-Berkeley. At the Sloan Symposium, the UW offered to expand that study to include all of the institutions represented, which were the large public higher education online learning programs in the country, thus further positioning the UW for leadership in this area.
Dr. Van Kekerix began his remarks by indicating that UW online programs are in fact expanding student access and removing barriers to participation, which were among the key goals behind the online learning effort. Learning Innovations is playing an important roll as a partner to other UW institutions, taking advantage of synergies among them. Increasingly, LI is fostering collaboration among campuses to take advantage of institutional strengths.
Collaboration, he pointed out, does not always come easily because of the differences among UW institutions and their individual strengths. Among the matters involved are discussions about mission and development of common curriculums. An example of success in this area was creation by faculty from several institutions of a common curriculum in the nursing program. Each institution, he noted, has a particular orientation to their programs, which means that they need to step back and look at what the overall common orientation should be, taking into account market research findings about student needs. Admission standards and individual institutional cultures also need to be taken into account.
With regard to the vision set forth in the EGOLL report, Dr. Van Kekerix indicated that there has been considerable progress toward a coordinated and collaborative approach to online learning, ensuring both quality and access.
In conclusion, he indicated that, while the Sloan Foundation typically funds online learning in individual institutions, there are indications that the foundation may move toward a more system-wide and multiple institution orientation, which positions the UW well for obtaining additional support going forward.
In discussion following the presentation, Regent Mohs recalled that initially he had been skeptical about the quality and substance of online learning but over time had changed his mind. Fiscally, he pointed out that many e-learning initiatives, like many e-commerce businesses, had failed. Therefore, he felt that Learning Innovations and its partners deserve to be congratulated for succeeding financially while maintaining high quality.
Regent Walsh agreed with Regent Mohs, noting that Wisconsin’s program was able to succeed because of the long history and tradition of the Wisconsin Idea. Referring to the funding gap that was being eliminated, he asked why revenue decreased in the last three years while more people were being served.
In reply, Dr. Emil indicated that the time when revenues were highest was also the time of the largest deficit, with money being lost on every enrollment. What was necessary, she said, was to temper expectations of what those revenues could be in serving the working adult population. Costs had been cut accordingly, being reduced by 12% in the past year, and new revenues were brought in from programs serving those identified markets. In addition, the mission had been refocused to center on UW programs for working adults, recognizing that other modes of growth were not going to materialize. While some online programs failed through a high-profile, high-investment approach, Learning Innovations pulled back in time and refocused on what makes Wisconsin strong and who could be served most productively.
Regent Randall noted that, over the coming months, thousands of Wisconsinites will be returning from war with veteran status and eligibility for GI Bill and employer-provided educational benefits. This, he indicated, provides an opportunity to work closely with the technical college system to provide education to them online and even to serve veterans who live in other states. Noting the challenge of budgetary uncertainty, he asked if there was consideration of how to use online programming to serve returning veterans.
In reply, Dr. Emil indicated that, while Wisconsin students are the primary focus, students from many states and countries are enrolled in UW online programs. Tuition is priced to provide an advantage to state residents and a national audience is served when it reinforces the in-state effort. Learning Innovations works with the Veterans Administration and with employer reimbursement programs in making its offerings available to people who qualify for those benefits.
With regard to coordination with the technical colleges, she indicated that there is interest by the WTC System in participating in the Criminal Justice program that is being discussed. Learning Innovations looks forward to opportunities to further collaborating with partners on a state and national basis.
Regent Marcovich asked if Learning Innovations will in the future provide online services as needed without any further resource commitments from the system.
Dr. Emil responded that deficit coverage will no longer be needed but that contributions from the system will be focused strategically on developing new programs to serve new needs in the work force. These costs will be offset somewhat by program revenue. About 20% of LI’s budget is projected to come from tuition revenues and system support for developing new programs. Dr. Van Kekerix added that part of tuition revenues go to the tuition pool, providing a return to the UW System as a whole.
Regent Smith recalled that he had served on the Learning Innovations Board when it was first formed and a goal discussed at that time had been to reduce costs to a point at which they would be lower than costs for in-person education. Noting that this goal probably is not realistic at this time, he said the important contribution of online learning is to serve a population that could not be served by traditional education systems. While online education might not be a less costly way to serve students, he observed that there are sources of revenue that can be used to move the program toward self sufficiency.
If today’s budget pressure were to cause the UW to not be able to serve as many students on campus as it currently does and if that number were sizable, he asked if Learning Innovations could reposition itself to serve a hypothetical population of up to 10,000 additional students.
Dr. Van Kekerix replied that online learning for 10,000 students could be less expensive than putting in place the infrastructure needed to serve them in traditional fashion. Noting that online programs use flexible tuition rates, he noted that this source could be used to increase support for the programs, keeping in mind the students’ ability to pay and their level of financial need. In addition, he thought there might be opportunities to explore other sources of support for development of programs because of recognized state or national need.
Regent Smith asked how quickly Learning Innovations could gear up to serve that many additional students, to which Dr. Van Kekerix replied that finding instructional resources could be a significant challenge. Dr. Emil added that the instructional resources are the same whether the program is offered online or on campus. When there are reductions in instructional capacity on campus, that also would impact the ability to extend those opportunities online.
Commending Learning Innovations for being able to survive in a difficult economy, Regent Olivieri commented that there is much more to be done in the area of online learning. He supported the focus on serving Wisconsin and identified increased engagement of the campuses in online learning as a challenge going forward. He asked what students in the associate degree program pay in tuition for online programming compared to tuition for traditional campus programs.
Chancellor Messner replied that students pay a 40% premium for taking online courses, covering a portion of campus and LI costs for these programs. The cost per credit ranges from about $150 for UW College courses up to $1,340 for UW-Madison Engineering programs, some of the prices being market driven and some being cost driven. At the Sloan Symposium, it was found that institutions that did not have differential tuition tended to have the greatest levels of subsidy.
Regent Olivieri observed that it would not be possible to serve 10,000 additional students in the current budget and cost situation if it costs more to serve students through the online mechanism.
Dr. Emil noted that online learning might well cost a student less than a campus-based program when such expenses as travel to campus, child care and other incidental costs are taken into account. The Sloan Symposium action agenda, she noted, will be helpful in looking for answers to these kinds of questions. Dr. Van Kekerix indicated that there is a lost opportunity cost for students who cannot take programs on campus. For many of these students, the opportunity to take online courses is worth a higher tuition rate.
Regent Salas asked if it is more difficult to develop online programs in some areas than others. Noting that not many online degree programs are offered in the humanities, he asked if that is the result of demand or developmental cost considerations.
Dr. Van Kekerix responded that the lower number of online programs in the humanities is a result of market, rather than cost, factors. Learning Innovations has been focusing its efforts on areas where there is significant need for a full online program. One of the downfalls of many distance education efforts, he added, has been trying to duplicate all the programs available on campus.
Regent Salas noted, therefore, that the UW does not have the range of online courses to meet the demand of 10,000 students needing to meet degree requirements.
Dr. Van Kekerix concurred, adding that to duplicate online a full campus curriculum would be an overwhelming task
Regent Burmaster commended Learning Innovations for the great work that has been done, especially in nursing as one of the two major areas of worker shortage in the state. Noting that discussions had begun over a year ago with the Department of Public Instruction, she indicated that since that time the sense of urgency has increased to use online learning as a vehicle for teacher licensure.
Dr. Emil replied that this is an area of need that Learning Innovations is preparing to address. In one project, LI is working with DPI and WEAC to help teachers manage professional development and the new PI-34 requirements relating to how teachers become certified and maintain licensure through different career stages. Indicating that this is an excellent opportunity for the technical colleges, independent colleges and the UW to work in partnership, she noted that additional support is needed, which is being sought at the federal level and from other sources. It is a major need and opportunity, she added, to do something that also could help other states that are just beginning to consider the implications of No Child Left Behind requirements.
Chancellor George indicated that David J. Ward, who facilitated the Sloan Foundation Seminar will be drafting a report that will be shared with the board, chancellors and others so that what was learned at the symposium can be used in Wisconsin to drive the effort forward.
Chancellor Markee noted that UW-Platteville has been a partner with LI from the beginning and that the relationship has been institution changing, with almost 1/3 of the faculty involved in degrees for new markets. The focus has been to select a few of the areas in the university’s mission for the nontraditional student market. The experience in online learning also has led faculty to integrate online experiences into their other classes on campus, and this has had a great impact on changing the campus culture and opening it to new kinds of teaching and learning.
Chancellor Keating asked what kind of competition there is in offering liberal arts programs.
Replying that the level of competition is significant, Dr. Emil explained that a decision that has positioned the UW well is to offer only full programs of study online. Students have the choice of taking individual courses from a range of different providers or enrolling for a complete program of study from the UW, which is well-known and established in that field. With many competitors in the market, the UW could not compete on price alone and does not have the private sector benefactors that some proprietary institutions have. Some competitors spend large amounts of money on advertising, which the UW would not have the resources to do. Therefore, UW programs would not be able to compete in areas where they are not well-known and where there is not established demand. Not all competitors, however, offer full programs of study, fully online for working adults, she said, adding that the UW will have to stay true to that focus in order to continue to be competitive.
Dr. Van Kekerix added that marketing studies are helpful in providing a view of the competition, as well as the need.
Noting that the board is planning a study to rethink the future of the UW System, Regent Smith asked Learning Innovations to put together some preliminary information pertaining to the model he had suggested – being prepared to serve 10,000 students in a short period of time.
The discussion concluded and the meeting was adjourned at 12:35 p.m.
____________________________
Judith A. Temby, Secretary
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING
of the
BOARD OF REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN SYSTEM
UW-Stevens Point
Held in the University Center, Laird Room
Friday, May 9, 2003
9:00 a.m.
________________________________________________________________________
REPORT OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE BOARD.. 2
Report on the April 24th Meeting of the Wisconsin Technical College System Board 2
Report on the May 7th Meeting of the Hospital Authority Board.. 2
Resolution of Appreciation: Patrick G. Boyle.. 2
Resolution of Appreciation: Patrick G. Boyle. 3
Resolution of Appreciation: Tommie L. Jones, Jr. 4
Resolution of Appreciation: Tommie L. Jones, Jr. 5
Recognition of Public Employees. 6
Comments on Budget Cuts at UW-Stevens Point.. 6
REPORT OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE SYSTEM... 7
Thanks to Regents Emeritus Boyle and Jones. 7
UW-Stevens Point Presentation: Regional Sustainability: The Economy and the Environment 7
Presentation on United Council: Structure and Mission.. 9
Public Attitudes about Higher Education.. 12
Conference on Community Justice.. 14
Federal Funding for UW Initiatives. 15
Collaborative Certificate in Gerontology.. 15
UW-Madison Faculty Elected to Academy of Arts and Sciences. 15
UW-Eau Claire Jazz Ensemble.. 16
report of the PHYSICAL PLANNING AND FUNDING COMMITTEE.. 16
Report of the Assistant Vice President.. 17
REPORT OF THE BUSINESS AND FINANCE COMMITTEE.. 17
Discussion of All Regents Session.. 17
UW-Stevens Point Presentation: Electronic Authorization and Web Registration 18
Update on Finance Related Programs Reviews. 18
Quarterly Gifts, Grants and Contracts. 18
Report of the Vice President 18
REPORT OF THE EDUCATION COMMITTEE.. 20
Report of the Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs. 21
Announcement of the Vilas Trust Estate Proffer. 21
"Access to Higher Education by Income in Wisconsin". 22
Acceptance of the Proffer from the Trustees of the William F. Vilas Trust Estate. 22
UW-Milwaukee: Rename the School of Nursing. 22
Resolution of Appreciation: UW-Stevens Point 23
UW Whitewater: Approval of Extended Leave of Absence. 24
UW Milwaukee: Honorary Degrees. 24
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING
of the
BOARD OF REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN SYSTEM
UW-Stevens Point
Held in the University Center, Laird Room
Friday, May 9, 2003
9:00 a.m.
- President Gottschalk presiding -
PRESENT: Regents Amato, Axtell, Boyle, Bradley, Burmaster, Gottschalk, Marcovich, Mohs, Olivieri, Randall, Richlen, Rosenzweig, Salas, Smith and Walsh
ABSENT: Regents Brandes and Davis
- - -
Regent President Gottschalk welcomed Charles Pruitt, who had been appointed by Governor Doyle to succeed Regent Jay Smith in the coming months. Mr. Pruitt is the head of A.B. Data Company, in Fox Point.
- - -
There being no additions or corrections, the minutes of the April 10th and 11th meetings stood approved as distributed.
- - -
REPORT OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE BOARD
Report on the April 24th Meeting of the Wisconsin Technical College System Board
The board received a written report on the April 24th meeting of the Wisconsin Technical College System Board.
-
Report on the May 7th Meeting of the Hospital Authority Board
A written report on the May 7th meeting of the Hospital Authority Board was provided to the regents. Regent Mohs, a member of the authority board, provided copies of a survey, prepared for a meeting with business leaders, showing that the UW Hospital compares very favorably with other highly ranked institutions on a number of national benchmarks.
-
Resolution of Appreciation: Patrick G. Boyle
Before presenting the resolution, Regent Smith spoke of the many contributions made by Regent Boyle to the UW System over the past 40 years, noting that “his fingerprints are on a lot of our successes”. The model of an exceptional regent, he never lost sight of the importance of educational quality and the significance of efficiency. Understanding the importance of selecting the best leadership, he was an active member of six regent committees to select chancellors of UW institutions. He brought to the board a thorough understanding of shared governance, having been a student, faculty member, chancellor, and regent. A tireless advocate for the university, he spent countless hours at the State Capitol on behalf of the UW.
Further, Regent Smith observed, Regent Boyle recognized that the role of a regent requires a lot of personal time and effort in addition to monthly meetings. During Regent Smith’s term as president of the board, he had appointed Regent Boyle to the Hospital Authority Board to work on issues involved with integrating Physicians Plus into the UW Health system. He also had appointed him to the Educational Communications Board to work on a controversial antenna issue; as liaison to the Public and Community Health Oversight Advisory Committee to oversee a large gift to the Medical School; and to a regent committee to improve board effectiveness. In addition, Regent Boyle served as chair of the board’s Education Committee and as a member of the Executive Committee. In all of these roles, Regent Smith indicated, Regent Boyle performed dedicated and exemplary service.
In conclusion, Regent Smith noted that it was once said that anyone can hold the helm when the sea is calm. Regent Boyle heads for the rough waters, takes on the tough issues, and has been willing to do that for a long time.
Regent Smith presented the following resolution, which was adopted by acclamation, with a standing ovation to honor Regent Boyle.
Resolution of Appreciation: Patrick G. Boyle
Resolution 8688: WHEREAS, Patrick G. Boyle has served the citizens of Wisconsin with extraordinary dedication and unwavering loyalty during his term as a member of the University of Wisconsin System Board of Regents; and
WHEREAS, through his service as chair, vice chair and member of the Education Committee and 21st Century Subcommittee, his invaluable expertise will continue to guide teaching and learning at the UW for many generations; and
WHEREAS, he has been an effective steward in shaping a broad set of university policies, having served on the Executive Committee, committees on Board Effectiveness and Personnel Matters Review, and having chaired the Committee on Student Discipline and Other Student Appeals; and
WHEREAS, he has connected the board to Wisconsin communities as regent liaison to the Hospital Authority Board, Wisconsin Educational Communications Board, the Public and Community Health Oversight and Advisory Committee, and the Commission to Study Public Broadcasting in Wisconsin; and
WHEREAS, he has helped to shape UW System leadership as a member of special chancellor search committees for UW-Extension, UW-Eau Claire, UW-Green Bay, UW-River Falls, UW-Whitewater, and the then-UW-Centers; and
WHEREAS, Regent Boyle served the UW System and citizens statewide with great distinction as chancellor of UW-Extension for 10 years, during which time he strengthened the integration of the extension function on all UW campuses; led the establishment of a Solid and Hazardous Waste Education Center; a cross-divisional Local Government Center; a National Extension Leadership Development program supported by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation; and new initiatives in water quality and serving at-risk youth; and
WHEREAS, he is a living testament to the value of a UW degree, having graduated with a bachelor’s degree from UW-Platteville, and earned master’s and doctoral degrees at UW-Madison; and
WHEREAS, he is an honored and trusted friend of the UW System, having served Wisconsin’s public university and the state as a whole for more than four decades in true fulfillment of the Wisconsin Idea;
BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED, that the Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System highly commends Regent Emeritus Patrick G. Boyle for his accomplished tenure and distinguished service to the citizens of Wisconsin and the institutions of the UW System.
-
Resolution of Appreciation: Tommie L. Jones, Jr.
Introducing a resolution of appreciation to Tommie L. Jones, Jr., Regent Burmaster remarked that it had been a privilege to work with Regent Jones, who demonstrated leadership and insight, and set an example of collaboration in pursuing access and opportunity for quality education for all students. A strong voice for student interests, he tirelessly visited campuses and spoke with student leaders on an ongoing basis.
As a graduate of Hamilton High School, in the Milwaukee Public School System, he served as an excellent ambassador for the many positive steps taking place in Milwaukee area schools. He went on to receive his undergraduate degree at UW-Whitewater and to attend graduate school at UW-Oshkosh. Last summer, the Department of Public Instruction hired him in an internship position, in which in completed a number of important projects.
In Tommie Jones, Regent Burmaster indicated, one could see the professionalism and ambition of a talented student who seeks to make a difference in public affairs and who can look forward to a very promising future.
The following resolution was presented by Regent Burmaster and adopted by acclamation, with a standing ovation in honor of Regent Emeritus Jones.
Resolution of Appreciation: Tommie L. Jones, Jr.
Resolution 8689: WHEREAS, Tommie L. Jones, Jr. has served students and citizens of Wisconsin with remarkable dedication and spirited goodwill during his term as a member of the University of Wisconsin System Board of Regents; and
WHEREAS, he has been an effective advocate for students as a member of the Education Committee, where as student regent, his invaluable input and informed guidance helped shape teaching and learning throughout the UW System; and
WHEREAS, he helped to relay gratitude and admiration on behalf of the student body as a member of the Academic Staff Awards for Excellence Committee, which recognizes the institutional loyalty, professionalism and devotion of UW System academic staff members; and
WHEREAS, he contributed sound judgment and thoughtful analysis as a member of both the Business and Finance Committee and the Committee on Student Discipline and Other Student Appeals; and
WHEREAS, Regent Jones is a tribute to the strength of a UW degree, having chosen to continue his education at the graduate level at UW-Oshkosh following graduation from UW-Whitewater, where he earned a bachelor’s degree, served as president of the student government, and earned numerous leadership and service awards; and
WHEREAS, he has been a highly responsive and accessible representative who, in the fullest spirit of the Wisconsin Idea, has consistently put forward a strong voice for state citizens, Wisconsin communities and all UW students, present and future;
BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED, that the Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System commends Regent Emeritus Tommie L. Jones, Jr., for his outstanding contributions and distinguished service to the citizens of Wisconsin and the students of the UW System.
Expressing appreciation for the recognition, Tommie Jones stated that it had been a remarkable experience for him to serve the people of Wisconsin and the students, faculty, staff of the UW System. In his two years of service, he had found the UW to be efficient, cost effective and a prudent investment for the state’s resources.
In leaving the board, he felt humbled by the opportunity he had to help in shaping Wisconsin’s higher education system. He thanked his colleagues on the board for their advice and assistance to help him in learning about the UW System and in performing his duties. In particular, he expressed gratitude to Regent Presidents Gottschalk and Smith for trusting him as a student leader and permitting him to express student opinions openly and candidly. He thanked system staff for their help in answering his questions and thanked board staff for their assistance as well.
Expressing appreciation to the chancellors and provosts, he thanked them for inviting him to their campuses and stated his strong belief in shard governance and the right of students to participate in campus decision-making.
Finally, he thanked Chancellor Wells for helping him transition into graduate school at UW-Oshkosh and Chancellor Miller for his counsel and friendship during his undergraduate days at UW-Whitewater and for helping him transition from the position of student body president to membership on the Board of Regents.
He closed with a biblical quote that had guided his service – “To whom much is given, much is required,” – and wished new student regent Beth Richlen well as she begins her term on the board.
-
Recognition of Public Employees
Regent Salas noted that this week had been proclaimed by the Governor to be a time for recognizing public employees for their dedication and commitment to enhancing the quality of life in Wisconsin. In that spirit, he commended UW staff who do a wide variety of excellent work on the campuses and stated his approval of the legislative action to approve well-deserved pay raises provided in union contracts. The board and audience gave an ovation to these public servants for the fine work that they do.
-
Comments on Budget Cuts at UW-Stevens Point
Nathan Rohrer, a sophomore theatre major at UW-Stevens Point, noted that the theatre and dance programs at the university are nationally recognized for their excellence. He commented that proposed budget cuts threaten the programs and could result in a loss of national accreditation. This would be detrimental to recruitment of students and faculty and ultimately would deprive the community and region of a valuable cultural resource. He urged that strong programs, such as these, be spared from budget cuts and that further reductions be made in other programs.
REPORT OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE SYSTEM
Thanks to Regents Emeritus Boyle and Jones
President Lyall expressed appreciation to Regents Emeritus Boyle and Jones for their service to the entire UW System.
-
UW-Stevens Point Presentation: Regional Sustainability: The Economy and the Environment
In opening remarks. Chancellor George referred to a flow chart showing that higher education promotes economic strength which, in turn, generates good jobs that provide a deeper tax base. Higher education, therefore, is critical to the health of the economy. The chart also showed that environmental strength leads to healthy residents, who make up a healthy workforce that contributes to economic strength which, in turn, promotes environmental strength.
With regard to environmental practices at UW-Stevens Point, he indicated that UW-Stevens Point, along with UW-Madison, signed the Talloires Declaration that promoted sound environmental practices on campuses. The University Sustainability Committee conducted a campus audit, resulting in ongoing initiatives, such as low lighting, conservation of water, and monitoring of energy use and costs.
Turning to economic sustainability, the chancellor noted that the Central Wisconsin Idea (CWI) brings together partners for economic growth to engage in a number of important initiatives. The Collaborative Degree Program, established in 1996, makes it possible for students to receive a four-year degree at a two-year campus. Sites include UW-Marathon County, UW-Marshfield, UW-Marinette, and Mid-State Technical College. The majors offered are Business Administration and General Studies. Web and Digital Media Development will be added in 2003. So far, nearly 1,500 students have enrolled in the Collaborative Degree program. Most of these students are full-time employees, with businesses in many cases paying their tuition, which demonstrates the importance of this kind of opportunity to the Central Wisconsin economy.
A second initiative is the New Economy Workforce (NEW) Coalition, which began with a gift from Liberty Mutual and expanded to include many other corporations as partners. In collaboration with UW-Marathon County and Northcentral Technical College, courses responding to the needs of business are offered, including Web methodology, Web security, interpersonal relations and business writing. The NEW Coalition has served over 100 students in Marathon County since spring 2002.
A third initiative is the Wisconsin Learning Center, a partnership among UW-Stevens Point, Mid-State Technical College and the Portage County Business Council. The center, housed in the business park, includes a distance education room and offers courses requested by businesses, including computer training, supervisor training, team development, and industrial/organizational psychology. The center has served over 1000 students in Portage County since January 2002.
In another initiative, UW-Stevens Point and Mid-State Technical College collaborate to provide education and training to Stora Enso employees throughout Wisconsin. Since fall 2001, more than 2,100 of the company’s employees have been served through this partnership.
A partnership with Fox Valley Technical College has served 44 students in paper science continuing education since fall 2002, and UW-Stevens Point extension facilitates an Executive Leadership Certificate Program for Greenheck Fan of Wausau.
Chancellor George then called on Kelli English, a UW-Stevens Point graduate student, to discuss environmental sustainability. Referring to the Talloires Declaration, she indicated that student organizations are leading the way in terms of trying to make the campus sustainable. In addition to the initiatives mentioned earlier by the chancellor, there is a research project to examine the feasibility of using recycled paper throughout the campus, a green roof project to save energy while contributing to aesthetic values in campus buildings, and a movement to do more landscaping with native plants.
The Tailloires Declaration, she explained, is an outgrowth of two recent conferences at which UW-Stevens Point was represented: The United Nations World Summit on Sustainable Development and the International Conference on Environmental Management for Sustainable Universities.
The UW-Stevens Point Global Environmental Management Education Center (GEM), which has been a leader in this area, was established in 2000 and is key to forming the future vision for the College of Natural Resources which has the nation’s largest undergraduate program. GEM, she continued, takes lessons learned from local issues to a global perspective and then brings them back to the local level. In that regard it follows in the footsteps of such conservation pioneers as Aldo Leopold, John Muir and Gaylord Nelson.
Ms. English explained that GEM’s vision is a $100 million initiative with 70% of funding to come from federal and private sources and commitments for more than $5 million already received from those sources. Under the leadership of Dean Victor Phillips, of the College of Natural Resources, accomplishments have included the recruitment of Mike Dombeck, former Chief of the U.S. Forest Services, as a GEM pioneer professor and UW System Fellow for Global Conservation. Together, they have established partnerships with the Autonomous University of Chapingo, Mexico, and with the National Wildlife Federation. Two important GEM initiatives with strong ties to the economy are the Watershed Program and the Land Use Program.
Surveys have shown, Ms. English continued, that environment is a major factor in the quality of life for people in Central Wisconsin, with many businesses having moved to the area because of the quality of life and the available natural resources, including open spaces, parks, and opportunities for fishing, hunting, swimming, boating and hiking. These types of resources enhance employee satisfaction and create a more productive working environment.
Noting that UW-Stevens Point has long been involved in creating a sustainable economy through environmental advances, she indicated that the first conservation education major was established on campus by Fred Schmeeckle in the 1940s. Over the years, the university has had a major impact in the areas of agriculture, tourism and forestry/paper.
With regard to agriculture, she explained that the Center for Watershed Science and Education and the Center for Land Use Education have taken the lead in helping to promote sustainable agricultural practices. The Center for Watershed Science and Education is involved with the State’s 2003 Year of Water campaign and in formulating new ground water legislation in partnership with agri-business. In addition, the water testing laboratory provides water safety testing for the region.
The Center for Land Use Education is helping Portage County to formulate the nation’s first county-wide land use plan and is involved in assisting communities in developing their own land use plans.
Turning to the area of tourism, Ms. English said that UW-Stevens Point is a gateway for the area tourism economy through its large array of natural resource education programs and the Schmeeckle Reserve which serves as a training center for tourism experts. There also is a partnership with the local school district through which university staff and students assisted in transforming a local elementary school into an environmental charter school.
In the area of forestry, she noted that UW-Stevens Point’s program produces 60 graduates in forestry and 20 in paper science per year. In addition, the programs provide consulting, technical assistance, and continuing education to industry and work with private land owners to promote sustainable forestry management. In addition, the university has taken a leading role in providing education in chainsaw safety and promoting K-12 forestry education programs.
In conclusion, Ms. English remarked that a healthy natural resource base leads to a healthy economy and population and that a sustainable economy and environment serves everyone well.
-
Presentation on United Council: Structure and Mission
The presentation was made by Jeff Pertl, President of United Council of UW Students and a graduate of UW-Madison; Stephanie Hilton, Academic Affairs Director and a graduate of UW-Superior; and Brian Tanner, Shared Governance Director and a graduate of the University of Oregon.
In opening remarks, Mr. Pertl recalled that United Council was founded 43 years ago at UW-Stevens Point, with nine campuses coming together to create the organization. Mr. Tanner explained that the group, which is student run and directed, is organized as a non-profit, non-partisan (501c3) lobby and advocacy group for UW students. In addition, United Council researches issues, provides networking opportunities, holds events and runs campaigns.
Twenty-four of the 26 UW campuses are members of United Council, including all 13 UW College campuses. UW-Stout and UW-Whitewater are not members at this time. As provided by Regent Policy 87-3, United Council is funded by a mandatory refundable fee that currently is $1.35 per student per semester and summer session. Upon request, individual students may obtain a refund of the fee, plus postage. Membership is decided by campus referenda every two years.
United Council staff consist of 9 people: The president is elected for a one-year term and serves as chief executive and political leader. The presidency is a full time position and the incumbent also is a registered lobbyist. In addition, there are eight directors who are hired for full-time two-year terms which are staggered to maintain institutional memory: Executive director, legislative affairs director (registered lobbyist), academic affairs director, shared governance director, organizing and communications director, multicultural issues director, women’s issues director, and LGBTQ issues director. Most of these staff are recent graduates.
Identifying some major accomplishments through the years, Mr. Tanner noted that United Council helped to draft s.36.09(5), Stats., which provides for student involvement in university governance. In 1987 the Board of Regents, working with United Council, created the mandatory refundable fee as a funding mechanism for the group. During the period 1994-2000, the group worked with the UW System to protect student fee autonomy in the case of Southworth v. the UW System Board of Regents.
With regard to service to students, Ms. Hilton indicated that these activities fall into four main categories. First, there is advocacy and lobbying at the State Capitol as well as before the Board of Regents and chancellors. Second, United Council does research and compiles statistics in formats that can be used by students. Third, there are networking opportunities through which education is enhanced by the relationships that are built with student leaders from across the state and by understanding what is happening on other campuses. Fourth, there are special campaigns, such as a get-out-the-vote campaign and a campaign dealing with budget issues.
Indicating that United Council also offers many events, Ms. Hilton said these activities include seven general assemblies per year, at which delegates from member campuses meet to set policy. Other events include a summer alumni picnic, a summer leadership retreat, a women’s retreat to set the agenda for the Women’s Issues Committee, and a students of color symposium. A shared governance/student fee summit also is being planned.
Two of United Council’s largest events during the year are its major conferences. In the fall, there is the Building Unity Conference, at which students attend workshops on how to organize around multicultural issues and make changes in the state, as well as on a national level. In the spring, there is the Women’s Leadership Conference, at which students learn about what is happening in the field of women’s issues and how to organize to make further gains. These are the largest conferences of their kind in the state and have been held for 12 and seven years respectively.
With regard to past legislative achievements, Mr. Pertl noted that, in addition to helping to write the statute on student involvement in governance, United Council worked on legislation to ban the use of social security numbers for IDs in 1999, on a resident tuition freeze in 2000, and on legislation to add another student regent in 2002. At the federal level, the group worked on the Violence Against Women Act and the Hate Crimes Act.
In the 2001-03 budget adjustment bill, United Council had worked successfully to have tuition increases linked to financial aid increases; to have tuition increases capped at eight percent; to eliminate a ten percent non-resident tuition surcharge; and to eliminate a 165 credit surcharge. The group also worked to restore money to study abroad grants and to reduce the proposed cut to the UW from $100 million to $44 million.
In the proposed 2003-05 budget, United Council worked to eliminate the statutory cap on the Wisconsin Higher Education Grant and to cap tuition increases (15/18%). The group also lobbied for a record financial aid increase of $23.6 million and against damaging shared revenue cuts which would have an adverse impact on the education of UW College students.
Describing statewide United Council campaigns, Ms. Hilton indicated that the fall Vote 2002 campaign included forums with candidates from the major parties, targeted races in which the student vote was of key importance, and registration of thousands of students to vote. The state Budget Campaign included coordinated press conferences across the state, lobby days during which students traveled to Madison to visit their representatives, and a large march and rally in Madison.
At the federal level, reauthorization of the Higher Education Act is a priority for Untied Council, some of the group’s goals being to increase Pell grants and establish TRIO eligibility for each of the UW Colleges.
Other priorities include increasing student input into differential tuition policy, SEVIS funding, affirmative action, curriculum infusion, advising, and adding more student regents to the board.
Mr. Pertl indicated that, over its 40 years of existence, United Council has evolved from a statewide student governance group to one that is more focused on advocacy functions. To better address this evolving mission, the organization had made structural and budgetary changes as well as developing statewide campaigns. Goals for the future include more regent engagement in United Council activities.
In that regard, Mr. Tanner noted that for the Women’s Leadership Conference, Regent Burmaster had been a key speaker and Regent Randall had given a workshop. In addition, Regent Axtell had agreed to speak at the June General Assembly in Milwaukee. United Council also hoped to serve as a liaison to facilitate communication between student governments and regents at their adopted campuses, as well as to promote student regents as statewide student leaders.
Ms. Hilton explained that the purpose of the packets furnished to the regents by United Council is to update the board on student issues, provide student perspectives on pending items of business, and to request board action when appropriate. The packets also include United Council news, resolutions passed at general assemblies, and information on upcoming conferences.
In conclusion, Mr. Pertl spoke of possible new directions for the organization, including creation of a foundation or other means of seeking outside funds; considering where to find different office space if the group needs to move because of changes associated with construction of the Overture Center; expanding alumni connections; considering whether the UC president should be a current student; working on a five-year strategic plan; and helping to build the state student association movement nationally.
In response to a question by Regent Bradley, Mr. Pertl indicated that United Council is the only statewide student organization. At the campus level, there are student governments, as well as other boards that represent students.
Regent Rosenzweig asked if Untied Council had considered lobbying the Legislature for additional GPR to reduce the $100 million reduction, rather than to drive down the amount of the tuition increase. Mr. Pertl replied that the group’s first priority would be for additional GPR to fund financial aid increases. While students would like to have a smaller tuition increase, United Council did not feel that they could advocate that without an offset of state dollars. Under the circumstances, he felt the group’s approach had been very moderate.
Regent Salas asked about United Council’s position on increasing student representation on the Board of Regents and having board members represent geographical sections of the state. In reply Mr. Pertl indicated that, while the group’s position is to support both of those proposals, their priority would be to increase student representation. In order for that proposal to pass in the Legislature, he thought other provisions might need to be altered.
Regent Walsh asked if United Council has a position on the relationship between tuition increases and student access, and whether the group is willing to trade one for another. Indicating that this is the first time United Council has taken a position in support of a tuition increase, Mr. Pertl thought students would prioritize quality over access. Regent Walsh noted that this means the group would accept the fact that fewer students could attend the UW, and Mr. Pertl noted that the group’s position would depend on the magnitude of the impact.
Thanking the presenters, President Lyall noted that Wisconsin’s statute providing for student involvement in shared governance is unique in the nation. She expressed appreciation for the work that the university and students do together on behalf of future generations.
-
Public Attitudes about Higher Education
President Lyall spoke about the results of two recent polls – one by the American Council on Education and the Chronicle of Higher Education on national attitudes toward higher education and the other by the UW-Madison Survey Center on how people in Wisconsin view higher education. The Chronicle poll found that:
- ·91% of those polled agree that colleges and universities are one of the nation’s most valuable resources.
- 71% believe that higher education’s most important role is to educate undergraduates to be successful in the marketplace.
- 56% think universities should place a high priority on research.
- 36% want universities to assist local businesses and industries.
The Wisconsin poll showed that state residents put a much higher emphasis on these areas:
- 96% of Wisconsin residents believe that the UW is vital to the state’s economy.
- 94% support research to make Wisconsin’s businesses more competitive.
- 95% want state students to get an affordable education.
- 88% believe access is important.
- 86% support outreach programs and public broadcasting.
- 79% want university access close to home.
- 79% believe it is important for the UW to help solve state problems.
- 58% think it is important to field winning athletic teams.
As to proposed cuts to the UW budget:
- 55% felt the cuts are too deep.
- 77% believe that big cuts to the UW may save the state money in the short run but will cost more in the long run because of lost opportunities for students and slower economic growth.
- 56% thought the proposed tuition increase is about right, although 72% thought tuition is higher than it actually is—20% believing it to be more than $10,000 per year.
- Respondents strongly supported increased financial aid to cover increased costs for the neediest students.
- 81% said that the UW should maintain quality in the face of budget cuts, even if it necessitates higher charges to users.
These survey results, the President noted, show strong public support for the UW and public understanding of the importance of the university to the state’s economy.
Referring to the most recent information bulletin on student financial aid, President Lyall noted the following points.
- The percentage of UW students who receive some form of financial aid has grown steadily over the past 15 years, with about three of every five UW students (about 80,000) currently receiving financial aid. This in part reflects rising tuition, but also reflects the addition of non-need based loans made available by the federal government in the 1990s. Students today borrow for need and for discretionary spending.
- Most financial aid comes from the federal government (81%); state and institutional scholarship funds each provide about 7% of all aid. Federal aid consists primarily of the Pell Grant program and student loan programs. The Pell program provided $59 million last year to 27,000 needy UW students. Federal loans provided about $371 million to nearly 70,000 students. The Wisconsin congressional delegation has been asked to help sustain this critical federal aid in the federal Higher Education Act reauthorization process.
- Two-thirds of all financial aid is in the form of loans. About 60% of UW students have college loans at graduation totaling about $16,000. Thirty percent of this amount ($4,800) is non-need based borrowing, leaving a need-based debt of about $11,200 at graduation. Although the debt amount has grown in recent years, Wisconsin students have very low loan default rates (2.7% compared to a national rate of almost 6%).
President Lyall noted that the bulletin makes the point that continued financial aid is essential for access by the majority of Wisconsin students.
-
Conference on Community Justice
The President reported that UW-Oshkosh is to host a system-wide Conference on Community Justice on May 27th and 28th. Attorney General Lautenschlager will give the keynote address; and Senator Roessler, Senator Moore, Representative Underheim, and many community practitioners will present views on alternative ways to ensure public safety at reasonable cost. With corrections being a major competitor for state dollars, there is much interest in ideas that could lessen the pressure for state finding in that area.
-
Federal Funding for UW Initiatives
President Lyall reported that the Federal Omnibus Appropriations Bill for fiscal year 2003 contains funding for 17 UW projects, including:
- $2 million for the Global Environmental Management Education Center at UW-Stevens Point;
- More than $2 million to continue the work of several research labs at UW-Madison, including genetic resources research and agricultural research;
- $250,000 for UW-Milwaukee’s Institute for Urban Health Partnerships;
- $1.8 million for UW-Green Bay’s math, science, and technology education programs;
- $200,000 for UW-Stout’s Vocational Rehabilitation Institute;
- More than $400,000 for UW-Whitewater’s technology programs;
- $100,000 to upgrade UW-Rock County’s science labs and technology.
While these items represent a small portion of the federal dollars UW institutions bring into Wisconsin, the President noted, they also highlight a number of campus initiatives that have federal prominence and recognition and speak to the competitive quality of faculty at all UW institutions.
-
Collaborative Certificate in Gerontology
President Lyall reported that seven UW institutions (La Crosse, Madison, Milwaukee, Parkside, Stevens Point, Stout, Superior), and UW-Extension’s Learning Innovations have joined together to make available an online certificate program in gerontology. The program is expected to serve nurses, social workers, psychologists and health-care administrators whose busy schedules do not permit them to attend traditional classes on campus.
-
UW-Madison Faculty Elected to Academy of Arts and Sciences
President Lyall congratulated four UW-Madison faculty recently elected to the Academy of Arts and Sciences: Laura Kiessling, Professor of Chemistry; Perry Allen Frey, Professor of Biochemistry; Richard Davidson, Professor of Psychology; and Thongchai Winichakul, Professor of History. The Academy of Arts and Sciences is the oldest academic honorary society in America, with Benjamin Franklin as one of its original initiates.
-
President Lyall congratulated the UW-Eau Claire Jazz Ensemble which was named as one of the best college big bands in the country by Downbeat Magazine, the best-known jazz publication in the country. This is the fifth time in the last seven years that the Jazz Ensemble has received such recognition. Junior music major Tom Krochock also won a Downbeat award for the best classical trumpet. The group in recent years has toured in England and China, serving as excellent ambassadors for Wisconsin and the UW System.
Regent Randall commended UW campuses that offer financial management programs to families who have students entering their first year of college. Noting that the amount of student debt is of great concern, he pointed out that debt has escalated dramatically in recent years as the federal government has made more money available in the form of loans instead of grants. The heavy debt load students carry, he observed, can influence career choices and deter them from entering lower paying fields such as teaching because of concern about the ability to make loan payments. He urged campuses to continue to invest resources in financial management programs both to assist in retention and to help in broadening career opportunities.
Regent Salas expressed appreciation for the information on financial aid, noting that the report indicates that students of color graduate with substantially higher debt than do white students. Referring to a report on access to higher education by income in Wisconsin, he pointed out that there has been a decrease in the number of resident Pell grant recipients who attend the UW. Fewer lower-income students are taking the SAT and fewer are enrolling at UW campuses. Urging a continued focus on keeping UW campuses open to lower-income students, he noted that tuition increases will have an impact on their ability to attend the UW and that financial aid is critical to maintaining access to higher education for those families.
Regent Burmaster indicated that the Education Committee is reviewing those issues and the importance of the PK-16 partnership. It also is necessary, she added to focus on closing the gap in achievement in the K-12 system so that students are ready for college.
- - -
report of the PHYSICAL PLANNING AND FUNDING COMMITTEE
Regent Randall, Vice Chair, presented the report of the Physical Planning and Funding Committee. Newly appointed Regent Nino Amato was welcomed to the committee.
Report of the Assistant Vice President
Nancy Ives, Assistant Vice President, reported the approval by the Building Commission of about $14.5M for various projects at their April meeting. Bids for the UW-Milwaukee Klotsche Physical Education and Parking Project came in at $5M under budget.
In May, approval by the Building Commission will be initiated to design plans for the UW-Green Bay Phoenix Sports Center Expansion and the UW-Whitewater Business and Economics Building. Moving these projects forward will facilitate fund raising and minimize future GPR funds for construction.
Alan Fish, Associate Vice Chancellor, reported on the public input process and discussions of alternatives for the UW-Madison MGE Cogeneration Project. A recommendation has been made to the Department of Administration to proceed with the joint project.
Chancellor George, UW-Stevens Point, described their campus plans to develop a Global Environmental Management Center. Federal funds are being secured for academic programs.
- - -
REPORT OF THE BUSINESS AND FINANCE COMMITTEE
The report of the Business and Finance Committee was presented by it's Chair, Regent Olivieri. Regent Mark Bradley was welcomed to the committee.
Discussion of All Regents Session
Regarding the All Regent session discussion on Online Distance Learning, Regent Olivieri noted that it is an important part of the System’s educational goals and role in the state. Over 1,000 students at UW-Colleges are currently participating in the program; the potential within the next 4-5 years could be as high as 3,000 students. The demand is there, Regent Olivier continued, but putting resources in place to deliver the service is uncertain at this point.
In terms of policy development at it relates to distance education, Regent Olivieri pointed out that the Board has enacted several policies which provide guidance and flexibility to the program. It was suggested that collaboration between campuses be encouraged.
-
UW-Stevens Point Presentation: Electronic Authorization and Web Registration
The use of technology to apply for admission, accept financial aid packages and register for courses is an important step in terms of improving student services, noted Regent Olivier. UW institutions have seen a substantial increase in on-line applications which reflects the convenience of electronic registration.
-
On an annual basis, the committee decides whether to approve proxy voting as a share holder. An issue which the committee approved this year is to vote in favor of a resolution dealing with health issues in Africa by engaging companies we invest in to provide education for preventing the spread of disease.
-
Update on Finance Related Programs Reviews
Two recommendations regarding audit reports were discussed. One, analyzing how monies are allocated to the campuses; and two, determining the efficiency of the system office in carrying out various functions and comparing it to how other systems are doing.
-
Quarterly Gifts, Grants and Contracts
The quarterly report on gifts, grants and contracts indicated that non-federal awards are continuing to increase which is important to funding the UW System.
-
Vice President Durcan reported that utility costs are significantly under funded for our campuses. She emphasized the importance of advocating on this issue, while encouraging campuses to be concerned about conservation.
The Legislative Audit Bureau raised issues regarding how information was compiled and concerns regarding computer security. Actions are being taken to address both issues.
It was noted that the new immigration requirement to tract international students (SEVIS – Student and Exchange Vista Information System) is being addressed by each campus.
-
Dealing with investment related issues with regard to trust funds was discussed in closed session. A petition filed by a group of UW students requesting divestment of investments in companies doing business in Burma was reviewed. It was concluded that based on extensive reports none of the companies are engaged in activities that would warrant a divestiture at this time. Another issue raised by students related to a graduate of the UW System, Dr. Than, who had been arrested in Burma and was in imprisoned due to political protest. He has since been released, in part because of the pressure exerted from students in our country and around the world.
-
Regent Olivieri presented the following resolution to the Board of Regents as a consent agenda item. Regent Rosenzweig seconded the motion and it carried unanimously.
Resolution 8690: That, upon the recommendation of the President of the University of Wisconsin System, the Chancellor of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and the Dean of the Medical School, the bequest from the estate of Reed A. Walker be accepted and that the Trust Officer or Assistant Trust Officers be authorized to sign receipts and do all things necessary to effect the transfer for the benefit of the University of Wisconsin.
Further, that, upon recommendation of the President of the University of Wisconsin System and the Dean of the University of Wisconsin-Madison Medical School, $1,000,000 of the principal of the Reed A. Walker bequest be made available for expenditure.
Let it be herewith also resolved, that the President and Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System, the Chancellor of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and the Dean of the Medical School express their sincere thanks and appreciation to the donors for their exceptional generosity. This gift will benefit indefinitely the University's efforts to care for, alleviate, and eliminate where possible, cancers of children.
In response to a question by Regent Rosenzweig, Regent Olivieri indicated that there had been a lack of communication as to how the Legislative Audit Bureau viewed some of the issues. He emphasized that staff are moving forward to deal with the issues raised. Regent Rosenzweig added that she felt it important to continue that communication with open dialog and cooperation as we look to the future.
Regent Burmaster inquired about funding for SEVIS implementation and operation. In response, President Lyall stated that Homeland Security funds will be pursued for these expenses and that they will work in conjunction with colleges and universities across the country facing the same problem.
- - -
REPORT OF THE EDUCATION COMMITTEE
Regent Boyle reviewed his last two years as Chair of the Education Committee. The three major themes that were emphasized included the student experience, achieving excellence in teaching and learning, and providing a quality education. These themes focused around two basic concepts: the student and the experience we provide the student; quality and what it means and how we look at it in terms of determining whether or not we really have quality.
Quality comes from faculty, teaching academic staff, and the researchers at our institutions, Regent Boyle continued. In the future one of our primary concerns should be to provide adequate financial resources, adequate tools for research and teaching, adequate technology, adequate computer and lab space, and all that goes with quality education and teaching. Adequate financial resources to recruit and maintain outstanding faculty is of utmost importance.
Regent Boyle observed the value of shared governance as provided by Chapter 36. The reason shared governance is so important and Wisconsin is so unique, Regent Boyle remarked, is that it results in better decisions that will more likely be accepted and implemented. The time and the effort and the challenges of shared governance are all worthwhile.
Looking at the student in the broadest context in terms of achieving a quality education, Regent Boyle observed that the demographics of the student population on our campuses is changing. As we move into the future with more diversity and more change in cultural backgrounds and a wide variety of different factors, Regent Boyle urged the Board to continue to look at the future and adapt to the changing demographics.
Regent Boyle cited the importance of re-examining mission statements to better state institutional strengths.
Maintaining and committing to a very strong liberal arts program will be a challenge in the future, but Regent Boyle stressed its importance in a basic education.
As we are entering into a new era in terms of available resources, the nature of the funding, and the partnerships developed, Regent Boyle suggested we need a road map and a format for committing to what we are going to do as a System in terms of the state. He recommended looking at our program array on an institutional basis and a regional basis in order to make wise decisions on how best to adjust our program array to coincide with what our resource base is. It is essential to communicate and maintain the resource base for this university.
In conclusion, Regent Boyle commended President Lyall, Vice President Marrett, the Academic Affairs staff, and Judith Temby and staff. He felt that the friendships he developed as a member of the Board had made the experience interesting and valuable, and he urged the board to continue to maintain that level of cohesiveness
-
Report of the Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs
UW-Stevens Point has one of the most extensive study abroad programs in the System with almost 10,000 students participating since 1969 and over 270 faculty presently in a study abroad experience. 14.2% of UW-Stevens Point students study abroad, which exceeds 8% for the total System. The school is in the top 20 of comprehensive institutions nationwide in terms of the number of students who study abroad.
Regent Axtell, who is a strong proponent of international education, offered four ideas to the committee. These include: Developing more collaboration with the Technical College System; having the UW System develop a central repository of all the programs that currently exist for more collaboration and sharing; enhancing the opportunities for faculty and staff to study abroad; and engaging international alumni in providing financial aid and describing the value of their experiences. Regent Boyle expressed his hope that we achieve the goal of 25% of our students experiencing study abroad by 2010.
Announcement of the Vilas Trust Estate Proffer
Regent Boyle noted that the Vilas Trust Proffer was accepted. This is a two step process where a request is make for Vilas Scholarship funding and the trustees decide which items they accept. This is a phenomenal resource which is of great benefits to our institutions.
-
"Access to Higher Education by Income in Wisconsin"
Regent Boyle referred to a comment by Regent Burmaster who expressed the importance of supporting the K-16 endeavor and continuing to provide access for students from low income families.
-
Resolutions 8691 – 8692 were approved unanimously by the Education Committee. Regent Boyle moved their adoption by the Board of Regents as consent agenda items. The motion was seconded by Regent Mohs and carried unanimously.
Acceptance of the Proffer from the Trustees of the William F. Vilas Trust Estate
Resolution 8691: That, upon recommendation of the Chancellors of the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and the President of the University of Wisconsin System, the Board of Regents accepts the proffer made by the Trustees of the William F. Vilas Trust Estate for fiscal year July 1, 2003 to June 30, 2004, as provided by the terms of the William F. Vilas Trust, for Support of Scholarships, Fellowships, Professorships, and Special Programs in Arts and Humanities, Social Sciences, Biological Sciences, Physical Sciences and Music.
UW-Milwaukee: Rename the School of Nursing
Resolution 8692: That, upon recommendation of the Chancellor of the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and the President of the University of Wisconsin System, the name of the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee School of Nursing be changed to the College of Nursing.
- - -
Regent Randall presented the following resolution, which was adopted by acclamation, with an ovation in appreciation for the gracious hospitality extended by UW-Stevens Point.
Resolution of Appreciation: UW-Stevens Point
Resolution 8693: Whereas, the Board of Regents is very pleased to be invited to hold the May 2003 meetings on the beautiful campus of the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point; and
Whereas, our visit has been enriched by interesting tours of the campus and its facilities and by informative presentations on Regional Sustainability – the Economy and the Environment, on Electronic Authorization and Web Registration, and on Internationalizing UW-Stevens Point Students, Faculty, Staff and Community; and
Whereas, it has been a great pleasure to visit with campus and community leaders at a special reception at the Fine Arts Center and to view Danstage, an excellent dance production by talented UW-Stevens Point and guest performers; and
Whereas, we also appreciated the opportunity to meet with student leaders and to hear their views and concerns;
Now, therefore, be it resolved that the Regents of the University of Wisconsin System hereby express our gratitude to Chancellor George, the university community and the people of Stevens Point for making this visit a highly memorable and enjoyable experience.
- - -
The meeting was recessed at 12:05 p.m., and reconvened at 12:20 p.m., at which time the following resolution, moved by Regent Marcovich and seconded by Regent Randall, was adopted on a unanimous roll-call vote, with Regents Amato, Axtell, Boyle, Bradley, Burmaster, Gottschalk, Marcovich, Mohs, Olivieri, Randall, Richlen, Rosenzweig, Salas, and Smith voting in the affirmative (14). There were no negative votes and no abstentions.
Resolution 8694: That, the Board of Regents recess in Closed Session, to confer with Legal Counsel, as permitted by s.19.85(1)(g), Wis. Stats., to consider annual evaluations, as permitted by s.19.85(1)(c), Wis. Stats., and to consider an Extension of a Leave of Absence, UW-Whitewater, as permitted by s.19.85(1)(c), Wis. Stats.
UW Whitewater: Approval of Extended Leave of Absence
Resolution 8695: That, upon recommendation of the Chancellor of the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater and the President of the University of Wisconsin System, the Board of Regents approves the two-year extension of Professor Christina Garza-Nelson’s leave of absence, through Semester II, 2004-2005.
The following resolution was adopted in October 2002 but was not announced at that time pending acceptance of the degrees by those nominated:
UW Milwaukee: Honorary Degrees
Resolution 8696: That, upon the recommendation of the Chancellor of the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and the President of the University of Wisconsin System, approval be granted for UW-Milwaukee to award the following honorary degrees:
Dr. Michael J. Cudahy, Doctor of Science
Professor Iwao Iwamoto, Doctor of Humane Letters
The meeting was adjourned at 2:05 p.m.
______________________________
Judith A. Temby, Secretary