PRESENT: Axtell, Bradley, Burmaster, Connolly-Keesler, Davis, Gottschalk, Marcovich, McPike, Olivieri, Pruitt, Randall, Richlen, Rosenzweig, Salas, Smith, and Walsh

ABSENT: Regent Gracz

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Approval of the Minutes

Upon motion by Regent Axtell, seconded by Regent Gottschalk, the minutes of the March 10 and 11, 2005 meetings were approved as distributed on a unanimous voice vote.

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REPORT OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE BOARD

Resolution of Appreciation: Regent Guy Gottschalk

Regent Bradley introduced the resolution, noting that, as President of the Board, Regent Gottschalk had been the first to welcome him on his appointment as a regent. Although he could not take his seat on the board at that time, Regent Gottschalk had encouraged him to attend board and committee meetings, remarking that the more he learned, the better it would be for the board as a whole. In attending to this unique situation, while at the same time facing the need to work with a new Governor and five new regents, along with the prospect of a huge budget cut, Regent Gottschalk showed the genuine concern and ability of a proven leader.

As a business owner and farmer, Regent Bradley continued, Regent Gottschalk well understands the value and impact of university research and is committed to the Wisconsin Idea. His parents provided an endowment to the UW-Madison College of Agriculture and Life Sciences to create the Gottschalk Distinguished Professorship of Cranberry Research, and researchers Eric Zeldin and Brent McCown recently developed a new cranberry breed that promises to help Midwest growers compete more successfully with growers on the coasts who have the benefit of longer growing seasons.

As president of the board, Regent Gottschalk led development of the Engage Wisconsin campaign to advance dialogue with the public and the Legislature about the university’s role in the state. He also advocated strongly for state reinvestment in higher education, personally visiting with each member of the Senate and Assembly leadership and testifying often to the importance of the university to Wisconsin’s future.

Besides his service on the Board of Regents, he serves on the Board of the UW Foundation and the UW-Madison College of Agricultural and Life Sciences Board of Visitors.

His most enduring contribution, Regent Bradley observed, was his leadership and vision during the Charting a New Course for the UW System strategic planning process which focused efforts on creating a plan to ensure quality higher education for Wisconsin’s future.

Concluding his remarks, Regent Bradley expressed gratitude for Regent Gottschalk’s dedication and service to the board and the UW System, noting that his wisdom, guidance, leadership, and vision will be greatly missed.

Regent Bradley then presented the following resolution, which was adopted by acclamation and accompanied by a standing ovation in honor of Regent Gottschalk.

Resolution of Appreciation: Guy Gottschalk

Resolution 8993: WHEREAS, Guy A. Gottschalk has provided visionary stewardship and wise counsel during his seven years as a member of the University of Wisconsin System Board of Regents; and

WHEREAS, Regent Gottschalk led the Board’s recent strategic-planning effort, “Charting a New Course for the UW System,” an in-depth study that set the stage for budget recommendations, opened lines of communication, and outlined a vision for the University of Wisconsin System; and

WHEREAS, as president of the Board, Guy’s diplomatic skills were essential to forging an improved relationship between the university and state elected officials, and he remains committed to serving as a voice for the needs of UW stakeholders; and

WHEREAS, through his service as member, and leader, of both the Business and Finance and Physical Planning and Funding Committees, Regent Gottschalk ensured wise use of university resources, analyzed fiscal and higher education trends, and helped to design and guide the changing face of UW campuses; and

WHEREAS, Guy recognized the talent, potential and excellence of UW employees and academic leaders as a member of the Academic Staff Excellence Awards Committee and the Special Regent Search Committees for the UW-Madison, UW-Whitewater, and UW-Extension chancellors; and

WHEREAS, he broadened the UW System’s partnerships, collaborations and outreach as the Regent representative to the Wisconsin Technical College Board, the Hospital Authority Board and the Association of Governance Boards; and

WHEREAS, Regent Gottschalk epitomizes the value of a UW connection with his bachelor’s degree in horticulture from UW-Madison, and the university will continue to benefit from his involvement as a member of the UW-Madison College of Agricultural and Life Sciences Board of Visitors and the University of Wisconsin Foundation Board of Directors;

BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED, that the Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System highly commends and honors Regent Emeritus Guy A. Gottschalk for his distinguished tenure, his commitment to the Wisconsin Idea, and his service to the UW System, its students and staff, and the citizens of Wisconsin.

Regent Gottschalk made the following remarks:

“Many have come before me to this podium on such an occasion as this and, in almost all cases, I have forgotten what they had to say. Now it is my turn to try, with a few brief remarks, to be remembered. I leave the Board with many people who have become such good friends. But such is life, and I guess that when it comes to defending and advocating for our University of Wisconsin System, the job is never done.

“I’d like to thank Jude Temby and her assistants, Cheryle Goplin and Diane Blumer, who have provided invaluable assistance to me in my role as Regent. During my time here, I learned a great deal from Jude about protocol and decorum, and about how to keep the inmates from taking over the asylum. Thank you, Jude, and ladies.

“Secondly, I want to thank all of the Chancellors. I have gained tremendous respect for each of you over the years, and would proudly match you up with any group of CEO’s anywhere. Your jobs are incredibly challenging, and to you all should go much of the credit for building what has been the greatest system of higher education in the world. Wisconsin owes you all a great debt of gratitude – even if it shrinks from compensating you adequately.

“My thanks also go to all who have toiled in System Administration. All of those nice things I said about the Chancellors also apply to you and, like them, you have my deep appreciation. I cannot leave this stage without expressing my deepest appreciation, respect and affection to Katharine Lyall, for all she has done as one of this university’s greatest leaders, and for all that she is as a human being.

“And, last but not least, let me thank my fellow Regents. I know there were times during the “Charting…” study when it seemed like the inmates had taken over. But in the end your efforts, along with those of the other participants, produced a final report that I’m confident is valuable as President Reilly and you continue to make the case for adequate support of our instructional missions, for financial aids and for economic stimulus funding.

“It has been among my greatest honors and privileges to serve our university as a Regent and as President of Board. I knew when I started that we had a great institution, but it takes a while in this role to comprehend the sheer magnitude of the amount of good that it does for Wisconsin and its citizens, and all around the world. God has given this state wonderful natural resources which support sustainable agriculture, forestry, tourism and our very way of life. The old adage that “of those to whom much is given, much is expected” is true. One of the very best things that our government can do to help our good people fulfill those expectations is to expand access to the opportunities of higher education, as our neighboring states are doing, and as opposed to maintaining the status quo or, worse yet, making that access more difficult.

“What does the future hold for our university? The eternal optimist in me hopes that it will continue it’s traditions of benefiting mankind in a multitude of ways, on all of our campuses. The realist in me acknowledges that there will always be trials and tribulations ahead. Not so many months ago, we spoke of the university and the state being at a crossroads, with the future of both at stake. We can no longer speak in those terms, because the state has already taken the wrong turn, to the detriment of the university and itself. We can no longer say that a decline in the quality of the UW System is possible, because it has already happened. Witness the skyrocketing tuition for fewer and larger class sections, the sticker shock that discourages lower income families from higher education, and the steady departures of our best and brightest faculty and administrators. On the one hand, we are forced to raise tuition to keep the doors open and replace declining state support; on the other, we are discouraged from paying competitive salaries necessary to retain our teachers and leaders. We are on the downward spiral to inevitable mediocrity that President Weaver warned about thirty years ago. I am deeply concerned that a continuation of this trend will define the Governor’s legacy as the man who turned a great university into a mediocre one.

“His recent budget proposal falls short of meaningful re-investment in Wisconsin through its university. Wisconsin is adrift in terms of having any coherent higher education policy, but ‘Charting…’ – a bipartisan effort by Regents of both stripes – can be a starting point for discussions leading to the development of such policy. Again, the optimist in me hopes it isn’t too late to change course. If the state’s leaders can find a way to even modestly increase its level of support, and to allow for competitive salaries, it is possible to reverse the trend and return to our former level of excellence. I’m convinced that enhanced personal relationships between individual Regents and state leaders are necessary to get the state and the university back on the right course.

“Too often, I think, we suffer a kind of ‘can’t see the forest for the trees’ condition. We have to focus on important issues like budgets and pay plans, curricula, economic development and many others. But we lose width of the larger, big picture ideas about how our university relates not only to the state, but also to our nation and to civilization as a whole. In short, we don’t think as much about why we are really here.

“A great Democratic statesman, Adlai Stevenson, served as Governor of the State of Illinois, ran as his party’s Presidential nominee twice against General and then President Dwight Eisenhower, and served as our representative in the United Nations. I’ve excerpted some of his remarks from a speech entitled “The Educated Citizen” on these bigger picture ideas of universities, and of governments that function with the consent of the governed people. The speech was delivered to the Princeton class of 1954. I was going on five years of age at the time, but I remember it well.

“ ‘We in our country have…placed all of our faith, we have placed all of our hopes, upon the education, the intelligence, and the understanding of our people. We have said that ours is a government conducted by its citizens, and from this it follows that the government will be better conducted if its citizens are educated. It’s as simple as that. We believe that the people will find their way to the right solutions, given sufficient information… We have a powerful weapon, truth, and we gain our strength from our thoughtful citizenry, which seeks and hold the truth with both its heart and its mind.”

“ ‘University’ is a proud, a noble and ancient word. Around it cluster all of the values and traditions which civilized people have for centuries prized more highly. The idea which underlies this university – any university – is greater than any of its physical manifestations…[and] even the particular groups of faculty and students who make up its human element as of any given time. What is this idea? It is that the highest condition of man in this mysterious universe is the freedom of the spirit. And it is only truth that can set the spirit free.

“ ‘The function of a university is, then, the search for truth and its communication to succeeding generations. Only as that function is performed steadfastly, conscientiously, and without interference, does the university realize its underlying purpose. Only so does the university keep faith with the great humanist tradition of which it is part. Only so does it merit the honorable name that it bears… As the archive of the Western mind, as the keeper of Western culture, the university has a obligation to transmit from one generation to the next the heritage of freedom – for freedom is the foundation of Western culture.”

“We tend to take our freedom for granted, thanks to the accident of our birth here. But consider these facts, which illustrate just how important that freedom is. Three billion people in the world cannot attend church without fear of harassment, arrest, torture or death. Five hundred million have faced the danger of battle, the loneliness of imprisonment, the agony of torture, or the pangs of starvation. If we could shrink the world’s population to a village of one hundred, eighty would live in substandard housing. Seventy would be unable to read. Fifty would suffer from malnutrition. Six would own nearly sixty percent of the world’s wealth, and all six would be from the United States. One – only one – would hold a college degree. Thank God we live in a country with all of the blessings that freedom bestows upon us.

“In conclusion, I leave this Board with a great sense of pride that together during our watch, we did maintain this great institution to the best of our abilities, for the benefit of our state and nation and, most importantly, for continually transforming our children into those Educated Citizens – those free men and women of the future, empowered with truth. Thank you all, very much.”

Wisconsin Technical College System report

A written report on the WTCS Board’s meetings of March 29 and 30, 2005 was provided to the board.

Hospital Authority Board report

The board received a written report on the April 6, 2005 meeting.

Regent Meeting Improvement Committee

Regent President Marcovich remarked that it should be possible to take some actions that would streamline Regent meetings so that the board could do its work more efficiently. He asked that regents let him know if they would be interested in serving on a committee to make recommendations in that regard.

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REPORT OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE SYSTEM

Presentation of 2005 Academic Staff Awards for Excellence

In introductory remarks, President Reilly noted that academic staff members are at the heart of much of what makes the UW a world-class university system. They provide student services, such as admissions, libraries, and financial aid. They are scientists, advisors and technology professionals. They also communicate the importance and value of the university and ensure that all members of the UW community have the support they need to develop their human potential to the fullest.

Regent Smith, chair of the regent committee that selected the award winners, noted that the purpose of the awards is to demonstrate the board’s strong appreciation for the UW’s academic staff and to acknowledge the vital contributions they make, as well as their loyalty, professionalism, and devotion to serving the students and the public.

The committee, which included Regents Gottschalk, McPike and Olivieri, received 15 impressive nominations and made its decisions on the basis of several performance criteria. Chiefly, the committee looked for extraordinary contributions to the nominee’s unit, as well as an overall level of service that truly enhanced the mission of the university. The two recipients each will receive $5,000 to support their own professional development or to enhance the program or function of their department.

Carole Swan Halberg

Regent Smith presented the first award to Carole Swan Halberg, Special Assistant to the Chancellor of UW-Eau Claire and President of the UW-Eau Claire Foundation. Ms. Halberg spearheaded the very successful “Fullfilling the Promise of Excellence” fundraising campaign that exceeded its goal of $35 million by $8 million. She also was instrumental in raising more than $1 million for scholarships and grants, with $145,000 earmarked to meet Plan 2008 recruitment goals.

Ms. Halberg was part of a team that won 2004 Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) District V Gold Awards, one for the Comprehensive Fundraising Campaign and another for the campus “e-view” online alumni newsletter. The team also won a Bronze Award for the “University Bulletin” that keeps faculty and staff up-to-date on campus news events.

Larry Weber, past chairman of the UW-Eau Claire Foundation Board of Directors, wrote that Ms. Halberg “has spent her career leading and mentoring others and helping make a UW-Eau Claire education a reality for countless students. In so doing, she has earned my respect as well as the respect of colleagues throughout the community and the state.”

In conclusion, Regent Smith introduced Ms. Halberg’s colleagues John Bachmeier, Director of Alumni Relations; Mike Rindo, Executive Director of University Communications; and Kim Way, Executive Director of Development.

Stating that the award “touches me more than you know,” Ms. Halberg expressed her appreciation for the honor and observed that foundation work has been very special for her.

She was encouraged at home to focus on college early and received a scholarship from the UW-Eau Claire Foundation that made a great difference in her life. This award, she noted, recognizes the role of advancement in making college possible for so many students.

Ms. Halberg said that she would reserve her award for a year to see of the UW foundation presidents could use it in a way that would make them all better at what they do. More and more, she remarked, the university’s future depends on private fundraising.

Elizabeth Heuer

Regent Olivieri presented the second award to Elizabeth Heuer, UW-Oshkosh Affirmative Action Director and Interim Human Resource Director.

Ms. Heuer, he pointed out, has been instrumental in creating and carrying out the goals of the Northeast Wisconsin Education Resource Alliance (NEW ERA) – a consortium of the CEOs of the 13 public higher education institutions in Northeast Wisconsin that seeks to foster regional partnerships to better address the educational needs of people in that area.

She brought together employees to create the UW-Oshkosh Classified Staff Advisory Council, which increases employee retention through involvement in governance and professional development. In addition, she implemented the Alliance for Equity and Diversity on campus, which increases communication and collaboration on these issues with members of the all-university committees.

Ann Malain, staff psychologist in the Counseling Center and project director for campus violence prevention wrote of Ms. Heuer that “students, faculty and staff are very fortunate to have Beth Heuer on this campus. Her work . . . has enhanced the campus climate immensely. She has helped us better develop the type of workplace and learning environment to which we aspire.”

Expressing appreciation for the award, Ms. Heuer stated her sense of honor and pride in representing UW-Oshkosh, an institution with which she has been affiliated as an employee and student for 37 years. She thanked in particular those who have served as her mentors over the years, including Chancellor Wells, Vicki Lord Larson, Tom Grogan, Eliot Garb, and Al Hartman. She felt fortunate to have had the opportunity to work at what she is most passionate about – leadership development.

Having worked in many departments and programs over the years, she has obtained a broad perspective on the university’s operations. In that regard, she noted that employees need the appropriate tools to carry out the Board of Regents’ vision for what the UW should accomplish. She found that the key to creating change is leadership development for supervisors to teach them how to make desired changes and also how to develop their employees and involve them in the process. She indicated that it is a key responsibility of the offices of the provost and human relations to create and make available these important programs.

March Madness Congratulations

President Reilly commended the UW-Madison Badgers and the UW-Milwaukee Panthers for their outstanding performances in the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament. The Badgers earned a spot in the Elite Eight, and the Panthers made their second tournament appearance. He also congratulated the UW-Green Bay Women’s Basketball Team, which won its 4^th consecutive Horizon League championship and played in the NCAA field of 64 national championship.

He then welcomed the UW-Stevens Point Men’s Basketball team, which won the NCAA Division III national tournament for the second year in a row. This win made UW-Stevens Point the third school ever to win back-to-back titles, and the first since UW-Platteville in 1998 and 1999. The Pointers ranked second in the nation in defense and won the WIAC regular season championship for the fifth time in six years. The team was ranked number one in the nation for nearly the entire season.

President Reilly then introduced members of the team: Eric Maus, one of the best defensive players in NCAA Division III basketball over the past four years and a nominee for the WIAC scholar-athlete award; Tamaris Releford, an outstanding defensive player and three point shooter; Nick Bennett, a first-team All-American guard who finished third in school history in career points and set school records for career and single-season three pointers; Jason Kalsow, this season’s NCAA Division III national Player of the Year, Final Four MVP, and two-time All-American; and Kyle Grusczynski, a key defensive player and one of the team’s top outside shooters.

He then introduced Jim Strick, who supports all 20 of the school’s sports as assistant athletic director for media relations, and Jack Bennett, the all-time winningest coach in UW-Stevens Point history, who won his 200^th career game in this year’s national championship. He has led the Pointers to two national titles, five conference championships and five NCAA tournament appearances.

Coach Bennett expressed pride in his team of great student athletes, noting that they won this year by an average of 21 points per game; that they always play hard; and that, with one exception, they are products of Wisconsin high schools.

Biennial Budget Update

Reporting that negotiations on the university’s budget continue, President Reilly referred to legislative visits by regents the preceding day and urged that positive messages continue to be sent about the university and its enormous benefit to Wisconsin. Noting that the UW has made deep cuts and continues to generate even more efficiencies, he asked that the message continue to be sent that now is the time for reinvestment.

Regent Pruitt reported that he and Executive Vice President Mash testified before the Joint Committee on Finance as to the challenges and choices that the 2005-07 budget offers, as well as about consequences on campuses of the budget cuts of the last two biennia. Stating that doors have been closed to too many students and quality has suffered, he pointed out that this budget could make different choices – to open the door to more students and improve quality. In that regard, the Governor’s budget is an important start, especially in providing funds for financial aid, retention of star faculty, and domestic partner benefits.

Executive Vice President Mash added that, along with emphasizing the importance of the Governor’s reinvestments, they had identified areas where additional help is needed, including the pay plan and increased flexibility to allow the university to operate more efficiently. They had expressed support for the capital budget and asked the committee to think long-term about the role of the university in meeting the state’s challenges for the future.

Student Financial Aid

Reporting that more is being learned about how the UW might be affected by the federal budget, President Reilly indicated that Representative Ron Kind, whose district includes six UW campuses, recently held listening sessions with students, faculty, and staff at UW-Eau Claire, UW-La Crosse, and UW-Stout. Representative Kind expressed concern about impacts of possible reductions in Pell Grants and Federal Perkins Loans on students from low-income families. The President expressed appreciation to Representative Kind for taking the time to visit with UW students, faculty and staff.

With regard to state financial aid, President Reilly reported that there are approximately 22,000 WHEG recipients, as compared to about 29,000 students in the two lowest income quintiles. 20,850 of the WHEG recipients are from the two lowest quintiles, and those above those quintiles are students who have a low Expected Family Contribution (EFC). Conversely, some students in the two lowest income quintiles have too high an EFC to qualify for WHEG grants due to total family assets.

Indicating that this topic would be returned to the Board in the future, he commented that tuition structuring or other ideas might be discussed in order to determine how to retain access for the neediest students.

Awards for Wisconsin Public Radio and Wisconsin Public Television

President Reilly congratulated Wisconsin Public Television for winning, for the second consecutive year, a national Walter Cronkite Award for Excellence in Television Political Journalism for its compelling and informative election coverage.

He also commended Wisconsin Public Radio for winning a Peabody Award for “To the Best of Our Knowledge,” a weekly broadcast magazine about politics and social trends that airs on 130 stations nationwide.

These awards, he observed, are very prestigious and speak to the top quality programming of both Wisconsin Public Radio and Wisconsin Public Television.

Welcome to Vicki Washington

President Reilly announced that Vicki Washington, Director of Equal Opportunity and Diversity Programs at UW-Extension, would join the UW System in the summer as Interim Assistant Vice President for the Office of Academic Diversity and Development. Ms. Washington, who has been with Extension since 1990, has led thriving programs related to affirmative action, Plan 2008, recruitment, advising, Title IX outreach, and civil rights.

In her system role, she will oversee UW diversity programming, including development of a diversity scorecard and a climate study under Plan 2008, as well as women’s issues and the Inclusivity Initiative. She will help determine the best ways for the UW System to better serve campuses in their diversity efforts.

UW Spirit Week

Noting that the following week would be UW Spirit Week, President Reilly indicated that he would join alumni and campus mascots at the State Capitol as Governor Doyle signs a proclamation in honor of the celebration. Many local campuses would be holding events as well. For example, UW-Platteville would celebrate Spirit Day with an open house and ribbon cutting at the renovated and recently opened Ullrich Hall; and UW-Oshkosh planned to host a reception for more than 200 alumni who work at their alma mater. He encouraged everyone to wear their campus colors with pride as a way to show how much the UW means to Wisconsin.

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REPORT OF THE EDUCATION COMMITTEE

Regent Olivieri, Chair, presented the committee’s report.

Approval of Vilas Request

The Vilas Trust Estate, Regent Olivieri noted, supports scholarships, professorships, and other programs at UW-Madison and UW-Milwaukee. Annually, the Board of Regents makes a request to the estate; the trustees respond with a proffer; and the Board acts to accept the funds. This year’s request totals almost $6 million. This generous support, he indicated, is very much appreciated.

UW-Milwaukee Charter School

Reporting on this agenda item, Regent Olivieri observed that the Inland Seas School of Expeditionary Learning has a creative high school curriculum organized around marine topics, including sea and lake expeditions, along with a rigorous core curriculum. Included is significant collaboration with the Great Lakes Research Institute at UW-Milwaukee.

There was discussion about the curriculum and about the school’s financial strength. The committee was assured that there will be close monitoring by UW-Milwaukee.

Additional Delegation of Authority to UW System President

Regent Olivieri recalled that, when a number of actions were delegated to the System President several years ago, appointment of Interim UW College deans was omitted from the list. The request was to make this additional delegation, which would be consistent with the other actions previously delegated.

Allied Health Accreditation

Regent Olivieri pointed out that increasing degree requirements in the allied health fields drain resources, impede the training of needed workers, and increase student costs. The resolution approved by the committee focuses on credits to degree and cost -- matters over which the university has control.

Sexual Assault and Harassment Report

Noting that the numbers provided in this report have been steady over the past several years, Regent Olivieri pointed out that assaults are greatly underreported on a national basis. The committee requested that the report, which is required to be submitted to the Legislature, be accompanied by a letter from the President that provides context and conveys resource and other issues raised by the report.

Minority and Disadvantaged Student Annual Report

Regent Olivieri reported that this statutorily required report is targeted to pre-college programs, expenditures for students of color and disadvantaged students, and student financial aid. The number of pre-college program participants has grown greatly, to about 19,000, about 80% of whom are students of color. One vehicle for participation, the Department of Public Instruction scholarships, were recently modified to make the awards available on an income basis, rather than only to students of color.

The report shows about 62% of funds spent for student retention activities, a percentage that can be expected to increase, given the Board’s focus on retention as a key element in Phase II of Plan 2008.

The committee asked that this report also be accompanied by a letter from the President highlighting the importance of financial aid in the success of these efforts.

Undergraduate Research

Noting that the committee discussion followed the “Posters in the Rotunda” celebration of undergraduate research, Regent Olivieri pointed out that the Accountability Report includes a survey showing that UW student satisfaction with participation in research and other mentorship activities meets the national benchmark. The committee discussed whether the goal in this area should be set higher.

A presentation was made to the committee by Executive Vice President and former UW-Eau Claire Chancellor Don Mash and Chris Lind, Director of the Center for Excellence at UW-Eau Claire, on the importance of undergraduate research at that institution. Dr. Mash made the point that relationships with faculty are critical to a successful college experience and that undergraduate research is a powerful way to foster such relationships. In that regard, student surveys showed greater satisfaction in this area at UW-Eau Claire than at many other institutions.

The committee discussed what might be done to foster more of these types of activities.

Plan 2008 Update

Regent Olivieri reported that all revised campus plans have been posted on the web and that the committee will continue to receive updates every two months. Discussions with chancellors will be completed in the next week.

In board discussion, Regent Davis inquired about assessing the effectiveness of pre-college programs, to which Regent Olivieri replied that an analysis is being done. Senior Vice President Marrett added that a report could be scheduled for the September meeting.

Regent Salas noted that, of the $42 million in funding for minority and disadvantaged student programs, nearly $10 million comes from the institutions themselves and that the regents had talked of not impacting these programs with budget cuts. Senior Vice President Marrett added that a large share of the money comes from federal programs, continuing support for which is precarious at this point. She remarked that it is hard to keep up the momentum for progress with only state dollars. Regent Salas asked if the share of funding for retention activities would be increased from the $4.2 million indicated in the report, and Dr. Marrett confirmed that future reports would reflect the Board’s recent focus on retention as a key element of Phase II of Plan 2008.

Regent Olivieri asked if the campus plans reflect the focus on retention, and Dr. Marrett replied in the affirmative, adding that they also reflect the importance of reallocating resources to efforts that have proven successful.

Regent Connolly Keesler asked if the report on sexual assault and harassment could be combined with a separate report on domestic and dating violence. Regent President Marcovich referred that matter to the Education Committee.

In response to a question by Regent Davis, Regent Olivieri indicated that the Inland Seas Charter School’s primary connection would be to UW-Milwaukee and that the university is finding more ways to foster connections with the charter schools.

With regard to the two actions taken annually by the board on the Vilas Trust, Regent Olivieri suggested consideration of delegating one of the actions to the System President so that it would be reviewed by the board only once.

Regent Gottschalk urged the board not to change the way the Vilas Trust funding is handled. Noting that the trust provides millions annually for the university, he felt that it merited the customary consideration at two meetings. Regent President Marcovich expressed agreement with that view.

Consent Agenda

Regent Olivieri presented Resolutions 8994 to 8999, which had been approved unanimously by the Education Committee, and moved their adoption by the Board of Regents as consent agenda items. The motion was seconded by Regent Richlen. At the request of Regent Pruitt, Resolution 8995 was removed from the consent agenda. The following resolutions then were adopted on a unanimous voice vote.

Requests to Trustees of the William F. Vilas Trust Estate

Resolution 8994: 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 approves the request to the Trustees of the William F. Vilas Trust Estate for $5,977,637 for fiscal year July 1, 2005, to June 30, 2006, subject to availability, 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.

Delegation to UW System President Authority to Appoint UW Colleges Interim Campus Deans

Resolution 8996: That, upon recommendation of the President of the Board of Regents, the University of Wisconsin System President is delegated the authority to appoint and set the salary of University of Wisconsin Colleges Interim Campus Deans.

Minimizing Credits-to-Degree and Costs in UW System Allied Health Professional Degree Programs

Resolution 8997: Whereas, the University of Wisconsin Board of Regents is concerned that policy makers setting degree credentialing requirements for entry-level allied health professionals consider, along with the required academic preparation of the professional, the cost to the student and the State, the impact on the ability of minority and disadvantaged students to pursue allied health careers, and the ability of the state to meet the needs of its citizens for health services professionals, be it resolved that the University of Wisconsin System work to ensure that requirements for UW System allied health programs provide the necessary preparation for allied health professionals while minimizing credits-to-degree and costs for students in allied health programs.

Implementing s.36.11(22)(b), Wis. Stats., Relating to Information Provided to Students on Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment

Resolution 8998: That, upon recommendation of the President of the University of Wisconsin System and pursuant to 1989 Wisconsin Act 177, s.36.11(22)(b), Wis. Stats., the Board of Regents hereby accepts the report on implementation of the Act (the report on orientation programs and information provided to students on sexual assault and sexual harassment) and directs that the report be submitted to the Chief Clerk of each house of the Legislature for distribution to the appropriate standing committees under s.13.172(3).

Minority and Disadvantaged Student Annual Report

Resolution 8999: That, upon recommendation of the President of the University of Wisconsin System, the Board of Regents accepts the 2003-2004 Minority and Disadvantaged Student Annual Report for submission to the Governor and to the Chief Clerk of each house of the Legislature, pursuant to s.36.25 (14m) (c), Wis. Stats., for distribution to the appropriate standing committee under s.13.172 (3) Wis. Stats.

Adoption of the following resolution was moved by Regent Olivieri, seconded by Regent Bradley and carried on a voice vote, with Regent Pruitt abstaining due to his service on the board of an organization that would be leasing space to the school.

UW-Milwaukee: Office of Charter Schools Contract with Inland Seas School of Expeditionary Learning

Resolution 8995: That, upon recommendation of the Chancellor of the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and the President of the University of Wisconsin System, the Board of Regents approves the charter school contract with Learn the Seas ~ America, Inc., to establish the Inland Seas School of Expeditionary Learning.

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REPORT OF THE PHYSICAL PLANNING AND FUNDING COMMITTEE

Regent Salas, Chair, presented the committee’s report.

Building Commission Actions

Assistant Vice President David Miller reported to the committee that the Building Commission approved about $75 million for UW projects at their February meeting. Of that amount, $11 million was general fund supported borrowing, $52 million was program revenue, and $12 million was gifts and grants.

UW Residence Halls – Building Guidelines

The committee received a report by a UW System Housing Working Group that was formed to address future student housing design and pricing. It identified four basic types of housing and three pricing structures to guide campuses in planning these facilities. Student involvement in such planning was emphasized.

Priorities for Planning in 2007-09

This report, which was done in response to the Department of Administration’s and the Building Commission’s request to plan projects within predetermined funding targets, outlined future approvals for planning that would come back to the Board of Regents as the projects develop.

Nine projects were on the Board’s original budget request for 2007-09, one of which – the UW-Milwaukee project – was already advance enumerated in the 2005-07 Capital Budget. Of the remaining eight, four would be developed for 2007-09 and four would be developed for 2009-11. The committee expressed appreciation to Regent President Marcovich for his work to ensure that prioritizing future projects would remain with the Board of Regents.

UW-Madison: Authority to Increase the Budget of the Central Campus Utility Improvement project

With regard to this project, Regent Salas explained that bids were higher than expected, and the increase would cover that additional expense.

UW-Madison: Approval of Appointment to the Design Review Board of the University Research Park

Regent Salas noted that this request was to appoint Sarah F. Canon, a skilled practicing architect as a new member of the University Research Park Design Review Board to replace a member who resigned.

Referring to the history of this board, he explained, that in 1955, deed restrictions on University Hill Farms included authorization to establish an Architectural Control Committee, which later evolved into the Design Review Board. Both bodies, he pointed out, were created in response to UW-Madison’s strong role in growth of the west side of the city, which was accompanied by the creation of a large number of jobs.

UW-Oshkosh: Student Recreation and Wellness Center project

This request would authorize a budget increase for and approve construction of the Student Recreation and Wellness Center. There has been student involvement in the planning and design of this project that will offer diverse recreation, intramural, and wellness programs – important elements in improving the campus environment for living and learning.

UW-River Falls: Authority to Name New Residence Hall the “George R. Field South Fork Suites”

Regent Salas reported that this request was to name the new residence hall at UW-River Falls the “George R. Field South Fork Suites” in honor of former chancellor George Field, who provided 17 years of excellent leadership, both pre- and post-merger and had a positive impact on the university during a period of great challenge, change, and opportunity. It is very fitting, he stated, that the new residence hall, which was designed to enhance student learning and living, be named in recognition of Dr. Field’s service.

Authority to Construct Various Maintenance and Repair Projects

The two projects authorized by this resolution would be the Sutherland Hall HVAC system steam conversion and exterior door, louver, and window replacement at UW-Eau Claire and the UW-Milwaukee Physics LIGO Lab remodeling, which would renovate a computer research facility. Regent Salas congratulated UW-Milwaukee on receiving a federal grant for new equipment.

UW-Madison: Authority to Name New Boat House

Regent Salas reported that this item would grant authority to name the UW-Madison Boat House “The Porter Boat House” in recognition of the Ben and Cheslee Porter family’s generous donation for that facility. Both were UW alumni and Mr. Porter was a crew member from 1959-63. Also requested was authority to make an exception to Regent Policy 96-1 which requires a naming to be presented to the regents in closed session for discussion one month before it is brought for action. The exception would be made to accommodate an already scheduled grand opening celebration.

Consent Agenda

Adoption of the following resolutions as consent agenda items was moved by Regent Salas, seconded by Regent Gottschalk, and carried unanimously.

UW-Madison: Authority to Increase the Budget of the Central Campus Utility Improvement Project

Resolution 9000: That, upon the recommendation of the UW-Madison Chancellor and the President of the University of Wisconsin System, authority be granted to increase the budget of the Central Campus Utility Improvement Project by $4,683,275 ($3,392,275 General Fund Supported Borrowing; $120,200 of Madison Water Utility funds and $1,170,800 Program Revenue Supported Borrowing for total revised project budget of $19,818,869 ($14,694,869 General Program Revenue Supported Borrowing, $4,806,800 Program Revenue Supported Borrowing and $317,200 of Madison Water Utility funds).

UW-Madison: Approval of an Appointment to the Design Review Board of University Research Park

Resolution 9001: That, upon the recommendation of the UW-Madison Chancellor and the President of the University of Wisconsin System, authority be granted to appoint Sarah F. Canon to serve on the Design Review Board for the University Research Park.

UW-Oshkosh: Approval of the Design Report; Authority to Increase the Project Budget; and Authority to Construct a Student Recreation and Wellness Center Project

Resolution 9002: That, upon the recommendation of the UW-Oshkosh Chancellor and the President of the University of Wisconsin System, (a) the Design Report be approved; (b) authority be granted to increase the project budget by $794,000 Residual Program Revenue Supported Borrowing; and (c) authority be granted to construct the Student Recreation and Wellness Center project at an estimated total project cost of $21,000,000 ($20,206,000 Program Revenue Supported Borrowing and $794,000 Residual Program Revenue Supported Borrowing.)

UW-River Falls: Authority to Name the New Residence Hall the “George R. Field South Fork Suites”

Resolution 9003: That, upon the recommendation of the UW-River Falls Chancellor and the President of the University of Wisconsin System, authority be granted to name the new residence hall on the UW-River Falls campus the “George R. Field South Fork Suites.”

UW System: Authority to Construct Various Maintenance and Repair Projects (Revised)

Resolution 9004: That, upon the recommendation of the President of the University of Wisconsin System, authority be granted to construct various maintenance and repair projects at an estimated total cost of $2,496,600 ($493,600 Gifts and Grants, $276,000 Agency Funds, and $1,972,000 Program Revenue Cash).

UW-Madison: Authority to Make an Exception to the Board of Regents Policy 96-1 and Name the New Boat House

Resolution 9005: That, upon the recommendation of the UW-Madison Chancellor and the President of the University of Wisconsin System, authority be granted to make an exception to Board of Regents Policy 96-1 and name the new UW-Madison Boat House “The Porter Boat House.”

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REPORT OF THE BUSINESS AND FINANCE COMMITTEE

Regent Bradley, Chair, presented the committee’s report.

Biennial Budget Update

The committee received an update on recent state budget developments, as reported earlier in the meeting by Regent Pruitt and Executive Vice President Mash.

WiSys Update

Elizabeth Donley, Managing Director, and Maliyakal John, General Manager, of the WiSys Technology foundation, reported about how WiSys supports and encourages research activity at UW System institutions, other than UW-Madison.

Founded in July 2000, the WiSys Technology foundation has recorded a total of 137 invention disclosures and secured 11 patents for those institutions. UW-Milwaukee has been the largest generator of disclosures and patents, although UW-Stout also has generated a large number.

Mr. John highlighted examples of research supported by WiSys, including the work of James Cook, Professor of Chemistry at UW-Milwaukee, whose research focuses on designing therapeutic molecules that target receptors in the brain that cause anxiety disorders. While protecting such discoveries is expensive, he indicated, the greater revenue potential is in the areas of therapeutics and medical imaging.

With regard to the new WiSys Innovation Scholar Award program, Mr. John pointed out that it would supply needed research funding for a faculty member at each institution. In addition, a $1 million award from the Department of Commerce will be provided over the next two years to establish the Wisconsin Entrepreneurs Network, connecting Wisconsin businesses to faculty experts.

Finally, he spoke about the new UW System program to award $40,000-$50,000 of Applied Research Grant Funding for prototypes. Winners are to be selected from 34 applications.

Trends in Gifts, Grants, and Contract Funding at Non-Doctoral Institutions

Vice President Durcan provided to the committee seven-year trend information on gift, grant and contract awards at non-doctoral institutions in order to highlight the significant research and extramural funding present at UW institutions other than UW-Madison and UW-Milwaukee. The data show that many campuses and UW-Extension have experienced significant growth over this time period.

Bill Campbell, UW-River Falls Grants and Research Officer, and Sue Foxwell, UW-Stout Research Administrator, gave their perspectives on the connections between research, instruction and service and how research enhances the teaching and learning experience at their institutions.

Trust Funds: Introduction to Real Asset Classes – Real Estate

Assistant Trust Officer Doug Hoerr briefed the committee on real estate as a possible additional asset class to the Trust funds endowment. This was the last in a series of reports on various alternative asset classes. At the May meeting, the committee will receive an asset allocation study, including possible addition of these asset classes.

Report of the Vice President

The committee revisited issues from the biennial budget update, including a discussion on the recent spike in nonresident tuition and its negative impact on efforts to increase the state’s brain gain. The Return to Wisconsin program is an example of initiatives that attempt to lessen the effect of higher nonresident tuition.

Board’s Authority to Set Differential Tuition

Following up on Regent Olivieri’s question at the March meeting, Vice President Durcan reported that, according to legal counsel, the Board has authority to set tuition based on different classes of students, which could include income level. Regent Randall noted that reports were prepared on each tuition model two years ago and suggested that presentations be given again to remind the committee of the various tuition options available.

College Savings Board

Ms. Durcan reported that the variety of Ed Vest funds is changing as Wells Fargo blends the Strong funds into its investment mix. The board is considering the option of a portfolio of funds managed by Wisconsin managers and the option of offering certificates of deposit. Fees are being suspended on the Ed Vest accounts and reduced on the Tomorrow’s Scholars’ accounts. A complete list of changes will be brought to the committee when finalized.

Legislative Audit Bureau Update

It was reported by Ms. Durcan that, for the A-133 Audit (federally mandated audit of federal funds), UW System questioned costs were extremely low -- $50,000 on $1.1 billion, or .0045%.

The fleet audit was expected to be released in May, and the economic development audit was expected to be released this summer.

In discussion following the committee report, Regent Olivieri inquired about the assessment of how WiSys is working.

President Reilly remarked that WiSys is an exciting success with enormous potential. Noting that Chancellor Wiley and Carl Gulbrandson, Managing Director of the Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation, had been very helpful, he expressed appreciation for their support of WiSys.

Adding that there had been at least one business spin-off, General Counsel Brady said that activity if expected to accelerate, particularly with the assistance of a Commerce Department grant that will support aWiSys presence in all four quadrants of the state.

Regent Gottschalk asked if WiSys continued to be subsidized by WARF, to which Ms. Brady replied in the affirmative, adding that WiSys is not expected to be self-supporting for some years and that UW-Madison has been generous in its support of this effort.

Chancellor Keating commented on the importance of WiSys to campus research and Chancellor Santiago indicated that he has been very pleased with the service it provides and its close work with faculty on campus, including efforts to retrieve intellectual property that had been allowed to leave the institution.

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ADDITIONAL RESOLUTIONS

Regent Connolly-Keesler presented the following resolution, which was adopted by acclamation:

UW Spirit Week

Resolution9006: WHEREAS, Governor Jim Doyle has designated April 10 -16, 2005, the University of Wisconsin Spirit Week; and

WHEREAS, Friday, April 15 is designated as “Spirit Day,” when Wisconsin citizens are invited to wear their home campus colors or logo wear to proudly display their UW connection in their hometowns; and

WHEREAS, more than half a million UW alumni are Wisconsin citizens, involved in every community and public and private enterprise in the state; and

WHEREAS, UW alumni, faculty, staff, students, parents, and friends in every Wisconsin community take great pride in the accomplishments of the state’s public university system; and

WHEREAS, with an increased investment from the state, future generations of Wisconsin residents will enjoy the same opportunities as current alumni to reach their full educational potential; and

WHEREAS, UW campuses and Wisconsin citizens will celebrate the contributions of UW alumni, the vitality of the University of Wisconsin System and the spirit of the Wisconsin Idea;

WHEREAS, we are grateful to the Governor and the members of the Legislature for recognizing the contributions of the University of Wisconsin System to the culture and economy of the State of Wisconsin; and

WHEREAS, the UW Alumni Council has worked tirelessly to promote the UW System within their communities; and

Therefore, be it resolved, that the Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System hereby recognize the efforts of the UW Alumni Council for its work to elevate the awareness of the UW System through the state and to recognize UW System alumni and their contributions.

Regent President Marcovich pointed out that UW Spirit Week is an opportunity to show the presence of the UW in communities all around Wisconsin and its reach across the state. He felt that this should prove helpful in communicating with legislators.

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CLOSED SESSION

The meeting was recessed at 11:30 a.m. and reconvened at 11:35 a.m., at which time the following resolution, moved by Regent Bradley and seconded by Regent Davis, was adopted on a unanimous roll-call vote, with Regents Smith, Salas, Rosenzweig, Richlen, Randall, Pruitt, Olivieri, McPike, Marcovich, Gottschalk, Davis, Connolly-Keesler, Burmaster and Bradley (14) voting in the affirmative. There were no opposing votes and no abstentions.

Resolution 9007: Recess into closed session to consider authorization to appoint a dean for UW-Washington County, as permitted by s.19.85(1)(c), Wis. Stats., to confer with legal counsel regarding pending or potential litigation, as permitted by s.19.85(1)(g), Wis. Stats., and to consider personal histories related to naming a facility at UW-Madison, as permitted by s.19.85(1)(f), Wis. Stats.

The meeting was adjourned at 12:00 p.m., the following resolution having been adopted in the closed session:

Authorization to Appoint: Dean, UW-Washington County University of Wisconsin Colleges

Resolution 9008: That, upon recommendation of the Interim Chancellor of the University of Wisconsin Colleges and the President of the University of Wisconsin System, the Interim Chancellor be authorized to appoint David L. Nixon as Dean at the University of Wisconsin-Washington County, effective June 22, 2005, at an annual salary of $92,000.

Submitted by:

_________________________

Judith A. Temby, Secretary

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April 2005 - MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING