UTMB Faculty Senate

August 13, 2012

4:30 – 6:00 pm

MINUTES

I. The meeting was called to order at 4:32 pm by Dr. Sharon Croisant, Faculty Senate Chair.

II. The Approval of the July 9, 2012 minutes. The minutes of July 9, 2012 were voted and approved by email on July 23, 2012.

III. Provost, VP and Dean’s Report

Interim Executive Vice President, Provost and Dean, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences – report provided by Dr. Cooper.

A Senator asked Dr. Cooper about enrollment and if we are still trying to increase enrollment? Dr. Cooper stated he believes that this is on hold due to infrastructure, i.e., large classrooms and testing centers that will need to be in place first.

VP and Dean, School of Health Professions – report submitted by Dr. Protas.

IV. Reports by Faculty Senate Chair

Dr. Croisant followed up from last month’s announcement from Mr. Slocum on the UT System Incentive Retirement Program and that Dr. Callender and System are working out the details and for a January 1, 2013 effective date.

Dr. Croisant was informed by the Council of Deans that the policy for the “Abandonment of Academic Positions or Programs” is on hold pending Dr. Jacobs arrival.

The Senate Leadership Team met with Dr. Callender last Friday, during which time the budget cuts were discussed. Dr. Croisant mentioned that Dr. Callender stated it was never the intention to slash positions but to honor tenured faculty who are eligible to retire with an incentive.

Dr. Croisant asked if anyone present has attended the Research meeting the previous Monday with Dr. Callender and Dr. Bill Calhoun, Chair of the Research Executive Committee. Dr. Croisant mentioned that Dr. Callender stated that the Administration is right-sizing and not downsizing. The strategic plan is being revisited and they will look at those research strengths which are in line with the institutional mission.

Dr. Croisant mentioned that the September meeting which is the annual luncheon will take place on Monday, September 24, 11:30 – 1:00 pm in the Levin Hall Dining room. Committee Chairs are asked to update the PPT from last year and return to Dr. Croisant and Mary Schlobohm by no later than Monday, September 17^th. Please keep your sections to five minutes. Dr. Callender will be in attendance and will present his State of the Institution Address.

The Town Hall meeting is Thursday, August 16th.

Dr. Jacob’s first charge will be to recruit the VP for Research and GSBS Dean.

V. Reports by the Executive Committee and Committee Chairs

Dr. Utsey announced that it was an honor and privilege to work with the Senate for the past three years and she will be waiting to hear of more good things to come.

Dr. Wiggs mentioned that she had sent an email to the Senators asking for nominations of those willing to serve on the Faculty Grievance Committee. A Senator asked about the Ombudsperson. Dr. Croisant stated that they did not find a person to fill the position.

· A motion was made for an Executive Session, seconded and unanimously approved.

The meeting was adjourned at 6:10 pm.