Highpoints of the December 7—8 Sys Fac Meeting

1. Concern expressed about getting more minorities into health education.

2. Discussion of graduation rates and their significance.

3. Legislature is going to take a hard look at retirement programs.

4. Two legislators spoke to the group:

a. R. Paredes
• Start regular program reviews of all graduate programs
• Eliminate those that are too small or don’t measure up
• Need a strategic plan for higher education in Texas
• “We are giving just enough money to fail”
• A commitment to shared governance

b. Patrick Rose
• 15 billion dollar surplus
• Immigration issues may affect education bills
• Need to correct formula for nursing students
• Misconceptions about faculty work load discussed
• Asked about indigent health care reimbursements
• Asked about technology transfer offices

5. A discussion on information security

6. The subcommittees on Health Affairs and Governance met jointly to work out recommendations on the faculty compensation plans.