Attending: D. Crowell (Biology), P. Crowell (Incoming President), D. Rao (Physics), D. Stocum (Dean’s Office), K. Wilson (Dean’s Office), J. Kuczkowski (Dean’s Office), K. Nguyen (Dean’s Office), J. Luke (Mathematical Sciences), D. Malik (Chemistry), A. Barth (Geology), P. Fastenau (Psychology), K. Johnson (Secretary)
KJ presented results from recent mail ballot:
There was a good representation by all departments (N = 40; 34% of the faculty), with the exception of Computer Science (no ballots returned). Reason for lack of CS votes was unknown.
All 5 Bylaws amendments were approved by overwhelming majority (70% - 87.5%).
Pamela Crowell was elected President (uncontested).
Philip Fastenau was elected Secretary.
Discussion ensued regarding retention of results. DM moved to destroy ballots, AB seconded. Further discussion ensued. Motion passed unanimously.
II. Budget (Dean Stocum)
University changed to new system for computing assessments for schools, and SOS might fare a little better. The rumor that the SOS has $4.5 million in reserve is misconstrued; these are funds that are already encumbered. There was a small drop in Summer enrollments, but it is negligible. Fall enrollment, however, is down systemwide (SOS 10%, SLA 11%), and IUB shows same pattern. The decline is probably related to PeopleSoft software difficulties, but it could also be due to changes in economy. KJ reported that students in her classes complained that they could not locate the classes on the new system; AB added that his students told him that they did try to register and their registration failed. JK encouraged all faculty to pass on these reports to Rebecca Porter (Enrollment Services) because she is under the impression that everything is progressing smoothly with PeopleSoft registration.
SOS classes are enrolled at only 73% capacity. Thus, every department should take a hard look at where their capacity is and try to adjust curriculum offerings to match the enrollments in order to better free up faculty time for research.
14 SOS searches were in progress this spring; 8 have been filled, and some letters of offer are outstanding. If not filled, the SOS will need to “cannibalize” those positions to cover other administrative expenses. Three other positions have already been liquidated.
Unit representatives are needed for Faculty Council. Faculty members need to ask around for nominees. DM said that SOS has representatives in every possible committee for which the Nominations/Awards Committee solicits nominees. KJ also needs names for individuals willing to be slated for election to the UFC (University systemwide faculty council).
III. Agenda for Next Year
DS asked how we could improve faculty attendance at SOS Faculty Assemblies. KJ mentioned that much of the work that needs to get done on behalf of faculty is completed in smaller committees, so faculty might not perceive a need to attend the FA. Perhaps we could hold a cookout and perhaps combine it with a Spotlight Lecture Series.
IV. Committee recognized incoming President and Secretary.
Meeting adjourned 10:45 a.m.
Submitted by Phil Fastenau