03-09-01minutes
Board of Regents
OFFICIAL MINUTES
Full Board Meeting
University of Alaska Board of Regents
March 8-9, 2001
Juneau, Alaska
OFFICIAL MINUTES
Regents Present:
Michael J. Burns, Chair
Elsa Froehlich Demeksa, Vice Chair
Mary Jane Fate, Secretary
Brian D. Rogers, Treasurer
Chancy Croft
Joshua B. Horst
R. Danforth Ogg
Frances H. Rose
Joe J. Thomas (3-8-01 only)
Joseph E. Usibelli, Jr.
Mark R. Hamilton, President and Chief Executive Officer - Fairbanks
Regents Absent:
Kevin O. Meyers
Others Present:
E. Lee Gorsuch, Chancellor, UAA
Marshall L. Lind, Chancellor, UAF
John Pugh, Chancellor, UAS
Wendy Redman, Vice President for University Relations
Joseph M. Beedle, Vice President for Finance
Jim Lynch, Associate Vice President for Finance
James A. Parrish, General Counsel
James R. Johnsen, Chief of Staff
Pat Pitney, Director, Institutional Research and Budget, SW
Ann Ringstad, Director, Government Relations, SW
Bob Miller, Director, Public Affairs, SW
Mike Sfraga, Director, Program Development, SW
Paul Reichardt, Provost, UAF
Dan Johnson, Provost, UAA
Roberta Stell, Provost, UAS
Carol Griffin, Director, Administrative Services, UAS
Cindy Matson, Vice Chancellor for Administrative Services, UAA
Frank Williams, Vice Chancellor for Administrative Services, UAF
Jeannie D. Phillips, Board of Regents' Officer
Barbara A. Bennett, Board of Regents' Staff
I. Call to Order
Chair Burns called the meeting to order at 8:05 a.m. on Thursday, March 8, 2001.
II. Adoption of Agenda
Regent Fate moved, seconded by Regent Rogers, and passed unanimously with amendments that:
PASSED AS AMENDED (amendments noted by *)
"The Board of Regents adopts the agenda as presented.
I. Call to Order
II. Adoption of Agenda
III. Approval of Minutes
IV. President's Report
V. Approval of Resolution of Appreciation for Regent Joshua B. Horst
VI. Presentation on University of Alaska Advertising Campaign
VII. Public Testimony
VIII. Consent Agenda
A. Academic and Student Affairs Committee1. Approval of Bachelor of Science Degree Program in Health Sciences at the University of Alaska AnchorageB. Finance, Facilities, and Land Management Committee
2. Approval of Master's Degree Program in Cross-Cultural Studies and Deletion of Education Specialist Degree Program in Cross-Cultural Studies at the University of Alaska Fairbanks*1. Approval of the 2001 Land Management Development Plan (from FF&LM Meeting of February 9, 2001) (removed)C. Human Resources Committee
2. Approval of Abrogation and Release of Restrictions Agreement, Bender Mountain (from FF&LM Meeting of February 9, 2001)
3. Approval of Land Acquisition Plan for University of Alaska Fairbanks, Poker Flat Research Range (from FF&LM Meeting of February 9, 2001)
4. Approval of FY03 Operating Budget Request Guidelines
5. Approval of FY03 Capital Budget Request Guidelines
6. Approval of the 2001 Land Management Development Plan1. Approval of 1.5 Percent Increase to the Non-Union Staff Salary ScheduleD. Committee of the Whole
*1. Status Report on the "University of Alaska College Savings Program," Approval of the Declaration of Trust for University of Alaska Savings Trust, Authorizing Chair Michael Burns to Execute Declaration of Trust for University of Alaska Savings Trust, and Adoption of Related Regents' Policy (removed from Consent Agenda)
2. Approval of Revised Policy 10.01.04 - University of Alaska Southeast Mission Statement
3. Approval of Spending Plan for Natural Resources Project Proposals
*4. Approval of Revised Policy 05.10 - Tuition and Student Fees (postponed until June 2001 meeting)
IX. New Business and Committee Reports
A. Academic and Student Affairs CommitteeB. Audit Committee
C. Committee of the Whole
*1. Executive Session re: Contract Negotiations (added)D. Finance, Facilities, and Land Management Committee
*2. Status Report on the "University of Alaska College Savings Program," Approval of the Declaration of Trust for University of Alaska Savings Trust, Authorizing Chair Michael Burns to Execute Declaration of Trust for University of Alaska Savings Trust, and Adoption of Related Regents' Policy (from Consent Agenda)
3. Committee Report1. Committee Report - February 9, 2001E. Human Resources Committee
2. Committee Report - March 8, 2001F. Nominating Committee
G. Planning and Development Committee
*H. Approval of Resolution of Appreciation for Dr. Daniel M. Johnson (added)
X. Alaska Commission on Postsecondary Education Report
XI. UA Foundation Report
XII. Future Agenda Items
XIII. Board of Regents' Comments
XIV. Executive Session
XV. Approval of 2002 Meeting Schedule
XVI. Acceptance of Bargaining Unit Contract between the University of Alaska and
the Alaska Higher Education Crafts and Trades Employees, Local 6070
XVII. Adjourn
This motion is effective March 8, 2001."
III. Approval of Minutes
Amendments were made to pages 47 and 53 of the minutes of November 16-17, 2000. Regent Rogers moved, seconded by Regent Thomas, that the minutes be approved as amended. The motion carried.
PASSED AS AMENDED
"The Board of Regents approves the minutes of its regular meeting of November 16-17, 2000 as amended. This motion is effective March 8, 2001."
Regent Rogers moved, seconded by Regent Demeksa, and passed unanimously that:
PASSED
"The Board of Regents approves the minutes of its emergency meeting of December 16, 2000 as presented. This motion is effective March 8, 2001."
An amendment was made on page 35 of the minutes of January 27-28, 2001. Regent Rogers moved, seconded by Regent Fate, and passed unanimously, that the minutes of January 27-28, 2001 be approved. The motion carried.
PASSED AS AMENDED
"The Board of Regents approves the minutes of its annual retreat of January 27-28, 2001 as amended. This motion is effective March 8, 2001."
IV. President's Report
Introduction
Thank you, Chairman Burns and Board of Regents, for the opportunity to report to you the great progress of our University system.
Students
I am very pleased to announce that there is an 11 percent enrollment increase across the system in first time freshman for the Fall 2000 semester. We ought to take great pride in this - it is the first increase since 1994 and signals a wonderful change for our university.
The GPA of our athletes across the system is higher than the GPA in general. We have three teams now in post-season play, one of which will win their consecutive national championship - UAF Rifle Team. They are so good they are quite literally the best rifle team ever put together - the best team in the sport. If you divide their team in two, they would come in first and second.
As always, I am very proud of our students - they are our greatest and most articulate advocates for the University of Alaska System.
Faculty and Staff
I believe I am witnessing the best morale that I've seen since I've been here. This is partly because the simple reality of hiring more people to start to shoulder the load. It is good to see smiling and aggressive faculty. We have shifted back the initiative process to make sure we get maximum involvement of faculty and the campuses. This has resulted in a re-energized effort on the initiative side.
Facilities
We've been making more quiet but dramatic strides. The degree of cooperation and collaboration among the campuses is especially gratifying. We are now getting a much larger group of minds, and better experience, working on each and every project. We now have planned out things that for years had suffered from a lack of planning. This speaks very well to long-term stewardship of our facilities and our infrastructure as well as our master plans.
Information Technology
IT continues to offer us the classic twins: challenge and opportunity. There are many issues here including satellites, connectivity, and distance education.
Research
EPSCoR has been enormously successful. As you know, this program does a couple of very important things. It spreads the opportunity for research to more of our campuses, and it allows the opportunity to pursue research in areas that are specifically applicable to Alaska, and it has a nice punch line that the leveraging of $3 million GF gives us $10.5 million over the next three years. Also, of the nine states that applied for EPSCoR grants this year, the University of Alaska was number one.
This is a good opportunity to take issue with the current press regarding Senator Stevens and his earmarking of projects for Alaska, that somehow becomes translated as "pork". I find this insulting both to Senator Stevens and to the University of Alaska and its faculty. The idea that it's pork when you bring money to bear to issues that are central to the nation and to the globe is ridiculous. It happens that we are situated and we are excellent in areas whose time has come. The Geophysical Institute and Arctic Region Supercomputing Center are central parts and pieces of global exploration, climate and others. The other piece is that I think it's insulting to our faculty that they need pork and can't compete. That is demonstratively ridiculous. Our faculty competes extraordinarily well for funds and we do not need earmarking to do it. These are better described as applications of federal dollars to areas of federal importance.
I've recently heard the question expressed of whether the University of Alaska is doing enough in the area of fisheries and fisheries research. The answer to the question is about four or five typewritten pages. We are deeply involved in leading research and collaborative efforts in this area. I will ensure you receive this report.
Areas of research in which I would like to see us become more involved are research in state health issues, and research in the establishment of data formatting.
State Needs
I believe there is an understanding in the state that the University of Alaska is responding to the needs of the state. We actually heard this from the Lt. Governor the other day. We're being seen more and more as the "go to" institution for issues involving the state.
One area in which we need to be more deeply involved is the whole education question: our direct involvement, indirect involvement, our role, what are the potentials. We must be more involved as a player in this arena, and the administration is passionately concerned about this.
Regarding the BP/Phillips Petroleum funds: after meetings that have included faculty and staff and reviewing many proposals, we have established principles for use of these funds that include the following:
~ The University should use these funds to support our values, aligned specifically with the focus areas of the University's direction and growth.
~ The funds should make a tangible difference in the University's capacity to produce highly relevant research.
~ Enhance the potential leverage of the funds.
~ Support a mixture of activities.
~ Avoid dissipation across a wide and diffuse set of projects.
Whatever is decided on specific use, the following will apply:
~ My office will manage the funds and review the projects and their progress.
~ Review additional projects as they are brought forward.
~ Deliver an annual report to the Board of Regents and to the UA Foundation Board of Trustees. Remember, the Foundation's Board of Trustees will ultimately be the body that approves the spending of these funds.
Conclusion
Thanks to all of you in the room today, and the many more all across this state, who have brought this University back to life. We are making a difference for Alaska. Let's keep up the momentum.
V. Approval of Resolution of Appreciation for Regent Joshua B. Horst
WHEREAS, Joshua B. Horst has served with distinction as a member of the Board of Regents of the University of Alaska since 1999 when he was appointed by Governor Tony Knowles; and
WHEREAS, Joshua B. Horst entered the University of Alaska at UAS as an undergraduate in 1997, and is scheduled to graduate with a bachelor's degree in business management in the spring of 2001; and
WHEREAS, Joshua B. Horst was graduated from Golden West High School in Visalia, California, in 1994, and in 1994-95 attended the College of the Sequoias in Visalia before transferring to UAS; and
WHEREAS, Joshua B. Horst has been an honor student, and always found the time to be active in student government activities of UA, serving as president of the UAS Student Government in 1998-99; and
WHEREAS, Joshua B. Horst, as the president of the UAS Student Government, organized and moderated legislative and Congressional candidate debates, organized the 14th Annual Legislative Affairs Conference, spoke on behalf of the University before civic groups, and served as the student commencement speaker at UAS on May 7, 1999; and
WHEREAS, Joshua B. Horst served as a member of the Teaching, Learning, Technology Roundtable of the Coalition of Student Leaders of which he has been Chair since 1999, of the System Governance Council, and of the Student Retention Committee; and
WHEREAS, Joshua B. Horst co-developed the new student ambassador program, and also served as a member of Alaska Lt. Gov. Fran Ulmer's advisory committee for the "Let's Vote Alaska! New Voters for a New Millennium" initiative; and
WHEREAS, Joshua B. Horst, as a regent and as chair of the Coalition of Student Leaders helped rally systemwide student support for the University's budget request, and helped gather 5,000 postcards from students to the governor, urging him to support the Board of Regents budget request in 1999; and
WHEREAS, Joshua B. Horst, as a regent, has been a member of the Academic and Student Affairs Committee, the Human Resources Committee, and the Nominating Committee, and has represented the Board at commencements in Juneau, Ketchikan and Sitka; and
WHEREAS, Joshua B. Horst was selected for one of the prestigious Alaska Permanent Fund Program internships, and served as an information technology intern for Tyson's Corner Center in McLean, Virginia, during the summer of 2000; and
WHEREAS, Joshua B. Horst's activities as a student leader and regent don't seem to cut into the time he has to play racquetball, in which he is an Am Pro certified instructor, and the Assistant Racquetball Professional at the Juneau Racquet Club; he has also developed and taught racquetball classes at UAS and since 1997 has been a Juniors Racquetball instructor; and
WHEREAS, Joshua B. Horst served the Board of Regents with judicious attention to the concerns of his fellow regents and the administration while providing forthright and outstanding representation of the students and their concerns; and
WHEREAS, Joshua B. Horst is a valuable asset to the University of Alaska, and has earned the respect and esteem of his colleagues on the Board of Regents,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Regents of the University of Alaska takes official recognition of Josh's outstanding service and extends to him this statement of appreciation for his contributions to the advancement of higher education in Alaska; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this resolution be appropriately engrossed and conveyed to Joshua B. Horst with a copy incorporated in the official minutes of the March 7-9, 2001 meeting of the Board of Regents.
After reading the resolution, Regent Fate moved, seconded by Regent Demeksa, and passed unanimously that:
PASSED
"The Board of Regents approves the resolution of appreciation for Regent Joshua B. Horst. This motion is effective March 8, 2001."
VI. Presentation on University of Alaska Advertising Campaign
Bob Miller, director of Statewide Public Affairs, and Rick Nerland and Graham Biddle of the Nerland Agency, briefed the Board of Regents regarding the current University of Alaska advertising campaign, including showing the television spots to be aired in the near future.
VII. Public Testimony
Gordon Evans, former member of the Board of Regents and UAS Advisory Council member, welcomed the Board of Regents to Juneau and encouraged all regents to attend the groundbreaking ceremony for the UAS Classroom on March 21.
Chris Kutsch, UAA student and member of the UAA Environmental Club Council, expressed his concerns regarding logging in the Cape Yakataga area and spoke in opposition to the proposed UA Land Management development plan.
David Woodley, President of UA Staff Alliance, thanked the board for its support of staff and asked for approval of the 1.5 percent increase to salary schedules for non-union staff.
Jim Douglas, Cooperative Extension Service, reported on limited liability legislation, and on the "UAF for Youth" program.
Lisa Robertson, UAF student representative, Shannon Kempton, UAS student representative, and Kim Parry, UAA student representative, reported on issues of importance on their campuses including the "U of A is good business" campaign at UAS, the "Legislative Trading Cards" campaign at UAF, and the "Adopt a Legislator" campaign at UAA.
Solveig Pedersen, ASUAF vice president, reported on work on a web site, on student senators researching grants for affordable child care for working students; on a "student saver" program which would give students discounts at local businesses. She also, on behalf of ASUAF, thanked Regent Horst for his excellent service as student regent.
Tia Anderson, USUAS president, thanked Regent Horst for wonderful work accomplished during his tenure as regent, and reported on activities at UAS including groundbreaking for UAS Classroom on March 21; advocating for next phase of classroom building; and looking into additional student services at UAS. She was pleased to note that the 16th annual legislative conference went very well - nearly one-third of the members of the Alaska Legislature attended. Ms. Anderson also reported on the hiring of a new academic counselor; web page improvements; and that the recent survey on student needs showed need for more comprehensive computer access.
Dave Conway, UAS employee and member of Local 6070, recognized Mike Hostina, director of SW Labor Relations and his negotiating team, on a constructive negotiating process: Specifically, he thanked Rhonda Ooms, Labor Relations Coordinator, for her great help.
William Dunn, Juneau resident, reported his concern regarding possible damage done to UAS property at the Auke Lake campus.
Scott McCrea, president-elect of UAF Staff Council, reported on activities of the UAF Staff including campus tours for internal staffers; outreach to Fairbanks community including a UAF Day at Southside Community Center on March 31; and thanked Chancellor Lind for his support of staff.
[The Full Board meeting was recessed until approximately 1:30 p.m. on Friday, March 9, 2001.]
FRIDAY, MARCH 9, 2001
VIII. Consent Agenda
Regent Rogers moved, seconded by Regent Horst, and passed unanimously that:
PASSED AS AMENDED
"The Board of Regents approves the recommendations of its standing committees as amended. This motion is effective March 9, 2001."
A. Academic and Student Affairs Committee1. Approval of Bachelor of Science Degree Program in Health Sciences at the University of Alaska Anchorage - Reference 1B. Finance, Facilities, and Land Management CommitteeMOTION
"The Board of Regents approves a Bachelor of Science degree program in Health Sciences at the University of Alaska Anchorage, with the stipulation that the new program be reviewed by the Board of Regents in five years for continuation. This motion is effective March 9, 2001."
2. Approval of Master's Degree Program in Cross-Cultural Studies and Deletion of Education Specialist Degree Program in Cross Cultural Studies at the University of Alaska Fairbanks Reference 2
MOTION
"The Board of Regents approves a Master's degree program in Cross-Cultural Studies and the deletion of the Education Specialist (Ed.S.) degree program in Cross-Cultural Studies at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, with the stipulation that the new program be reviewed by the Board of Regents in five years for continuation. This motion is effective March 9, 2001."
1. Approval of the 2001 Land Management Development Plan (from FF&LM Meeting of February 9, 2001)C. Human Resources CommitteeRemoved.
2. Approval of Abrogation and Release of Restrictions Agreement, Bender Mountain (from FF&LM Meeting of February 9, 2001)
MOTION
"The Board of Regents:
1. approves the resolution set forth in Reference 2;
2. authorizes the payment of $8,000 and any miscellaneous expenses the administration may deem appropriate; and
3. authorizes the director of the Statewide Office of Land Management to execute an 'Abrogation and Release of Restrictions' in substantially the same form as shown in Reference 2, thus abrogating the certain educational use deed restrictions to the Bender Mountain property, legally described as the SW4SW4NW4SW4 of Section 16, Township 1 North, Range 1 West, Fairbanks Meridian.
This motion is effective March 9, 2001."3. Approval of Land Acquisition Plan for University of Alaska Fairbanks, Poker Flat Research Range (from FF&LM Meeting of February 9, 2001)
MOTION
"The Board of Regents approves the Poker Flat Land Acquisition Plan (Reference 3), and authorizes the administration to proceed with the acquisition of parcels identified for acquisition as the identified parcels become available for acquisition and funding is available. This motion is effective March 9, 2001."
4. Approval of FY03 Operating Budget Request Guidelines - Reference 4
MOTION"The Board of Regents approves the FY2003 Operating Budget Request Guidelines as presented. This motion is effective March 9, 2001."
5. Approval of FY03 Capital Budget Request Guidelines - Reference 5
MOTION
"The Board of Regents adopts the guidelines for the FY03 Capital Budget Request as presented. This motion is effective March 9, 2001."
6. Approval of the 2001 Land Management Development Plan
MOTION
"The Board of Regents approves the Land Management 2001 Development Plan as presented and directs the administration to continue its development efforts and carry out the plan to the extent practicable in accordance with the Regents' Policy and guidelines set forth above. This motion is effective March 9, 2001."
1. Approval of 1.5 Percent Increase to the Non-Union Staff Salary ScheduleD. Committee of the WholeMOTION
"The Board of Regents approves, contingent upon legislative funding, a 1.5 percent increase to the non-union staff salary schedule, effective July 1, 2001. This motion is effective March 8, 2001."
1. Status Report on the "University of Alaska College Savings Program," Approval of the Declaration of Trust for University of Alaska Savings Trust, Authorizing Chair Michael Burns to Execute Declaration of Trust for University of Alaska Savings Trust, and Adoption of Related Regents' PolicyRemoved from Consent Agenda to New Business, item IX.C.2.
2. Approval of Revised Policy 10.01.04 - University of Alaska Southeast Mission Statement
MOTION
"The Board of Regents approves revised Regents' Policy 10.01.04 - University of Alaska Southeast Mission Statement. This motion is effective March 9, 2001."
3. Approval of Spending Plan for Natural Resources Project Proposals - Reference 10
MOTION
"The Board of Regents approves the distribution plan for the Natural Resources Fund awards for projects and activities related to natural resources as presented in Table 2 of Reference 11. This motion is effective March 9, 2001."
4. Approval of Revised Policy 05.10 - Tuition and Student Fees - Reference 11
Postponed until June 2001 meeting.
IX. New Business and Committee Reports
A. Academic and Student Affairs CommitteeIn addition to action items, the Academic and Student Affairs Committee heard reports on the following items:
1. Exploration of Academic Quality Measures
2. Update on UA Electronic Student Services
3. Status Report on Accreditation Activities
4. Discussion Regarding Institution of For-Credit Independent Study Course for Student RegentsThe committee asked that a special meeting be held in April or May to discuss the following items:
1. Report on Protocol on Use of Rasmuson BequestsB. Audit Committee
2. Update on Regents' Scholarship
3. Discussion Regarding Tuition Waivers for Former Regents
4. 5 goals referenced by Regent Croft
5. Meeting with Board of EducationRegent Rogers reported that the Audit Committee will meet at the June 2001 meeting.
C. Committee of the Whole
1. Executive Session re: Contract NegotiationsD. Finance, Facilities, and Land Management CommitteeThe Committee of the Whole of the Board of Regents held an executive session in accordance with AS 44.62.310 discussing matters the immediate knowledge of which would have an adverse effect on the finances of the university regarding contract negotiations. The session included members of the Board of Regents, President Hamilton, General Counsel Parrish, and other university staff members designated by the president and lasted approximately 15 minutes.
2. Status Report on the "University of Alaska College Savings Program," Approval of the Declaration of Trust for University of Alaska Savings Trust, Authorizing Chair Michael Burns to Execute Declaration of Trust for University of Alaska Savings Trust, and Adoption of Related Regents' Policy
Due to updated information, this item was removed from the Consent Agenda for further discussion by the full board.
Regent Demeksa moved, seconded by Regent Rogers, and passed by majority vote with Regents Burns, Ogg, and Rose abstaining, that:
PASSED AS AMENDED
"The Board of Regents:
1. approves the form and content of the Declaration of Trust for the University of Alaska Savings Trust in substantially the form presented;
2. authorizes Treasurer Brian D. Rogers to approve final details and attachments of the Declaration of Trust for University of Alaska Savings Trust and execute same and related documents on behalf of the University of Alaska; and
3. approves revised and retitled Regents' Policy 05.07.04 regarding the university's Postsecondary Education Savings Program.
This motion is effective March 9, 2001."
3. Committee Report
In addition to action items, the Committee of the Whole heard a presentation on the Alaska Student Loan Program and report on University of Alaska Missions and Measures.
1. Committee Report - February 9, 2001E. Human Resources CommitteeThe Finance, Facilities, and Land Management Committee met in a special meeting in Anchorage on February 9, 2001.
The following items were forwarded for approval by the Full Board:
1. Approval of the 2001 Land Management Development Plan
2. Approval of Abrogation and Release of Restrictions Agreement, Bender Mountain
3. Approval of Land Acquisition Plan for University of Alaska Fairbanks, Poker Flat Research Range
4. Approval of Schematic Design for UAA Library Addition and Renovation ProjectThe following items were reviewed and discussed by the committee:
1. Update Regarding Sale at Cape Bingham to Forest Service
2. Update Regarding Sale of Trust Land Near Valdez to EVOS
3. Update Regarding Sale of Portion of Seward Marine Center
4. Progress on Planning and Construction Activities at UAFIn addition to the above, the Finance, Facilities, and Land Management Committee of the Board of Regents held an executive session in accordance with AS 44.62.310 discussing the following matters the immediate knowledge of which would have an adverse effect on the finances of the university: collective bargaining and land negotiations. The session included members of the Board of Regents, President Hamilton, General Counsel Parrish, and other university staff members designated by the president and lasted approximately two hours.
2. Committee Report - March 8, 2001
The following items were approved by the committee and forwarded to the Full Board to be considered on its Consent Agenda:
1. Approval of FY03 Operating Budget Request Guidelines
2. Approval of the FY03 Capital Budget Request Guidelines
3. Approval of the 2001 Land Management Development PlanThe following motion was approved by the Finance, Facilities, and Land Management Committee. For the record, Regent Usibelli abstained from voting on this motion.
Approval of Schematic Design for UAF Power Plant Code Corrections Phase I Project
PASSED
"As required by Regents' Policy 05.12.02.C, the Finance, Facilities, and Land Management Committee approves the schematic design for the University of Alaska Fairbanks Power Plant Code Corrections Phase I Project as presented, and authorizes the university administration to bid and award contracts not to exceed a total project cost of $1,500,000. This motion is effective March 8, 2001."
The following was discussed as an item of new business by the Committee:
~ Accelerated Planning for Science Facilities
The committee heard reports on the following items:
1. Status of University Investments in Capital Facilities
2. First Reading and Discussion Regarding Delegated Authority for Facility and Land Management Operations
3. Status Report on Construction in Progress and Other ProjectsThe administration reported that the following items would be considered during future meetings of the Finance, Facilities, and Land Management Committee:
1. Report on Land Management Operations
2. UAA Master Planning & CIP Development
3. UAF Master Planning & CIP Development
4. UAS Master Planning & CIP Development
5. Approval of Modifications to Regents' Policies regarding land management and facilitiesRegent Rose reported that the committee reviewed a policy revision schedule and held a 1st reading on Policy 04.05 - Salary Administration.
F. Nominating Committee
No report.
G. Planning and Development Committee
Regent Rogers reported that the Planning and Development Committee will meet at the June 2001 meeting to do a first review of proposed bylaw revisions.
H. Approval of Resolution of Appreciation for Dr. Daniel M. Johnson
WHEREAS, Dr. Daniel M. Johnson has served with distinction as Provost of the University of Alaska Anchorage since 1997; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Daniel M. Johnson has successfully promoted a spirit of collegiality and an atmosphere of mutual respect and optimism; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Daniel M. Johnson is recognized as a national authority on metropolitan universities and has championed the engagement of the university with the communities it serves; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Daniel M. Johnson has built a strong and effective leadership team of academic deans and directors; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Daniel M. Johnson has actively sponsored the strengthening of faculty development through the creation of the Center for Advancing Faculty Excellence; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Daniel M. Johnson has established the Center for Community Engagement and Learning to promote the commitment of faculty and students to service learning in the community; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Daniel M. Johnson has helped form a dynamic partnership with the Municipality of Anchorage and major air freight carriers to launch innovative degree programs in global supply chain management; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Daniel M. Johnson has supervised and directed the complex preparation that led to the reaffirmation of the University of Alaska Anchorage institutional accreditation by the Commission on Colleges of the Northwest Association of Schools and Colleges.
WHEREAS, Dr. Daniel M. Johnson has been appointed the fifteenth President of the University of Toledo and will assume his new post on 1 July 2001;
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the University of Alaska Board of Regents recognizes the dedicated service of Dr. Daniel M. Johnson, wishes him success in his new appointment, and extends to him this official statement of appreciation for his contributions to the advancement of higher education in Alaska; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this resolution be appropriately engrossed and conveyed to Dr. Daniel M. Johnson with a copy incorporated in the official minutes of the 9 March 2001 meeting of the Board of Regents.
Regent Croft moved, seconded by Regent Fate, and passed unanimously that:
PASSED
"The Board of Regents approves the resolution of appreciation for Dr. Daniel M. Johnson. This motion is effective March 9, 2001."
X. Alaska Commission on Postsecondary Education Report
Regent Demeksa reported on the AlaskAdvantage Program and that the ACPE will be meeting next week. Regent Rose reported that she has resigned her position as representative on the ACPE.
XI. UA Foundation Report
Regent Burns reported that the Foundation would meet next on March 21-22 in Juneau; and that the year-end assets of the Foundation equaled $99.6 million. Regent Rogers requested that the Planning and Development Committee meet jointly with the UA Foundation Board of Directors at its September 2001 meeting.
XII. Future Agenda Topics
None.
XIII. Board of Regents' Comments
Regent Usibelli applauded the progress made in budgeting and planning.
Regent Ogg suggested that farewell ceremonies for outgoing regents occur after the member has gone off the board; reported that resolutions have been sent to the Alaska Legislature from the Kodiak community supporting the University's funding requests; and spoke of his pleasure to serve on the board and his request to have his "Emanation" letter included in the official record of this meeting:
Regent Demeksa moved, seconded by Regent Rogers, and passed unanimously that this letter be included in the record. The motion carried and the letter follows:
February 14, 2001
Emanation
Dear Governor Walter Hickel, Governor Tony Knowles, Members of the Board of Regents, and President Mark Hamilton:
At the end of eight years of service to the great State of Alaska, I want to thank you, Governor Hickel, for giving me the opportunity to serve on the Board of Regents of the University of Alaska and for having the confidence in my abilities to do the job. I also want to express my thanks to you, Governor Hickel and Governor Knowles, for supporting the University of Alaska and its role in making Alaska's future brighter. To you, my fellow Regents past and present, I want to say how much I enjoyed the many years of working hard together and making friendships that will last a lifetime. I also want to thank you, President Hamilton, for helping make the work of a Regent exciting and rewarding.
Eight years is a long time to serve in a public office. The job of a Regent is one that can be rewarding and frustrating. But I always felt, even in times of great frustration, that my goal-to improve the University and to make it the best for Alaska that it can be-made that job rewarding. In my heart I feel that education is what makes humanity better, it is what makes individuals better citizens, and it is the glue that allows society to move forward together. This made the job of a Regent rewarding.
There were times during my service that I wished the Regents' duties were simply to applaud the direction set by the President and the administration. But the Board of Regents has a different charge. The citizens of Alaska, through their constitution, made the University a quasi-branch of state government and directed the eleven members of the Board of Regents to govern the University. Govern is an active verb a duty to be performed. The citizens also required the Board to formulate policy and hire a resident to be the board's executive officer. Simple words but awesome responsibility.
I found, as with most things in life, it took some time to understand the University and the duties of a Regent. The University is a vast and complex institution. It has a momentum of its own, not dissimilar to an ocean-going vessel. It is easy to become immersed in a particular part or portion of the mission or to fixate on a passing storm and lose sight of the whole.
I also learned that one of my tasks was to act as a conduit of information concerning the needs of the state in relation to my background in fishing. Each Regent brings a unique perspective concerning the needs of the state, which I think demonstrates the wisdom of having a lay board govern the University. Lay boards governing universities is an American invention. A lay board ensures the University remains connected to the needs of the citizens and the future of the state. The lay board is what has made American universities the most admired and successful throughout the world.
There are differing opinions as to the function of the lay board. One view holds that the lay board should be a passive supporter of the administration. Another view maintains the board should serve as an active partner in governing the University. I believe universities are best served when their boards actively performs their mandated jobs. That is, lay boards governing universities in partnership with their president and administration is the ideal.
I also discovered that it requires much time and much thought to govern. It seems that the most effective tool for governing the University is to plan and then fund a budget to implement the plan. In doing so, a regent must be accountable to the citizens of the state when spending public monies on that plan. For it is the Board of Regents that ensures the University is meeting the needs of the state. This is governing. These tasks are not "one time, place them on a shelf" jobs, but ones that require a process of constant evaluation. It is hard work, it is Regents' work, and it is very rewarding.
The best of all possible worlds is to have a strong president and a strong Board of Regents. It takes the two to make the University the best that it can be. As I leave the Board, I feel the state is very lucky to have Mark Hamilton as President of the University of Alaska. He is a man who makes a difference. I believe the Board of Regents I served with is a board that also has made a difference. It has been a "good board" in the nautical sense - we sailed a straight course and lost little to the windward.
Although at times frustration seemed paramount, the job for me was rewarding. I was a lucky citizen. I go to do what my heart believes. Again, Governor Hickel, thanks for the confidence you placed in me and for giving me the opportunity to serve. Governor Knowles, it has been a pleasure to work with you. And to my fellow Regents past and present and to President Hamilton, it has been a real treat working with you.
Sincerely,
Dan Ogg
Regent, University of Alaska
Regent Rogers complimented the staff on the clear and concise capital projects report.
Regent Demeksa complimented the staff on efforts made to ensure accountability; and requested that a status report on teacher education be given to the members of the board in the near future.
Regent Fate thanked Provost Johnson for his contributions to the university; thanked Regent Horst for all he has provided and brought to the table for the UA; and urged the MAUs do all possible in the area of distance delivery.
Regent Croft wished Provost Johnson well in his new position; reported with great sadness on the death of Hugh Malone; and echoed Regent Usibelli's comments on how we are progressing and the public's acceptance of our progress.
Regent Burns thanked Regent Horst for his great service as a regent; and expressed his appreciation for how well the systems and processes of the UA are working, thanking staff for that progress.
Regent Horst stated that it has been an honor and privilege to serve on the board with this great group of leaders of Alaska; that he is looking forward to seeing the University of Alaska continue to take strides and make substantial progress in the state; and encouraged regents to continue to focus on communication.
XIV. Executive Session
Regent Rogers moved, seconded by Regent Thomas, and passed unanimously that:
PASSED
"The Board of Regents goes into executive session at 9:10 a.m. A.S.T in accordance
with the provisions of AS 44.62.310 to discuss matters the immediate knowledge
of which would have an adverse effect on the finances of the university related
to:
~ Litigation
~ Labor
~ Land
~ Contract Negotiations
and matters that would affect the reputation or character of a person or persons
including:
~ Personnel Matters
~ Naming of a Facility
The session will include members of the Board of Regents, President Hamilton, General
Counsel Parrish, and such other university staff members as the president may designate
and will last approximately one hours. Thus, the open session of the Board of Regents
will resume in this room at approximately 10:10 a.m. A.S.T. This motion is effective
March 9, 2001."
The Board of Regents recessed its executive session at 10:15 a.m.; then resumed the executive session at 10:45 a.m.
The Board of Regents concluded an executive session at 12:00 noon A.S.T. in accordance with AS 44.62.310 discussing matters the immediate knowledge of which would have an adverse effect on the finances of the university; and matters that would affect the reputation or character of a person or persons. The session included members of the Board of Regents, President Hamilton, General Counsel Parrish, and other university staff members designated by the president and lasted approximately 2\xbd hours.
XV. Approval of 2002 Meeting Schedule
Annual Meeting & Board of Regents' Retreat / January 19-20, 2002 / Girdwood
Regular Meeting / March 6-8, 2002 / Juneau
Regular Meeting / June 6-7, 2002 / Fairbanks
Regular Meeting / September 12-13, 2002 / Anchorage
Meeting re Budget / November 8, 2002 / Anchorage
Regular Meeting / December 5-6, 2002 / Fairbanks
The motion carried as presented with no opposition.
PASSED
"The Board of Regents approves the meeting schedule for 2002 as presented. This motion is effective March 9, 2001."
XVI. Acceptance of Bargaining Unit Contract between the University of Alaska and the Alaska Higher Education Crafts and Trades Employees, Local 6070
Board of Regents' Policy 08.10.02 - Agreements with Collective Bargaining Agents, states:
No collective bargaining agreement shall be binding upon the Board of Regents without prior approval of the entire agreement by the Board of Regents.
Pursuant to this policy, the university administration had tentatively agreed upon a contract with the Alaska Higher Education Crafts and Trades Employees, Local 6070 (Local 6070) union prior to the March 7-9, 2001 Board of Regents' meeting. On February 6, 2001, Local 6070 members ratified the contract.
Pursuant to AS 23.40.215, the monetary terms of this collective bargaining agreement are subject to initial approval/disapproval and annual funding by the Alaska Legislature.
Regent Croft moved, seconded by Regent Rose, and passed unanimously that:
PASSED
"The Board of Regents accepts the bargaining unit contract between the University of Alaska and the Alaska Higher Education Crafts and Trades Employees, Local 6070 for the term of January 1, 2001 through December 31, 2003 as presented. This motion is effective March 9, 2001."
XVII. Adjourn
Chair Burns adjourned the meeting at 4:00 p.m., Friday, March 9, 2001.