BUSINESS LETTER ETIQUETTE
* Envelopes: Your name, name and title of person you're writing, name of the organization
* Salutations: Don't use a comma - use a semicolon in business situations. Dear Prof. Morris:
* Dates: every letter must have a date
* Your address: If you're using letterhead, don't write your address on the letter or envelope
* Ending: Thank you, yours truly, very truly yours
WRITING ARTICLES
* Preachers: If they're ordained, the Rev... If they also have doctorates, the Rev. Dr....
* Don't use over when you mean more than
* Do not hyphenate African American
* Avoid weak verb forms - say plans instead of intends to lead or research instead of look up
* Don't split infinitives
* Identify speaker of direct quotations after the first pause
* Don't use mention
* Don't say happy or excited in their various forms
* Avoid spoke or speak in all forms
* Avoid leads in second paragraphs, as well as non-sequiturs
* Don't be a secretary at meetings. i.e. At the beginning of the speech, at the end of the speech
* Avoid Southeastern Conference (SEC)
* Put time element next to the verb
* Keep lead paragraphs short and do not ask questions
* Inappropriate lead verbs include facilitate, spoke, address, discuss, covered, stood, met, held, stressed
* Avoid backing into the story
* Aim to be completely balanced - interview multiple people
* Do not call adults by their first name
* Don't use direct quotations of unimportant statements
* Avoid referencing budget stories without providing budgetary amounts
* Do not misspell words
* Avoid clichés
* Capitalize President only with specific last names
* Avoid there was/there were
* Avoid some people or some sources
* Don't say "average" American
* Write out the number if it is the first word of the sentence
* Said is better than according to
* Avoid "in regard to"
* If less than 7 days, use Monday, Tuesday, etc. NO today. Date is necessary if it is outside 7 day window
* Don't babble
* No saying feels/thinks...It must say Obama SAID he feels/thinks
* If you ask a question, answer it immediately
* Don't digress
* STRONG verbs
Thursday, February 27, 2014
Monday, February 17, 2014
Faculty Senate Executive Committee
The Executive Committee approved and amended recommendations today, as well as discussed future proposals. The monthly meeting began by approving last month's faculty senate minutes. Members then began to assess recommendations. The recommendations, if approved, would continue on to receive approval from faculty senate, followed by President Kopp and then the Board of Governors.
The executive committee approved SR-13-14-56, SR-12-14-61 and SR-13-14-62 without much opposition. The first recommendation approved added a clause to syllabi that addressed the protocol for a late instructor assignment. The second approved an accelerated BS/MD program that would be open to 10 in-state incoming seniors per year to complete an undergraduate degree in Biology and doctorate through the Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine in seven years. The last recommendation was an intent to plan a Bachelor of Arts in the Arts degree, which allows students to study more than just one discipline in the Fine Arts.
SR-13-14-63 was amended then approved. The General Education Council proposed wording changes in the international course designation.
Original submitted changes: (3) evaluatehow specific approaches to global issues will affect multiple cultural communities, and (4) untangle competing economic, religious, social, political, institutional, or geographical interests of cultural groups in conflict.
Mary Beth Reynolds, director of academic assessment, said she felt the proposed changes restricted certain programs too much, especially several majors in the College of Liberal Arts. She said she believed there would be more data to prove if this change was justified in the summer when more artifacts of course studies would be submitted and categorized based on which parts of the description they fit. Reynolds said she wanted to leave in the term "cultural." The committee passed the recommendation with the amendment of leaving every word currently in the description and adding "political, institutional."
The intent to plan a sport management major (SR-13-14-64) was approved, though it is being researched if sport or sports should be used. SR-13-14-65 proposed that a possible multidisciplinary degree should be referred to the Council of chairs for further development. Numerous committee members said they believed it had been so long since this initiative started that they needed to see the original information, including the intent to plan, before approving it. The recommendation was tabled until March.
SR-13-14-66 to continue certain degrees at their current levels and SR-13-14-68 to offer four librarians Ex-Officio Non-Voting Membership for faculty senate were both approved. On the other hand, SR-13-14-67, recommending a joint Board of Governors and faculty senate meeting each year, was not approved due to the fact that it was already present in the W.Va. State Code.
The agenda was set and approved for the Senate meeting on Feb. 27 before handing out a packet for the March meeting. The packet included policy changes and procedure regarding salary, promotion and tenure. Faculty members were encouraged by Chair Eldon Larsen to share this information with their respective colleges prior to its appearance at March's meeting and possible implementation fall semester. College of Business professor Rex McClure said he was concerned about the citizenship clause in the tenure section because he believes it is vague and could result in misunderstanding and disgruntled professors. President Kopp said there is precedent from previous academic court cases that would shelter this statute.
Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs Corley Dennison said this is a change from the previous terminology of "collegiately." He said no one was sure of the definition of collegiately, so it was changed to "university citizenship." Dennison thinks the proposal will stand. "I think once there's full explanation of the citizenship clause, I think it will probably pass," Dennison said. Larsen agreed with Dennison's prediction of outcome, but clarified further. "The concerns are not universal," Larsen said. "I did not hear anybody else express their concerns. All the proposals for salary, promotion and tenure will go as a package. If Senate wants to amend part of it, they can do that before they vote on the whole package."
While the final package will not be voted on until the March meeting, the next General Faculty Senate meeting will be February 27, 2014.
The executive committee approved SR-13-14-56, SR-12-14-61 and SR-13-14-62 without much opposition. The first recommendation approved added a clause to syllabi that addressed the protocol for a late instructor assignment. The second approved an accelerated BS/MD program that would be open to 10 in-state incoming seniors per year to complete an undergraduate degree in Biology and doctorate through the Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine in seven years. The last recommendation was an intent to plan a Bachelor of Arts in the Arts degree, which allows students to study more than just one discipline in the Fine Arts.
SR-13-14-63 was amended then approved. The General Education Council proposed wording changes in the international course designation.
Original submitted changes: (3) evaluate
Mary Beth Reynolds, director of academic assessment, said she felt the proposed changes restricted certain programs too much, especially several majors in the College of Liberal Arts. She said she believed there would be more data to prove if this change was justified in the summer when more artifacts of course studies would be submitted and categorized based on which parts of the description they fit. Reynolds said she wanted to leave in the term "cultural." The committee passed the recommendation with the amendment of leaving every word currently in the description and adding "political, institutional."
The intent to plan a sport management major (SR-13-14-64) was approved, though it is being researched if sport or sports should be used. SR-13-14-65 proposed that a possible multidisciplinary degree should be referred to the Council of chairs for further development. Numerous committee members said they believed it had been so long since this initiative started that they needed to see the original information, including the intent to plan, before approving it. The recommendation was tabled until March.
SR-13-14-66 to continue certain degrees at their current levels and SR-13-14-68 to offer four librarians Ex-Officio Non-Voting Membership for faculty senate were both approved. On the other hand, SR-13-14-67, recommending a joint Board of Governors and faculty senate meeting each year, was not approved due to the fact that it was already present in the W.Va. State Code.
The agenda was set and approved for the Senate meeting on Feb. 27 before handing out a packet for the March meeting. The packet included policy changes and procedure regarding salary, promotion and tenure. Faculty members were encouraged by Chair Eldon Larsen to share this information with their respective colleges prior to its appearance at March's meeting and possible implementation fall semester. College of Business professor Rex McClure said he was concerned about the citizenship clause in the tenure section because he believes it is vague and could result in misunderstanding and disgruntled professors. President Kopp said there is precedent from previous academic court cases that would shelter this statute.
Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs Corley Dennison said this is a change from the previous terminology of "collegiately." He said no one was sure of the definition of collegiately, so it was changed to "university citizenship." Dennison thinks the proposal will stand. "I think once there's full explanation of the citizenship clause, I think it will probably pass," Dennison said. Larsen agreed with Dennison's prediction of outcome, but clarified further. "The concerns are not universal," Larsen said. "I did not hear anybody else express their concerns. All the proposals for salary, promotion and tenure will go as a package. If Senate wants to amend part of it, they can do that before they vote on the whole package."
While the final package will not be voted on until the March meeting, the next General Faculty Senate meeting will be February 27, 2014.
Friday, February 14, 2014
Mayor Williams addresses Huntington in State of the City Address
Mediocrity or excellence? That seemed to be the resounding theme of Huntington Mayor Steve Williams' State of the City address. Citizens and members of the media joined Williams and city council on Friday for the mayor's annual speech.
The speech focused on the budget and agenda for Huntington projects over the next year. Williams stressed dealing with recurring issues now. "Due to the neglect and timidity of many who sat in these seats before us, we are left with the task of addressing issues that have been ignored for too long," Williams said. "Our biggest challenge will be to determine how we should respond to that which can no longer be ignored."
Potholes, an eternal hot button issue for Huntington, was mentioned within the first five minutes. The paving program funded by City Council allowed for more than seven miles of roads to paved in the spring and summer of 2013. "The city is now in the business of building avenues, streets and boulevards, as opposed to patching potholes," Williams said.
Huntington Fire and Police Departments are currently staffed at record levels. The fire department stands with 105 sworn firefighters, the most in more than 10 years. The police department staffs 111 sworn officers, the highest staffing level in 30 years.
On campus, the lighting along Fifth and Third Avenues is being improved. This commitment to safety should be among top concerns for Marshall students, at-large council member David Ball said. "My only thing is a lot of people said it would help with aesthetics, but sometimes of those aesthetics right around Fifth Avenue aren't exactly what we want to show off," Ball said. "Let's get the area picked up. Let's be sure fraternity and sorority row is clean so we can show off one of the most beautiful campuses around."
Fifth district council representative Sandra Clements also said that Marshall students should be concerned with activities and responsibilities of the city. "Dilapidated buildings and rough sidewalks - that impacts you," Clements said. "What happens if you move off-campus into an apartment and the landlord is not taking care of the apartment? That impacts you."
In an effort to bring more business to Huntington, Williams said he felt it was necessary to hire a business advocate, whose duty is to streamline the process of business applications and permits. He hopes the simplifying of the process, along with a redesigned website, will make opening businesses more consumer friendly.
Looking to future plans, the Fairfield West and Northcott Court redevelopment projects are in full swing. The mayor said the Northcott Court housing complex on Hal Greer Boulevard between Doulton and Charleston Avenues will be demolished by fall and rezoned to commercial, setting the stage for a major private investment. The Huntington Housing Authority is in charge of seeking a developer, though residents have requested a grocery store. In response to the demolition, two new 40-unit senior housing complexes and 50 single-family and duplex housing units will be constructed in Fairfield.
Williams did acknowledge that money is tight, especially after tending to the dangerous barge in 2013. "With all the pronouncements of limited government and reduced spending from Charleston and Washington, the rubber meets the road in Huntington," Williams said. This is evident after a hiring freeze through the beginning of the next fiscal year was announced last week.
Williams has decided, however, to not ignore what he said he believes is a major concern. "Our employees, our single greatest resource, have not had a raise since 2008," Williams said. "The budget is tight, but we cannot afford to not provide our employees a pay raise. Therefore, I am recommending a 3 percent across the board pay raise for all bargaining unit employees and administrative personnel."
The state of West Virginia has been in the spotlight due to the water crisis in Charleston. Williams said in his extensive study of the crisis, it has become clear to him that communication is the key. For this reason, he is recommending the Stormwater and Floodwall divisions be transferred to the Sanitary Board without a startup fee. "We will place under one administrative authority all city offices that have anything to do with water quality, regulation or service," Williams said. "An immediate efficiency of operation will result when a sewer collapse occurs."
Clements said she really liked the speech because the mayor is always upbeat and positive. Ball, however, said he thought Williams left out some important accomplishments. "For instance on December 23, we updated our non-discrimination ordinance," Ball said. "We added sexual orientation and veteran status and we changed 'handicapped' to 'disability' throughout the entire ordinance." This phrasing was proposed under two other mayors and failed both times. "We've got a council, a mayor and now a city that allowed us to pass this 11-0," Ball said.
Williams and council members regularly meet on the second and fourth Mondays of each month at 7:30p.m. in City Council Chambers.
The speech focused on the budget and agenda for Huntington projects over the next year. Williams stressed dealing with recurring issues now. "Due to the neglect and timidity of many who sat in these seats before us, we are left with the task of addressing issues that have been ignored for too long," Williams said. "Our biggest challenge will be to determine how we should respond to that which can no longer be ignored."
Potholes, an eternal hot button issue for Huntington, was mentioned within the first five minutes. The paving program funded by City Council allowed for more than seven miles of roads to paved in the spring and summer of 2013. "The city is now in the business of building avenues, streets and boulevards, as opposed to patching potholes," Williams said.
Huntington Fire and Police Departments are currently staffed at record levels. The fire department stands with 105 sworn firefighters, the most in more than 10 years. The police department staffs 111 sworn officers, the highest staffing level in 30 years.
On campus, the lighting along Fifth and Third Avenues is being improved. This commitment to safety should be among top concerns for Marshall students, at-large council member David Ball said. "My only thing is a lot of people said it would help with aesthetics, but sometimes of those aesthetics right around Fifth Avenue aren't exactly what we want to show off," Ball said. "Let's get the area picked up. Let's be sure fraternity and sorority row is clean so we can show off one of the most beautiful campuses around."
Fifth district council representative Sandra Clements also said that Marshall students should be concerned with activities and responsibilities of the city. "Dilapidated buildings and rough sidewalks - that impacts you," Clements said. "What happens if you move off-campus into an apartment and the landlord is not taking care of the apartment? That impacts you."
In an effort to bring more business to Huntington, Williams said he felt it was necessary to hire a business advocate, whose duty is to streamline the process of business applications and permits. He hopes the simplifying of the process, along with a redesigned website, will make opening businesses more consumer friendly.
Looking to future plans, the Fairfield West and Northcott Court redevelopment projects are in full swing. The mayor said the Northcott Court housing complex on Hal Greer Boulevard between Doulton and Charleston Avenues will be demolished by fall and rezoned to commercial, setting the stage for a major private investment. The Huntington Housing Authority is in charge of seeking a developer, though residents have requested a grocery store. In response to the demolition, two new 40-unit senior housing complexes and 50 single-family and duplex housing units will be constructed in Fairfield.
Williams did acknowledge that money is tight, especially after tending to the dangerous barge in 2013. "With all the pronouncements of limited government and reduced spending from Charleston and Washington, the rubber meets the road in Huntington," Williams said. This is evident after a hiring freeze through the beginning of the next fiscal year was announced last week.
Williams has decided, however, to not ignore what he said he believes is a major concern. "Our employees, our single greatest resource, have not had a raise since 2008," Williams said. "The budget is tight, but we cannot afford to not provide our employees a pay raise. Therefore, I am recommending a 3 percent across the board pay raise for all bargaining unit employees and administrative personnel."
The state of West Virginia has been in the spotlight due to the water crisis in Charleston. Williams said in his extensive study of the crisis, it has become clear to him that communication is the key. For this reason, he is recommending the Stormwater and Floodwall divisions be transferred to the Sanitary Board without a startup fee. "We will place under one administrative authority all city offices that have anything to do with water quality, regulation or service," Williams said. "An immediate efficiency of operation will result when a sewer collapse occurs."
Clements said she really liked the speech because the mayor is always upbeat and positive. Ball, however, said he thought Williams left out some important accomplishments. "For instance on December 23, we updated our non-discrimination ordinance," Ball said. "We added sexual orientation and veteran status and we changed 'handicapped' to 'disability' throughout the entire ordinance." This phrasing was proposed under two other mayors and failed both times. "We've got a council, a mayor and now a city that allowed us to pass this 11-0," Ball said.
Williams and council members regularly meet on the second and fourth Mondays of each month at 7:30p.m. in City Council Chambers.
Faculty Senate Executive Committee
I will be attending the Faculty Senate Executive Committee on Monday, February 17, 2014. The committee is expected to first approve the minutes from January's meeting. They then plan to hear recommendations, such as the approval of early registration policies, approval of "intent to plan" for several BA programs and the revision of the constitution for the library committee. I am interested in the Intent to Plan for the Bachelor of Arts in Sports Management Degree Program because I have taken many of those courses, as I am earning a minor in sport management and marketing. Next, the committee will set the agenda for the Faculty Senate meeting on February 27, 2014. The committee will then hear reports from 20/20 Committees, which are groups assembled to help strategically plan an overall vision for the university, as well as develop each individual degree program. There will also be reports from standing committees, such as research, legislative affairs and university functions. The meeting is expected to conclude following any requests to speak and requests for future agendas. I will post a recap of the meeting on Monday night.
Thursday, February 13, 2014
Freedom of Information Law in the state of West Virginia
The Freedom of Information Act is in the West Virginia Code, Chapter 29B. This law exists in order to help journalists and any other citizen gain access to public records. The desire to inspect or copy any record must be made specifically to the custodian of the record. The law states the custodian "shall furnish proper and reasonable opportunities for inspection and examination of the records in his or her office and reasonable facilities for making memoranda or abstracts therefrom, during the usual business hours." This is important because it says that there cannot be unreasonable obstacles in place that prevents access to the public, like making just a half hour window of availability.
The person requesting the documents must provide a purpose for asking for the records. A response to the person requesting the records should be given as soon as possible, but within a maximum of five days, not including Saturdays, Sundays or legal holidays. The response must be one of the following:
"(a) Furnish copies of the requested information;
(b) Advise the person making the request of the time and place at which he or she may inspect and copy the materials; or
(c) Deny the request stating in writing the reasons for such denial."
If the custodian gives written reasoning of denial, his/her responsibility is over. The person requesting the public records can then appeal the denial by going to court. It is also noted that the public body or custodian may establish reasonable fees calculated to reimburse it for its actual cost in making reproducing the records.
The person requesting the documents must provide a purpose for asking for the records. A response to the person requesting the records should be given as soon as possible, but within a maximum of five days, not including Saturdays, Sundays or legal holidays. The response must be one of the following:
"(a) Furnish copies of the requested information;
(b) Advise the person making the request of the time and place at which he or she may inspect and copy the materials; or
(c) Deny the request stating in writing the reasons for such denial."
If the custodian gives written reasoning of denial, his/her responsibility is over. The person requesting the public records can then appeal the denial by going to court. It is also noted that the public body or custodian may establish reasonable fees calculated to reimburse it for its actual cost in making reproducing the records.
Wednesday, February 12, 2014
Recap of Amazon's Annual Report to the SEC
As I read Amazon end of the year filings to the SEC, a few items jumped out at me. Since 2009, Amazon's assets, free cash flow and net sales have increased every year. In a time of economic hardship for many, Amazon is strong and successful. Net sales were the greatest in the fourth quarter of 2013. The third quarter was the second most successful, followed by the first and second. This seems to be a company selling trend, as it was also true in 2012. In the liquidity and capital resource section, it reads "We believe that cash flows generated from operations and our cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities balances will be sufficient to meet our anticipated operating cash needs for at least the next 12 months. However, any projections of future cash needs and cash flows are subject to substantial uncertainty." This means Amazon feels comfortable with where its at now and for its short term future. Prediction beyond a year is unreliable.
The report contains a very detailed audit from the Ernst & Young firm. They write, "In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of Amazon.com, Inc. at December 31, 2013 and 2012, and the consolidated results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2013, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles." This is verifying that they believe Amazon has handled its finances and accounting practice in accordance with U.S. standards. The document also briefly explains all major legal proceedings involving Amazon. Three complaints were from December 2013, all referencing patent infringements in the states of Missouri, Delaware and Texas. Amazon ends each statement with "We dispute the allegations of wrongdoing and intend to defend ourselves vigorously in this matter."
Highlights of the year claim the growth of the Kindle and Kindle Fire accounting for much of Amazon's recent success, as well as expanded shipping options. Packages can now be delivered to the door on Sundays. Amazon Studios released a new original series. Amazon launched AmazonSmile, a new program that allows customers to support their favorite charitable organizations every time they shop.
The report contains a very detailed audit from the Ernst & Young firm. They write, "In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of Amazon.com, Inc. at December 31, 2013 and 2012, and the consolidated results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2013, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles." This is verifying that they believe Amazon has handled its finances and accounting practice in accordance with U.S. standards. The document also briefly explains all major legal proceedings involving Amazon. Three complaints were from December 2013, all referencing patent infringements in the states of Missouri, Delaware and Texas. Amazon ends each statement with "We dispute the allegations of wrongdoing and intend to defend ourselves vigorously in this matter."
Highlights of the year claim the growth of the Kindle and Kindle Fire accounting for much of Amazon's recent success, as well as expanded shipping options. Packages can now be delivered to the door on Sundays. Amazon Studios released a new original series. Amazon launched AmazonSmile, a new program that allows customers to support their favorite charitable organizations every time they shop.
Thursday, February 6, 2014
A New Kind of First
When Huntington, W.Va. is associated with the word “first,” the results are not particularly encouraging. In recent memory, the Centers for Disease Control ranked Huntington first in the percentage of obese people residing in a city. According to a Gallup poll, Huntington was also first in an examination of the most depressed cities.
Mayor Steve Williams is trying to change the “first” correlation. His goal is to make Huntington a first-class city. As he said to my journalism class today in an open forum, “I want to do everything first class or not do it at all.”
In Williams’ State of the City address Friday, I expect him to revolve his talking points around this assertion. He said he wants Huntington to compete with Louisville, Cincinnati and even Dallas. While we only boast a population of 50,000, he said it comes down to accomplishing goals on a scale appropriate to us. “Create the expectation first and then find a way,” is the mantra Williams used.
As he prepares a budget to be released at the State of the City, one item he shared spoke louder than most. We were the first to learn that on Thursday morning, he enacted a hiring freeze and a non-essential spending freeze to “build the rainy day fund.” This will remain in effect through the fiscal year. Williams believes this will allow a cushion of more than $300,000.
In conjunction with this, Williams said he will not hire any new employees this year, though he hired 11 in 2013. Five of these positions were new jobs Williams said were necessary to the city. He hired an assistant city attorney who is largely responsible for placing leans on properties owned by citizens who owe $500 or more to the city. In the last year, more than 2000 leans were placed on these residencies.
Williams created the position of communications specialist to help him and the city better connect with the public. He said communication is key in maintaining a positive environment where people want to be. He also created a position with the goal of aiding citizens in the process of beginning a business. The licensing and permitting process is extensive and Williams said prior to his term, few resources existed to help budding entrepreneurs.
Williams comes from a business background and emphasizes the importance of new businesses, especially as it relates to the reputation of a first-class city. Williams said the city’s website is being revamped to include items attractive to businesses, such as online bill pay. He also said there needs to be an exciting tax environment and a focus on services provided by Huntington, such as police patrol. Finally, he said the storm water division needs to continue to work on ways in which to cope with the flooding of the city so it is not a deterrent for businesses. These measures hope to draw businesses into Huntington, rather than just outside the city limits, stealing clientele from Huntington.
Williams said he will most definitely address last year’s hiring at the State of the City. He has heard doubts surrounding the necessity of the jobs he created and the salaries those positions require. He plans to strongly stand by his decision. He contends all individuals hired have a unique and needed purpose in the city and positive results are evident.
I fully expect Williams to discuss the River to Rail program in the west end of Huntington. He said three areas in the west end, specifically in the neighborhood of Fairfield, stood out to him in terms of crime and dilapidated housing. He wants to fight this crime with not only police presence, but also by founding somewhat of an arts district, honing in on the antique business in that part of town, as well as farmer’s markets. Huntington was not successful in receiving a federal grant for this project last year, but the proposal is being resubmitted this year. Williams is very optimistic it will be granted, as Huntington is the only city in W.Va. applying.
Similar shifts in atmosphere have a history of improving neighborhoods in other parts of the country. I know from experience that the Short North and Scioto Mile districts in Columbus, Ohio have greatly benefitted from revitalization projects. The west end could become safer and more traveled thanks to this program.
Finally, Williams said Marshall’s campus will make its way into the State of the City speech, as it is the largest employer in Huntington. While he was not clear of the exact role Marshall will play in the speech, he referred to his relationship with President Kopp as very strong. He said the Coffee with the Mayor initiative with students brought his attention to the lighting of Fifth and Third Avenues near campus, which is currently being upgraded. Williams said safety is always a concern, on and off campus. He was proud to report that Huntington Police now staffs 111 officers, which is the most in 29 years. He also mentioned that downtown Huntington is the safest downtown area within 100 miles.
As I stressed throughout my predictions, I believe Williams will structure his speech around his first-class city goal. He wanted our class to know he was through with mediocrity and thinks the rest of city residents are too. While he said we are moving in the right direction, the pace needs to quicken. Progress will speed up when people invest and buy into the mission of the community. That is where Williams needs to pinpoint his message. The population needs to support change just as much the mayor and city government.
Tuesday, February 4, 2014
Marshall Faculty Senate - January
Marshall University’s Faculty Senate announced a new budget cut and vision statement, as well as expanded upon the 20/20 project at Thursday’s meeting. President Kopp and provost Gayle Ormiston headlined the meeting, along with a number of representatives speaking on behalf of university committees.
The most noteworthy release came courtesy of Kopp. At the beginning of the 2014 calendar year, Marshall received notice of an unanticipated mid-year budget cut of 1.1 percent. This results in cuts of approximately $539,000. Kopp said the first step will be to absorb vacancies in the university. At the prompting of a faculty member’s question, Kopp stated it will probably not affect ongoing searches. “Mid-year cuts are the worst and most difficult kind of cuts because we have already made commitments,” Kopp said.
As is a theme with many institutions of higher education, Kopp addressed the issue of retention. Students who returned for spring semester after attending fall semester is higher than in years past. The university has seen an increase of about 4 percent for returners. Matt James, student resource specialist and UNI 100 developer, said he believes several programs helped students assimilate. “In 2010, we enacted a retention plan including WOW week, first year seminar and a focus on student activities, like living learning communities,” James said. We have fine tuned these strategies and we are seeing results now.” In addition, the INTO program for international students enrolled 220 new students this semester.
The extreme polar vortex that impacted much of the midwest this January also reeked havoc on Marshall’s campus. Nearly $300,000 of damages resulted in Gullickson Hall, Drinko Library, Jenkins Hall and the Science Building. Frozen sprinklers and burst water lines accounted for the majority of problems. Kopp said the physical plant director said nearly nothing could have been done to prepare for the extreme temperatures. He urged all faculty to make sure their windows stay shut, especially when they leave for the day.
At the end of fall semester and throughout winter break, the vision committee sponsored a poll for Marshall students and faculty to vote on a new vision statement for the university. Almost 900 votes were cast for one of four options. The winning statement reads, “The vision of Marshall University is to inspire learning and creativity that ignites the mind, nurtures the spirit and fulfills the promise of a better future.” Dr. Susan Gilpin, faculty senate member from the communication disorders department, said she was satisfied with the selection. “The vision statement matches my idea to why I’m at Marshall and what we’re doing here, so I’m pleased with it,” Gilpin said. “This vision statement covered a range of goals for students. It wasn’t just about getting a job or providing excellent education. It was more about developing the whole person.”
In conjunction with the vision statement, Ormiston led an in depth discussion about the 20/20 program. He has been meeting and will continue to meet with department chairs and deans weekly. The next deadline for the academic portfolio review degree program niche statements is March 31 to the college or school dean. Matt Turner, the chief of staff for the president, is leading the communications effort for the 20/20 project. He is in the process of instituting unique tabs on the website for each outreach team. He wants the website (www.marshall.edu/2020) to be the center point for communication with each other, as well as an opportunity to share relevant news stories.
In other miscellaneous news, Maurice Cooley, director of the Center for African American Students, took a new position as associate vice president of intercultural affairs. This is a change in the previous name of the Office of Multicultural Affairs. Kopp reported the new lighting project on Fifth and Third Avenues should be completed within a month. New light poles and higher wattage bulbs are in the process of being installed, but the winter weather has hindered progress. There is an evaluation of the president and the board of governors this week, January 27-31.
Finally, the senate observed a moment of silence for former Marshall University athlete, professor and coach Sam Clegg, as well as James Buck Harless, philanthropist and advocate for Marshall University and its student athletes. Both men passed away in early January at the ages of 93 and 94 respectively.
The faculty senate executive committee will meet February 17 at noon in Drinko Library 349.
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