Council of Graduate Students - Minutes - 18 November 2005


Attendance

Absences:

  • Unexcused: Maribea Barnes, Larissa Brophy, Veronica Crossa, Danielle Dadras, Courtney Kauh, Behrooz Khorsandi, Steve Kinsey, Anjali Mahajan, David Meisner, Lawrence Mrozek, Terri Zachos

    II. Approval of Minutes

    The minutes from the October 28 meeting were approved.

    Guest Speakers

    Vice Provost and Interim Dean of the Graduate School, Carole A. Anderson addressed the delegate body and said that for the next 3 to 5 years, the University will spotlight graduate education. Dean Anderson indicated this focus is essential for the University and will contribute to the quality of graduate programs and the quality of education. There are a number University initiatives related to graduate education that are currently in progress: the Freeman Report, the Beck Committee, the Council of Graduate Schools' PhD Completion Study, the NRC ranking of graduate schools, and graduate program reviews.

    Coordinator for Writing Across the Curriculum and the Center for the Study and Teaching of Writing, Chris Manion was introduced and addressed the delegate body and explained that the Center operates as a service to the University community.

    III. Elections

    Following a brief introduction by Vice President Baack, Stacyanne Headley (Education) was elected to the Research and Graduate Council with no objection to consent. Headley will serve on the Policy and Standards Committee.

    IV. New Business

    Act 0506-AU-006 Amending the 2005-06 budget was approved. p>

    V. Officer Reports


    President Pletz: President Pletz's report is posted online. Treasurer Waverly Gordon: Gordon announced that the deadline for Ray Travel Award applications is January 20 at 2:30. Secretary Jane Evans: Evans's report is posted online p>

    VI. Delegate Issues and Concerns


    Delegate Carine Reveneau (FAES) questioned the appointment process for University committees. Delegate James Bennett (Humanities) stated that he was concerned that the article on the CGS website could be interpreted as administrative propaganda harful to graduate students. . The article, which was originally published in onCampus, discusses graduate associate benefits and only acknowledged accomplishments of the Council of Graduate Students and did not mention potential contributions of other organizations. Following an active discussion, delegates decided that the article would be edited (by Delegate Bennett and VP Baack) so that offensive parts would be removed. Delegates asked when links to information related to Brian Hicks will be posted on the CGS web site. Outreach and Engagement Chair, Erin Tisdale reminded delegates that the Jingle Bell Run will be held on December 4.

    IX. Adjournment


    Meeting was adjourned at 4:15pm

    Respectfully Submitted, Jane Evans