March 5, 1999

The Board of Regents of Washington State University met pursuant to call in Open Meeting at 1:32 p.m. on Friday, March 5, 1999, in the Lewis Alumni Centre.

Present: Carmen Otero, President; Regents Kenneth Alhadeff, Phyllis J. Campbell, Richard A. Davis, Robert D. Fukai, Peter J. Goldmark, Joe King, and Janelle Milodragovich; President Samuel H. Smith, Provost Gretchen Bataille, Vice President for Business Affairs Samuel Kindred, Vice President for Extended University Affairs Thomas L. Purce, Vice President for University Advancement Connie Kravas, Vice President for Administration Sally P. Savage, Faculty Senate Chair Robert Greenberg, Alumni Association President Craig Gable, GPSA President Abraham Kannankeril, and ASWSU President Steve Wymer.

Also present were: Executive Director of Budget and Planning Gregory P. Royer, Associate Vice President for Human Relations and Diversity Ernestine Madison, Vice Provost for Academic Affairs Douglas Baker, Vice Provost for Student Affairs K. J. “Gus” Kravas, Assistant Vice President for University Relations Barbara Petura, Assistant Vice President for Business Affairs Ernest J. Renfro, Director of Budget and Planning Karl Boehmke, and Senior Associate Director of News and Information Services Hugh Imhof.

1. Opening Remarks and Introductions. Regent Peter Goldmark opened the meeting and provided welcoming remarks. President Smith introduced the following individuals: Sally P. Savage, Vice President for Administration; Ernestine Madison, Associate Vice President for Human Relations and Diversity; Hugh Imhof, Senior Associate Director and Manager of News and Information Services; and Lawrence “Ev” Davis, Director of Facilities Development.

2. Minutes. It was moved and seconded that the Board of Regents approve the minutes of the meeting of January 22, 1998. Carried.

3. Reports from University Groups. The reports from the University Groups are attached as Exhibit A.

In addition to the report submitted to the Regents, Chair of the Faculty Senate Bob Greenberg noted the following actions that the Faculty Senate had taken at its meeting the previous day: Extension of a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science to WSU Vancouver and a Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science at Pullman, Tri-Cities, and the formation of the School of Molecular Biosciences. Additionally, Dr. Greenberg stated that the Faculty Senate had heard a presentation regarding the policies and procedures for evaluating, both internally and externally, undergraduate and graduate programs. He said these would be reviewed and coordinated with external accreditation programs that might be occurring at the same time so that efforts could be combined.

Regent Dick Davis asked how the external evaluations would be conducted, and Dr. Greenberg indicated that these would be funded evaluations where they bring in outside experts to review the programs, although some programs are undergoing accreditation processes as earlier stated, so that the accreditation team would be the team conducting the external review. He further stated that after an external review is conducted, an internal review also takes place.

Regent Phyllis Campbell stated that at the Finance, Audit, and Capital Committee, the Regents heard about proposals regarding faculty retention funding vs. funding for base pay increases. She asked how the faculty felt about this issue, and Dr. Greenberg responded that this is an issue that the faculty care about very much and that, so far in the Legislative session, we are better off in terms of what the Governor had proposed, but that it was still too early to say how the faculty salary issue would turn out.

In addition to the report submitted to the Regents, GPSA President Abraham Kannankeril introduced the new Vice President of GPSA, Krisha Mroczek.

In reference to electronic voting mentioned in the GPSA report, Regent Alhadeff asked about security measures utilized to prevent inconsistencies in this type of voting, and Mr. Kannankeril indicated that the securities and processes established by the Department of Information Technology were in place, which includes a code that could be used one time only. Regent Milodragovich asked if electronic voting might increase voting numbers, and Mr. Kannankeril responded that it would provide greater access to make voting equally available to all students. Regent Otero asked about frequency of communication between graduate students on the main and branch campuses, and Mr. Kannankeril responded that communication needs to be increased and that next year, GPSA hopes to conduct its meetings via the Washington Higher Education and Telecommunications System.

In addition to the report submitted to the Regents, ASWSU President Steve Wymer introduced Cody Benson, the new ASWSU Legislative Affairs Director, who represents WSU students in Olympia. Mr. Wymer stated that Ms. Benson has built a great rapport with the members of the Legislature and that WSU has a strong presence in Olympia. Additionally, Mr. Wymer updated the Regents on upcoming projects funding by the S & A Facilities Fees, including a $15 million renovation to the Compton Union Building.

In addition to the report submitted to the Regents, Alumni Association President Craig Gable showed a sample of the ring referenced in his report, whereby the Alumni Association, in cooperation with the Students Book Corporation, will offer a “single ring” to upper class students, which will be the official ring of the institution. Also Mr. Gable discussed the Alumni Association’s work to expand scholarship programs and announced that the Alumni Association Web site won a Silver Award at the annual conference of the Council for the Advancement and Support of Education.

Regent Ken Alhadeff complimented Mr. Gable on the ring sample. He also asked if there were any individuals who felt that their individuality would be taken away by not having other choices, and Mr. Gable indicated that other companies would still be able to offer other rings but that when you go to the “Bookie” this would be the only ring available and that this would be the “official” University-sponsored ring program.

4. President’s Report. President Smith indicated that Higher Education Day in Olympia was a great success and that six baccalaureate institutions attended and included representatives from the faculty, student body, and alumni. He stated that it was a very worthwhile event, that comments from Legislators were very positive, and that it would be scheduled again for next year.

5. Planning Committee Report. Regent Goldmark stated that the Planning Committee had discussed the Hibbitts survey that was conducted last fall and that included 600 voters statewide, and 300 voters in the Spokane area. He stated the response toward higher education was positive, as were the responses to expansion of higher education in Spokane and the use of technology in higher education. Regent Goldmark further reported that the Planning Committee had discussed the faculty salary issue. He stated that after reviewing WSU’s ranking in terms of its peers and the effects of tuition increases to revenue, one could see that we have an enormous problem that will not easily be solved. He stated that the Planning Committee would be helping to develop some scenarios and potential solutions to this problem. President Smith added that the data shows how only a 2 percent increase in tuition would not solve the problem and that even a 4.5 percent increase in tuition would not improve WSU’s ranking with its peers.

6. Academic Affairs Committee. Regent Otero reported that the Academic Affairs Committee had discussed the process for granting of degrees, as well as two possible action items for the April meeting: a Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science in Pullman, the Tri-Cities, and Vancouver and a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science in Vancouver. Additionally, she stated that the Committee received a briefing on the upcoming accreditation visit and that it had also discussed campus climate issues, including hate crimes. She said Regent Alhadeff had spent a considerable amount of time with students discussing alcohol abuse on campus and that at its next meeting, the entire Academic Affairs Committee would meet with students to discuss their perspectives about these issues.

7. Provost’s Report. Provost Gretchen Bataille provided a brief update on higher education in Spokane and stated that more funding is being sought for Spokane, that there will be increased numbers of students in attendance there, and that this would greatly help to develop an economic base in Spokane that is very important. Regent Bataille also provided a brief update on a promotion and tenure taskforce that is reviewing issues of quality and questions that arise about relegation between Pullman and the branch campuses. She indicated that students would now be included in the promotion and tenure process. Additionally, Provost Bataille reported on the creation of the Inland Northwest Research Alliance (INRA), which she said includes the following institutions: the University of Idaho, Washington State University, Montana State University, Utah State University, Idaho State University, The University of Montana, and Boise State University. She said this corporation is organized for charitable, scientific and educational purposes and to participate in research partnerships. Provost Bataille also expressed words of appreciation to Carolyn Clark, Jane Yung, Matt Carroll, and Larry Ganders for their efforts in Olympia and to Hugh Imhof for getting WSU faculty and research in the news. She said she also appreciates the tough issues that the Faculty Senate has recently tackled, such as the electronic publishing policy.

8. Presentation on Institutional Accreditation. Provost Gretchen Bataille introduced Associate Vice Provost for Academic Affairs Jane Sherman, who introduced the following two members of her staff who have been assisting with the accreditation process: Susan Poch, a recent doctoral graduate working with her as a research assistant, and Karla Shelton, her secretary, who is responsible for the logistical arrangements of the accreditation team visit. She thanked them for their efforts.

Ms. Sherman reported that institutional accreditation occurs every ten years and is conducted by the Northwest Association of Schools and Colleges—Commission on Colleges. She reviewed the characteristics of an accredited institution and the steps that are taken during the accreditation process, including who will comprise the evaluation team, how the institution’s self-study had been conducted, when the evaluators would be on campus, and the results that WSU could expect to see from the accreditation visit. She said while re-affirmation is expected, recommendations are also expected. She stated that the Commission’s recommendations are advisory, not mandates, and that a required five-year interim report will reflect how WSU has responded to those recommendations.

Ms. Sherman provided copies of the newly published accreditation self-study report. In relation to the report, she stated that the NW Association on Schools and Colleges does not emphasize diversity but that WSU has highlighted it, as it is one of its highest priorities. Ms. Sherman provided her thoughts on anticipated feedback from the Commission, such as the complexity of the institution in terms of the challenges faced relating to the connection between the main campus with the branch campuses; internal assessment in relationship to feedback of assessment into planning and program improvement; the faculty review process in terms of systematic post-tenure review; and alcohol use on campus.

Regent Otero asked how the Commission could get a strong look at the institution in just a few days, and Ms. Sherman responded that it would be an intensive few days, where the Commission would have many resources available to assist in its review. She stated that the Commission’s visit would be comprehensive and, ultimately, very helpful to WSU.

9. Granting of Degrees. It was moved and seconded that the WSU Board of Regents approve the recommendation of the faculty that the candidates appearing in Exhibit B be advanced to the degrees set above their names as members of the Class of December 19, 1998. Carried.

At 2:20 p.m., the Regents adjourned for a break and reconvened in open session at 2:47 p.m.

10. Finance, Audit, and Capital (FAC) Committee Report. Regent Phyllis Campbell stated that the Finance, Audit, and Capital Committee had received a briefing on the Y2K issue and that the University, in assessing and addressing concerns presented by this issue, was making good progress. The Committee also received an update on the Operating and Capital Budgets and reviewed some possible modifications to the WSU Retirement Plan Rules, including a rule that would allow a 100 percent cash out upon retirement, instead of the 50 percent cash out option upon retirement currently offered. In addition, Regent Campbell indicated there were other retirement rules discussed which the Committee felt needed further review and stated that Vice President Savage had been charged with overseeing this review process and would return to the Committee to discuss this item further. Regent Campbell reported that the Committee had also received the good news that due to its safety record and improvements in training, WSU had received a reduction in the premium that it pays each year to the Department of Labor and Industries, which would result in a 16.5 percent rate reduction. Lastly, Regent Campbell reported that at its next meeting, the FAC Committee would review the Washington State Auditor’s Report for the period of July 1, 1997, through June 30, 1998.

Regent Alhadeff referred reduction in premium payments to the Department of Labor and Industries and stated that he hopes the money saved could go toward recognition and support of those who made this happen as in investment of continuance of high ratings, and Vice President Kindred stated that these funds would be used for such things as further training and that WSU is being held as a model for the state in this area.

13. Report by the Vice President for Business Affairs. Vice President for Business Affairs Samuel Kindred reported that WSU had responded to the Pullman Chamber of Commerce’s recent correspondence concerning enrollment levels and stated that the City of Pullman supports WSU position in this matter. He also stated that at the next meeting, he would provide the Regents with a Treasurer’s Report.

12. Contracts under Previous Delegation of Authority (under $500,000). Vice President for Business Affairs Samuel L. Kindred reported that on the authority delegated to the President or his designee at the meeting of January 24, 1986, he had entered into contract with Sound Elevator of Spokane, for a Rogers Hall Elevator Modernization for a total project cost of $262,005, including sales tax, to be paid from 1997-99 Housing funds.

13. Quarterly Report of Appointments of Architects & Engineers under Delegation of Authority. Under the Authority granted at the January 24, 1986, meeting, the Board of Regents delegated authority to the President or his designee, the Vice President for Business Affairs, to selecte and approve entering into contracts with architects and engineers for projects in which the estimated total project costs are less than $500,000. Vice President Samuel L. Kindred, provided the Regents with a list of architect and engineering firms appointed as consultants through Facilities Development for the Fourth Quarter of Fiscal Year 1997-98.

13. Martin Stadium, Replacement of East Endzone Bleachers. Vice President for Business Affairs Samuel L. Kindred reported to the Regents that as a safety measure, the existing wood bleachers that are situated in the East Endzone area of Martin Stadium, needed to be replaced. He stated that the current bleachers present a liability issue and that a contract to replace these with concrete precast bleachers was being proposed in order to complete this project by next fall.

It was moved and seconded that the Board of Regents approve design documents and delegate authority to the President for his designee, the Vice President for Business Affairs, to approve construction documents and award a construction contract for replacement of the East Endzone Bleachers at Martin Stadium, if a budget can be established within the funds available. Carried.

Regent Alhadeff stated that access for handicap use should be ensured in the design of the bleachers so those individuals in wheel chairs could sit in the bleachers with others. He stated that we have an opportunity to incorporate this important aspect into the design.

14. Report by the Vice President for Extended University Affairs. Vice President for Extended University Affairs Les Purce reported on issues related to technology. He stated that the Governor’s budget includes $1.5 million for a statewide goal of establishing a Washington Online College and that WSU had been designated the lead entity with responsibility for working with community colleges and other baccalaureate institutions to develop a plan for the development of an organization to ensure “one stop access” for students interested in distance education around the state. He stated he had been involved over the last two months in working with the Office of Financial Management and a consortium of community colleges and baccalaureate institutions to identify resources to accomplish the first step in efforts to make this happen, including the establishment of an online catalog. He said any student wishing to further his/her education would be able to secure information about each of the institutions, be provided with electronic access, and understand the articulations of all the institutions to ultimately receive a degree. Vice President Purce further stated that he had been in contact with each entity to resolve technical parameters to accomplish this goal and indicated that each institution is in a different place technologically and that he would be working on a process this spring to bring a group together to accomplish this with the resources currently available.

Vice President also reported on a request by the Faculty Affairs Committee to put together a document to understand more clearly the long-term resources for faculty to become more prepared technologically, what future courses WSU would approve in terms of distance education, and an organization structure to assist the faculty in putting together these resources. He stated that the faculty is aware of the importance of using technology on and off campus and stated that Provost Bataille and he are working with this Committee to outline strategic steps and to determine how resources might be prioritized. He also stated that the Governor’s support on the technology initiative would go a long way to address issues identified by the faculty.

15. Vice President for University Advancement. Vice President for University Advancement Connie Kravas reported that year to date, WSU had received a total of $26.7 million in donations and private grants. She also reported that for those on the east side, they could tune into the show, “Northwest Focus,” scheduled on KCPU, Channel 13, where President Smith would be the featured speaker.

16. Executive Session. At 3:05 p.m., the Regents convened in Executive Session to discuss a personnel issue and reconvened in open session at 3:24 p.m. The Regents did not take any action as a result of the Executive Session.

At 3:25 p.m., the Regents’ meeting adjourned.

faculty salary issue – you did not get this (listen to this at 471)

xxxFaculty review process—systematic post-tenure review—(side B, page 54)