Academic Deans Council Minutes : October 24, 2007

Abstract

The annual Italian Language Conference was set to begin on Friday. The celebration of Janet DelBene's 200th scientific research publication was slated for October 27. The Schedule of Operations timetable for Spring 2009 through Fall 2009 was agreed on. Dr. Qi Jiang, Chair, Sociology & Anthropology, introduced Dan Van Dussen, a new gerontology faculty member who was recruited last year. Dr. Van Dussen designed a full program and all the needed courses (Some of which are currently in the approval process) based on the guidelines of the Gerontology Association of America, of which he is a member. There was not an existing B.A. in Gerontology program in the area; in fact, this program would be complementary to the existing programs offered at other Northeastern Ohio universities. Dr. Bowers asked council for comments--additions to the list and what challenges are the most significant challenges-- on the draft summary of strengths, challenges, and recommendations identified by the HLC accreditation committees and coordinators during the self-study process emailed to them prior to the meeting. The Northeast Ohio Universities Collaboration and Innovation Study Commission has now formulated its series of recommendations to be submitted to the governor and then the legislature. Dr. Khawaja asked the deans to continue moving forward in their progress of implementing their particular Academic Strategic Plan goals. At the request of Dr. Sweet, Dr. Khawaja reviewed how YSU might utilize its unused scholarship funds to enhance the university's commitment to diversity initiatives. He also recommended to the President that the Center for International Studies and Program should become the first contact of foreign applicants, allowing them to shepherd the processing of paperwork. Joe Edwards stated that the Academic Standards Committee was discussing several matters.