Approved
NORTHERN
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Minutes of the Regular Session
of
A regular session of the Board of Trustees of Northern
Michigan University was held on Friday, May 5, 2006, in the
Trustees present included:
Karl A. Weber, Chair Samuel S. Benedict Mary C. Lukens
Larry C. Inman, Vice Chair Brian D. Cloyd Douglas B. Roberts
Alan T. Ackerman Jon G. LaSalle Leslie E. Wong, ex officio
Senior staff and counsel present included:
Michael J. Roy, V.P. for Finance and Administration and Treasurer of the Board
Pamalene R. Grundstrom, Executive Assistant to the President and Secretary of the Board
Alfred N. Joyal, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs
Kurt N. Sherwood, of Miller, Canfield, Paddock & Stone, University Legal Counsel
CLOSED SESSION AUTHORIZATION
President Wong presented the following recommendation:
It is recommended that the following resolution relative to holding a closed session of the Board of Trustees of Northern Michigan University be approved:
RESOLVED, that the Board shall meet in Closed Session at 12:10 p.m., on May 5, 2006, pursuant to Section 8 of the Open Meetings Act:
To consider matters connected with the strategy and/or negotiation of its collective bargaining agreements;
To consider the purchase or lease of real property on which the University does not hold an option;
To consult with the attorney for the University on matters relating to pending litigation, it being the opinion of the Board that consideration of such matters in an open meeting would have a detrimental financial effect on the litigation and/or settlement position of the University;
To consider material exempt from discussion or disclosure by state or federal statute.
Aye Nay
Mr. Ackerman
Mr. Benedict
Mr. Cloyd
Mr. Inman
Mr. LaSalle
Ms. Lukens
Dr. Roberts
Mr. Weber None
The resolution was thus approved unanimously.
TRUSTEE EMERITUS RECOGNITION – MARY LINCOLN
Chair Weber called former trustee Mary Lincoln Campbell forward to be honored as Trustee Emeritus.
Mary Lincoln Campbell was appointed to the Board of Trustees
by Governor John Engler on February 25, 1997 to a term that expired on December
31, 2004. She served on several Board committees during her tenure, as
Vice Chair of the Board from January 1, 2001 through December 31, 2002, and as
Chair of the Board from January 1, 2003 through December 31, 2004. As one
of Northern’s top scholarship donors, she has generously supported the
University through the Campbell Scholarship Fund in the NMU Foundation.
The fund has grown and currently provides support to 15 to 30 honor students
each year. In recognition of her leadership and her dedication to
Chair Weber presented Ms. Campbell with a plaque and a photo was taken. Ms. Campbell expressed her appreciation for having served on the Board and her pleasure at being named Trustee Emeritus.
Chair Weber recessed the meeting at 12:16 p.m.
RECONVENE
Chair Weber reconvened the meeting at 1:38 p.m.
Trustees present included:
Karl A. Weber, Chair Samuel S. Benedict Mary C. Lukens
Larry C. Inman, Vice Chair Brian D. Cloyd Douglas B. Roberts
Alan T. Ackerman Jon G. LaSalle Leslie E. Wong, ex officio
Senior staff and counsel present included:
Michael J. Roy, V.P. for Finance and Administration and Treasurer of the Board
Pamalene R. Grundstrom, Executive Assistant to the President and Secretary of the Board
Alfred N. Joyal, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs
Kurt N. Sherwood, of Miller, Canfield, Paddock & Stone, University Legal Counsel
MOMENT OF SILENCE IN MEMORY OF NMU STUDENT
Associate Provost for Student Affairs and Enrollment Bill Bernard advised the Board of Trustees that NMU student Delphine Koski passed away on March 25, 2006, as a result of injuries suffered in an accident in January. He said Ms. Koski was scheduled to graduate tomorrow and the Academic Senate has awarded her a posthumous degree. The Board observed a moment of silence in Ms. Koski’s memory.
Ms. Grundstrom said a late request was received and is being deferred to the next regular Board meeting.
INTRODUCTION OF GRADUATING SENIOR SPEAKING AT SPRING COMMENCEMENT
Mr. Bernard introduced Mr. Eric M. Johnson, from
PRESIDENT’S REPORT
President Wong said his report will focus on the accomplishments of NMU faculty and students. He invited Mr. Bernard and Provost Joyal to introduce the honorees.
Introduction of Recipients of the 2006 Board of Trustees Student Achievement Award
Mr. Bernard introduced the recipients of the 2006 Board of Trustees Student Achievement Award.
Jane Stieber, Female Graduating Senior Award
Recipient, is from
Gavin Telfer, Male Graduating Senior Award Recipient,
is from
JaneAnne Belmore, Outstanding Student of any Class
Level Award Recipient. She came to NMU in 2002 from
Plaques were presented to the awardees, the Board applauded them, and photos were taken.
Introduction of Recipients of the 2006 NMU Distinguished Faculty Award
Provost Joyal introduced the recipients of the NMU 2006 Distinguished Faculty Award, noting that they will also be recognized at tomorrow’s Commencement ceremony.
Professor
Michael Cinelli has transformed the
traditional film program into a competitive and innovative digital cinema
program, one of the finest in the
In addition to teaching, Professor Cinelli has served the
University as Head of the Department of Art and Design for more than a quarter
of a century. Under his leadership the department implemented the first BFA in
computer art (electronic imaging) program in the state of
Our next recipient is Dr. David J. Lucas.
Unfortunately, Dr. Lucas is unable to be with us today as he is attending his
son’s graduation from
Since coming to NMU in 1996, Professor John Smolens
has established himself as one of this university’s best teachers, an able
administrator, and a highly praised author who has published a story collection
and three novels in the last six years with major publishers. His novel Cold
was published in 2001. With respect and compassion, John brings to life
the
Professor Smolens has made many important contributions to the English Department and university. Chief among them was his leadership role in the creation of our highly successful MFA program in creative writing. This task proved to be a challenge he met with hard work, practical wisdom, patience, and diplomatic skill. As a teacher of writing, Professor Smolens is an encouraging mentor, but no means an easy one. In his writing courses, students begin to grasp the high level of commitment required for success. “It’s attainable,” he tells them, “but you must work very hard.” Our students value the chance to work with John Smolens, and no doubt he draws many student writers to our shores. As a result of his courses, they are much better equipped to achieve their own successes in writing and in life.
Introduction of the Recipients of the 2006 Excellence in Service Award
Dr. Mike Roy introduced the recipients of the 2006 Excellence Service Award.
Theresa Johnson. Terry is recognized for her strong work ethic and dedication in support of the Nursing Department. Her efforts have significantly enhanced the department’s effectiveness and contributed to the increased level of service provided to students and faculty. She has been deeply involved with several successful key initiatives including the online student assessment mechanism; the reorganization of the department’s admission process; enhancing nursing’s website to provide key information to current and prospective students; and, assisted with the department’s online testing service. The Nursing faculty, staff and students consider Terry to be the glue that holds the department together. She is a team player that takes great pride in her work; she is known for her professional attitude and great sense of humor.
Kristen Rasmussen. Kris is recognized for her
excellent skills and work ethic contributing to the Admission Department’s
success in helping
Brian Larson. Brian is recognized for his creativity and diligence in support of the AdIT Department. He has gained the respect and admiration of many within the NMU community due to his positive attitude and dedication along with his keen understanding of Northern’s high touch, high tech, high quality vision. Brian played a major role in the successful Banner conversion, which occurred over an 18-month time frame compared to the normal 2-3 year average time. Other projects that Brian has worked on are the distribution system for the NMU Parent Partnership newsletter which allows President Wong to communicate with over 6,000 parents on a regular basis and the implementation of the online student verification of enrollment systems interacting with Banner. These accomplishments have greatly enhanced the level of service provided throughout Northern.
David Bonsall. Dave is recognized for his leadership qualities and dedication to the Student Activities and Leadership Programs. As the director of this department, Dave has cultivated a positive and fun work environment that emanates well beyond the department to all those that he serves and works with. He possesses a special ability to help students connect to and become active in NMU, which further helps to develop them into strong alumni after graduation. He has played a leading role with several major student focused initiatives throughout Northern, including his involvement with Academic Service Learning, the Student Leader Fellowship Program and the Superior Edge program. Anyone who meets Dave likes Dave. He has a down-to-earth personality and an ability to effectively communicate with anyone.
Eric Smith. Eric is recognized for his innovation and commitment to the Learning Resources Division. As the Director of Public Broadcasting and Audio Visual Services, Eric guided his operation through a very turbulent time period in which budget and staffing reductions jeopardized the existence of the department. During this time, Eric always displayed a sincere concern for the future of his staff and the department, but he also met the challenge of change head on, making his department an even more integral part of the academic mission of the university. Today, several academic programs are benefiting from the department’s expanded role which has significantly enhanced the level of service provided to students, faculty, and staff. Eric understands the mission of Northern and is always on the look out for ways that his area can help NMU achieve its goals.
Kathryn Dawe. Kathy is recognized for her work ethic and dedication in support of the Registrar’s Office. Her extensive knowledge of the student record system was invaluable during the department’s Banner conversion project. Kathy played a major role in analyzing and coordinating changes to individual academic records; overseeing security requirements; testing and reviewing data to ensure information was not lost or compromised; and testing and implementing changes that would increase business efficiency and accuracy. She also trained department staff on the use of Banner for internal Registrar operations as well as worked with departments across campus to train them on records-related information on Banner. Kathy’s diligence played a significant role with the department’s successful and expeditious conversion to Banner.
Ms. Michelle Cox, 2005-2006 ASNMU President, and Mr. Eric Maillard, 2006-2007 ASNMU President reported. A copy of the report is appended to these minutes (Addendum #1). On behalf of the Board, Chair Weber congratulated Ms. Cox on her success and presented her with a gift. A photo was taken.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Academic Affairs
Ms. Lukens, Chair of the Academic Affairs Committee, reported on a meeting held this morning. A copy of the report is appended to these minutes (Addendum #2).
The Board then addressed two special action items from the Committee:
It was moved by Mr. Ackerman, seconded by Mr. Benedict, and unanimously supported by the Board that the NMU Board of Trustees renew the Nah Tah Wahsh Public School Academy charter for one year, from July 1, 2006 to June 30, 2007 with the following stipulations;
1. The Academy Board agrees to the terms and conditions of a revised contract from the university Board that will reflect current state law and remove inconsistencies.
2. The school continues the improvement process that it began this year, submitting progress reports each month and a summarizing report to the NMU Charter Schools Advisory Committee by April 1, 2007.
3. The Academy will negotiate and finalize an interlocal agreement by and among the Academy, the Tribe and appropriate state and local agency officials dealing with competing jurisdictional issues involving child welfare, health, fire, and safety that apply to a public school located on Tribal land.
4. The Academy will ask the Tribe to certify that the transfer of BIA funds from the Tribe to the Academy is an appropriate use of these funds.
It was moved by Mr. Ackerman, seconded by Mr. LaSalle and unanimously supported by the Board that the NMU Board of Trustees renew the Bahweting Anishnabe Public School Academy charter for one year, from July 1, 2006 to June 30, 2007 with the following stipulations;
1. The Academy Board agrees to the terms and conditions of a revised contract from the university Board that will reflect current state law and remove inconsistencies.
2. The Academy will negotiate and finalize an interlocal agreement by and among the Academy, the Tribe and appropriate state and local agency officials dealing with competing jurisdictional issues involving child welfare, health, fire, and safety that apply to a public school located on Tribal land.
3. The Academy and Tribe will renew for the 2006-2007 school year, in writing, the current agreement between the parties concerning the transfer of funds from the tribe to the Academy.
4. The Academy Board will receive on-going training concerning the handling of public meetings and the requirements of the Open Meeting Act.
5. The Academy will ask the Tribe to certify that the transfer of BIA funds from the Tribe to the Academy is an appropriate use of these funds.
6. The Academy will ratify the Hatch Agreement Settlement in a public meeting.
Dr. Roberts, Chair of the Finance Committee, reported on a meeting held this morning. A copy of the report is appended to these minutes (Addendum #3).
Executive
Mr. Benedict, Chair of the Executive committee, reported on meetings held on April 5 and this morning. A copy of the report is appended to these minutes (Addendum #4).
The Board then addressed a special action item from the Committee:
It was moved by Ms. Lukens, seconded by Mr. Inman, and supported unanimously by the Board that President’s Wong’s Employment Agreement reflect a 12.5 percent TIAA-CREF contribution to make his retirement contribution consistent with that of other University employees.
It was moved by Mr. Ackerman, seconded by Mr. Cloyd, and unanimously supported by the Board of Trustees to approve the Formal Recommendations.
ANNOUNCEMENT OF CLOSED SESSION TO BE HELD IN CONNECTION WITH THE THURSDAY-FRIDAY, AUGUST 10-11, 2006, MEETING OF THE BOARD
President Wong made this announcement for the public record.
TRUSTEE EMERITUS RECOGNITION
Chair Weber called former trustee Scott Holman forward to be honored as Trustee Emeritus.
Scott L. Holman, NMU Class of 1965, was appointed to the
Board of Trustees by Governor John Engler on March 3, 1997 to a term that
expired on December 31, 2004. He served on every Board committee during
his tenure, as Vice Chair of the Board from January 1, 1998 through December
31, 1998, and as Chair of the Board from January 1, 1999 through December 31,
1999. He has given generously to his alma mater through numerous gifts to
the Northern Michigan University Foundation, including the Scott L. Holman
Case Room and the Northern Michigan University Alumni Suite, and he has served
as member and past chair of the
Chair Weber presented Mr. Holman with a plaque and a photo was taken. Mr. Holman thanked his colleagues for this recognition and expressed his pleasure at having served on the Board of his alma mater.
OTHER BUSINESS
The Board of Trustees recognized Ms. Connie Williams, Administrative Assistant, Office of the President. Chair Weber thanked Ms. Williams for her work in support of the Board and presented her with a memento in appreciation for 40 years of service to Northern.
Chair Weber recessed the meeting at 3:00 p.m. for a break.
RECONVENE
Chair Weber reconvened the meeting at 3:10 p.m.
FOCUS DISCUSSION (Addendum #5)
Budget/Legislative Update
President Wong, NMU Lobbyist David Haynes, Associate Vice President for Finance and Planning Gavin Leach, and Dr. Roy gave a briefing on Budget Proposals from the Governor, the House and the Senate. They reviewed the 2006-2007 general fund budget goals and assumptions and discussed a special summer Board meeting to address tuition and fees. They responded to questions and comments from Trustees.
Mission/Vision Discussion Part I
President Wong introduced this topic, noting that this discussion will continue into future Board meetings.
Innovative Programs for the Future:
Dr. Joyal, Dean of Arts and Sciences Terry Seethoff, and Dean of Graduate Studies and Research Cindy Prosen reviewed innovative programs for the future, including on-line delivery developments, graduate program development and the instructional mix, and English as a second language. The presenters responded to questions and comments from Trustees.
Enrollment Update:
Mr. Bernard and Associate Vice President for Institutional Research Paul Duby presented the enrollment report. They responded to questions and comments from Trustees.
GOOD OF THE ORDER
Several trustees expressed their preference for two-day meetings. Chair Weber invited trustees to submit to him and to President Wong, their suggested agenda items for the Board’s August Retreat.
Chair Weber adjourned the meeting at 4:42 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
___________________________________
Pamalene R. Grundstrom
Secretary of the Board