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College of Sciences (COS)
                         Meeting of Dean’s Executive Council
                                  20 January 2009

Present:
Dean - George Perry
Department Chairs - Edwin Barea-Rodriguez, Alan Dutton, Waldek Gorski, Miguel Jose-
Yacaman, Sandy Norman, Kleanthis Psarris
Associate Deans - Raymond Baird, Neal Guentzel, Craig Jordan, George Negrete, Edward
Tiekink, Andy Tsin
Center/Institute/Program Directors - Aaron Cassill, Joe Lazor, Ravi Sandhu
Assistant Dean - Garry Castellanos
COS Undergraduate Advising Director - Patti Gonzalez
COS Retention and Graduation Analyst - Diane Elizondo

Summary Notes

Doctoral Faculty

Status of department policies:

        Biology                       Dr. Barea-Rodriguez met with the Department Faculty
                                      Review Advisory Committee to discuss policy
        Chemistry                     Department has adopted a policy
        Computer Science              Department has a policy
        Geological Sciences           No action since last meeting
        Physics and Astronomy         Department is working on a policy

Student Health Insurance/Grant Buyouts

 Dr. Tiekink stated that for the coming year student health insurance coverage provided to Ph.D.
students would remain status quo. This means that Ph.D. students who are appointed in positions
at 20 hours (research assistants/teaching assistants) are entitled to receive the proportionate
amount of premium assistance and access to the employee insurance options.

Dr. Barea commented that the coverage would remain the same for the BIO Ph.D. students and
the department would cover the cost. He informed of the limitations in the ability to appoint
students in positions at 20 hours due to the department’s need to rely on a large number of
students to assist in the instructional delivery and student assistance efforts in his department.
Dr. Norman indicated that fewer students are hired in the 20 hour per week positions to meet
instructional delivery and student assistance needs for mathematics.

After a discussion, it was agreed that Garry will meet with Terry Wilson to discuss allowing
academic funds released back to the departments from grant buyouts to be allowed to roll
forward at fiscal year end and accrue for future use by department chairs and/or individual
faculty who exercised the buyout. [Terry Wilson will be attending the February 16, 2009
meeting of the Dean’s Executive Council.]

Meeting with the Provost - Strategic Plan

Dr. Barea-Rodriguez and Dr. Yacaman indicated that they were working on scheduling a
meeting with Dr. Frederick. After a discussion, Dr. Perry requested that Mary Alice contact the
Provost’s office to see if he would be able to attend the meeting of the College Faculty Forum on
February 5, 2009. [Dr. Frederick will be out of town and unable to attend the meeting.
Department chairs should follow up with meetings.]

College Budget Committee

Dr. Perry informed the forum that the committee did not meet last year. A meeting of the
committee will be scheduled.

College Faculty Forum

Dr. Perry reported that the College Faculty Forum meeting is scheduled for 3:30 p.m., Thursday,
February 5, 2009 in Room 2.110 BSE.

Regents’ Outstanding Teaching Awards

A copy of the e-mail from the Office of the Vice Provost for Academic and Faculty Support
dated January 12, 2009 was provided. Dr. Baird reported that Vice Provost Johnson's office was
reviewing the nomination process. With the information we have at this time, the deadline for
nominations to the Dean's office is Friday, February 13. Documentation required for
nominations is provided in the "Nomination contents" section in the letter sent from the UT
System.

Provost’s UTSA Core Values Initiative

An informational page was provided on this topic. Proposals can be submitted to the Provost’s
office and the deadline is February 2, 2009. Dr. Frederick has indicated that he is available to
attend department functions and talk about core values.

Deadline for Annual Faculty Performance Appraisals

After a discussion, it was agreed that the deadline for completion of annual faculty performance
appraisal would be April 15. [Since the meeting, Dr. Baird sent e-mail to department chairs
indicating a deadline date of April 1.]

Staff appraisals are to be sent to Human Resources by Monday, March 2.




                                               2
COS Outreach Efforts for Current and Prospective Undergraduates

Patti distributed and reviewed a faculty advising proposal for advising students with a GPA of
less than 1.0 and “Step Up” students (GPA 2.0-2.2). Group sessions are recommended for
sophomore “Step Up” students. The <1.0 faculty advising will be discontinued. Instead, the
undergraduate advisors of record (UGARs) will meet with Sophomore Step Up students (BIO in
group sessions, all others one-on-one). Students will have two holds placed: SC (science
advising) until they meet with the UGAR and SG (science GPA until they meet with Kathlynn
Wray, Step Up advisor).

There was a discussion about students lacking awareness of the college experience. Dr. Barea-
Rodriguez stated that he has given lectures to high school students so that students could hear
what it is like to be in college. Because of time constraints he is limited to the number of schools
he can visit. Dr. Baird suggested putting the lecture in a DVD format and make it available to
schools.

Several handouts on COS outreach efforts to current and future students were distributed. Diane
spoke about the upcoming outreach efforts listed in the handout and stated she wants to
collaborate with the departments. She requested department chairs submit information about
their outreach efforts to Patti and her by January 30, 2009.

Diane mentioned the new events listed in the handout: Admissions Reception, UGAR-COS
Undergraduate Advising Center Meeting, UGAR Sessions and COS Monthly Sessions.

Diane also mentioned having activities to provide students a richer experience. She suggested
some kind of ceremony where we celebrate COS, perhaps a barbeque.

Patti suggested forming a strategic planning committee. Names of individuals who could serve
on a committee can be sent to Patti.

Diane is scheduling meetings with departments to discuss graduation and retention rates.




                                                 3
College of Sciences (C0S)
                                Meeting of Dean’s Executive Council
                                         2 February 2009

Present:
Dean - George Perry
Department Chairs - Alan Dutton, Waldek Gorski, Miguel Jose-Yacaman, Sandy Norman, Kleanthis
Psarris
Associate Deans - Raymond Baird, Craig Jordan, George Negrete, Andy Tsin
Center/Institute/Program Directors - Aaron Cassill, Weldon Hammond, Joe Lazor, Ravi Sandhu
Assistant Dean - Garry Castellanos
COS Undergraduate Advising Director - Patti Gonzalez
COS Retention and Graduation Analyst - Diane Elizondo
Representative for Dr. Barea-Rodriguez - Hans Heidner
Guest Speakers - Amanda Beck, Stuart Birnbaum, Richard Diem, Christi Fish, Barbara Millis, Antonio
Rivera

Summary Notes

Expert Spokesperson Guide

Amanda Beck, COS Communications Specialist, introduced Christi Fish, Public Affairs Specialist, from
the University Communications office. Amanda explained that she is involved with internal media and
Christi with external media. Christi is assigned to work with two colleges - Engineering and Sciences.
One project Christi is involved with is the expert spokesperson guide. It is being revamped so media
can contact university faculty experts. The guide is not up-to-date and only 35 faculty members are
listed. Amanda and Christi are meeting once a week to discuss college activities. Christi requested
administrators contact her about any stories that can be developed involving faculty, students, alumni
and staff.

ExxonMobil Science and Engineering Fair and COS Governor’s Summer Camp

Dr. Birnbaum emphasized that the College of Sciences plays a major role in the science fair. Dates of
the fair are March 27-30, 2009. Judging will be on Sunday, March 29. He implored department chairs
to notify faculty and to encourage them to participate in this event. Faculty and graduate students are
needed to serve on the Science Review Committee (SRC). This committee reviews documents about
projects that provide information on how regulations and safety guidelines were followed. During the
days of the fairs volunteers are also needed. Dr. Birnbaum will follow up with the departments.

Last year, Governor Perry’s office provided additional funds for a residential summer camp. The
schedule for the camp was put together quickly and included a trip to ExxonMobil. The Governor wants
to expand the camp to increase the number of student participants. The Governor also wishes to
acknowledge the teachers of the winning students in some manner. We are still working out the details
but anticipate having up to ten teachers on campus along with the students.
Dr. Birnbaum requested that department chairs help him by providing a list of topical ideas that would
be engaging and interesting for a three to four day program. He suggested a common theme: One day
of physics, one day of chemistry, and one day of computer science. We need to find someone to
develop curriculum and have faculty run it. Field trips will again be included in the camp. There will be
no more than 40 students. The time frame for the camp is the third week in June. Dr. Birnbaum
requested input from department chairs by 4 February 2009.

Curriculum Development

Dr. Perry welcomed Dr. Richard Diem, Dean, Honors College and Dr. Barbara Millis, Director of the
Teaching, Excellence and Mentoring (TEAM) Center. Dr. David Jones, Associate Dean of Admissions,
UTHSCSA, was unable to attend the meeting as he was called to serve on an NIH panel. As discussed
on several occasions in meetings of the Dean’s Executive Council, UTSA students are not admitted to
health professions programs in the numbers that might be expected. This issue was discussed with
Provost Frederick and a committee was formed. Dr. Diem and Dr. Millis gave a briefing on a strategy
implemented in an attempt to rectify the situation. It proposed two solutions, both revolving around pre-
health professions ( PHP) students’ perceived weaknesses in the areas of critical analysis and application
of factual material on the MCAT and similar aptitude tests.

The first element in the strategy is to address PHP students’ weaknesses in the areas of critical analysis
and application. It was reported that relatively few of the PHP students take MCAT preparatory classes,
frequently because of the high cost involved. An MCAT preparatory course was set up and offered at
about half the cost of commercially available preparatory courses ($800 vs. $1500+). It was noted that
30% of the students who signed up did not finish the course. Dr. Diem indicated that students who
completed the preparatory course did well on the MCAT test (but no comparative data were presented
giving the performance of those who dropped out of the course or comparable PHP students who never
signed up for it).

The second element in the strategy is to address PHP students’ weaknesses in the areas of critical
analysis and application on the MCAT somewhat more indirectly. Specifically, the goal of this element
of the strategy is to incorporate more relevant skill training in courses which are required by PHP
programs. President Romo and Provost Frederick have provided funding to bring three recognized
“experts” to UTSA over the next several months to conduct workshops which will assist faculty in their
efforts to re-design courses. Dr. Millis provided handouts with information on the dates of workshops
and other scheduled activities for the Provost’s initiative to promote critical thinking.

In the discussion that followed, the point was made that success in teaching has not been a major
criterion in faculty retention, promotion, or merit. Until/unless this attitude is changed, faculty will
probably not expend the effort necessary to change their instructional strategies because of the low
expected payoff. Another concern is that the discrepancy between students’ high grades and lower
MCAT scores may impact accreditation. This discrepancy could reflect different emphases in content of
the test and what is being taught in the classes.

Provost Frederick has provided money for curriculum development which has to be spent by August.
Drs. Diem and Millis are willing to attend department meetings. Dr. Diem should be contacted if the
college or department wants to have a workshop about best practices in teaching,



                                                    2
Dean’s Graduate Fellowships and other Diversity Initiatives’ Announcements

A draft document on COS Dean’s Fellowships for South Texas for first-year doctoral students was
provided by Dr. Negrete. Funds from the doctoral programs will be transferred to the Dean’s office for
recruiting students from South Texas. This has support from the Provost’s office. Departments will
recommend students from recruitment pools. Departments are expected to provide support to Dean’s
Fellows who are in good academic standing during subsequent academic years. Dr. Perry requested that
department chairs review the document and provide comments to Dr. Negrete. Department chairs
should be thinking about who they want to nominate.

Associate Dean for Graduate Studies

Dr. Perry stated that Dr. Tiekink was on a leave of absence. He requested administrators to send him
recommendations of faculty members who could serve in this position.

Provost’s Memorandum - Course Prerequisites

After a discussion of the Provost's memorandum sent on prerequisites, it was decided that the
department chairs would let Patti Gonzalez know by April 1 how they want to handle students who
request to waive the 08-10 prerequisites due to an earlier catalog of graduation.

Scholarships and Student Grievances

In order to advertise the college scholarships Dr. Jordan asked faculty members for their assistance in
publishing a link on their WebCT/Blackboard courses. Dr. Jordan requested faculty members to give
permission to Tamara Popescu (COS WebCT Associate) to add a link to the College of Sciences
Scholarships on their online courses. Dr. Jordan requested and received permission from the
Departments of Chemistry and Physics and Astronomy to add the link to all online courses from their
departments.

Dr. Jordan mentioned student grievances and asked administrators about including a section about the
process for filing a student grievance in a syllabus. There have been a few grievances and some students
do not follow the process. Dr. Tsin suggested improving links so students can find information. Dr.
Baird commented that he was not sure that adding a grievance procedure to a syllabus would save time
and might generate more grievances.

Step Up Undergraduate Advisors of Record (UGAR) Sessions and Strategic Planning Committee

Patti Gonzalez distributed a handout and noted the upcoming (UGAR) meetings. She mentioned the
Strategic Planning Committee and said she has names of faculty representatives to serve from
Geological Sciences and Physics and Astronomy. She would like to have representatives from each
department for the first meeting in mid-February.




                                                   3
High Achieving First-Year Students

Diane Elizondo stated that students identified as outstanding sophomores will be eligible for a
scholarship drawing on 2 February which would be an incentive for them to remain at UTSA. A
reception recognizing the recipients will be held on 3 March from 2-3 p.m. in the Hidalgo Room in the
UC. She also provided a handout on information gathered from students about reasons why they left
UTSA after their first year of study that was collated in summer 2008. Diane provided handouts on
high-achieving cohort students from Fall 2008. COS has the highest number of high achieving students.
These students have been sent letters with information about COS scholarships. Any suggestions on
other efforts to retain students can be sent to Diane. Dr. Perry will work with Diane to have programs
for all levels.

Board of Regents’ Outstanding Teaching Awards

The deadline for nominations is 13 February to the Dean’s Office.

President’s Distinguished Achievement Awards

Dr. Perry encouraged department chairs to nominate at least one faculty member in each category. He
commented that they could use the same information from last year. The deadline for nominations to
the Dean’s office is 27 February.

Education Committee Report on Texas K-12 Math and Science Education

Dr. Perry informed administrators that he was providing the handout he received at a Deans’ meeting
with the Provost for their information.




                                                   4
College of Sciences (COS)
                        Meeting of Dean’s Executive Council
                                   2 March 2009

Present:
Dean - George Perry
Department Chairs - Edwin Barea-Rodriguez, Alan Dutton, Waldek Gorski, Miguel Jose-
Yacaman, Sandy Norman, Kleanthis Psarris
Associate Deans - Raymond Baird, Craig Jordan, George Negrete, Andy Tsin
Center/Institute/Program Directors - Aaron Cassill, Joe Lazor
Assistant Dean - Garry Castellanos
COS Undergraduate Advising Director - Patti Gonzalez
COS Retention and Graduation Analyst - Diane Elizondo
Guest Speakers - Joe Fritz, John Palmer

Summary Notes

Textbook Ordering Review and Evaluation

Dr. Perry welcomed John Palmer, Director, and Joe Fritz, Text Manager, of the UTSA
Bookstore. Mr. Palmer stated that the Bookstore wants to meet the needs of faculty and students.
He has heard comments about the Bookstore under-ordering books and he and his staff were
approaching the colleges and soliciting feedback. He said a number of factors are taken into
consideration when ordering books. Weekly enrollment reports are reviewed. The date of issue
of the book is taken into consideration. About 90% of the time the right numbers of books are
ordered. But it only takes one class with the incorrect number of books ordered that impacts
students and receives much attention.

About 20% of students attempt to get through class without a book. Students view the Bookstore
prices as being the highest and they are looking for the best buys on e-Bay or Amazon. Prices
are driven by the publisher. The Bookstore provides used text books. If a textbook is being
reused during the next term, the Bookstore will pay up to 50% of the new textbook price
provided the book is in good condition.

Dr. Gorski asked about e-Books. Mr. Palmer responded that this is a good option. However, the
e-Book business is developing and there is no organized way to determine the standard. The
prices of e-Books vary and vendors have different policies. Dr. Barea-Rodriguez asked what
faculty can do about the high costs of books. Mr. Palmer responded by using a book that will be
used for a while and to stretch it out between editions. Customized books that use certain
chapters can be sold at a lower cost. These can be ordered but the Bookstore would need
assurances that books will be used for several years.

Dr. Barea-Rodriguez commented that he has had discussion with publishers and making them
aware that some costs of books are too expensive and he will not use them for his classes. He
feels that you have to bargain with publishers as a way to keep costs down.
Deadlines for ordering textbooks are:

       Summer term - March 15
       Fall term - April 15
       Spring term – October 15

Mr. Palmer appreciated the feedback from administrators. He stated that in the past the
Bookstore has worked primarily with staff in the departments. He wants to also encourage
communication with administrators and faculty. Mr. Palmer and Mr. Fritz are available to attend
department faculty meetings.

I Clickers

Dr. Dutton stated that the clicker technology should be standardized. Dr. Barea-Rodriguez
commented that he had contacted Dr. Larry Williams about standardizing clickers. Dr. Perry
requested department chairs to be thinking about moving to a standard clicker for the college.
This will be discussed at the next meeting of the Dean’s Executive Council.

End of Summer Research Conference and Diversity Initiatives’ Activities

Dr. Negrete informed the forum that a summer research conference was being planned for late
August. Undergraduate students will present posters on their research. Dr. Negrete wants to
expand this for the entire college. Other universities would be invited to attend and the goal is to
bring regional students so they can get to know UTSA. We will have an event organizer.
Faculty would need to make contacts and do leg work.

Dr. Tsin suggested this could be a conference to showcase the college and suggested that it
include master’s and Ph.D. students and faculty. Dr. Negrete responded that we would need
more money and resources. After hearing input, Dr. Negrete concluded that discussions will
continue on the plan for the conference.

A committee will soon review nominations received for the Dean’s Fellows.

The Lone Star Graduate Diversity Colloquium is scheduled for 27-28 March 2009 on the UTSA
campus. An estimated 55-70 students are expected to attend. Dr. Negrete is requesting that
department chairs have faculty available to connect with students.

Proposal Routing, CAYUSE

The CAYUSE system provides for electronic submission of proposals and routing through
administrative levels for approvals. Dr. Tsin indicated that a problem appears to be routing.
There are many proposals that need to be reviewed. Some proposals do not route to department
chairs for approvals. Based on the Office of Sponsored Programs, a proposal is required to route
through department chairs only if a faculty member indicates a response of “yes” to the questions
that follow:




                                                 2
•   Are matching funds or cost sharing included in this proposal?
   •   Are the faculty involved in this project requesting buy-out of their teaching time?
   •   Does the project require the hiring of new faculty?
   •   Does this proposal involve new space or alterations to existing space within the
       university?

The routing of proposals was discussed at earlier Chairs’ Council and Provost’s Council
meetings. The outcome was approval for the current routing process. The Office of Sponsored
Program has informed the college that until President Romo changes the directive, department
chairs can be bypassed on proposal routing when the areas mentioned above are not involved.

Dr. Barea-Rodriguez pointed out some proposals involve buyouts and students. There is the
concern of proposals from centers and institutes in the college not routed through the
departments thus bypassing department chairs in the approval process. Dr. Psarris indicated that
there is a cost for research and external funding should share part of the cost. He wants to see
budgets and he commented that some proposals allow for course buyouts but faculty do not
include them.

After a discussion, the department chairs agreed that all proposals should be routed through them
for approval. Dr. Perry will request this recommendation be discussed at a future Provost’s
Council meeting.

Class Schedules

Dr. Barea-Rodriguez indicated that he was a member of the university room scheduling
committee. An issue is the number of classrooms available on campus - 104 classrooms @
1604, 40 downtown. Biology majors need classes offered at the same time as classes needed by
chemistry students. He mentioned the model in the College of Business where one person does
the scheduling of classes for the college. He asked “How can we work together as departments
toward this and have classes scheduled so they do not conflict?” Patti suggested having
a meeting with all the individuals in departments involved with scheduling classes, before the
Schedule of Classes is published, so that they can consult and ensure that courses COS majors
need are not offered at the same or overlapping times. She mentioned that she and Diane have
been involved with the Downtown Curriculum Committee that Dr. Guentzel is chairing. Dr.
Guentzel asked that she create a block schedule for FR, SO, JR, and SR biology students to take
a full-load of courses at the Downtown Campus (for the spring 2008 and the fall 2009). She was
also asked to create a block schedule for FR with non-biology COS majors to take a full-load of
courses at the Downtown Campus (for the spring 2008 and the fall 2009). In doing so, she found
that there were a number of time conflicts. After a discussion, Dr. Perry requested that Dr.
Jordan follow up on this issue.

Stimulus Impact

Dr Baird summarized what he had been able to piece together from several sources regarding the
potential impact of the federal “stimulus” package on COS funding. Several agencies will have
enhanced funding (totaling several billion dollars) which will be awarded for research and


                                               3
education. Most of the money is expected to be spent within 24 months and much of it will
revolve about the themes of biomedical, energy, climate change, and competitive research.
There will be much pressure to spend the money well (trying to avoid ridicule from across the
aisle deriving from “bridges to nowhere,” etc.). There will be additional funding for student
scholarships and work study programs. There will be some money available for rehabilitating
buildings related to science activities, but these funds will be routed through state government
agencies. Since many of the dollars will go to fund grant proposals (RO1’s) previously found to
be highly meritorious but not funded due to budget limitations, Dean Perry advised department
chairs to inform applicants who had grant proposals falling into this category to contact the
appropriate program officers at the granting agencies.

Doctoral Faculty

Dr. Dutton provided a handout on the policy on funding support of doctoral aspirants/candidates
from the handbook on the Environmental Science and Engineering Ph.D. Program. Dr. Perry
indicated that we are trying to identify a subset of the graduate faculty to serve as doctoral
faculty. These individuals would be principal advisors and supervising Ph.D. students.

President’s Distinguished Achievement Awards

Dr. Perry reported that he had reviewed the recommendations of the College Faculty Review
Advisory Committee for the awards and forwarded the college’s nominees to the Provost’s
Office. The department chairs will be informed of the nominees.

Other Business

San Antonio Math & Science Education Partnership

Dr. Cassill mentioned the very successful San Antonio Math & Science Education Partnership
meeting with 75 K-12, community college and university teachers in attendance. Fifteen out of
18 school districts were represented as well as every community college and all but one four-
year university. Provost Frederick attended the meeting along with two department chairs from
the College of Sciences, Dr. Barea-Rodriguez and Dr. Norman. The group spent three hours
discussing approaches to improving STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and
Mathematics) education in San Antonio.

Dr. Norman stated there is a big gap between what K-12 teachers are doing and what is expected
of students coming to the university. He stated we hope to bring the leadership together and
have future meetings. Dr. Lazor commented that it was important to have the presence of
department chairs as we partner with districts.




                                               4
College of Sciences (COS)
                        Meeting of Dean’s Executive Council
                                  16 March 2009

Present:
Dean - George Perry
Department Chairs - Edwin Barea-Rodriguez, Waldek Gorski, Miguel Jose-Yacaman, Sandy
Norman, Kleanthis Psarris
Associate Deans - Raymond Baird, Craig Jordan, George Negrete
Center/Institute/Program Directors - Aaron Cassill, Weldon Hammond, Joe Lazor
Assistant Dean - Garry Castellanos
COS Undergraduate Advising Director - Patti Gonzalez
COS Retention and Graduation Analyst - Diane Elizondo
Representative for Dr. Dutton - Stuart Birnbaum

Summary Notes

ExxonMobil Texas Science and Engineering Fair

Dr. Birnbaum informed administrators that the Science and Engineering fair was fast
approaching. As of 16 March there were 96 judges which is half of what is needed. He provided
a handout with the names of judges. He requested that efforts be made to try and find judges at
the university, in our laboratories and in the community. Qualifications of judges are shown
below:

             Middle School Division                          Senior Division
           Graduate students                        Ph.D. degree
           Individuals working in discipline        Postdoctoral students
            with a bachelor’s degree                 Ph.D. students who have advanced to
           Retired teachers                          candidacy
                                                     Significant work experience


Dr. Birnbaum also mentioned that volunteers are needed on 28 March. Department chairs and
faculty can contact student organizations and make them aware of the opportunity to do service
work. Volunteers do not have to be science students. Kai Kamaka can be contacted for
information on volunteers. Set up at the convention center is Saturday, 28 March and judging
will be Sunday, 29 March. Parking and food will be provided for volunteers.

Dr. Birnbaum mentioned that at the recent Alamo Regional Science and Engineering Fair held at
St. Mary’s University, scholarships were given from UTSA. Much of the selection rested on his
shoulders as there was a small selection committee. More faculty participation is needed at the
Science end Engineering fair for this effort.
Dr. Perry asked if faculty participation factored in for community service and the merit process.
Dr. Psarris responded that faculty can include this information in their annual reports and it will
be reviewed.

Information on the fair can be accessed at:

       www.emtsef.org

Report on “Designing Texas Undergraduate Education in the 21st Century”

Dr. Perry referenced the copy of the memorandum from the Coordinating Board. The
Commissioner of Higher Education authorized the creation of a standing advisory committee to
study and make recommendations for improving the quality of undergraduate education in
Texas. The recommendations were listed in the memorandum. Dr. Perry mentioned that this
reflected continued scrutiny of how we are graduating students.

There followed an extended discussion revolving around teaching. Summary comments by
attendees are provided below:

Dr. Barea-Rodriguez: When assistant professors are recruited, an emphasis is placed on
research. Message is that if you focus on teaching and not research, you will not get promoted.
This gets passed on and shows up in attitudes of tenured faculty. Faculty need to receive the
message that teaching is important here. (Parenthetically, he ventured that the proposed teaching
track is unrealistic; number of courses one would have to teach is not doable.)
Great research universities have great teachers; but classes are small, student-to-teacher ratio is
small. We need to learn how to let the teachers teach and the researchers do research - both help
the university.

Dr. Norman: Observed that he sees people going into teaching who will not be good teachers.

Dr. Psarris: Expressed the opinion that teaching and research are not mutually exclusive. The
best scholars can also be the best teachers. (Others questioned whether that was universally
true.) With the focus on UTSA becoming a top-tier university there is the misconception that
teaching is not important. Top-tier universities also value teaching as much as they value
research.

Dr. Cassill: He has heard that the Provost wants faculty to be better teachers. However, the
faculty are not participating in the discussions. The University needs to ask faculty “what is it
you need to motivate you and what will make you participate?” He also mentioned the fact that
since superior teaching figures little in promotion decisions, good teachers are denied the large
raises associated with promotion.

Dr. Baird: Mentioned the handout prepared by the associate deans addressing the issue of
measuring teaching in a valid fashion. When and if those options are adopted, department chairs
will have means to distribute merit raises so as to reflect superior teaching as well as superior
research - those financial resources are already available.


                                                2
Dr. Lazor: Recalled that he had met Sandy Norman 17 years ago, when the first standardized
mathematics achievement tests were being imposed on the public schools. In the early results,
only 7% of students passed. We are at a similar place now at the university. He noted that the
measures, external or internal, had to be objective and rigorous, and there had to be a standard.
When these were in place, the public school teachers responded with innovation and
improvement and now generally meet the standards. He said the expectation had to be that
failure is not acceptable.

Dr. Birnbaum: Noted that the American Chemical Society (ACS) has standards and tests which
are used in several chemistry courses. He inquired if any departments had evaluations/standards
like the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, Inc. (ABET)?

Patti Gonzalez: Observed that from the discussion it sounds like there are good teachers in
every department. Perhaps together they could make up a college teaching effectiveness task
force which could help develop standards and best practices. She noted that even if we did not
get extra financial resources, if we agreed on some measures of success then department chairs
could allocate the merit monies in ways that would reward superior teaching.

Dr. Gorski: Noted that we faculty know how to do research because we have been trained to do
so. We do not know how to teach. He suggested that we conduct classes for faculty - several
classes a semester, demonstrating what a good teacher should do. He noted that in Chemistry,
when they do recruiting they are talking research expertise, can candidate bring grant money.
They ask candidate to submit one page of teaching philosophy and this is reviewed by the
recruitment committee.

Dr. Psarris: Was of the opinion that departments cannot evaluate teaching on a recruitment
visit.

Dr. Baird: Suggested that young faculty should be mentored by master teachers when they
arrive. Frequently, under present procedures, there is little teaching in the first few years. New
faculty should be doing some teaching under supervision so they gradually develop some
teaching skills before they have to face a full-time teaching load.

Dr. Lazor: Suggested teaching partnerships - have faculty pair themselves. If they sat in on
each others classes, it would help in both ways. But there has to be an agreement.

Dr. Gorski: Said he had tried to do formal mentoring. The major issue encountered is that some
young faculty members said they already knew what was necessary for career development. Dr.
Baird suggested that this “arrangement” be discussed with prospective hires at time of
recruitment.

Garry Castellanos: Suggested that the importance of teaching could be reflected in a strategic
plan or workload policy or handbook.




                                                3
Dr. Perry: Reiterated that the message from Provost and President is unambiguous - that
teaching is an important part of the faculty role. He also emphasized that departments can
reward top teachers by using merit process.

Dr. Birnbaum: Discussion has come back to a point made earlier: we have no effective means
of identifying who are superior teachers.

Dr. Perry: Discussion will continue at next meeting.

Faculty Promotion Guidelines

A draft document from the Provost’s Office was provided. Dr. Barea-Rodriguez noted that a
change in procedure will provide for department chairs to attend DFRAC meetings. Comments
on the document can be sent either to Dr. Frederick or Dr. Perry. [Since the meeting the final
document has been distributed.]

Dr. Yacaman indicated his concern that a past mentor could not serve as an external reviewer.
Dr. Baird responded that this was a conflict of interest.

Dissemination of Information from Dean’s Executive Council Meetings

Dr. Perry asked if information from meetings of the Dean’s Executive Council meetings was
being passed to faculty. Some department chairs responded only if the information was
applicable. After a discussion, it was agreed that the notes would be posted to the college’s
homepage.

Doctoral Faculty

With the exception of the Department of Geological Sciences, the department chairs have
indicated they now have a policy.

I-Clickers - George Perry

Dr. Perry reminded department chairs that they were requested to obtain information on this
topic from the last meeting. He asked if the college should adopt a standard clicker. Dr. Norman
mentioned that a representative for the I-Clicker system will be providing a demonstration and
training session on how these can be used in classes at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, 27 March 2009 in
Room 2.03.10 MS. Dr. Barea-Rodriguez indicated that he had e-mailed Larry Williams about
adopting a common clicker. Dr. Birnbaum stated that there seems to be a trend toward using
Turning Point. Dr. Perry encouraged department chairs to continue to obtain more information
on clickers.

2008-2010 Prerequisites

Patti distributed a handout of the 2008-2010 prerequisites that will be entered and enforced for
fall (registration starts April 6). Any changes the department chairs wish to make (to avoid


                                               4
excessive Prereq Override Requests) should be sent via email to Barbara Smith with a copy to
Patti Gonzalez.

Jump Start Program

Diane Elizondo provided a handout on the “Jump Start 2009 Update.” As of 3 March 2009,
1,527 students have been admitted to the COS as freshman (FR) for fall 2009. Their
mathematics readiness skills are shown below:

   •   506 of these students are eligible for college algebra.
   •   720 are considered college ready (CR) in mathematics, but not eligible for college
       algebra without the mathematics placement examination.
   •   301 are considered not college ready (NCR) in mathematics.

Invitations were sent to students to participate in Jump Start, an intensive, one-day mathematics
refresher course. This new program helps incoming freshmen in the Colleges of Engineering
and Sciences prepare for the calculus placement examination and is offered the day before
freshman orientation sessions.

Other Business

Class Schedules

Departments will be requested to post course schedules for future semesters on web sites. It is
expected that schedules would be subject to change.




                                               5
College of Sciences (COS)
                            Meeting of Dean’s Executive Council
                                   13 April 2009

Present:
Dean - George Perry
Department Chairs - Edwin Barea-Rodriguez, Alan Dutton, Waldek Gorski, Miguel Jose-
Yacaman, Sandy Norman, Kleanthis Psarris
Associate Deans - Raymond Baird, Craig Jordan, George Negrete
Center/Institute/Program Directors - Aaron Cassill, Joe Lazor
Assistant Dean - Garry Castellanos
COS Undergraduate Advising Director - Patti Gonzalez
COS Retention and Graduation Analyst - Diane Elizondo

Summary Notes

Status of Annual Faculty Performance Appraisals

Dr. Baird reminded department chairs that faculty appraisals need to be completed. He asked
department chairs about the status of appraisals in their departments. Their responses are noted
below:

      Biology                     Only seven appraisals need to be completed
      Chemistry                   Will be completed in two to three days
      Computer Science            Will be completed by the end of the semester
      Environmental Science       1/3 done; 1/3 scheduled; 1/3 pending
      Geological Sciences         Appraisals have been completed
      Mathematics                 Will be completed by next week
      Physics and Astronomy       Appraisals will be completed in two weeks

Dr. Gorski commented that he is planning for a more meaningful assessment of teaching
effectiveness for faculty appraisals for next year. He has talked with Barbara Millis, Director,
Teaching, Excellence, Advancement, and Mentoring (TEAM) Center. He will be adding a
requirement for chemistry faculty to attend one to two TEAM teaching workshops. Faculty will be
able to add points in the teaching segment of the appraisal. If they do not participate, they will
receive zero (0) in the category. Dr. Gorski feels in the long run this may help teaching skills.

ResearcherID Link

Dr. Perry informed the forum that he had found a site, ResearcherID, which was easier to use for
evaluating faculty for citations. He is requesting that faculty being reviewed for promotion/tenure
or post tenure review register at the site. Faculty members will need to create their own profile.
The site is linked to the Web of Knowledge. Dr. Yacaman mentioned one would have to do
multiple searches because of the different way names are spelled. Dr. Perry felt that the various
listings could be checked. The site can be accessed at:

       http://www.researcherid.com/Home.action
Campus-Wide Audit

Garry referenced the memorandum dated 7 April 2009 from Dr. Frederick on the “Campus-Wide
Audit.” There will be an audit that will review how information technology assets are managed,
funded and secured efficiently and effectively. Paul Tyler and Carol Rapps will be contacting area
individuals to see what resources we own and are responsible for. This information will be helpful
for the new Chief Information Officer coming to UTSA.

Fall 2005-2008 Comparison

Dr. Perry provided the handout on “Fall 2005-2008 Comparison” which was distributed at a
Strategic Resource Planning Council meeting. This is information reported to the Coordinating
Board and is something like a breakeven analysis. The data will be a major driver for faculty
recruitment. There were questions about the data asked by the department chairs - number of
faculty in departments, why are there fractions, were NTT faculty included, comparison to other
components in the UT System. Mr. George Jeffery, Provost’s Office, will be invited to attend a
future meeting of the Dean’s Executive Council to discuss the spreadsheet.

Course Prerequisites

Dr. Perry stated he would be asking each of the department chairs for confirmation of two items:

   1. Whether a department’s schedule of classes will look the same as in the past. We need to
      make sure that prerequisites will be factored.
   2. Are there unhidden prerequisites or prerequisites that are unnecessary.

Departments need to give due consideration so that we do not have obstacles preventing students
from graduating. Patti commented that there are a lot of overrides of prerequisites. Patti asked the
department chairs for a definition of a prerequisite. The answer was a course necessary prior to do
well in the requisite course.

External Reviewer’s Format Letter

There was a discussion about the sections in the sample letter from the Provost’s Office on
“evaluating research/scholarly/creative accomplishment” and not evaluating teaching. The letter
also informs external reviewers that their evaluation will be made available if someone requests to
see it. Dr. Yacaman conveyed that this was not an appropriate letter to be sent to external
reviewers and questioned why external reviewers could not comment on teaching. Dr. Perry
mentioned that he had samples of letters from universities asking him for an evaluation. Copies of
these letters will be sent to Dr. Barea-Rodriguez and Dr. Yacaman.

Spring Fling 2009

Patti reminded the forum about Spring Fling 2009 which is scheduled for Saturday, 18 April 2009,
on campus. This event is for juniors and their parents. If departments are interested in
participating, reservations forms need to be submitted by April 15.


                                                2
Dr. Norman commented that he had reviewed the spring 2009 Graduation Initiative newsletter. He
stated that the article was unreasonably and universally critical about advising. He felt that the
comments made did not apply and that he has witnessed COS advisors being more proactive.
Diane commented that the article came from data in the Report of the Blue Ribbon Committee on
the Undergraduate Experience and the report about barriers to graduation compiled from the
Graduation Initiative, which included a student feedback report from two years ago. She stated
that students might incorrectly state academic advising is a problem for some issues that the
advising centers have no purview (e.g. when and what courses are offered each semester - a
department responsibility).

Dr. Jordan conveyed that he was attending a weekly group meeting with Dr. Williams. Dr.
Frederick has requested a report by mid-May to deal with problems of advising. The group is
trying to determine what is the scope of the problem. Are complaints by students about an advisor
or an advising center?

Dr. Norman stated that if department chairs have opportunity for input, he would like to provide
some. He sees the COS advisors as being more proactive plus the Advising Center operates with a
limited budget. Dr. Barea-Rodriguez agreed with Dr. Norman’s comments.

Diane commented that an outside consultant will be used to evaluate advising. Patti responded
that there was an external review in 2005 and recommendations were made.

Diane noted that we need to advocate to and inform the Provost about our proactive activities. Dr.
Jordan emphasized that the COS Undergraduate Advising Center is trying to reach out to students.
He pointed out that Patti has to go through Barbara Smith, Executive Director of Advising. Patti
stated that she and the advisors have good ideas but not the support. Dr. Norman suggested that
administrators work to have the COS Undergraduate Advising Center assigned back to the College
of Sciences. The advising centers are supported by student fees. Garry mentioned that he had met
with Dr. Williams. Of the money collected, Dr. Williams has to fund all the advising centers.

Dr. Lazor suggested that COS conduct an analysis of services. He stated that the information in
the report might need to be challenged because if it is an attitude survey it is not useful
information.

Another hindrance is that students are receiving advising from four offices - COS Undergraduate
Advising Center, Honors College, University Health Professions Office, and Athletics Advising if
a student-athlete.

New Business

Dr. Yacaman commented that meetings of the Dean’s Executive Council were scheduled too close
together and recommended that they be scheduled every three weeks. Dr. Perry asked the forum
for their comments and there was agreement.

Diane requested that Dr. Gloria Crisp, College of Education and Human Development, be invited
to speak at a future meeting to talk about Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics
(STEM) majors.

                                               3
College of Sciences (COS)
                             Meeting of Dean’s Executive Council
                                         4 May 2009

Present:
Dean - George Perry
Department Chairs - Edwin Barea-Rodriguez, Alan Dutton, Waldek Gorski, Sandy Norman
Associate Deans - Raymond Baird, Craig Jordan
Center/Institute/Program Directors - Aaron Cassill, Joe Lazor, Ravi Sandhu
Assistant Dean - Garry Castellanos
COS Undergraduate Advising Director - Patti Gonzalez
Assistant Department Chair, Biology - Hans Heidner
Guest Speakers - Edward (Ted) Early, Peter Smith

Summary Notes

Status of Annual Faculty Performance Appraisals

Dr. Baird informed department chairs that it was important that they conclude their annual
faculty performance appraisals as faculty would soon be departing and appraisals are required for
merit consideration.

Partnerships with Northrop Grumman

Dr. Perry introduced Edward (Ted) Early, Ph.D. and Peter Smith, Ph.D. of Northrop Grumman
Corporation (NGC). Northrop Grumman is a first tier defense company and involved with
research development. Both individuals spoke during their PowerPoint presentation. Dr. Smith
extended thanks for the long-standing relationship with Northrop Grumman and conveyed his
company wants to continue to develop partnerships with UTSA. Dr. Smith indicated that NGC
is a less familiar company and was having difficulty attracting individuals to work in Texas and
they were now taking an approach of looking for individuals at their own doorstep.

Northrop Grumman is involved with research, providing information, and advising the
government on the best strategy of an application. It is also involved with laser research and
providing biological data for laser safety standards. Dr. Early stated that despite being a military
research environment, publications are generated at NGC.

Northrop Grumman is committed to education. The company offers an educational assistance
program and has an internship program with UTSA for all science backgrounds. Summer
internships could be developed. Dr. Smith stated that representatives from his company will be
able to attend student group meetings.

Garry mentioned the teaming agreement between the College of Sciences, UTSA and Northrop
Grumman Information Technology Inc., a Northrop Grumman Company. He mentioned the
possibility of developing an agreement that would allow using a Northrop Grumman secure
computing facility in lieu of duplicating a similar facility at UTSA. This would be beneficial
for UTSA's Institute for Cyber Security.
Strategic Plan, College of Sciences

Dr. Perry informed the forum that a brochure would be developed from the strategic plan for the
College of Sciences. A copy of the strategic plan was provided and he requested that
administrators review the document and send any changes to him.

Professional Science Teaching Track

Dr. Baird reported that he and Dr. Perry had a good meeting with Provost Frederick on the topic
of the professional science and mathematics teaching track. Dr. Frederick gave his approval for
the college to begin identifying faculty. Dr. Baird will be following up with department chairs
for suggestions regarding faculty who might be good candidates. This teaching track will not be
available for assistant professors.

Department Reviews

Dr. Perry noted the handout on department reviews. Dr. Frederick is requesting that departments
have periodic reviews. Three departments need to be scheduled. Dr. Barea-Rodriquez asked if
there was a template. Dr. Gorski mentioned that the department was reviewed periodically by
the American Chemical Society and he asked if this review would be sufficient. Dr. Perry will
follow-up and e-mail department chairs information regarding reviews given to him by Dr.
Frederick.

Communications from Laboratory Safety Officer

Dr. Perry referenced two handouts from Wendy McCoy, Laboratory Safety Officer. She
provided a listing of all required training courses for graduate students. She also sent an e-mail
about complaints received regarding laboratory personnel wearing gloves in common areas.
Department chairs were requested to follow up with laboratories in their areas.

New Faculty Orientation and Prerequisite Checking, Summer and Fall

Barbara Smith, Executive Director of Advising, informed Patti that summer prerequisite
checking is being turned off. This has been the practice for past summers. Faculty will have to
check themselves. Patti also commented that there was a problem which resulted in prerequisite
checking for fall being turned off for a few hours. Those students will eventually be dropped
from these courses, probably after spring grades roll. Dr. Perry will request that this topic be
discussed at a future meeting of Deans’ Council.

New Business

Travel

Garry mentioned the advisories that had been issued about Influenza H1N1 (swine flu). The
UTSA Police Department distributed information on the UT System Travel recommendations
indicating that all non-essential travel to Mexico be suspended. Mr. Gribou, Executive Vice
Provost, distributed an e-mail regarding UTSA study abroad and exchange programs in Mexico.


                                                2
Research Opportunities

Dr. Perry stated that he had attended a meeting of the associate vice presidents for research.
Information on opportunities through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of
2009 was discussed. Dr. Tsin will send information to department chairs and directors of
centers/institutes. There will be increased reports and monitoring with all grants that will be
awarded through the ARRA. Report processing will be delegated to departments.

Equipment List

Garry mentioned that he had received inputs from department chairs and directors of
centers/institutes. He distributed copies of the consolidated equipment list inputs to department
chairs and requested it be reviewed. Dr. Perry requested that administrators scrutinize the list
and maintain a current list of equipment needs so that if funds become available unexpectedly we
would be prepared to submit our requests.




                                               3
College of Sciences (COS)
                         Meeting of Dean’s Executive Council
                                    15 June 2009

Present:
Dean – George Perry
Department Chairs – Alan Dutton, Waldek Gorski, Sandy Norman
Associate Deans – Raymond Baird, Craig Jordan, George Negrete, Andy Tsin
Center/Institute/Program Directors – Weldon Hammond, Joe Lazor, John McCarrey
Assistant Dean – Garry Castellanos
Director of Development – Kim Fischer
Undergraduate Advising Director and Staff – Patti Gonzalez, Paul Machen, Kim Rolf
Retention and Graduation Analyst – Diane Elizondo
Representative for Dr. Barea-Rodriguez – Martha Lundell
Representative for Dr. Yacaman – Rafael López-Mobilia
Guest Speaker – Gloria Crisp

Summary Notes

Introduction of Kim Fischer, COS Director of Development

Dr. Perry introduced Kim Fischer who has been appointed COS Director of Development. She
has more than 15 years in public relations and development. She lived in New Mexico for 25
years before moving to San Antonio nine years ago. During that time, she has been a
development consultant for numerous non-profit organizations, including the Cancer Therapy
and Research Center.

Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Majors

Dr. Perry introduced Gloria Crisp, Ed.D., Assistant Professor, College of Education and Human
Development. She discussed her research study that examined underrepresented undergraduate
student groups and their success. The findings were also provided in the handout she distributed.
Dr. Negrete suggested a follow-up study as to how intervention program are useful to the success
of students.

Diane Elizondo asked about the role of faculty mentoring with undergraduates and suggested
that introductory science and mathematics courses not be large to create a small college
experience. In addition, introductory seminars can also be created, like learning communities.
Dr. Crisp stated that research supports that this experience within the first year is positive and
mentoring is important.

Dr. Perry mentioned he had received information from the Association of Public and Land-Grant
Universities. The information indicates recitation courses increase social interaction and student
performance. Dr. Norman recommended an introductory seminar course so students know what
to expect. Dr. Perry and Dr. Jordan will have continued discussions.
COS Budget

Garry Castellanos distributed a handout to department chairs regarding FY 10 Budget
Allocations. The good news is that we have more money. Over two years, we asked for $14M
with infusion of new faculty. This included associated start-up costs as there can be multiple
years of appointments. The permanent funding received for the college is $272,000 spread over
academic units for the coming year. The better news is that we are recruiting 16 new faculty. A
total of 11 individuals have signed acceptance letters (one offer still pending). An amount of
$1.6M has been committed for these new faculty. Lapsed salaries can be used by department
chairs to hire NTT faculty and other initiatives to grow departments.

Dr. Perry indicated that we need to be starting faculty searches earlier. Departments should be
networking with colleagues at UTSA and elsewhere, leaders in the field of the search, and
placing advertisements in pivotal publications for the field.

Funding for the San Antonio Life Sciences Institute (SALSI) has been approved.

American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009 Reporting Requirements

Garry referenced the handout and stated that Dr. Tsin had also sent information on reporting
guidelines to departments.      The handout provided summary information on reporting
requirements, there may be additional reporting requirements. UTSA will hire someone to assist
with data collection. The Office of Sponsored Projects does not have a template yet. Some
required reporting will be the number of jobs created from funding received. Quarterly reports
will be due soon. ARRA awards are to be flagged.

Two Special One-time Funding Opportunities at NSF (MRI and ARI)

Dr. Perry stated that Dr. Yacaman had requested this topic be discussed but he was unable to
attend the meeting. Dr. Perry asked “How do we choose limited submission grants? Do we need
a special meeting?” He indicated that the process raises a lot of questions. While it is not ideal,
there is representation for every group in the selection process. Dr. Dutton suggested that this
could be directed to the College Policy Committee. After a discussion it was decided that Dr.
Perry will follow up with a meeting with Dr. Gracy and Dr. Tsin.

Procedures for Tenured Faculty Performance Improvement Plans

Provost Frederick distributed the above-mentioned policy. Dr. Norman said he had concerns
about the statement:

       If a Department Chair determines through the annual evaluation/merit review
       process that a tenured faculty member is, in the Chair’s judgment, not meeting
       expectations in the performance of their duties, the Chair should initiate a
       Performance Improvement Plan (PIP) for that individual.

This information is neither in the UTSA Handbook of Operating Procedures nor the Regents
Rules. He noted that faculty should have been included in discussions about this policy.

                                                2
He feels there is an opportunity for abuse (e.g., do not like clothes, whim of the department
chair).

Dr. Norman has discussed this with the Provost and he may withdraw the policy until the Faculty
Senate has an opportunity to review. Dr. Perry did not see an advantage to the policy as there are
ample opportunities for feedback with current reviews. Dr. Perry advised department chairs to
not act or rush on this policy.

Approval for Appointment of Research Faculty, DFRAC

Dr. Perry informed the forum that Provost Frederick inquired about the appointment of research
faculty. Research faculty are appointed through grants by principal investigators. Dr. Perry
asked “How are research faculty appointed? Do you involve the faculty? Do appointments go
through the DFRAC?” Based on the discussion, there appears to be no policies at the department
level. Dr. Perry suggested there be faculty input at the department level. It was agreed that Dr.
Perry meet with the College Policy Committee to discuss a policy.

Course Schedules

Dr. Perry recently attended a meeting with Dr. Larry Williams, Dean of Undergraduate Students.
Dr. Williams referenced the posting of three-year course schedules by departments in the College
of Public Policy and indicated that other colleges should be following this model. Dr. Perry
requested department chairs develop three-year schedules. While he realizes that it may be
difficult to have information up-to-date, he requested that department chairs do the best job
possible. Dr. Gorski mentioned that Chemistry should have their three-year schedule ready in
two to three weeks. Dr. Jordan mentioned that we should try and include the summer term.

Promotion Deadlines, 2009

Deadlines were provided for faculty reviews. Dr. Gorski reported that Bennie Keckler, Office of
Academic and Faculty Support, will follow-up with the procedure for boxless submissions of
promotion reviews.

Manual Prerequisite Check for Summer

Patti Gonzalez provided a handout on “Pre-Requisite Issues in the College of Sciences.” This
sheet provided the history of recent prerequisite checking and the burden placed on the COS
Advising Center staff. Dr. Williams has conveyed that the burden for enrolling in prerequisite
courses should rest with the student. Patti indicated that students are likely to complain and
blame advisors when there are problems. They may also complain to departments. After a
discussion, it was decided that a meeting will be scheduled with Dr. Williams, Barbara Smith,
Dr. Perry, COS Advising staff, department chairs and associate deans.

New Business

Dr. Perry received an e-mail from Provost Frederick about faculty merit guidelines. There was
an issue about faculty being eligible for merit with a rating of 2.5. The e-mail will be forwarded
to department chairs.
                                                3
College of Sciences (COS)
                        Meeting of Dean’s Executive Council
                                    13 July 2009

Present:
Dean – George Perry
Department Chairs – Edwin Barea-Rodriguez, Waldek Gorski, Miguel Jose-Yacaman
Associate Deans – Neal Guentzel, Craig Jordan, George Negrete, Andy Tsin
Assistant Dean – Garry Castellanos
Director of Development – Kim Fischer
Undergraduate Advising Center – Paul Machen
Retention and Graduation Analyst – Diane Elizondo
Representative for Dr. Dutton – Eric Swanson
Representative for Dr. Psarris – Tom Bylander
Guest Speakers – Lorena Claeys, Ellen Clark, Nidia Tijerina

Summary Notes

Dr. Perry welcomed the individuals listed below from the Academy for Teacher Excellence
(ATE):

       Lorena Claeys, Executive Director
       Ellen Clark, Ph.D., Professor
       Nidia Tijerina, Recruiting Coordinator

The Academy for Teacher Excellence is based in the College of Education and Human
Development. Lorena Claeys gave an overview of the Academy’s activities using a PowerPoint
presentation. She emphasized their goals of increasing the number of teachers in bilingual,
mathematics, science and special education. Public and private universities are not graduating
enough teachers to serve the community. The Academy has received five federal grants. Strong
support is given to students through learning communities. The ATE is particularly focused on
increasing the number of teachers in the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics
(STEM) areas.

Dr. Jordan asked how the program was recruiting. Dr. Clark responded through Career Services,
their website, and in the STEM areas. Dr. Barea-Rodriguez indicated that he has sent
information to the biology faculty. He mentioned that a strong component of the ATE program
was mentoring.

Dr. Negrete asked how the College of Sciences can partner with the Academy. Lorena stated
that informal relationships with COS have already been developed with Drs. Barea-Rodriguez,
Cassill, Lazor and Travis. Dr. Clark indicated that she would like to have a formal relationship
with more faculty involved. These partnerships can be especially fruitful since faculty in the
College of Sciences are experts of content and faculty in College of Education and Human
Development are involved with the pedagogical style. Dr. Clark is available to meet with
faculty.

Dr. Clark asked if there was a way to communicate by e-mail with the COS student community.
Dr. Barea-Rodriguez responded that the college’s Undergraduate Advising Center has worked on
ways to communicate with students (e.g., e-newsletter, working on facebook page) and that
office could be contacted.

In recent discussions with department chairs about teaching enhancement, Dr. Perry mentioned
that faculty names had been collected from department chairs. These names will be sent to Dr.
Clark.

The Academy will be hiring undergraduate and graduate students. Dr. Yacaman stated that
proposals being submitted to funding agencies (e.g., NSF, Department of Energy, and
Department of Defense) need to include information about outreach efforts. Dr. Yacaman will
recommend that faculty in his department contact the Academy.

Lorena provided summary information below about collaborations with COS and the goals of the
Academy for Teacher Excellence:

Collaborations:

   •   Establish the e-community as a way of creating a virtual discussion between faculty from
       both colleges. This will start the dialogue regarding science coursework and TExES
       content alignment. In addition, the e-community can be a way of discussing grant funding
       opportunities.

   •   Identify the most challenging science concepts for teacher candidates and create science
       content videos on demand based on those.

   •   Review the TExES Examination and how it aligns with the science coursework.

   •   The Academy’s Equity, Education, and Entrepreneurship (E3) grant is currently hiring
       undergraduate and graduate research assistants. Their duties will include face to face and
       online tutoring to E3 participants, in addition to entering and collecting data and preparing
       literature reviews.

   •   Grant writing is a major component of ATE’s sustainment and effectiveness. ATE is
       open to the possibility of collaborating to co-write and prepare proposals and grants.

Goals for ATE include:

   •   Develop and maintain the e-community platform. Ms. Lucretia Fraga, ATE Instructional
       Technology Manager, will be sending an invitation to all of the faculty and staff that were
       present at the meeting to join the e-community. Once they are members of the e-
       community, they will have the capability to invite other faculty to join as well.

   •   In order to create the science videos on demand, ATE will identify Interdisciplinary
       Learning and Teaching Faculty members to work with COS faculty members. The
       participating faculty members from both colleges will be compensated for a course
       buyout from the E3 grant.


                                                 2
•   ATE will provide the content review materials for the TExES examination 4-8 and 8-12
       grades.

   •   ATE will forward the research assistants job postings to be disseminated to COS.

   •   ATE is open to consider grant writing opportunities that are aligned to the Academy’s
       mission and vision.

COS Equipment List

Dr. Perry noted that the Office of the Dean maintains a list of equipment needs for our
departments. It is to our benefit to keep the lists current for those occasions where the Office of
the Provost or the Office of the Vice President for Research informs the COS that funds are
available for equipment purchases. Dr. Perry indicated that departments have copies of the lists.
Dr. Yacaman mentioned that it may be beneficial for department chairs to meet to discuss what
equipment is lacking. This would help with new faculty hires to make sure they have needed
equipment.

Garry mentioned there are several lists:

   1. Academic Enhancement Equipment (Higher Education Incentive Funding) - This was a
      one-time allocation made to several areas across campus to support improvements to
      instructional delivery capabilities and included support for:

           a. Department of Biology to upgrade undergraduate teaching laboratories ($163,
              302)
           b. Department of Chemistry to modernize freshman chemistry lab ($142,330)
           c. Department of Computer Science to upgrade computers in instructional support
              labs ($304,800)
           d. Department of Physics and Astronomy to equip instructional support labs used for
              introductory courses, advanced physics labs and graduate seminars ($200,671)
           e. Department of Mathematics received funding to execute Math Summer Boot
              Camp, summer 2009 ($20,000)

   2. Ongoing Research Equipment - this is a multiple department list and has evolved over
      two years. Some equipment was purchased by COS and funding was also provided by
      the Office the Provost, Office of the Vice President for Research, COS gifts and external
      funding. Some purchases were made and some are in progress. The list was sent to
      department chairs last spring.

Garry suggested that directors of centers and institutes also be invited to attend a future meeting
to discuss equipment lists. Garry will send equipment lists to COS Chairs. (Lists were sent on
July 16 via e-mail to department chairs.)

Laboratory Safety Committee

Dr. Perry mentioned the copy of the e-mail from Mr. Gribou, Executive Vice Provost, requesting
a representative from the COS to serve on a university laboratory safety committee. Dr. Gorski
                                                3
will follow up with a teaching laboratory coordinator in chemistry to see if he would be able to
serve on the committee.

Professional Science Master’s Degree

Dr. Perry referenced a copy of the e-mail from Dr. Keith McDowell, UT System, about the
development of a professional science master’s degree. Dr. Perry and Dr. Barea-Rodriguez have
met with Dr. Flannagan about the degree. Department chairs should review the e-mail and if
there is interest, they should contact Dr. Perry.

Doctoral Degree in Translational Science

Dr. Jordan referenced the handout on the doctoral degree in Translational Science. This
summary document explains that Translational Science is emerging as an academic and scientific
discipline. “Translational research aims to utilize systematic assessments of scientific evidence
to close the gaps between knowledge gained at the different levels of the research process – the
basic science laboratory, the clinical research discoveries, and application of these research
findings toward prevention, disease management, and strategies to improve health outcomes.”
UTSA is one of four components in the UT System involved with this joint degree. Approval by
the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board is contingent on multi component involvement.
Dr. Perry feels the degree is related to the large grant, Clinical and Translational Science Award
(CTSA), awarded to the UT Health Science Center in 2008. UTSA is a component of the grant.
Dr. Jordan has a complete copy of the proposal.

Informing Leadership Chain of Events and Activities and Status of Faculty, Students and
Staff

Dr. Perry requested that college administrators inform the Dean’s Office about any injuries and
he will obtain information about employees with zero percent appointment who are injured.

Four-year Graduation Recognition

Dr. Perry stated that he has been working with Amanda Beck and Diane Elizondo to provide
special recognition of students who graduate in four years. One possible way would be a COS
cord worn at commencement. Dr. Perry asked members of the Dean’s Executive Council for
permission to proceed and they agreed.

Spring 2009 Strategies for Academic Success Report

Paul Machen, COS Undergraduate Advising Center, distributed a probation report for Spring
2009. When the GPA of a COS major falls below 2.0, the student has to meet with an advisor
for an assessment. Strategies are identified and an advisor will track progress to see if efforts are
helping the goal of improving the GPA. Paul reviewed some of the pages of the report with
administrators. The report shows that those students who pursue recommended strategies
improve in academic performance. Specific questions about the report can be directed to Paul
Machen and Kim Rolf in the COS Undergraduate Advising Center.


                                                 4
New Business

Dr. Jordan informed administrators that the Graduate School will now be in the approval process
for graduate and research assistant appointments.

Dr. Jordan stated that he had received information from Lorraine Harrison, Disability Services,
about the loss of space for that office. Ms. Harrison was inquiring as to the possibility of the
various departments assuming some of the responsibility for administering exams to students
registered with disability services that require extended time to complete exams. This would
require proctoring as well as providing necessary space and desks. Some departments would be
impacted more than others. Dr. Perry suggested meeting with Daniel Sibley. Dr. Barea-
Rodriguez asked if the Tomas Rivera Center could assist.

Dr. Gorski asked the other department chairs if they had any issues with working relationships
between post doctoral fellows and principal investigators. Dr. Gorski was dealing with an issue
in his department. He explained that often post doctoral fellows are foreigners with limited
language skills. They sometimes do not understand their employee rights and are afraid to
complain. He suggested an orientation for post doctoral fellows. Garry felt this might fall under
the purview of Dr. Tsin. Dr. Perry and Dr. Gorski will meet for follow-up discussions.




                                               5
College of Sciences (COS)
                            Meeting of Dean’s Executive Council
                                  10 August 2009

Present:
Dean – George Perry
Department Chairs – Edwin Barea-Rodriguez, Alan Dutton, Waldek Gorski, Sandy Norman
Associate Deans – Raymond Baird, Neal Guentzel, George Negrete, Andy Tsin
Center/Institute/Program Directors – Aaron Cassill, Weldon Hammond, Joe Lazor, Greg White
Director of Development – Kim Fischer
Undergraduate Advising Director – Patti Gonzalez
Representative for Dr. Yacaman – Rafael López-Mobilia
Guest Speaker – Carol Rapps

Summary Notes

Asset Management Audit

Dr. Perry introduced Carol Rapps, UTSA Auditing and Consulting Services. She provided a
handout and overview of ongoing audits:

   •   IT Funding – how much are we spending across the university, are we managing funds in
       an efficient and effective manner
   •   IT Asset Management – tracking purchases, inventory, maintenance, security of
       information, and software licensing
   •   Tac202 Security Standards Policy – compliance audit must be done every two years

Matthew Marr is the university's software coordinator (PP Bldg 2nd floor, (210) 458-7271,
matthew.marr@utsa.edu and is working with departments. Information Technology has a
software coordination website:

       http://www.utsa.edu/oit/software_hardware/Soft_lic_sales.cfm

Department Chairs should inform faculty about the site and the software coordinator. Dr.
Cassill commented that the reason that so many faculty are holding on to old computers is that
there is no university policy guaranteeing a faculty member a basic computer so we have to
hold on to old ones as replacements if the current one gives out. Dr. Perry remarked that we
do not have any maintenance plans to fix broken computers. Dr. Cassill pointed out that if we
took the money to provide warranties on every computer the university buys, we could
probably contract for maintenance with the Health Science Center or a private company or
provide replacement units for much less money.

Carol requested help with recommendations regarding the audits. She is available to meet with
individuals or communicate by e-mail. The audit report will be sent to Provost Frederick and
The University of Texas System.
San Antonio Life Sciences Institute (SALSI) Grants

Dr. Tsin informed the forum that the SALSI has received funding of $8M for UTSA and UT Health
Science Center for two years. Each institution will receive $2M in the first year and $2M in the
second year. The Vice Presidents for Research from both institutions decided on the target
areas as follows:

   •   Health Disparities – Thankam Sunil (Sociology)
   •   Medicinal Chemistry – George Negrete (Chemistry)
   •   Biomedical Engineering – Miguel Jose-Yacaman (Physics and Astronomy) and Anson Ong
       (Biomedical Engineering)
   •   Neuroscience – Charles Wilson (Biology)

Faculty members with life sciences research topics that do not fall in the above mentioned
categories can also submit proposals for consideration. Funds have also been set aside for
innovative, non-research programs, including joint educational efforts.

The proposal deadline is October 1 and the budget period will be 2010-2011. Proposals must
have a collaborator from the UT Health Science Center identified. It is expected that
application proposals will be short and will be reviewed for their scientific quality. Outside
reviewers will be used. Dr. Perry requested administrators inform faculty about proposals.
For details, please visit

       www.UTSalsi.org

Postdoctoral Fellow Appointments

Dr. Perry indicated that Dr. Jordan has been collecting information about post doctoral fellows.
The HOP procedure 9.32 (J) was provided as a handout. Dr. Perry remarked that the
Department of Biology is following the procedure. Dr. Jordan is working with Gail Jensen, Legal
Affairs on a standard appointment letter.

Dr. Perry conveyed that across the country post doctoral fellows are asking for defined
positions. We should be thinking about developing a program so that postdoctoral fellows
would have dossiers. He referenced the handouts of current programs. A program could
include career development, grant writing, guest speakers, and participation in sessions in the
Teaching and Learning Center.

Dr. Barea-Rodriguez noted that UT Austin has a well developed program. Dr. Perry requested
that department chairs discuss with the faculty. He indicated that we are not limited to the
examples provided in the handouts. Dr. Perry reminded department chairs to follow the
procedures in the HOP for the appointment of postdoctoral fellows.




                                               2
Mentoring Students/Learning Assistance and Article from Chemical and Engineering News

Dr. Perry referenced the two handouts on student learning assistance. Information about the
Learning Assistant (LA) Model at the University of Colorado, Boulder, was provided by Dr. Perry
to department chairs earlier and Dr. Negrete provided the article on peer-led team learning at
UT El Paso. While our departments have student mentoring programs, the handouts provide
information about programs that are better developed.

Dr. Negrete stated that the UTSA Supplemental Instruction (SI) model is working and that it is
difficult to find faculty who can provide the kind of commitment needed for learning assistance
programs. The time and effort devoted to the UT El Paso peer-led team learning shows
enhanced student success. The Teaching and Learning Center and SI are not integrated. After a
discussion it was agreed that Dr. Jordan will meet with Dr. Perry to discuss the possibility of a
bringing a guest speaker from UT Dallas or the University of Colorado to visit UTSA.

Faculty Mentoring

Dr. Perry stated that he would like for all departments to have mentoring programs. He
indicated that two departments, Chemistry and Computer Science, have programs. Dr. Barea-
Rodriguez indicated that some faculty do not want to be mentored. Dr. Gorski commented that
his department policy will be given to new faculty so they are aware of the opportunity. After a
discussion it was agreed that Dr. Perry and Dr. Tsin will meet to discuss a college faculty
mentoring program.

International Visa

Dr. Perry stated that when departments/centers/institutes are making appointments,
administrators are guaranteeing there is a job and the salary is guaranteed (unless rules of
employment are violated). Dr. Perry said we should be concerned when individuals are coming
from outside the country.       There is the expectation that money is available and
departments/centers/institutes should have funding.

Fall 2008 versus Fall 2009 Enrollment Comparison

Dr. Perry referenced the handout and noted enrollment has dropped over the last two years.
Dr. Barea-Rodriguez responded that we have been raising standards and improving quality.

SACS Accreditation Visit (March 23-25, 2010), Quality Enhancement Plan, Web Links

Dr. Perry advised the forum to not update or delete links that were used for SACS reports as the
outside reviewers will be reviewing UTSA’s reports this fall. The on-campus accreditation visit is




                                                3
scheduled for March 23-25, 2010. Faculty, staff and students are expected to be familiar with
the Quality Enhancement Plan - Quantitative Scholarship: From Literary to Mastery:

       http://www.utsa.edu/today/2009/01/qepfinal.cfm

Dr. Perry requested faculty be informed at department meetings.

Dean’s Future Scholars Program

Dr. Perry referenced the handout on the Dean’s Future Scholars. He will be working with Dr.
Negrete and Dr. Tsin on this program as a way to develop a pipeline of students. Dr. Jude
Valdez is also interested in working with COS.

House Bill 2504

Dr. George Perry informed the forum about a new legislative bill, House Bill 2504. This will
require positing of information at websites to include faculty evaluations, syllabi, and budgets.
Implementation of the bill has not been finalized. The timeline is unknown. The Faculty Senate
is also reviewing the bill. Information can be found at:

       http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HB02504F.htm

Fall 2009 Prerequisites

Patti informed the forum that the Advising Center was again requested to do manual
prerequisite checking for the fall term. She stated 15% errors were identified. Dr. Gorski
commented that it appeared no progress had been made since the meeting with Dr. Larry
Williams. There was a suggestion to invite the new Chief Information Officer to a meeting of
the Dean’s Executive Council. Patti will draft a memo to Provost Frederick from Dr. Perry and
department chairs about the need for computerized checking for prerequisites. [Patti sent the
e-mail draft to Dean Perry on 11 August. The COS Advising Center and the Undergraduate
Studies Support and Technology Services (USSTS) office met on 14 August and analyzed several
student cases and came up with plans of action that should reduce the number of students on
the list in future semesters.]

Reminder about Proposals for the Core Values Initiative Program

The deadline for submission of proposals to the Dean’s Office is Thursday, August 27.

Reminder about Textbook Adoptions

Dr. Perry reminded department chairs that they should follow up with the Bookstore to ensure
textbooks have been ordered for classes. If a course does not require a textbook, the
Bookstore should be informed.


                                               4
Information Booklet – Texas A&M University

Dr. Perry referenced the informational booklet from Texas A&M University. Dr. Barea-
Rodriguez responded that the Department of Biology has a booklet. Dr. Perry encouraged
departments to have one that introduces students to the key elements of success.

Fall Meetings of Dean’s Executive Council

Meetings will be scheduled every three weeks in the fall. Mary Alice will follow up with
contacting administrators to try and find a two-hour block of time.

New Business

Dr. Guentzel complimented Dr. Negrete on the successful COS Research Conference. Dr.
Negrete acknowledged Dr. Tsin’s contributions.




                                             5
College of Sciences (COS)
                               Meeting of Dean’s Executive Council
                                         31 August 2009

Present:
Dean – George Perry
Department Chairs – Edwin Barea-Rodriguez, Alan Dutton, Waldek Gorski, Miguel Jose-
Yacaman, Sandy Norman, Kleanthis Psarris
Associate Deans – Raymond Baird, Neal Guentzel, Craig Jordan, George Negrete
Center/Institute/Program Directors – Aaron Cassill, Weldon Hammond, Joe Lazor
Assistant Dean – Garry Castellanos
Undergraduate Advising Director – Patti Gonzalez
Retention and Graduation Analyst – Diane Elizondo

Summary Notes

Updates, Handbook of Operating Procedure

Dr. Baird informed the group about the recent updates to some procedures in the UTSA
Handbook of Operating Procedures. Copies of the revised procedures were provided to
administrators:

       ●   2.10   Faculty Reappointment, Promotion, and Tenure
       ●   2.11   Annual Faculty Performance Appraisals for Merit Pay Consideration
       ●   2.14   Faculty Workload and Minimum Faculty Teaching Requirement
       ●   2.22   Periodic Performance Evaluation of Tenured Faculty
       ●   2.23   Professional Expectations for Faculty
       ●   2.24   Third-Year Review

Dr. Baird highlighted some of the changes and requested department chairs review the
documents and inform appropriate staff in the departments of the updates. The Dean’s office
is checking on deadlines related to periodic performance evaluations and third-year reviews.

STARS Funding

Garry indicated that COS had received $1.6M for new faculty salaries and start-up packages. An
amount of $1.4M has been committed for this plus the purchase of microscopes. Dr. Frederick
and Dr. Gracy have requested faculty recruitment plans for the next cycle. At this time 12
faculty positions have been requested in our departments, this does not include replacement
positions. We have not been receiving STARS funding and department chairs were encouraged
to recruit for STARS faculty. Garry will send the COS faculty recruitment plan summary to
department chairs. Dr. Negrete reminded department chairs that as we initiate another
recruiting cycle, work must be done in advance to make connections with minority scholars. He
mentioned that the Society for Advancement of Chicanos and Native Americans in Sciences
(SACNAS) meeting will be held on October 15-18 in Dallas and this is a good opportunity to
establish contacts. [Since the meeting Garry e-mailed information on COS faculty recruitment
for this fiscal year and information on STARS funding.]

Academic Program Review by Departments

Dr. Perry referenced the handout on the listing of programs scheduled for external reviews and
the timeline provided by the Office of the Provost. Reviews for COS are scheduled in 2013-14.

Graduate Student Organizations

Dr. Perry stated that Dr. Kay Robbins has suggested that COS have more graduate student
organizations. Dr. Gorski commented that the student organization in Chemistry was not very
active. Dr. Psarris indicated that the CS Graduate Student Association has a faculty advisor and
has been active in organizing activities, bi-monthly meetings and helping with open house
events. The organization has assisted with recruitment in answering questions from
prospective students.

Access Control

Dr. Barea-Rodriguez stated that the safety office informed him that a door had to be locked in
BSB. He requested the door remain open and he was sent a cost estimate of $3,000 to install
card access. Other department chairs commented that there were some instances with
individuals not having access to laboratories and they indicated that this was probably due to
access logs not being up-to-date. Mr. Kerry Kennedy, Vice President for Business Affairs, and
Dan Pena, Interim Chief of Police, have been invited to attend the 14 September meeting of the
Dean’s Executive Council.

Dinner for Seminar Speakers

Dr. Barea-Rodriguez commented that the graduate services fee account cannot be used for
dinner for seminar speakers. Garry requested that departments send him a realistic total dollar
estimate of funds needed for these special occasions.

House Bill 2054

Dr. Perry reviewed the handout of the bill which relates to "requiring a public institution of
higher education to establish uniform standards for publishing cost of attendance information,
to conduct student course evaluations of faculty, and to make certain information is available
on the Internet." He indicated this is now law and extensive information listed in the handout
needs to be posted. He asked the group if a committee should be formed. After a discussion
Dr. Perry requested Dr. Jordan follow-up on implementation.




                                               2
NTT Faculty Searches and Use of NTT Faculty to Meet Academic Mission Needs

Dr. Perry informed the group that Dr. Frederick is recommending all colleges implement
organized searches for non tenure-track (NTT) faculty when seeking out candidates to fill
academic area needs. Dr. Baird added that a coordinated, college-wide advertisement,
announcing NTT opportunities, could be implemented by placing “College NTT Opportunities”
advertisements in our local newspaper every fall or spring.

Garry suggested that each department work toward identifying an optimum blend of T/TT and
NTT to better meet individual department needs. With an optimum balance of T/TT and NTT
faculty our college’s departments total academic stream funding could be better distributed to
our departments. Dr. Perry indicated that this could be an opportunity to hire new NTT and
T/TT faculty to meet the college’s needs and indicated that this could be done over the next
couple of months.

Information from an American Association of University Professors (AAUP) committee report
titled: The Status of Non-Tenure Track Faculty is available at:

http://www.aaup.org/AAUP/comm/rep/nontenuretrack.htm (downloaded 9/4/09 GDC)

E-mails

Dr. Perry requested that administrators be attentive to e-mails they send as they could be
requested through the Texas Public Information Act. Some e-mails can be inflammatory.

SACS Compliance Report Web Links

Reviewers for the accreditation visit have received reports from UTSA. The reports make
reference to links on websites. Links should not be changed and should remain active.

CPRIT (Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas) Grants

Information about grants was provided in the handout. Dr. Perry will work with Dr. Tsin on this
limited submission proposal.

Workers Compensation Coverage of Employees Outside of Official Appointments

Dr. Perry referenced the copy of an e-mail from John DeLaHunt regarding workers
compensation. Decisions are made on a case-by-case basis.

Dr. Norman commented that he had heard appointments at 0% would no longer be processed.
Garry responded that he would follow up. [After the meeting Garry e-mailed Bruce Tingle,
Human Resources Management and Development, who indicated that 0% appointments would
continue. Additional information was provided in e-mail exchanges.]

                                              3
Dr. Perry reminded administrators that the Dean’s office should be informed of injuries within
24 hours.

Academic Continuity Plans

Dr. Frederick is requesting plans be developed in the event the swine flu becomes serious on
campus. A copy of an e-mail from Dr. Frederick and information from the U.S. Department of
Education were provided in handouts. Information is available at:

http://www.ed.gov/admins/lead/safety/emergencyplan/pandemic/guidance/continuity-recs.pdf

Dr. Jordan will obtain additional information.

Post Doctoral Fellows

Dr. Jordan noted that he was not at the last meeting but handouts had been provided and initial
discussions had taken place. A circumstance in one department brought to attention that
procedures for appointment of post doctoral fellows in HOP 9.32(J) need to be followed. An
offer letter should be sent to Dr. Perry for review prior to communicating the letter to the
candidate and copies of appointment documentation need to be filed in the Dean's office.

The Association of American Medical Colleges has drafted a compact that post docs and
principle investigators may adopt. Their compact speaks to the relationships and responsibilities
between the parties. Some schools have established a policy of using the compact. Dr. Jordan
suggested that we might consider having such a document so as to avoid the type of difficulties
we are currently experiencing. Dr. Jordan will draft a template offer letter or develop a checklist
of items that should be included in on offer letter for the departments to review. It is not clear
that a single template letter will be appropriate for all departments to use and therefore a
checklist may be the most appropriate approach.

Dr. Barea-Rodriguez commented that after the last DEC meeting he relayed information to
faculty about the suggestion of developing a compact for post doctoral fellows. The feedback
from the faculty was they do not want post doctoral fellows involved in activities that are going
to involve too much of their time. They suggested one workshop a year might be sufficient.
Dr. Yacaman indicated that post doctoral fellows have an obligation to teach students and he
does not want to see a lot of rules.

Departments should continue to follow HOP 9.32J for appointing post doctoral fellows.

Jump Start Program; Dialing for Freshmen Programs; COS Student Profile Report

Diane provided statistical handouts for the above mentioned topics.

        Jump Start - This is the second year of the program and seven programs were
       offered. Some students improved their math placement by at least one semester. The
       program involves housing, tutoring, testing and meals. Funding and a location for a
                                                 4
coordinator of the program are being reviewed in order for the program to continue.
       The program has been effective as participants develop a rapport with program staff
       and tutors. Cost of the program is $10,000.

        Dialing For Freshmen 2008-09 - Any cohort freshman who had not registered by June
       was contacted. Students provided reasons where they went not returning to UTSA and
       they are listed in the handout.

        Student Profile - The profile was provided for spring 2009. Diane will be meeting
       with department chairs with their individual profiles. Our cohort will now include CAP
       students which may affect our graduation rate. We need to try and retain these
       students.

DEC Meeting Schedule Changes

Meetings for fall 2009 were to be scheduled every three weeks. Due to some trips on Dr.
Perry's calendar, some adjustments have been made to meeting dates.

Woodrow Wilson Indiana Teaching Fellowships

An informational handout was provided on these fellowships.

New Business

Dr. Perry indicated that an offer had been extended for the position of Associate Dean for
Graduate Studies and he was awaiting a response.




                                             5
College of Sciences (COS) 
                                  Meeting of Dean’s Executive Council 
                                         14 September 2009 
 
Present:   
Dean – George Perry 
Department  Chairs  –  Edwin  Barea‐Rodriguez,  Waldek  Gorski,  Miguel  Jose‐Yacaman,  Sandy 
Norman  
Associate Deans – Raymond Baird, Craig Jordan, George Negrete  
Center/Institute/Program Directors – Aaron Cassill, Weldon Hammond, Joe Lazor  
Undergraduate Advising Director – Patti Gonzalez 
Representative for Dr. Dutton – Stuart Birnbaum 
Retention and Graduation Analyst – Diane Elizondo 
Guest Speakers – Kerry Kenney, Dan Pena, David De Los Santos  
 
Summary Notes 
 
Access Control  
 
Dr. Perry welcomed the individuals listed below to the meeting: 
 
         Kerry Kennedy, Vice President for Business Affairs 
         Dan Pena, Interim Chief of Police 
         David De Los Santos, Director, Security Systems 
 
Mr.  Kennedy  stated  that  he  and  his  staff  are  here  to  serve  faculty  and  staff  with  the  highest 
level  of  service  and  they  appreciated  the  opportunity  to  hear  from  the  group.    He  indicated 
changes have been made in Access Control and he knows there is room for improvement. 
 
Mr.  Kennedy  introduced  David  De  Los  Santos,  new  Director  of  Security  Systems.    David 
commented  that  he  has  been  making  changes  and  appreciated  the  opportunity  to  hear 
comments and concerns. 
 
Chief Pena explained that he is continually working to streamline processes and he recently met 
with  Dr.  Barea‐Rodriguez.    He  commented  that  Access  Control  is  trying  to  adapt  services  to 
provide  the  level  of  access  needed  by  different  areas.    Some  areas  have  Locknitics,  which 
requires making changes on a computer and then going to the location and physically making 
the  change  on  the  machine.    With  the  DSX  system,  changes  only  need  to  be  made  on  the 
computer. 
 
Dr.  Gorski  mentioned  that  there  was  an  egress  issue  with  a  lab  on  the  4th  floor  of  BSE.    His 
concern was that toxic chemicals could be removed.  He also mentioned that his card swipe did 
not always work consistently at two exterior doors of BSE.  Chief Pena will follow up with Dr. 
Gorski  to  check  his  card  and  the  card  swipe  units  as  they  sometime  have  to  be  cleaned.    Dr. 
Cassill commented that there were two issues ‐ consistency and after hour access.  He said that 
in  the  past  you  could  speak  to  someone  to  request  entry  in  the  building  after  hours.    Mr. 
Kennedy responded that the speakers would be operating again soon. 
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Deans Executive Council Notes 2009

  • 1. College of Sciences (COS) Meeting of Dean’s Executive Council 20 January 2009 Present: Dean - George Perry Department Chairs - Edwin Barea-Rodriguez, Alan Dutton, Waldek Gorski, Miguel Jose- Yacaman, Sandy Norman, Kleanthis Psarris Associate Deans - Raymond Baird, Neal Guentzel, Craig Jordan, George Negrete, Edward Tiekink, Andy Tsin Center/Institute/Program Directors - Aaron Cassill, Joe Lazor, Ravi Sandhu Assistant Dean - Garry Castellanos COS Undergraduate Advising Director - Patti Gonzalez COS Retention and Graduation Analyst - Diane Elizondo Summary Notes Doctoral Faculty Status of department policies: Biology Dr. Barea-Rodriguez met with the Department Faculty Review Advisory Committee to discuss policy Chemistry Department has adopted a policy Computer Science Department has a policy Geological Sciences No action since last meeting Physics and Astronomy Department is working on a policy Student Health Insurance/Grant Buyouts Dr. Tiekink stated that for the coming year student health insurance coverage provided to Ph.D. students would remain status quo. This means that Ph.D. students who are appointed in positions at 20 hours (research assistants/teaching assistants) are entitled to receive the proportionate amount of premium assistance and access to the employee insurance options. Dr. Barea commented that the coverage would remain the same for the BIO Ph.D. students and the department would cover the cost. He informed of the limitations in the ability to appoint students in positions at 20 hours due to the department’s need to rely on a large number of students to assist in the instructional delivery and student assistance efforts in his department. Dr. Norman indicated that fewer students are hired in the 20 hour per week positions to meet instructional delivery and student assistance needs for mathematics. After a discussion, it was agreed that Garry will meet with Terry Wilson to discuss allowing academic funds released back to the departments from grant buyouts to be allowed to roll forward at fiscal year end and accrue for future use by department chairs and/or individual
  • 2. faculty who exercised the buyout. [Terry Wilson will be attending the February 16, 2009 meeting of the Dean’s Executive Council.] Meeting with the Provost - Strategic Plan Dr. Barea-Rodriguez and Dr. Yacaman indicated that they were working on scheduling a meeting with Dr. Frederick. After a discussion, Dr. Perry requested that Mary Alice contact the Provost’s office to see if he would be able to attend the meeting of the College Faculty Forum on February 5, 2009. [Dr. Frederick will be out of town and unable to attend the meeting. Department chairs should follow up with meetings.] College Budget Committee Dr. Perry informed the forum that the committee did not meet last year. A meeting of the committee will be scheduled. College Faculty Forum Dr. Perry reported that the College Faculty Forum meeting is scheduled for 3:30 p.m., Thursday, February 5, 2009 in Room 2.110 BSE. Regents’ Outstanding Teaching Awards A copy of the e-mail from the Office of the Vice Provost for Academic and Faculty Support dated January 12, 2009 was provided. Dr. Baird reported that Vice Provost Johnson's office was reviewing the nomination process. With the information we have at this time, the deadline for nominations to the Dean's office is Friday, February 13. Documentation required for nominations is provided in the "Nomination contents" section in the letter sent from the UT System. Provost’s UTSA Core Values Initiative An informational page was provided on this topic. Proposals can be submitted to the Provost’s office and the deadline is February 2, 2009. Dr. Frederick has indicated that he is available to attend department functions and talk about core values. Deadline for Annual Faculty Performance Appraisals After a discussion, it was agreed that the deadline for completion of annual faculty performance appraisal would be April 15. [Since the meeting, Dr. Baird sent e-mail to department chairs indicating a deadline date of April 1.] Staff appraisals are to be sent to Human Resources by Monday, March 2. 2
  • 3. COS Outreach Efforts for Current and Prospective Undergraduates Patti distributed and reviewed a faculty advising proposal for advising students with a GPA of less than 1.0 and “Step Up” students (GPA 2.0-2.2). Group sessions are recommended for sophomore “Step Up” students. The <1.0 faculty advising will be discontinued. Instead, the undergraduate advisors of record (UGARs) will meet with Sophomore Step Up students (BIO in group sessions, all others one-on-one). Students will have two holds placed: SC (science advising) until they meet with the UGAR and SG (science GPA until they meet with Kathlynn Wray, Step Up advisor). There was a discussion about students lacking awareness of the college experience. Dr. Barea- Rodriguez stated that he has given lectures to high school students so that students could hear what it is like to be in college. Because of time constraints he is limited to the number of schools he can visit. Dr. Baird suggested putting the lecture in a DVD format and make it available to schools. Several handouts on COS outreach efforts to current and future students were distributed. Diane spoke about the upcoming outreach efforts listed in the handout and stated she wants to collaborate with the departments. She requested department chairs submit information about their outreach efforts to Patti and her by January 30, 2009. Diane mentioned the new events listed in the handout: Admissions Reception, UGAR-COS Undergraduate Advising Center Meeting, UGAR Sessions and COS Monthly Sessions. Diane also mentioned having activities to provide students a richer experience. She suggested some kind of ceremony where we celebrate COS, perhaps a barbeque. Patti suggested forming a strategic planning committee. Names of individuals who could serve on a committee can be sent to Patti. Diane is scheduling meetings with departments to discuss graduation and retention rates. 3
  • 4. College of Sciences (C0S) Meeting of Dean’s Executive Council 2 February 2009 Present: Dean - George Perry Department Chairs - Alan Dutton, Waldek Gorski, Miguel Jose-Yacaman, Sandy Norman, Kleanthis Psarris Associate Deans - Raymond Baird, Craig Jordan, George Negrete, Andy Tsin Center/Institute/Program Directors - Aaron Cassill, Weldon Hammond, Joe Lazor, Ravi Sandhu Assistant Dean - Garry Castellanos COS Undergraduate Advising Director - Patti Gonzalez COS Retention and Graduation Analyst - Diane Elizondo Representative for Dr. Barea-Rodriguez - Hans Heidner Guest Speakers - Amanda Beck, Stuart Birnbaum, Richard Diem, Christi Fish, Barbara Millis, Antonio Rivera Summary Notes Expert Spokesperson Guide Amanda Beck, COS Communications Specialist, introduced Christi Fish, Public Affairs Specialist, from the University Communications office. Amanda explained that she is involved with internal media and Christi with external media. Christi is assigned to work with two colleges - Engineering and Sciences. One project Christi is involved with is the expert spokesperson guide. It is being revamped so media can contact university faculty experts. The guide is not up-to-date and only 35 faculty members are listed. Amanda and Christi are meeting once a week to discuss college activities. Christi requested administrators contact her about any stories that can be developed involving faculty, students, alumni and staff. ExxonMobil Science and Engineering Fair and COS Governor’s Summer Camp Dr. Birnbaum emphasized that the College of Sciences plays a major role in the science fair. Dates of the fair are March 27-30, 2009. Judging will be on Sunday, March 29. He implored department chairs to notify faculty and to encourage them to participate in this event. Faculty and graduate students are needed to serve on the Science Review Committee (SRC). This committee reviews documents about projects that provide information on how regulations and safety guidelines were followed. During the days of the fairs volunteers are also needed. Dr. Birnbaum will follow up with the departments. Last year, Governor Perry’s office provided additional funds for a residential summer camp. The schedule for the camp was put together quickly and included a trip to ExxonMobil. The Governor wants to expand the camp to increase the number of student participants. The Governor also wishes to acknowledge the teachers of the winning students in some manner. We are still working out the details but anticipate having up to ten teachers on campus along with the students.
  • 5. Dr. Birnbaum requested that department chairs help him by providing a list of topical ideas that would be engaging and interesting for a three to four day program. He suggested a common theme: One day of physics, one day of chemistry, and one day of computer science. We need to find someone to develop curriculum and have faculty run it. Field trips will again be included in the camp. There will be no more than 40 students. The time frame for the camp is the third week in June. Dr. Birnbaum requested input from department chairs by 4 February 2009. Curriculum Development Dr. Perry welcomed Dr. Richard Diem, Dean, Honors College and Dr. Barbara Millis, Director of the Teaching, Excellence and Mentoring (TEAM) Center. Dr. David Jones, Associate Dean of Admissions, UTHSCSA, was unable to attend the meeting as he was called to serve on an NIH panel. As discussed on several occasions in meetings of the Dean’s Executive Council, UTSA students are not admitted to health professions programs in the numbers that might be expected. This issue was discussed with Provost Frederick and a committee was formed. Dr. Diem and Dr. Millis gave a briefing on a strategy implemented in an attempt to rectify the situation. It proposed two solutions, both revolving around pre- health professions ( PHP) students’ perceived weaknesses in the areas of critical analysis and application of factual material on the MCAT and similar aptitude tests. The first element in the strategy is to address PHP students’ weaknesses in the areas of critical analysis and application. It was reported that relatively few of the PHP students take MCAT preparatory classes, frequently because of the high cost involved. An MCAT preparatory course was set up and offered at about half the cost of commercially available preparatory courses ($800 vs. $1500+). It was noted that 30% of the students who signed up did not finish the course. Dr. Diem indicated that students who completed the preparatory course did well on the MCAT test (but no comparative data were presented giving the performance of those who dropped out of the course or comparable PHP students who never signed up for it). The second element in the strategy is to address PHP students’ weaknesses in the areas of critical analysis and application on the MCAT somewhat more indirectly. Specifically, the goal of this element of the strategy is to incorporate more relevant skill training in courses which are required by PHP programs. President Romo and Provost Frederick have provided funding to bring three recognized “experts” to UTSA over the next several months to conduct workshops which will assist faculty in their efforts to re-design courses. Dr. Millis provided handouts with information on the dates of workshops and other scheduled activities for the Provost’s initiative to promote critical thinking. In the discussion that followed, the point was made that success in teaching has not been a major criterion in faculty retention, promotion, or merit. Until/unless this attitude is changed, faculty will probably not expend the effort necessary to change their instructional strategies because of the low expected payoff. Another concern is that the discrepancy between students’ high grades and lower MCAT scores may impact accreditation. This discrepancy could reflect different emphases in content of the test and what is being taught in the classes. Provost Frederick has provided money for curriculum development which has to be spent by August. Drs. Diem and Millis are willing to attend department meetings. Dr. Diem should be contacted if the college or department wants to have a workshop about best practices in teaching, 2
  • 6. Dean’s Graduate Fellowships and other Diversity Initiatives’ Announcements A draft document on COS Dean’s Fellowships for South Texas for first-year doctoral students was provided by Dr. Negrete. Funds from the doctoral programs will be transferred to the Dean’s office for recruiting students from South Texas. This has support from the Provost’s office. Departments will recommend students from recruitment pools. Departments are expected to provide support to Dean’s Fellows who are in good academic standing during subsequent academic years. Dr. Perry requested that department chairs review the document and provide comments to Dr. Negrete. Department chairs should be thinking about who they want to nominate. Associate Dean for Graduate Studies Dr. Perry stated that Dr. Tiekink was on a leave of absence. He requested administrators to send him recommendations of faculty members who could serve in this position. Provost’s Memorandum - Course Prerequisites After a discussion of the Provost's memorandum sent on prerequisites, it was decided that the department chairs would let Patti Gonzalez know by April 1 how they want to handle students who request to waive the 08-10 prerequisites due to an earlier catalog of graduation. Scholarships and Student Grievances In order to advertise the college scholarships Dr. Jordan asked faculty members for their assistance in publishing a link on their WebCT/Blackboard courses. Dr. Jordan requested faculty members to give permission to Tamara Popescu (COS WebCT Associate) to add a link to the College of Sciences Scholarships on their online courses. Dr. Jordan requested and received permission from the Departments of Chemistry and Physics and Astronomy to add the link to all online courses from their departments. Dr. Jordan mentioned student grievances and asked administrators about including a section about the process for filing a student grievance in a syllabus. There have been a few grievances and some students do not follow the process. Dr. Tsin suggested improving links so students can find information. Dr. Baird commented that he was not sure that adding a grievance procedure to a syllabus would save time and might generate more grievances. Step Up Undergraduate Advisors of Record (UGAR) Sessions and Strategic Planning Committee Patti Gonzalez distributed a handout and noted the upcoming (UGAR) meetings. She mentioned the Strategic Planning Committee and said she has names of faculty representatives to serve from Geological Sciences and Physics and Astronomy. She would like to have representatives from each department for the first meeting in mid-February. 3
  • 7. High Achieving First-Year Students Diane Elizondo stated that students identified as outstanding sophomores will be eligible for a scholarship drawing on 2 February which would be an incentive for them to remain at UTSA. A reception recognizing the recipients will be held on 3 March from 2-3 p.m. in the Hidalgo Room in the UC. She also provided a handout on information gathered from students about reasons why they left UTSA after their first year of study that was collated in summer 2008. Diane provided handouts on high-achieving cohort students from Fall 2008. COS has the highest number of high achieving students. These students have been sent letters with information about COS scholarships. Any suggestions on other efforts to retain students can be sent to Diane. Dr. Perry will work with Diane to have programs for all levels. Board of Regents’ Outstanding Teaching Awards The deadline for nominations is 13 February to the Dean’s Office. President’s Distinguished Achievement Awards Dr. Perry encouraged department chairs to nominate at least one faculty member in each category. He commented that they could use the same information from last year. The deadline for nominations to the Dean’s office is 27 February. Education Committee Report on Texas K-12 Math and Science Education Dr. Perry informed administrators that he was providing the handout he received at a Deans’ meeting with the Provost for their information. 4
  • 8. College of Sciences (COS) Meeting of Dean’s Executive Council 2 March 2009 Present: Dean - George Perry Department Chairs - Edwin Barea-Rodriguez, Alan Dutton, Waldek Gorski, Miguel Jose- Yacaman, Sandy Norman, Kleanthis Psarris Associate Deans - Raymond Baird, Craig Jordan, George Negrete, Andy Tsin Center/Institute/Program Directors - Aaron Cassill, Joe Lazor Assistant Dean - Garry Castellanos COS Undergraduate Advising Director - Patti Gonzalez COS Retention and Graduation Analyst - Diane Elizondo Guest Speakers - Joe Fritz, John Palmer Summary Notes Textbook Ordering Review and Evaluation Dr. Perry welcomed John Palmer, Director, and Joe Fritz, Text Manager, of the UTSA Bookstore. Mr. Palmer stated that the Bookstore wants to meet the needs of faculty and students. He has heard comments about the Bookstore under-ordering books and he and his staff were approaching the colleges and soliciting feedback. He said a number of factors are taken into consideration when ordering books. Weekly enrollment reports are reviewed. The date of issue of the book is taken into consideration. About 90% of the time the right numbers of books are ordered. But it only takes one class with the incorrect number of books ordered that impacts students and receives much attention. About 20% of students attempt to get through class without a book. Students view the Bookstore prices as being the highest and they are looking for the best buys on e-Bay or Amazon. Prices are driven by the publisher. The Bookstore provides used text books. If a textbook is being reused during the next term, the Bookstore will pay up to 50% of the new textbook price provided the book is in good condition. Dr. Gorski asked about e-Books. Mr. Palmer responded that this is a good option. However, the e-Book business is developing and there is no organized way to determine the standard. The prices of e-Books vary and vendors have different policies. Dr. Barea-Rodriguez asked what faculty can do about the high costs of books. Mr. Palmer responded by using a book that will be used for a while and to stretch it out between editions. Customized books that use certain chapters can be sold at a lower cost. These can be ordered but the Bookstore would need assurances that books will be used for several years. Dr. Barea-Rodriguez commented that he has had discussion with publishers and making them aware that some costs of books are too expensive and he will not use them for his classes. He feels that you have to bargain with publishers as a way to keep costs down.
  • 9. Deadlines for ordering textbooks are: Summer term - March 15 Fall term - April 15 Spring term – October 15 Mr. Palmer appreciated the feedback from administrators. He stated that in the past the Bookstore has worked primarily with staff in the departments. He wants to also encourage communication with administrators and faculty. Mr. Palmer and Mr. Fritz are available to attend department faculty meetings. I Clickers Dr. Dutton stated that the clicker technology should be standardized. Dr. Barea-Rodriguez commented that he had contacted Dr. Larry Williams about standardizing clickers. Dr. Perry requested department chairs to be thinking about moving to a standard clicker for the college. This will be discussed at the next meeting of the Dean’s Executive Council. End of Summer Research Conference and Diversity Initiatives’ Activities Dr. Negrete informed the forum that a summer research conference was being planned for late August. Undergraduate students will present posters on their research. Dr. Negrete wants to expand this for the entire college. Other universities would be invited to attend and the goal is to bring regional students so they can get to know UTSA. We will have an event organizer. Faculty would need to make contacts and do leg work. Dr. Tsin suggested this could be a conference to showcase the college and suggested that it include master’s and Ph.D. students and faculty. Dr. Negrete responded that we would need more money and resources. After hearing input, Dr. Negrete concluded that discussions will continue on the plan for the conference. A committee will soon review nominations received for the Dean’s Fellows. The Lone Star Graduate Diversity Colloquium is scheduled for 27-28 March 2009 on the UTSA campus. An estimated 55-70 students are expected to attend. Dr. Negrete is requesting that department chairs have faculty available to connect with students. Proposal Routing, CAYUSE The CAYUSE system provides for electronic submission of proposals and routing through administrative levels for approvals. Dr. Tsin indicated that a problem appears to be routing. There are many proposals that need to be reviewed. Some proposals do not route to department chairs for approvals. Based on the Office of Sponsored Programs, a proposal is required to route through department chairs only if a faculty member indicates a response of “yes” to the questions that follow: 2
  • 10. Are matching funds or cost sharing included in this proposal? • Are the faculty involved in this project requesting buy-out of their teaching time? • Does the project require the hiring of new faculty? • Does this proposal involve new space or alterations to existing space within the university? The routing of proposals was discussed at earlier Chairs’ Council and Provost’s Council meetings. The outcome was approval for the current routing process. The Office of Sponsored Program has informed the college that until President Romo changes the directive, department chairs can be bypassed on proposal routing when the areas mentioned above are not involved. Dr. Barea-Rodriguez pointed out some proposals involve buyouts and students. There is the concern of proposals from centers and institutes in the college not routed through the departments thus bypassing department chairs in the approval process. Dr. Psarris indicated that there is a cost for research and external funding should share part of the cost. He wants to see budgets and he commented that some proposals allow for course buyouts but faculty do not include them. After a discussion, the department chairs agreed that all proposals should be routed through them for approval. Dr. Perry will request this recommendation be discussed at a future Provost’s Council meeting. Class Schedules Dr. Barea-Rodriguez indicated that he was a member of the university room scheduling committee. An issue is the number of classrooms available on campus - 104 classrooms @ 1604, 40 downtown. Biology majors need classes offered at the same time as classes needed by chemistry students. He mentioned the model in the College of Business where one person does the scheduling of classes for the college. He asked “How can we work together as departments toward this and have classes scheduled so they do not conflict?” Patti suggested having a meeting with all the individuals in departments involved with scheduling classes, before the Schedule of Classes is published, so that they can consult and ensure that courses COS majors need are not offered at the same or overlapping times. She mentioned that she and Diane have been involved with the Downtown Curriculum Committee that Dr. Guentzel is chairing. Dr. Guentzel asked that she create a block schedule for FR, SO, JR, and SR biology students to take a full-load of courses at the Downtown Campus (for the spring 2008 and the fall 2009). She was also asked to create a block schedule for FR with non-biology COS majors to take a full-load of courses at the Downtown Campus (for the spring 2008 and the fall 2009). In doing so, she found that there were a number of time conflicts. After a discussion, Dr. Perry requested that Dr. Jordan follow up on this issue. Stimulus Impact Dr Baird summarized what he had been able to piece together from several sources regarding the potential impact of the federal “stimulus” package on COS funding. Several agencies will have enhanced funding (totaling several billion dollars) which will be awarded for research and 3
  • 11. education. Most of the money is expected to be spent within 24 months and much of it will revolve about the themes of biomedical, energy, climate change, and competitive research. There will be much pressure to spend the money well (trying to avoid ridicule from across the aisle deriving from “bridges to nowhere,” etc.). There will be additional funding for student scholarships and work study programs. There will be some money available for rehabilitating buildings related to science activities, but these funds will be routed through state government agencies. Since many of the dollars will go to fund grant proposals (RO1’s) previously found to be highly meritorious but not funded due to budget limitations, Dean Perry advised department chairs to inform applicants who had grant proposals falling into this category to contact the appropriate program officers at the granting agencies. Doctoral Faculty Dr. Dutton provided a handout on the policy on funding support of doctoral aspirants/candidates from the handbook on the Environmental Science and Engineering Ph.D. Program. Dr. Perry indicated that we are trying to identify a subset of the graduate faculty to serve as doctoral faculty. These individuals would be principal advisors and supervising Ph.D. students. President’s Distinguished Achievement Awards Dr. Perry reported that he had reviewed the recommendations of the College Faculty Review Advisory Committee for the awards and forwarded the college’s nominees to the Provost’s Office. The department chairs will be informed of the nominees. Other Business San Antonio Math & Science Education Partnership Dr. Cassill mentioned the very successful San Antonio Math & Science Education Partnership meeting with 75 K-12, community college and university teachers in attendance. Fifteen out of 18 school districts were represented as well as every community college and all but one four- year university. Provost Frederick attended the meeting along with two department chairs from the College of Sciences, Dr. Barea-Rodriguez and Dr. Norman. The group spent three hours discussing approaches to improving STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) education in San Antonio. Dr. Norman stated there is a big gap between what K-12 teachers are doing and what is expected of students coming to the university. He stated we hope to bring the leadership together and have future meetings. Dr. Lazor commented that it was important to have the presence of department chairs as we partner with districts. 4
  • 12. College of Sciences (COS) Meeting of Dean’s Executive Council 16 March 2009 Present: Dean - George Perry Department Chairs - Edwin Barea-Rodriguez, Waldek Gorski, Miguel Jose-Yacaman, Sandy Norman, Kleanthis Psarris Associate Deans - Raymond Baird, Craig Jordan, George Negrete Center/Institute/Program Directors - Aaron Cassill, Weldon Hammond, Joe Lazor Assistant Dean - Garry Castellanos COS Undergraduate Advising Director - Patti Gonzalez COS Retention and Graduation Analyst - Diane Elizondo Representative for Dr. Dutton - Stuart Birnbaum Summary Notes ExxonMobil Texas Science and Engineering Fair Dr. Birnbaum informed administrators that the Science and Engineering fair was fast approaching. As of 16 March there were 96 judges which is half of what is needed. He provided a handout with the names of judges. He requested that efforts be made to try and find judges at the university, in our laboratories and in the community. Qualifications of judges are shown below: Middle School Division Senior Division  Graduate students  Ph.D. degree  Individuals working in discipline  Postdoctoral students with a bachelor’s degree  Ph.D. students who have advanced to  Retired teachers candidacy  Significant work experience Dr. Birnbaum also mentioned that volunteers are needed on 28 March. Department chairs and faculty can contact student organizations and make them aware of the opportunity to do service work. Volunteers do not have to be science students. Kai Kamaka can be contacted for information on volunteers. Set up at the convention center is Saturday, 28 March and judging will be Sunday, 29 March. Parking and food will be provided for volunteers. Dr. Birnbaum mentioned that at the recent Alamo Regional Science and Engineering Fair held at St. Mary’s University, scholarships were given from UTSA. Much of the selection rested on his shoulders as there was a small selection committee. More faculty participation is needed at the Science end Engineering fair for this effort.
  • 13. Dr. Perry asked if faculty participation factored in for community service and the merit process. Dr. Psarris responded that faculty can include this information in their annual reports and it will be reviewed. Information on the fair can be accessed at: www.emtsef.org Report on “Designing Texas Undergraduate Education in the 21st Century” Dr. Perry referenced the copy of the memorandum from the Coordinating Board. The Commissioner of Higher Education authorized the creation of a standing advisory committee to study and make recommendations for improving the quality of undergraduate education in Texas. The recommendations were listed in the memorandum. Dr. Perry mentioned that this reflected continued scrutiny of how we are graduating students. There followed an extended discussion revolving around teaching. Summary comments by attendees are provided below: Dr. Barea-Rodriguez: When assistant professors are recruited, an emphasis is placed on research. Message is that if you focus on teaching and not research, you will not get promoted. This gets passed on and shows up in attitudes of tenured faculty. Faculty need to receive the message that teaching is important here. (Parenthetically, he ventured that the proposed teaching track is unrealistic; number of courses one would have to teach is not doable.) Great research universities have great teachers; but classes are small, student-to-teacher ratio is small. We need to learn how to let the teachers teach and the researchers do research - both help the university. Dr. Norman: Observed that he sees people going into teaching who will not be good teachers. Dr. Psarris: Expressed the opinion that teaching and research are not mutually exclusive. The best scholars can also be the best teachers. (Others questioned whether that was universally true.) With the focus on UTSA becoming a top-tier university there is the misconception that teaching is not important. Top-tier universities also value teaching as much as they value research. Dr. Cassill: He has heard that the Provost wants faculty to be better teachers. However, the faculty are not participating in the discussions. The University needs to ask faculty “what is it you need to motivate you and what will make you participate?” He also mentioned the fact that since superior teaching figures little in promotion decisions, good teachers are denied the large raises associated with promotion. Dr. Baird: Mentioned the handout prepared by the associate deans addressing the issue of measuring teaching in a valid fashion. When and if those options are adopted, department chairs will have means to distribute merit raises so as to reflect superior teaching as well as superior research - those financial resources are already available. 2
  • 14. Dr. Lazor: Recalled that he had met Sandy Norman 17 years ago, when the first standardized mathematics achievement tests were being imposed on the public schools. In the early results, only 7% of students passed. We are at a similar place now at the university. He noted that the measures, external or internal, had to be objective and rigorous, and there had to be a standard. When these were in place, the public school teachers responded with innovation and improvement and now generally meet the standards. He said the expectation had to be that failure is not acceptable. Dr. Birnbaum: Noted that the American Chemical Society (ACS) has standards and tests which are used in several chemistry courses. He inquired if any departments had evaluations/standards like the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, Inc. (ABET)? Patti Gonzalez: Observed that from the discussion it sounds like there are good teachers in every department. Perhaps together they could make up a college teaching effectiveness task force which could help develop standards and best practices. She noted that even if we did not get extra financial resources, if we agreed on some measures of success then department chairs could allocate the merit monies in ways that would reward superior teaching. Dr. Gorski: Noted that we faculty know how to do research because we have been trained to do so. We do not know how to teach. He suggested that we conduct classes for faculty - several classes a semester, demonstrating what a good teacher should do. He noted that in Chemistry, when they do recruiting they are talking research expertise, can candidate bring grant money. They ask candidate to submit one page of teaching philosophy and this is reviewed by the recruitment committee. Dr. Psarris: Was of the opinion that departments cannot evaluate teaching on a recruitment visit. Dr. Baird: Suggested that young faculty should be mentored by master teachers when they arrive. Frequently, under present procedures, there is little teaching in the first few years. New faculty should be doing some teaching under supervision so they gradually develop some teaching skills before they have to face a full-time teaching load. Dr. Lazor: Suggested teaching partnerships - have faculty pair themselves. If they sat in on each others classes, it would help in both ways. But there has to be an agreement. Dr. Gorski: Said he had tried to do formal mentoring. The major issue encountered is that some young faculty members said they already knew what was necessary for career development. Dr. Baird suggested that this “arrangement” be discussed with prospective hires at time of recruitment. Garry Castellanos: Suggested that the importance of teaching could be reflected in a strategic plan or workload policy or handbook. 3
  • 15. Dr. Perry: Reiterated that the message from Provost and President is unambiguous - that teaching is an important part of the faculty role. He also emphasized that departments can reward top teachers by using merit process. Dr. Birnbaum: Discussion has come back to a point made earlier: we have no effective means of identifying who are superior teachers. Dr. Perry: Discussion will continue at next meeting. Faculty Promotion Guidelines A draft document from the Provost’s Office was provided. Dr. Barea-Rodriguez noted that a change in procedure will provide for department chairs to attend DFRAC meetings. Comments on the document can be sent either to Dr. Frederick or Dr. Perry. [Since the meeting the final document has been distributed.] Dr. Yacaman indicated his concern that a past mentor could not serve as an external reviewer. Dr. Baird responded that this was a conflict of interest. Dissemination of Information from Dean’s Executive Council Meetings Dr. Perry asked if information from meetings of the Dean’s Executive Council meetings was being passed to faculty. Some department chairs responded only if the information was applicable. After a discussion, it was agreed that the notes would be posted to the college’s homepage. Doctoral Faculty With the exception of the Department of Geological Sciences, the department chairs have indicated they now have a policy. I-Clickers - George Perry Dr. Perry reminded department chairs that they were requested to obtain information on this topic from the last meeting. He asked if the college should adopt a standard clicker. Dr. Norman mentioned that a representative for the I-Clicker system will be providing a demonstration and training session on how these can be used in classes at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, 27 March 2009 in Room 2.03.10 MS. Dr. Barea-Rodriguez indicated that he had e-mailed Larry Williams about adopting a common clicker. Dr. Birnbaum stated that there seems to be a trend toward using Turning Point. Dr. Perry encouraged department chairs to continue to obtain more information on clickers. 2008-2010 Prerequisites Patti distributed a handout of the 2008-2010 prerequisites that will be entered and enforced for fall (registration starts April 6). Any changes the department chairs wish to make (to avoid 4
  • 16. excessive Prereq Override Requests) should be sent via email to Barbara Smith with a copy to Patti Gonzalez. Jump Start Program Diane Elizondo provided a handout on the “Jump Start 2009 Update.” As of 3 March 2009, 1,527 students have been admitted to the COS as freshman (FR) for fall 2009. Their mathematics readiness skills are shown below: • 506 of these students are eligible for college algebra. • 720 are considered college ready (CR) in mathematics, but not eligible for college algebra without the mathematics placement examination. • 301 are considered not college ready (NCR) in mathematics. Invitations were sent to students to participate in Jump Start, an intensive, one-day mathematics refresher course. This new program helps incoming freshmen in the Colleges of Engineering and Sciences prepare for the calculus placement examination and is offered the day before freshman orientation sessions. Other Business Class Schedules Departments will be requested to post course schedules for future semesters on web sites. It is expected that schedules would be subject to change. 5
  • 17. College of Sciences (COS) Meeting of Dean’s Executive Council 13 April 2009 Present: Dean - George Perry Department Chairs - Edwin Barea-Rodriguez, Alan Dutton, Waldek Gorski, Miguel Jose- Yacaman, Sandy Norman, Kleanthis Psarris Associate Deans - Raymond Baird, Craig Jordan, George Negrete Center/Institute/Program Directors - Aaron Cassill, Joe Lazor Assistant Dean - Garry Castellanos COS Undergraduate Advising Director - Patti Gonzalez COS Retention and Graduation Analyst - Diane Elizondo Summary Notes Status of Annual Faculty Performance Appraisals Dr. Baird reminded department chairs that faculty appraisals need to be completed. He asked department chairs about the status of appraisals in their departments. Their responses are noted below: Biology Only seven appraisals need to be completed Chemistry Will be completed in two to three days Computer Science Will be completed by the end of the semester Environmental Science 1/3 done; 1/3 scheduled; 1/3 pending Geological Sciences Appraisals have been completed Mathematics Will be completed by next week Physics and Astronomy Appraisals will be completed in two weeks Dr. Gorski commented that he is planning for a more meaningful assessment of teaching effectiveness for faculty appraisals for next year. He has talked with Barbara Millis, Director, Teaching, Excellence, Advancement, and Mentoring (TEAM) Center. He will be adding a requirement for chemistry faculty to attend one to two TEAM teaching workshops. Faculty will be able to add points in the teaching segment of the appraisal. If they do not participate, they will receive zero (0) in the category. Dr. Gorski feels in the long run this may help teaching skills. ResearcherID Link Dr. Perry informed the forum that he had found a site, ResearcherID, which was easier to use for evaluating faculty for citations. He is requesting that faculty being reviewed for promotion/tenure or post tenure review register at the site. Faculty members will need to create their own profile. The site is linked to the Web of Knowledge. Dr. Yacaman mentioned one would have to do multiple searches because of the different way names are spelled. Dr. Perry felt that the various listings could be checked. The site can be accessed at: http://www.researcherid.com/Home.action
  • 18. Campus-Wide Audit Garry referenced the memorandum dated 7 April 2009 from Dr. Frederick on the “Campus-Wide Audit.” There will be an audit that will review how information technology assets are managed, funded and secured efficiently and effectively. Paul Tyler and Carol Rapps will be contacting area individuals to see what resources we own and are responsible for. This information will be helpful for the new Chief Information Officer coming to UTSA. Fall 2005-2008 Comparison Dr. Perry provided the handout on “Fall 2005-2008 Comparison” which was distributed at a Strategic Resource Planning Council meeting. This is information reported to the Coordinating Board and is something like a breakeven analysis. The data will be a major driver for faculty recruitment. There were questions about the data asked by the department chairs - number of faculty in departments, why are there fractions, were NTT faculty included, comparison to other components in the UT System. Mr. George Jeffery, Provost’s Office, will be invited to attend a future meeting of the Dean’s Executive Council to discuss the spreadsheet. Course Prerequisites Dr. Perry stated he would be asking each of the department chairs for confirmation of two items: 1. Whether a department’s schedule of classes will look the same as in the past. We need to make sure that prerequisites will be factored. 2. Are there unhidden prerequisites or prerequisites that are unnecessary. Departments need to give due consideration so that we do not have obstacles preventing students from graduating. Patti commented that there are a lot of overrides of prerequisites. Patti asked the department chairs for a definition of a prerequisite. The answer was a course necessary prior to do well in the requisite course. External Reviewer’s Format Letter There was a discussion about the sections in the sample letter from the Provost’s Office on “evaluating research/scholarly/creative accomplishment” and not evaluating teaching. The letter also informs external reviewers that their evaluation will be made available if someone requests to see it. Dr. Yacaman conveyed that this was not an appropriate letter to be sent to external reviewers and questioned why external reviewers could not comment on teaching. Dr. Perry mentioned that he had samples of letters from universities asking him for an evaluation. Copies of these letters will be sent to Dr. Barea-Rodriguez and Dr. Yacaman. Spring Fling 2009 Patti reminded the forum about Spring Fling 2009 which is scheduled for Saturday, 18 April 2009, on campus. This event is for juniors and their parents. If departments are interested in participating, reservations forms need to be submitted by April 15. 2
  • 19. Dr. Norman commented that he had reviewed the spring 2009 Graduation Initiative newsletter. He stated that the article was unreasonably and universally critical about advising. He felt that the comments made did not apply and that he has witnessed COS advisors being more proactive. Diane commented that the article came from data in the Report of the Blue Ribbon Committee on the Undergraduate Experience and the report about barriers to graduation compiled from the Graduation Initiative, which included a student feedback report from two years ago. She stated that students might incorrectly state academic advising is a problem for some issues that the advising centers have no purview (e.g. when and what courses are offered each semester - a department responsibility). Dr. Jordan conveyed that he was attending a weekly group meeting with Dr. Williams. Dr. Frederick has requested a report by mid-May to deal with problems of advising. The group is trying to determine what is the scope of the problem. Are complaints by students about an advisor or an advising center? Dr. Norman stated that if department chairs have opportunity for input, he would like to provide some. He sees the COS advisors as being more proactive plus the Advising Center operates with a limited budget. Dr. Barea-Rodriguez agreed with Dr. Norman’s comments. Diane commented that an outside consultant will be used to evaluate advising. Patti responded that there was an external review in 2005 and recommendations were made. Diane noted that we need to advocate to and inform the Provost about our proactive activities. Dr. Jordan emphasized that the COS Undergraduate Advising Center is trying to reach out to students. He pointed out that Patti has to go through Barbara Smith, Executive Director of Advising. Patti stated that she and the advisors have good ideas but not the support. Dr. Norman suggested that administrators work to have the COS Undergraduate Advising Center assigned back to the College of Sciences. The advising centers are supported by student fees. Garry mentioned that he had met with Dr. Williams. Of the money collected, Dr. Williams has to fund all the advising centers. Dr. Lazor suggested that COS conduct an analysis of services. He stated that the information in the report might need to be challenged because if it is an attitude survey it is not useful information. Another hindrance is that students are receiving advising from four offices - COS Undergraduate Advising Center, Honors College, University Health Professions Office, and Athletics Advising if a student-athlete. New Business Dr. Yacaman commented that meetings of the Dean’s Executive Council were scheduled too close together and recommended that they be scheduled every three weeks. Dr. Perry asked the forum for their comments and there was agreement. Diane requested that Dr. Gloria Crisp, College of Education and Human Development, be invited to speak at a future meeting to talk about Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) majors. 3
  • 20. College of Sciences (COS) Meeting of Dean’s Executive Council 4 May 2009 Present: Dean - George Perry Department Chairs - Edwin Barea-Rodriguez, Alan Dutton, Waldek Gorski, Sandy Norman Associate Deans - Raymond Baird, Craig Jordan Center/Institute/Program Directors - Aaron Cassill, Joe Lazor, Ravi Sandhu Assistant Dean - Garry Castellanos COS Undergraduate Advising Director - Patti Gonzalez Assistant Department Chair, Biology - Hans Heidner Guest Speakers - Edward (Ted) Early, Peter Smith Summary Notes Status of Annual Faculty Performance Appraisals Dr. Baird informed department chairs that it was important that they conclude their annual faculty performance appraisals as faculty would soon be departing and appraisals are required for merit consideration. Partnerships with Northrop Grumman Dr. Perry introduced Edward (Ted) Early, Ph.D. and Peter Smith, Ph.D. of Northrop Grumman Corporation (NGC). Northrop Grumman is a first tier defense company and involved with research development. Both individuals spoke during their PowerPoint presentation. Dr. Smith extended thanks for the long-standing relationship with Northrop Grumman and conveyed his company wants to continue to develop partnerships with UTSA. Dr. Smith indicated that NGC is a less familiar company and was having difficulty attracting individuals to work in Texas and they were now taking an approach of looking for individuals at their own doorstep. Northrop Grumman is involved with research, providing information, and advising the government on the best strategy of an application. It is also involved with laser research and providing biological data for laser safety standards. Dr. Early stated that despite being a military research environment, publications are generated at NGC. Northrop Grumman is committed to education. The company offers an educational assistance program and has an internship program with UTSA for all science backgrounds. Summer internships could be developed. Dr. Smith stated that representatives from his company will be able to attend student group meetings. Garry mentioned the teaming agreement between the College of Sciences, UTSA and Northrop Grumman Information Technology Inc., a Northrop Grumman Company. He mentioned the possibility of developing an agreement that would allow using a Northrop Grumman secure computing facility in lieu of duplicating a similar facility at UTSA. This would be beneficial for UTSA's Institute for Cyber Security.
  • 21. Strategic Plan, College of Sciences Dr. Perry informed the forum that a brochure would be developed from the strategic plan for the College of Sciences. A copy of the strategic plan was provided and he requested that administrators review the document and send any changes to him. Professional Science Teaching Track Dr. Baird reported that he and Dr. Perry had a good meeting with Provost Frederick on the topic of the professional science and mathematics teaching track. Dr. Frederick gave his approval for the college to begin identifying faculty. Dr. Baird will be following up with department chairs for suggestions regarding faculty who might be good candidates. This teaching track will not be available for assistant professors. Department Reviews Dr. Perry noted the handout on department reviews. Dr. Frederick is requesting that departments have periodic reviews. Three departments need to be scheduled. Dr. Barea-Rodriquez asked if there was a template. Dr. Gorski mentioned that the department was reviewed periodically by the American Chemical Society and he asked if this review would be sufficient. Dr. Perry will follow-up and e-mail department chairs information regarding reviews given to him by Dr. Frederick. Communications from Laboratory Safety Officer Dr. Perry referenced two handouts from Wendy McCoy, Laboratory Safety Officer. She provided a listing of all required training courses for graduate students. She also sent an e-mail about complaints received regarding laboratory personnel wearing gloves in common areas. Department chairs were requested to follow up with laboratories in their areas. New Faculty Orientation and Prerequisite Checking, Summer and Fall Barbara Smith, Executive Director of Advising, informed Patti that summer prerequisite checking is being turned off. This has been the practice for past summers. Faculty will have to check themselves. Patti also commented that there was a problem which resulted in prerequisite checking for fall being turned off for a few hours. Those students will eventually be dropped from these courses, probably after spring grades roll. Dr. Perry will request that this topic be discussed at a future meeting of Deans’ Council. New Business Travel Garry mentioned the advisories that had been issued about Influenza H1N1 (swine flu). The UTSA Police Department distributed information on the UT System Travel recommendations indicating that all non-essential travel to Mexico be suspended. Mr. Gribou, Executive Vice Provost, distributed an e-mail regarding UTSA study abroad and exchange programs in Mexico. 2
  • 22. Research Opportunities Dr. Perry stated that he had attended a meeting of the associate vice presidents for research. Information on opportunities through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009 was discussed. Dr. Tsin will send information to department chairs and directors of centers/institutes. There will be increased reports and monitoring with all grants that will be awarded through the ARRA. Report processing will be delegated to departments. Equipment List Garry mentioned that he had received inputs from department chairs and directors of centers/institutes. He distributed copies of the consolidated equipment list inputs to department chairs and requested it be reviewed. Dr. Perry requested that administrators scrutinize the list and maintain a current list of equipment needs so that if funds become available unexpectedly we would be prepared to submit our requests. 3
  • 23. College of Sciences (COS) Meeting of Dean’s Executive Council 15 June 2009 Present: Dean – George Perry Department Chairs – Alan Dutton, Waldek Gorski, Sandy Norman Associate Deans – Raymond Baird, Craig Jordan, George Negrete, Andy Tsin Center/Institute/Program Directors – Weldon Hammond, Joe Lazor, John McCarrey Assistant Dean – Garry Castellanos Director of Development – Kim Fischer Undergraduate Advising Director and Staff – Patti Gonzalez, Paul Machen, Kim Rolf Retention and Graduation Analyst – Diane Elizondo Representative for Dr. Barea-Rodriguez – Martha Lundell Representative for Dr. Yacaman – Rafael López-Mobilia Guest Speaker – Gloria Crisp Summary Notes Introduction of Kim Fischer, COS Director of Development Dr. Perry introduced Kim Fischer who has been appointed COS Director of Development. She has more than 15 years in public relations and development. She lived in New Mexico for 25 years before moving to San Antonio nine years ago. During that time, she has been a development consultant for numerous non-profit organizations, including the Cancer Therapy and Research Center. Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Majors Dr. Perry introduced Gloria Crisp, Ed.D., Assistant Professor, College of Education and Human Development. She discussed her research study that examined underrepresented undergraduate student groups and their success. The findings were also provided in the handout she distributed. Dr. Negrete suggested a follow-up study as to how intervention program are useful to the success of students. Diane Elizondo asked about the role of faculty mentoring with undergraduates and suggested that introductory science and mathematics courses not be large to create a small college experience. In addition, introductory seminars can also be created, like learning communities. Dr. Crisp stated that research supports that this experience within the first year is positive and mentoring is important. Dr. Perry mentioned he had received information from the Association of Public and Land-Grant Universities. The information indicates recitation courses increase social interaction and student performance. Dr. Norman recommended an introductory seminar course so students know what to expect. Dr. Perry and Dr. Jordan will have continued discussions.
  • 24. COS Budget Garry Castellanos distributed a handout to department chairs regarding FY 10 Budget Allocations. The good news is that we have more money. Over two years, we asked for $14M with infusion of new faculty. This included associated start-up costs as there can be multiple years of appointments. The permanent funding received for the college is $272,000 spread over academic units for the coming year. The better news is that we are recruiting 16 new faculty. A total of 11 individuals have signed acceptance letters (one offer still pending). An amount of $1.6M has been committed for these new faculty. Lapsed salaries can be used by department chairs to hire NTT faculty and other initiatives to grow departments. Dr. Perry indicated that we need to be starting faculty searches earlier. Departments should be networking with colleagues at UTSA and elsewhere, leaders in the field of the search, and placing advertisements in pivotal publications for the field. Funding for the San Antonio Life Sciences Institute (SALSI) has been approved. American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009 Reporting Requirements Garry referenced the handout and stated that Dr. Tsin had also sent information on reporting guidelines to departments. The handout provided summary information on reporting requirements, there may be additional reporting requirements. UTSA will hire someone to assist with data collection. The Office of Sponsored Projects does not have a template yet. Some required reporting will be the number of jobs created from funding received. Quarterly reports will be due soon. ARRA awards are to be flagged. Two Special One-time Funding Opportunities at NSF (MRI and ARI) Dr. Perry stated that Dr. Yacaman had requested this topic be discussed but he was unable to attend the meeting. Dr. Perry asked “How do we choose limited submission grants? Do we need a special meeting?” He indicated that the process raises a lot of questions. While it is not ideal, there is representation for every group in the selection process. Dr. Dutton suggested that this could be directed to the College Policy Committee. After a discussion it was decided that Dr. Perry will follow up with a meeting with Dr. Gracy and Dr. Tsin. Procedures for Tenured Faculty Performance Improvement Plans Provost Frederick distributed the above-mentioned policy. Dr. Norman said he had concerns about the statement: If a Department Chair determines through the annual evaluation/merit review process that a tenured faculty member is, in the Chair’s judgment, not meeting expectations in the performance of their duties, the Chair should initiate a Performance Improvement Plan (PIP) for that individual. This information is neither in the UTSA Handbook of Operating Procedures nor the Regents Rules. He noted that faculty should have been included in discussions about this policy. 2
  • 25. He feels there is an opportunity for abuse (e.g., do not like clothes, whim of the department chair). Dr. Norman has discussed this with the Provost and he may withdraw the policy until the Faculty Senate has an opportunity to review. Dr. Perry did not see an advantage to the policy as there are ample opportunities for feedback with current reviews. Dr. Perry advised department chairs to not act or rush on this policy. Approval for Appointment of Research Faculty, DFRAC Dr. Perry informed the forum that Provost Frederick inquired about the appointment of research faculty. Research faculty are appointed through grants by principal investigators. Dr. Perry asked “How are research faculty appointed? Do you involve the faculty? Do appointments go through the DFRAC?” Based on the discussion, there appears to be no policies at the department level. Dr. Perry suggested there be faculty input at the department level. It was agreed that Dr. Perry meet with the College Policy Committee to discuss a policy. Course Schedules Dr. Perry recently attended a meeting with Dr. Larry Williams, Dean of Undergraduate Students. Dr. Williams referenced the posting of three-year course schedules by departments in the College of Public Policy and indicated that other colleges should be following this model. Dr. Perry requested department chairs develop three-year schedules. While he realizes that it may be difficult to have information up-to-date, he requested that department chairs do the best job possible. Dr. Gorski mentioned that Chemistry should have their three-year schedule ready in two to three weeks. Dr. Jordan mentioned that we should try and include the summer term. Promotion Deadlines, 2009 Deadlines were provided for faculty reviews. Dr. Gorski reported that Bennie Keckler, Office of Academic and Faculty Support, will follow-up with the procedure for boxless submissions of promotion reviews. Manual Prerequisite Check for Summer Patti Gonzalez provided a handout on “Pre-Requisite Issues in the College of Sciences.” This sheet provided the history of recent prerequisite checking and the burden placed on the COS Advising Center staff. Dr. Williams has conveyed that the burden for enrolling in prerequisite courses should rest with the student. Patti indicated that students are likely to complain and blame advisors when there are problems. They may also complain to departments. After a discussion, it was decided that a meeting will be scheduled with Dr. Williams, Barbara Smith, Dr. Perry, COS Advising staff, department chairs and associate deans. New Business Dr. Perry received an e-mail from Provost Frederick about faculty merit guidelines. There was an issue about faculty being eligible for merit with a rating of 2.5. The e-mail will be forwarded to department chairs. 3
  • 26. College of Sciences (COS) Meeting of Dean’s Executive Council 13 July 2009 Present: Dean – George Perry Department Chairs – Edwin Barea-Rodriguez, Waldek Gorski, Miguel Jose-Yacaman Associate Deans – Neal Guentzel, Craig Jordan, George Negrete, Andy Tsin Assistant Dean – Garry Castellanos Director of Development – Kim Fischer Undergraduate Advising Center – Paul Machen Retention and Graduation Analyst – Diane Elizondo Representative for Dr. Dutton – Eric Swanson Representative for Dr. Psarris – Tom Bylander Guest Speakers – Lorena Claeys, Ellen Clark, Nidia Tijerina Summary Notes Dr. Perry welcomed the individuals listed below from the Academy for Teacher Excellence (ATE): Lorena Claeys, Executive Director Ellen Clark, Ph.D., Professor Nidia Tijerina, Recruiting Coordinator The Academy for Teacher Excellence is based in the College of Education and Human Development. Lorena Claeys gave an overview of the Academy’s activities using a PowerPoint presentation. She emphasized their goals of increasing the number of teachers in bilingual, mathematics, science and special education. Public and private universities are not graduating enough teachers to serve the community. The Academy has received five federal grants. Strong support is given to students through learning communities. The ATE is particularly focused on increasing the number of teachers in the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) areas. Dr. Jordan asked how the program was recruiting. Dr. Clark responded through Career Services, their website, and in the STEM areas. Dr. Barea-Rodriguez indicated that he has sent information to the biology faculty. He mentioned that a strong component of the ATE program was mentoring. Dr. Negrete asked how the College of Sciences can partner with the Academy. Lorena stated that informal relationships with COS have already been developed with Drs. Barea-Rodriguez, Cassill, Lazor and Travis. Dr. Clark indicated that she would like to have a formal relationship with more faculty involved. These partnerships can be especially fruitful since faculty in the College of Sciences are experts of content and faculty in College of Education and Human Development are involved with the pedagogical style. Dr. Clark is available to meet with faculty. Dr. Clark asked if there was a way to communicate by e-mail with the COS student community. Dr. Barea-Rodriguez responded that the college’s Undergraduate Advising Center has worked on
  • 27. ways to communicate with students (e.g., e-newsletter, working on facebook page) and that office could be contacted. In recent discussions with department chairs about teaching enhancement, Dr. Perry mentioned that faculty names had been collected from department chairs. These names will be sent to Dr. Clark. The Academy will be hiring undergraduate and graduate students. Dr. Yacaman stated that proposals being submitted to funding agencies (e.g., NSF, Department of Energy, and Department of Defense) need to include information about outreach efforts. Dr. Yacaman will recommend that faculty in his department contact the Academy. Lorena provided summary information below about collaborations with COS and the goals of the Academy for Teacher Excellence: Collaborations: • Establish the e-community as a way of creating a virtual discussion between faculty from both colleges. This will start the dialogue regarding science coursework and TExES content alignment. In addition, the e-community can be a way of discussing grant funding opportunities. • Identify the most challenging science concepts for teacher candidates and create science content videos on demand based on those. • Review the TExES Examination and how it aligns with the science coursework. • The Academy’s Equity, Education, and Entrepreneurship (E3) grant is currently hiring undergraduate and graduate research assistants. Their duties will include face to face and online tutoring to E3 participants, in addition to entering and collecting data and preparing literature reviews. • Grant writing is a major component of ATE’s sustainment and effectiveness. ATE is open to the possibility of collaborating to co-write and prepare proposals and grants. Goals for ATE include: • Develop and maintain the e-community platform. Ms. Lucretia Fraga, ATE Instructional Technology Manager, will be sending an invitation to all of the faculty and staff that were present at the meeting to join the e-community. Once they are members of the e- community, they will have the capability to invite other faculty to join as well. • In order to create the science videos on demand, ATE will identify Interdisciplinary Learning and Teaching Faculty members to work with COS faculty members. The participating faculty members from both colleges will be compensated for a course buyout from the E3 grant. 2
  • 28. ATE will provide the content review materials for the TExES examination 4-8 and 8-12 grades. • ATE will forward the research assistants job postings to be disseminated to COS. • ATE is open to consider grant writing opportunities that are aligned to the Academy’s mission and vision. COS Equipment List Dr. Perry noted that the Office of the Dean maintains a list of equipment needs for our departments. It is to our benefit to keep the lists current for those occasions where the Office of the Provost or the Office of the Vice President for Research informs the COS that funds are available for equipment purchases. Dr. Perry indicated that departments have copies of the lists. Dr. Yacaman mentioned that it may be beneficial for department chairs to meet to discuss what equipment is lacking. This would help with new faculty hires to make sure they have needed equipment. Garry mentioned there are several lists: 1. Academic Enhancement Equipment (Higher Education Incentive Funding) - This was a one-time allocation made to several areas across campus to support improvements to instructional delivery capabilities and included support for: a. Department of Biology to upgrade undergraduate teaching laboratories ($163, 302) b. Department of Chemistry to modernize freshman chemistry lab ($142,330) c. Department of Computer Science to upgrade computers in instructional support labs ($304,800) d. Department of Physics and Astronomy to equip instructional support labs used for introductory courses, advanced physics labs and graduate seminars ($200,671) e. Department of Mathematics received funding to execute Math Summer Boot Camp, summer 2009 ($20,000) 2. Ongoing Research Equipment - this is a multiple department list and has evolved over two years. Some equipment was purchased by COS and funding was also provided by the Office the Provost, Office of the Vice President for Research, COS gifts and external funding. Some purchases were made and some are in progress. The list was sent to department chairs last spring. Garry suggested that directors of centers and institutes also be invited to attend a future meeting to discuss equipment lists. Garry will send equipment lists to COS Chairs. (Lists were sent on July 16 via e-mail to department chairs.) Laboratory Safety Committee Dr. Perry mentioned the copy of the e-mail from Mr. Gribou, Executive Vice Provost, requesting a representative from the COS to serve on a university laboratory safety committee. Dr. Gorski 3
  • 29. will follow up with a teaching laboratory coordinator in chemistry to see if he would be able to serve on the committee. Professional Science Master’s Degree Dr. Perry referenced a copy of the e-mail from Dr. Keith McDowell, UT System, about the development of a professional science master’s degree. Dr. Perry and Dr. Barea-Rodriguez have met with Dr. Flannagan about the degree. Department chairs should review the e-mail and if there is interest, they should contact Dr. Perry. Doctoral Degree in Translational Science Dr. Jordan referenced the handout on the doctoral degree in Translational Science. This summary document explains that Translational Science is emerging as an academic and scientific discipline. “Translational research aims to utilize systematic assessments of scientific evidence to close the gaps between knowledge gained at the different levels of the research process – the basic science laboratory, the clinical research discoveries, and application of these research findings toward prevention, disease management, and strategies to improve health outcomes.” UTSA is one of four components in the UT System involved with this joint degree. Approval by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board is contingent on multi component involvement. Dr. Perry feels the degree is related to the large grant, Clinical and Translational Science Award (CTSA), awarded to the UT Health Science Center in 2008. UTSA is a component of the grant. Dr. Jordan has a complete copy of the proposal. Informing Leadership Chain of Events and Activities and Status of Faculty, Students and Staff Dr. Perry requested that college administrators inform the Dean’s Office about any injuries and he will obtain information about employees with zero percent appointment who are injured. Four-year Graduation Recognition Dr. Perry stated that he has been working with Amanda Beck and Diane Elizondo to provide special recognition of students who graduate in four years. One possible way would be a COS cord worn at commencement. Dr. Perry asked members of the Dean’s Executive Council for permission to proceed and they agreed. Spring 2009 Strategies for Academic Success Report Paul Machen, COS Undergraduate Advising Center, distributed a probation report for Spring 2009. When the GPA of a COS major falls below 2.0, the student has to meet with an advisor for an assessment. Strategies are identified and an advisor will track progress to see if efforts are helping the goal of improving the GPA. Paul reviewed some of the pages of the report with administrators. The report shows that those students who pursue recommended strategies improve in academic performance. Specific questions about the report can be directed to Paul Machen and Kim Rolf in the COS Undergraduate Advising Center. 4
  • 30. New Business Dr. Jordan informed administrators that the Graduate School will now be in the approval process for graduate and research assistant appointments. Dr. Jordan stated that he had received information from Lorraine Harrison, Disability Services, about the loss of space for that office. Ms. Harrison was inquiring as to the possibility of the various departments assuming some of the responsibility for administering exams to students registered with disability services that require extended time to complete exams. This would require proctoring as well as providing necessary space and desks. Some departments would be impacted more than others. Dr. Perry suggested meeting with Daniel Sibley. Dr. Barea- Rodriguez asked if the Tomas Rivera Center could assist. Dr. Gorski asked the other department chairs if they had any issues with working relationships between post doctoral fellows and principal investigators. Dr. Gorski was dealing with an issue in his department. He explained that often post doctoral fellows are foreigners with limited language skills. They sometimes do not understand their employee rights and are afraid to complain. He suggested an orientation for post doctoral fellows. Garry felt this might fall under the purview of Dr. Tsin. Dr. Perry and Dr. Gorski will meet for follow-up discussions. 5
  • 31. College of Sciences (COS) Meeting of Dean’s Executive Council 10 August 2009 Present: Dean – George Perry Department Chairs – Edwin Barea-Rodriguez, Alan Dutton, Waldek Gorski, Sandy Norman Associate Deans – Raymond Baird, Neal Guentzel, George Negrete, Andy Tsin Center/Institute/Program Directors – Aaron Cassill, Weldon Hammond, Joe Lazor, Greg White Director of Development – Kim Fischer Undergraduate Advising Director – Patti Gonzalez Representative for Dr. Yacaman – Rafael López-Mobilia Guest Speaker – Carol Rapps Summary Notes Asset Management Audit Dr. Perry introduced Carol Rapps, UTSA Auditing and Consulting Services. She provided a handout and overview of ongoing audits: • IT Funding – how much are we spending across the university, are we managing funds in an efficient and effective manner • IT Asset Management – tracking purchases, inventory, maintenance, security of information, and software licensing • Tac202 Security Standards Policy – compliance audit must be done every two years Matthew Marr is the university's software coordinator (PP Bldg 2nd floor, (210) 458-7271, matthew.marr@utsa.edu and is working with departments. Information Technology has a software coordination website: http://www.utsa.edu/oit/software_hardware/Soft_lic_sales.cfm Department Chairs should inform faculty about the site and the software coordinator. Dr. Cassill commented that the reason that so many faculty are holding on to old computers is that there is no university policy guaranteeing a faculty member a basic computer so we have to hold on to old ones as replacements if the current one gives out. Dr. Perry remarked that we do not have any maintenance plans to fix broken computers. Dr. Cassill pointed out that if we took the money to provide warranties on every computer the university buys, we could probably contract for maintenance with the Health Science Center or a private company or provide replacement units for much less money. Carol requested help with recommendations regarding the audits. She is available to meet with individuals or communicate by e-mail. The audit report will be sent to Provost Frederick and The University of Texas System.
  • 32. San Antonio Life Sciences Institute (SALSI) Grants Dr. Tsin informed the forum that the SALSI has received funding of $8M for UTSA and UT Health Science Center for two years. Each institution will receive $2M in the first year and $2M in the second year. The Vice Presidents for Research from both institutions decided on the target areas as follows: • Health Disparities – Thankam Sunil (Sociology) • Medicinal Chemistry – George Negrete (Chemistry) • Biomedical Engineering – Miguel Jose-Yacaman (Physics and Astronomy) and Anson Ong (Biomedical Engineering) • Neuroscience – Charles Wilson (Biology) Faculty members with life sciences research topics that do not fall in the above mentioned categories can also submit proposals for consideration. Funds have also been set aside for innovative, non-research programs, including joint educational efforts. The proposal deadline is October 1 and the budget period will be 2010-2011. Proposals must have a collaborator from the UT Health Science Center identified. It is expected that application proposals will be short and will be reviewed for their scientific quality. Outside reviewers will be used. Dr. Perry requested administrators inform faculty about proposals. For details, please visit www.UTSalsi.org Postdoctoral Fellow Appointments Dr. Perry indicated that Dr. Jordan has been collecting information about post doctoral fellows. The HOP procedure 9.32 (J) was provided as a handout. Dr. Perry remarked that the Department of Biology is following the procedure. Dr. Jordan is working with Gail Jensen, Legal Affairs on a standard appointment letter. Dr. Perry conveyed that across the country post doctoral fellows are asking for defined positions. We should be thinking about developing a program so that postdoctoral fellows would have dossiers. He referenced the handouts of current programs. A program could include career development, grant writing, guest speakers, and participation in sessions in the Teaching and Learning Center. Dr. Barea-Rodriguez noted that UT Austin has a well developed program. Dr. Perry requested that department chairs discuss with the faculty. He indicated that we are not limited to the examples provided in the handouts. Dr. Perry reminded department chairs to follow the procedures in the HOP for the appointment of postdoctoral fellows. 2
  • 33. Mentoring Students/Learning Assistance and Article from Chemical and Engineering News Dr. Perry referenced the two handouts on student learning assistance. Information about the Learning Assistant (LA) Model at the University of Colorado, Boulder, was provided by Dr. Perry to department chairs earlier and Dr. Negrete provided the article on peer-led team learning at UT El Paso. While our departments have student mentoring programs, the handouts provide information about programs that are better developed. Dr. Negrete stated that the UTSA Supplemental Instruction (SI) model is working and that it is difficult to find faculty who can provide the kind of commitment needed for learning assistance programs. The time and effort devoted to the UT El Paso peer-led team learning shows enhanced student success. The Teaching and Learning Center and SI are not integrated. After a discussion it was agreed that Dr. Jordan will meet with Dr. Perry to discuss the possibility of a bringing a guest speaker from UT Dallas or the University of Colorado to visit UTSA. Faculty Mentoring Dr. Perry stated that he would like for all departments to have mentoring programs. He indicated that two departments, Chemistry and Computer Science, have programs. Dr. Barea- Rodriguez indicated that some faculty do not want to be mentored. Dr. Gorski commented that his department policy will be given to new faculty so they are aware of the opportunity. After a discussion it was agreed that Dr. Perry and Dr. Tsin will meet to discuss a college faculty mentoring program. International Visa Dr. Perry stated that when departments/centers/institutes are making appointments, administrators are guaranteeing there is a job and the salary is guaranteed (unless rules of employment are violated). Dr. Perry said we should be concerned when individuals are coming from outside the country. There is the expectation that money is available and departments/centers/institutes should have funding. Fall 2008 versus Fall 2009 Enrollment Comparison Dr. Perry referenced the handout and noted enrollment has dropped over the last two years. Dr. Barea-Rodriguez responded that we have been raising standards and improving quality. SACS Accreditation Visit (March 23-25, 2010), Quality Enhancement Plan, Web Links Dr. Perry advised the forum to not update or delete links that were used for SACS reports as the outside reviewers will be reviewing UTSA’s reports this fall. The on-campus accreditation visit is 3
  • 34. scheduled for March 23-25, 2010. Faculty, staff and students are expected to be familiar with the Quality Enhancement Plan - Quantitative Scholarship: From Literary to Mastery: http://www.utsa.edu/today/2009/01/qepfinal.cfm Dr. Perry requested faculty be informed at department meetings. Dean’s Future Scholars Program Dr. Perry referenced the handout on the Dean’s Future Scholars. He will be working with Dr. Negrete and Dr. Tsin on this program as a way to develop a pipeline of students. Dr. Jude Valdez is also interested in working with COS. House Bill 2504 Dr. George Perry informed the forum about a new legislative bill, House Bill 2504. This will require positing of information at websites to include faculty evaluations, syllabi, and budgets. Implementation of the bill has not been finalized. The timeline is unknown. The Faculty Senate is also reviewing the bill. Information can be found at: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HB02504F.htm Fall 2009 Prerequisites Patti informed the forum that the Advising Center was again requested to do manual prerequisite checking for the fall term. She stated 15% errors were identified. Dr. Gorski commented that it appeared no progress had been made since the meeting with Dr. Larry Williams. There was a suggestion to invite the new Chief Information Officer to a meeting of the Dean’s Executive Council. Patti will draft a memo to Provost Frederick from Dr. Perry and department chairs about the need for computerized checking for prerequisites. [Patti sent the e-mail draft to Dean Perry on 11 August. The COS Advising Center and the Undergraduate Studies Support and Technology Services (USSTS) office met on 14 August and analyzed several student cases and came up with plans of action that should reduce the number of students on the list in future semesters.] Reminder about Proposals for the Core Values Initiative Program The deadline for submission of proposals to the Dean’s Office is Thursday, August 27. Reminder about Textbook Adoptions Dr. Perry reminded department chairs that they should follow up with the Bookstore to ensure textbooks have been ordered for classes. If a course does not require a textbook, the Bookstore should be informed. 4
  • 35. Information Booklet – Texas A&M University Dr. Perry referenced the informational booklet from Texas A&M University. Dr. Barea- Rodriguez responded that the Department of Biology has a booklet. Dr. Perry encouraged departments to have one that introduces students to the key elements of success. Fall Meetings of Dean’s Executive Council Meetings will be scheduled every three weeks in the fall. Mary Alice will follow up with contacting administrators to try and find a two-hour block of time. New Business Dr. Guentzel complimented Dr. Negrete on the successful COS Research Conference. Dr. Negrete acknowledged Dr. Tsin’s contributions. 5
  • 36. College of Sciences (COS) Meeting of Dean’s Executive Council 31 August 2009 Present: Dean – George Perry Department Chairs – Edwin Barea-Rodriguez, Alan Dutton, Waldek Gorski, Miguel Jose- Yacaman, Sandy Norman, Kleanthis Psarris Associate Deans – Raymond Baird, Neal Guentzel, Craig Jordan, George Negrete Center/Institute/Program Directors – Aaron Cassill, Weldon Hammond, Joe Lazor Assistant Dean – Garry Castellanos Undergraduate Advising Director – Patti Gonzalez Retention and Graduation Analyst – Diane Elizondo Summary Notes Updates, Handbook of Operating Procedure Dr. Baird informed the group about the recent updates to some procedures in the UTSA Handbook of Operating Procedures. Copies of the revised procedures were provided to administrators: ● 2.10 Faculty Reappointment, Promotion, and Tenure ● 2.11 Annual Faculty Performance Appraisals for Merit Pay Consideration ● 2.14 Faculty Workload and Minimum Faculty Teaching Requirement ● 2.22 Periodic Performance Evaluation of Tenured Faculty ● 2.23 Professional Expectations for Faculty ● 2.24 Third-Year Review Dr. Baird highlighted some of the changes and requested department chairs review the documents and inform appropriate staff in the departments of the updates. The Dean’s office is checking on deadlines related to periodic performance evaluations and third-year reviews. STARS Funding Garry indicated that COS had received $1.6M for new faculty salaries and start-up packages. An amount of $1.4M has been committed for this plus the purchase of microscopes. Dr. Frederick and Dr. Gracy have requested faculty recruitment plans for the next cycle. At this time 12 faculty positions have been requested in our departments, this does not include replacement positions. We have not been receiving STARS funding and department chairs were encouraged to recruit for STARS faculty. Garry will send the COS faculty recruitment plan summary to department chairs. Dr. Negrete reminded department chairs that as we initiate another recruiting cycle, work must be done in advance to make connections with minority scholars. He mentioned that the Society for Advancement of Chicanos and Native Americans in Sciences (SACNAS) meeting will be held on October 15-18 in Dallas and this is a good opportunity to
  • 37. establish contacts. [Since the meeting Garry e-mailed information on COS faculty recruitment for this fiscal year and information on STARS funding.] Academic Program Review by Departments Dr. Perry referenced the handout on the listing of programs scheduled for external reviews and the timeline provided by the Office of the Provost. Reviews for COS are scheduled in 2013-14. Graduate Student Organizations Dr. Perry stated that Dr. Kay Robbins has suggested that COS have more graduate student organizations. Dr. Gorski commented that the student organization in Chemistry was not very active. Dr. Psarris indicated that the CS Graduate Student Association has a faculty advisor and has been active in organizing activities, bi-monthly meetings and helping with open house events. The organization has assisted with recruitment in answering questions from prospective students. Access Control Dr. Barea-Rodriguez stated that the safety office informed him that a door had to be locked in BSB. He requested the door remain open and he was sent a cost estimate of $3,000 to install card access. Other department chairs commented that there were some instances with individuals not having access to laboratories and they indicated that this was probably due to access logs not being up-to-date. Mr. Kerry Kennedy, Vice President for Business Affairs, and Dan Pena, Interim Chief of Police, have been invited to attend the 14 September meeting of the Dean’s Executive Council. Dinner for Seminar Speakers Dr. Barea-Rodriguez commented that the graduate services fee account cannot be used for dinner for seminar speakers. Garry requested that departments send him a realistic total dollar estimate of funds needed for these special occasions. House Bill 2054 Dr. Perry reviewed the handout of the bill which relates to "requiring a public institution of higher education to establish uniform standards for publishing cost of attendance information, to conduct student course evaluations of faculty, and to make certain information is available on the Internet." He indicated this is now law and extensive information listed in the handout needs to be posted. He asked the group if a committee should be formed. After a discussion Dr. Perry requested Dr. Jordan follow-up on implementation. 2
  • 38. NTT Faculty Searches and Use of NTT Faculty to Meet Academic Mission Needs Dr. Perry informed the group that Dr. Frederick is recommending all colleges implement organized searches for non tenure-track (NTT) faculty when seeking out candidates to fill academic area needs. Dr. Baird added that a coordinated, college-wide advertisement, announcing NTT opportunities, could be implemented by placing “College NTT Opportunities” advertisements in our local newspaper every fall or spring. Garry suggested that each department work toward identifying an optimum blend of T/TT and NTT to better meet individual department needs. With an optimum balance of T/TT and NTT faculty our college’s departments total academic stream funding could be better distributed to our departments. Dr. Perry indicated that this could be an opportunity to hire new NTT and T/TT faculty to meet the college’s needs and indicated that this could be done over the next couple of months. Information from an American Association of University Professors (AAUP) committee report titled: The Status of Non-Tenure Track Faculty is available at: http://www.aaup.org/AAUP/comm/rep/nontenuretrack.htm (downloaded 9/4/09 GDC) E-mails Dr. Perry requested that administrators be attentive to e-mails they send as they could be requested through the Texas Public Information Act. Some e-mails can be inflammatory. SACS Compliance Report Web Links Reviewers for the accreditation visit have received reports from UTSA. The reports make reference to links on websites. Links should not be changed and should remain active. CPRIT (Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas) Grants Information about grants was provided in the handout. Dr. Perry will work with Dr. Tsin on this limited submission proposal. Workers Compensation Coverage of Employees Outside of Official Appointments Dr. Perry referenced the copy of an e-mail from John DeLaHunt regarding workers compensation. Decisions are made on a case-by-case basis. Dr. Norman commented that he had heard appointments at 0% would no longer be processed. Garry responded that he would follow up. [After the meeting Garry e-mailed Bruce Tingle, Human Resources Management and Development, who indicated that 0% appointments would continue. Additional information was provided in e-mail exchanges.] 3
  • 39. Dr. Perry reminded administrators that the Dean’s office should be informed of injuries within 24 hours. Academic Continuity Plans Dr. Frederick is requesting plans be developed in the event the swine flu becomes serious on campus. A copy of an e-mail from Dr. Frederick and information from the U.S. Department of Education were provided in handouts. Information is available at: http://www.ed.gov/admins/lead/safety/emergencyplan/pandemic/guidance/continuity-recs.pdf Dr. Jordan will obtain additional information. Post Doctoral Fellows Dr. Jordan noted that he was not at the last meeting but handouts had been provided and initial discussions had taken place. A circumstance in one department brought to attention that procedures for appointment of post doctoral fellows in HOP 9.32(J) need to be followed. An offer letter should be sent to Dr. Perry for review prior to communicating the letter to the candidate and copies of appointment documentation need to be filed in the Dean's office. The Association of American Medical Colleges has drafted a compact that post docs and principle investigators may adopt. Their compact speaks to the relationships and responsibilities between the parties. Some schools have established a policy of using the compact. Dr. Jordan suggested that we might consider having such a document so as to avoid the type of difficulties we are currently experiencing. Dr. Jordan will draft a template offer letter or develop a checklist of items that should be included in on offer letter for the departments to review. It is not clear that a single template letter will be appropriate for all departments to use and therefore a checklist may be the most appropriate approach. Dr. Barea-Rodriguez commented that after the last DEC meeting he relayed information to faculty about the suggestion of developing a compact for post doctoral fellows. The feedback from the faculty was they do not want post doctoral fellows involved in activities that are going to involve too much of their time. They suggested one workshop a year might be sufficient. Dr. Yacaman indicated that post doctoral fellows have an obligation to teach students and he does not want to see a lot of rules. Departments should continue to follow HOP 9.32J for appointing post doctoral fellows. Jump Start Program; Dialing for Freshmen Programs; COS Student Profile Report Diane provided statistical handouts for the above mentioned topics.  Jump Start - This is the second year of the program and seven programs were offered. Some students improved their math placement by at least one semester. The program involves housing, tutoring, testing and meals. Funding and a location for a 4
  • 40. coordinator of the program are being reviewed in order for the program to continue. The program has been effective as participants develop a rapport with program staff and tutors. Cost of the program is $10,000.  Dialing For Freshmen 2008-09 - Any cohort freshman who had not registered by June was contacted. Students provided reasons where they went not returning to UTSA and they are listed in the handout.  Student Profile - The profile was provided for spring 2009. Diane will be meeting with department chairs with their individual profiles. Our cohort will now include CAP students which may affect our graduation rate. We need to try and retain these students. DEC Meeting Schedule Changes Meetings for fall 2009 were to be scheduled every three weeks. Due to some trips on Dr. Perry's calendar, some adjustments have been made to meeting dates. Woodrow Wilson Indiana Teaching Fellowships An informational handout was provided on these fellowships. New Business Dr. Perry indicated that an offer had been extended for the position of Associate Dean for Graduate Studies and he was awaiting a response. 5
  • 41. College of Sciences (COS)  Meeting of Dean’s Executive Council  14 September 2009    Present:    Dean – George Perry  Department  Chairs  –  Edwin  Barea‐Rodriguez,  Waldek  Gorski,  Miguel  Jose‐Yacaman,  Sandy  Norman   Associate Deans – Raymond Baird, Craig Jordan, George Negrete   Center/Institute/Program Directors – Aaron Cassill, Weldon Hammond, Joe Lazor   Undergraduate Advising Director – Patti Gonzalez  Representative for Dr. Dutton – Stuart Birnbaum  Retention and Graduation Analyst – Diane Elizondo  Guest Speakers – Kerry Kenney, Dan Pena, David De Los Santos     Summary Notes    Access Control     Dr. Perry welcomed the individuals listed below to the meeting:      Kerry Kennedy, Vice President for Business Affairs    Dan Pena, Interim Chief of Police    David De Los Santos, Director, Security Systems    Mr.  Kennedy  stated  that  he  and  his  staff  are  here  to  serve  faculty  and  staff  with  the  highest  level  of  service  and  they  appreciated  the  opportunity  to  hear  from  the  group.    He  indicated  changes have been made in Access Control and he knows there is room for improvement.    Mr.  Kennedy  introduced  David  De  Los  Santos,  new  Director  of  Security  Systems.    David  commented  that  he  has  been  making  changes  and  appreciated  the  opportunity  to  hear  comments and concerns.    Chief Pena explained that he is continually working to streamline processes and he recently met  with  Dr.  Barea‐Rodriguez.    He  commented  that  Access  Control  is  trying  to  adapt  services  to  provide  the  level  of  access  needed  by  different  areas.    Some  areas  have  Locknitics,  which  requires making changes on a computer and then going to the location and physically making  the  change  on  the  machine.    With  the  DSX  system,  changes  only  need  to  be  made  on  the  computer.    Dr.  Gorski  mentioned  that  there  was  an  egress  issue  with  a  lab  on  the  4th  floor  of  BSE.    His  concern was that toxic chemicals could be removed.  He also mentioned that his card swipe did  not always work consistently at two exterior doors of BSE.  Chief Pena will follow up with Dr.  Gorski  to  check  his  card  and  the  card  swipe  units  as  they  sometime  have  to  be  cleaned.    Dr.  Cassill commented that there were two issues ‐ consistency and after hour access.  He said that  in  the  past  you  could  speak  to  someone  to  request  entry  in  the  building  after  hours.    Mr.  Kennedy responded that the speakers would be operating again soon.