College Faculty Advisory Council [CFAC] Meeting

February 5, 2013

1:30 pm; 507 Erickson

Members present: Patrick Dickson (Chair of CFAC; CEPSE), Brendan Cantwell (EAD), Dan Gould (KIN), Florian Kagerer (KIN), Michael Leahy (CEPSE), Christina Schwarz (TE), and BetsAnn Smith (EAD).

Not present: Don Heller (Dean of the College), Dorinda Andrews (TE)

Patrick Dickson, Chair of CFAC, called the meeting to order.

Minutes were approved from 1/8/13 meeting were approved without corrections.

Announcements.

None

Dean's comments.

Dean Heller indicated via e-mail that he was happy with the turnout of the all College Faculty meeting. The CFAC thought it was a productive meeting and appreciated being updated on the data relevant to College and the University context.
After discussing the All-College meeting Dan Gould discussed President Simon’s Bolder by Design initiative that was recently presented and it was noted that Dean Heller is aligning us with larger university goals. All faculty are encouraged to become familiar with the Bolder by Design materials to have a better understanding of general university trends. For example, how MSU might develop a strategic plan for how MOOCS might be used for student education.

Old Business

  1. The suggestion of whether CFAC should jointly meet with the chair or co-chairs of RPT committee was discussed. The purpose of the meeting would be to discuss any RPT concerns that might arise and whether there is a need for more consistent policies across the four departments, given changing expectations, demands and changes in university goals (e.g., how to reward interdisciplinary research or other university priorities). March was thought to be the best time if such a meeting is to occur.
  1. The CFAC hopes to have the four departments identify CFAC members for 2013-2014 academic year before the end of the semester so the new members can meet with current CFAC members to provide for a smoother transition.
  2. Now that the dean has completed his first year and has a better understand of the COE, University and Departments, the CFAC thought it would be ask the dean to discuss the best ways in which the CFAC could most help him (e.g., survey the faculty on important issues, help organize all college retreats, role in development/grants, communicate important messages to the faculty).

New Business

The CFAC was inquiring as to its role in determining faculty positions on university committees. It was decided that this was best handled out of Michael Sedlak’s office.

Move to adjourn.

Respectfully submitted,

Dan Gould

CFAC Meeting Schedule – Spring Semester 2013:

March 19 (507 EH)

April 16 (IM Circle)

May 14 (507 EH)