Revised Oct. 23 Joint PCC BASC Executive Committees
After careful consideration and research of standing policies at the other four-year state supported Universities in the Kentucky Higher Education system, the Faculty Senate finds that the Kentucky State University Faculty Handbook policies regarding faculty termination, in the case of both financial exigency and termination of programs, are in line with our sister institutions as well as the recommendations of the AAUP. Therefore, the Faculty Senate does not recommend making any changes to the financial exigency policy at this time in order to keep KSU's policies comparable to those of other institutions and to adhere to established best practices.
The faculty believe that best policy is discussed and written in times of stability to ensure preservation of academy integrity, stability and instructional quality, rather than in times of crisis. Given the length of the process, as under review currently by such institutions as Eastern Kentucky University, the Faculty Senate believes that any such policy changes should go through such a formal process and timeline, with adequate time to ensure full stakeholder involvement and with adherence to AAUP standards. (See attached documents)
However, the Faculty Senate stands ready to work with President Burse to address the financial deficit and identify cost savings wherever possible. We are encouraged by the steps taken to date and in that spirit offer the following recommendations and observations.
Streamline administrative staff and related office/operational expenses to more responsibly reflect the size of Kentucky State University. A broad look at other ‘small liberal arts colleges/universities’, in line with our student population, shows what appears to be a leaner administrative staff. Of note is a tendency to a model that includes a Dean of Faculty (or some similar title), as opposed to Dean’s for each individual College. This could strengthen the role of Chairperson for each Unit, faculty members who are closer to the Instructional foundation of the university.
(See Attached PDFs of organizational charts of schools: Wheaton College, St. Johns, Eckerd, Kenyon, Grinnell, Denison, Wheaton, Hanover, Knox)
Combine necessary administrative and staff functions under fewer job descriptions. This would save not only salaries and accompanying benefit expenses but office expenses as well.
Realign/reorganize academic units to reduce expenditures.
Reduce athletics expenditures by looking for classes that coaches are qualified to teach and by surveying faculty members to determine who may be qualified to coach some of the sports, as is the case in many small liberal arts colleges/universities. This would support a more direct connection between academics and sports. Also, consider an alternative athletic conference that would be less expensive for travel, such as Great Lakes Valley Conference.
Consider selling current assets.