XI. Hazard Mitigation Plan
President Burse stated that a Hazard Mitigation plan had been developed for KSU. The University previously received a grant to develop a Hazard Mitigation Plan for the University. The plan was designed to reduce or eliminate long-term risk to human life and property from a variety of hazards. President Burse recommended that the Board accept and approve the Hazard Mitigation Plan.
Action: Motion was made by Regent Farris and seconded by Regent McFayden to approve the Hazard Mitigation Plan. The motion passed 8-0.
XII. President's Report
President Burse reviewed the Karla Hughes Report with the Board. The report highlighted several problems in the academic infrastructure and academic policies of the University. President Burse emphasized the need to revise University policies in accord with best practices in the academy. Karla Hughes recommended the use of an organization called The Registry to help reorganize Academic Affairs. President Burse supported this recommendation.
He also stated that the Faculty Senate must accept the need to change and must work to eliminate and streamline courses. He also stressed the need to complete the University Catalog and he assured the Board that the Catalog would be completed this semester. Board members expressed concern that the Catalog had not yet been completed. President Burse stated that there was a lot of work to do in a limited period of time to correct the problems cited in the Hughes Report.
Regent Guarnieri asked what steps the administration was taking to keep students and faculty accountable and responsible. President Burse stated that he has required attendance for students in all classes. Faculty members are responsible for enforcing this policy. He had also directed Lynda Brown-Wright and Gordon Rowe to revise faculty contracts.
The President reported there are many positives for the University. The retention rate has increased to more than 60%. The number of students with a 4.0 GPA has increased. The graduation rate has increased to more than 22%, even though more improvement was necessary.
The Board members expressed their support for the findings of the Karla Hughes Report and the measures she recommended to promote change in Academic Affairs.