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Faculty Senate President Sipes introduced new members to Senate: Rita Sharma from Mathematics and Sciences will replace Robert Hebble; Rebecca McCoy from Nursing will replace Abdullah Alhurani; and William Graham will represent Education.
President Sipes noted that Senate needed a new Parliamentarian. Chair Rye nominated Alice Collins, who accepted. There were no other nominations, and the slate was accepted as presented.
Julie Bradley, Kenan Charitable Trust, Director of Student Support Services, appeared before Senate to discuss her program, which unites KSU with Frankfort Independent Schools and the community to create unique projects for student growth.
Ms. Bradley described the 3:1 model, which puts learners at its center. Learners are aided by academic supports; access to opportunity; and social and emotional supports. The goal is to have this model serve students from preschool to college.
It was noted that only 20% of students drop out due to academics. Social and emotional support are essential. It was also noted that 25% of the population suffers from mental illnesses. This means that at KSU there may be 400 students at any time experiencing mental health issues. There is an effort to provide one-on-one counseling services on campus at no cost to the student or KSU.
In terms of access to opportunity, Ms. Bradly is working with the Chamber of Commerce. There are many empty buildings in downtown Frankfort that might be used for students wanting to start a business. Businesses can also be brought to campus in a service-to-service model where students learn skills by working for the businesses. Examples cited included a 3D printing company and t-shirt printing company.
Academics must also be rigorous and students must be held to high standards. President Sipes asked what Ms. Bradley would like to see from faculty. Ms. Bradley noted that many faculty are already contributing, but we need to bring it all together by utilizing available help. Students wanting to build a business, for example, can be helped with a business plan by faculty.
A guest shared information about a senior at the university who has been mentoring others in this program. Another guest added that this student had transferred in to KSU and had struggled at other schools, but is excelling here. Ms. Bradley added that this student is helping dual enrollment students.
A motion to extend time for five minutes passed unanimously.