Staff Senate President Mr. Conwell welcomed Regents, faculty, staff, students, and friends to campus and Homecoming. Highlights of his report included:
Launch of “BanTrack”, a student work-study initiative in partnership with Information Technology, in which students visit offices across campus to document and standardize Banner-related business processes, ultimately creating a comprehensive staff operations manual (both print and electronic).
Preparation of a Staff Senate newsletter, targeted for release in October, and continued promotion of the campus/community cookbook project.
Development of a mentor program for new employees, pairing new staff with experienced employees for approximately six months, with anonymous student-led surveys to provide feedback on the onboarding experience.
Promotion of an anonymous online channel for encouragement and feedback about staff, faculty, and campus operations, with summarized input shared with senior leadership.
Exploration of surplus technology sales, allowing faculty and staff to purchase older surplus laptops and other equipment for personal or campus use, in compliance with state surplus property policies. Discussions are underway with Dr. Dixie and University Counsel to ensure full adherence to applicable regulations.
Interest in leveraging internal expertise for professional development, drawing upon university faculty and staff who already teach or train in relevant areas, to support employee growth and wellness.
Plans for a monthly staff luncheon to build community and morale.
A concept for bringing small farmers and the university's own agricultural producers to campus a few times a year for on-campus sales to faculty and staff, thereby expanding the economic impact of Kentucky State's agricultural and extension programs.
A proposed “history walk” that would place interpretive posters and displays throughout campus, inviting faculty, staff, students, alumni, and community members to learn about Kentucky State’s history and potentially encourage prospective students to apply and enroll.
Regents commended the Staff Senate for its creativity and alignment with the university’s mission and HBCU identity. Questions were raised about surplus sales and compliance with state policy; Mr. Conwell confirmed that those issues are being carefully vetted with IT leadership and legal counsel.
Student Regent and SGA President Dontrell Childs delivered a detailed report on SGA priorities, committees, and new initiatives: