USMSC Minutes

University of Maryland, College Park

December 13, 1998

Meeting began at approximately 12:00 p.m.

 

Introductions and Welcome

Meeting began with a welcome by UMCP delegate Kelly Newsome.

All delegates took a moment to introduce themselves and note their home institution. In attendance were Tony Savia (UMUC), LaSonia King (UMES), Delroy Morgan (independent student, UB); Lisa Reese(UB), Andy Rittler (SSU), Jessica Aiken (FSU), Mike Berlin (UMBC), Kelly Newsome (UMCP), Pam Riddle (UMB), Mia Murthy (Chair), Kasey Schneider (SSU), Susan Woda (Student Regent), Joan Marionni (Chancellor's Liaison).

Officer Reports

Mia Murthy, Chair

  • Stated briefly that she would have a "to-do" list for everyone to complete after the holidays.

Kasey Schneider, Vice-Chair

  • Spoke about the Inter-institutional Committee on Academic Advising, stating that a report is due in January, and will be due in March to Ed. Policy Committee. Major topics include: (1) "signature" advisors versus "intrusive" advisors; (2) routine evaluations of advisors; and (3) ongoing training of advisors.
  • Mentioned a task force on the issue of virtual universities (see #8 in Pathways to Perpetual Learning; contact USMSC reps at respective schools or Joan Marionni for more information). "The Board of Regents Charge: University System of Maryland Task Force on the Virtual University" information packet accompanied Ms. Schneider's statements.

Kelly Newsome, Secretary/Treasurer

No report given

Susan Woda, Student Regent

  • Stated that the Task Force is studying the USM and higher education in general; a report is due on January 1, 1999. Ms. Woda expressed that higher education is a "hot" topic right now, so the USMSC reception at Annapolis 101 may be have a very high attendance.
  • Gave a brief description of Annapolis 101, highlighting Monday's reception was scheduled for an ideal time because State representatives go into session at 8:00, right after the reception. She encouraged USMSC delegates to write letters to introduce themselves to their State reps and notify them of the reception.

Andy Rittler, State Relations Chair on Annapolis 101 (ANNA 101)

  • ANNA 101 will take place on January 18, 1999; meeting will begin at approximately 12:00 p.m. unless otherwise noted, after which Senator Komenda will speak to the Council, and USMSC reps will be able to visit with State representatives from their respective institutions.
  • Emphasized importance of ALL USMSC DELEGATES CONTACTING THEIR RESPECTIVE REPRESENTATIVES, before and after the event. A red folder was handed out with contact information for some delegates, senators, and Governor Glendening; contact information for other representatives can be found on the MD General Assembly homepage or by Andy (e-mail him; delegates, etc. may have changed with the elections!!!)
  • Said that he would set up appointments with legislators and senators for all USMSC reps; he Asked that if you CANNOT attend ANNA 101, please e-mail him to set up extra appointments, or at least write your State reps (he will post a sample letter on the webpage!)

Jessica Aiken, Federal Relations ChairJessica Aiken, Federal Relations Chair

  • Distributed a written report to all Council member; several points were discussed (please contact Jessica Aiken for a complete report):
      1. Changes in the Maryland Delegation to Congress in light of the recent elections.
      2. Encouragement to USMSC reps to contact and congratulate their respective Senators and Congressmen/Congresswomen.
      3. The need to discuss USMSC's priorities for the near future (what policies we support or oppose, etc.).
      4. Look for the upcoming internet posting of the USM Federal Priorities list for the upcoming legislative session.
      5. Any USMSC issues to be given consideration by the USM Washington office should be forwarded to Jessica or to Paul Sweet.

Comments for the Good of the Council

  • Mike Berlin (UMBC) spoke briefly about violence on campus, citing UMCP's recent incident involving an armed student violence threatening his professor. He stressed that violence is increasing among the younger population. Tony Savia (UMUC) suggested sending this concern to Chancellor Langenberg.
  • Regarding the re-scheduling of the December meeting, Mike Berlin (UMBC) "[spoke] for other students" when he said that scheduling the meeting the day before finals began was a bad idea, and may account for the poor attendance shown. Susan Woda, Student Regent, apologized profusely for the inconvenience, citing an extreme family emergency situation that could not be avoided. Lisa (UB) stated that re-scheduling the meeting was irrelevant, and that "in life, you may be called to do last minute work." In response, Mike Berlin (UMBC) cited the USMSC Constitution, saying "students first, Council second."

Meeting adjourned at 12:50 p.m.

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