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1998 ANNUAL MEETING AT HOLIDAY INN

By Thomas Thompson

Chair Elizabeth Martin counted 64 emeritus faculty in attendance at the Annual Meeting, suggesting that our monthly lunches have helped boost participation in UNIEA events.

Bruce Marquis, Executive Director of the new Gallagher-Bluedorn Performing Arts Center, told us of plans for staffing and programming at the Center when it begins full-scale operation in the year 2000. His ambitious forecast sees the Center as a performance destination for Northeast Iowa on a par with Hancher and C. Y. Stephens. Marquis pointed out that a half-million additional dollars must be raised to complete the Center.

The Nominating Committee reported its nominations for new officers of the association. Elected were Elton Green, Chair, new Board member J. W. (Bill) Maucker and continuing member Gerald Bisbey.

Chair Elizabeth Martin called attention to several items in her printed report to members, including the continuing support of the Provost's Office and Vice President for Advancement, Joe Mitchell. The new UNIEA secretary is Yvonne Duggan and our new office is 205 Commons. The format of ID cards has changed and members may receive updated cards by applying at the Redeker Center office. Martin reminded us of the new definition of emeritus status to come before the University Senate. David Crownfield stated that he interpreted emeritus status as a title to be conferred, not "applied for." Ross Nielsen said the change to "application" came in 1983.

An amendment to the By Laws, consisting primarily of language updated to recognize the importance of e-mail and the Internet, was approved. That same attention to electronic communication was evinced in Robert Kramer's report of the progress of committee efforts to establish a UNIEA web site. Kramer aims to have the site up and running early next year.

Jim Handorf reported that 25 persons had attended the 1998 Retirement Planning Seminar. The next Seminar is scheduled for February or March of 1999. Handorf requested members send him their ideas or comments.

It has been a successful year for the Association with good attendance at the monthly luncheons a highlight. On that note, the meeting ended with a resolution of gratitude for the work of retiring Chair Elizabeth Martin. The group rose to present Martin with a standing ovation.