UNIPA Advisory Board

Spring Meeting Summary, April 25, 2009

 

President Allen

Provided update on fiscal 2010 budget. Highlighted Secretary of Education Arne Duncan visit to campus on April 24, 2009, which is in direct alignment with priorities of the institution. Announced new executive vice president and provost Gloria Gibson starting at UNI on July 1. Four Tibetan monks were on campus to construct a Sand Mandala. R&D School passed; awaiting signature of the governor.

 

Vicki Collum, director of annual giving, introduced three of the five students who have received UNIPA scholarships.

 

Ashley Lerch, disability services, described the services offered by her office. Lerch explained the eligibility criteria for students to receive services. Both classroom and exam accommodations are available for eligible students. Lerch also explained the application process.

 

Christie Kangas, director of admissions, reported that the enrollment council has plans to grow UNI's enrollment to 14,000 students by 2015. This year is the first year for a decline in the numbers of Iowa students graduating from high school. Christie explained that as a result of market research conducted between May and December 2008, UNI is now deliberately communicating with parents of prospective students. The research indicated that 91 percent of parents are very involved in the college choice decision-making process.

 

Two students presented their business incubator projects.

 

A panel of UNI staff members gave brief updates on what's happening within their departments:

 

Alumni - Is trying to connect with students before they graduate. Is cooperating with Career Services to offer help locating employment.

 

Career Services - Services are sought by alumni as well as students. In spite of the economy, UNI grads are finding jobs. 75 percent of December grads are employed.

 

Department of Residence - Has experienced the highest rate of re-contracting in 12 years. The two-year advantage plan continues to be very popular.

 

Public Safety - The police department is fully staffed. All officers receive the same training and certification as officers at police units throughout the state. The new parking deck being constructed on West 23rd Street should be completed this fall.

 

Health Services - A survey on health-related concerns of UNI students shows that lack of sleep and stress are bigger concerns than heavy drinking.

 

Financial Aid - Award notices are online only. They are no longer available in hard copy. The amount of Pell grants available has increased.

 

Maucker Union - The lower level is being renovated. Work should be completed by fall. There has been a 30 percent increase in student leadership program participation. There are more than 300 student organizations at UNI.