Faculty council looks at early budget plans

By Donna Troka

Chair Frank Vandall convened the year’s first Faculty Council meeting—the previous meeting, scheduled for Sept. 11, had been cancelled—on Oct. 23 at 3:15 p.m. in 400 Administration.

To begin the meeting, Interim Provost Woody Hunter and Senior Vice Provost Charlotte Johnson discussed budget matters, passing out a handout detailing budget projections from FY98–FY02. Hunter said there had been three “healthy” changes in the University’s income stream: a decrease in dependence on tuition and fees; an increase in endowment income; and an increase in indirect cost recovery. Hunter said new income should be generated by the additional research space due to open soon around campus.

Hunter added that the search for a new permanent director of the Carlos Museum is under way and should be completed with 12–14 months. He also said organization has begun of a committee to conduct the strategic planning discussion concerning the future of Arts & Sciences at Emory.

Vandall proposed that three ad hoc committees, composed of two or three members each, be created to act proactively with respect to three issues: tenure, budget advisory matters and academic direction. After much discussion, the first two committees were approved unanimously, but it was decided that more consideration be given to the idea of an academic direction committee.

Senior Vice Provost Harriet King told the council that a new draft of the Intellectual Property Policy is available online at www.emory.edu/PROVOST/policy_bylaws/draft_cover_newer.htm. King asked council members to review the document and send feedback to her via e-mail at provhmk@emory.edu.

President Bill Chace informed the council that Hunter had agreed to serve a second year as interim provost to provide some continuity as the University enters into the extended Arts & Sciences strategic planning. Chace also briefed the council on emergency response discussions under way between the University, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Emory Police Department and DeKalb County.

With the meeting’s allotted time running short, Vandall suggested holding off on committee reports and roster approval until the November meeting, which will be held Nov. 13 at 3:15 p.m. in 400 Administration.

If you have a question or concern for Faculty Council, send e-mail to Vandall at fvandall@law.emory.edu.