UNO Faculty Senate

Faculty Senate Archives Committees Governance Documents Membership Current Agenda Meeting Schedule Faculty Handbook Paul Beck Scholarship UNO Homepage Outside Links Miscellaneous	Last updated: 12/06/2004 Annual Report 1999 - 2000 President: Douglas L. Paterson August 18, 2000 Nancy Belck, Ph.D. Chancellor University of Nebraska at Omaha 60th and Dodge Streets, EAB 201 Omaha, Nebraska 68182 Dear Chancellor Belck: Appended to this letter is the annual report made by me as the President of the Faculty Senate on the 1999 - 2000 activities of the Faculty Senate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha. This report is prescribed by our constitution as a duty of the president of the faculty senate as follows: THE CONSTITUTION of the FACULTY SENATE OF THE UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA AT OMAHA ARTICLE IV. ORGANIZATION OF THE SENATE The president shall make at least one written report annually to the chancellor. This report will be made available to the university faculty in the senate office. Like my predecessor, Prof. Shelton Hendricks, I have organized my report in chronological order. The issues addressed by the senate are set forth under separate headings in the approximate order in which they arose. Relevant resolutions passed by the senate and forwarded to you are referenced and included; however, I have not included most of the resolutions dealing with senate appointments to committees. My comments regarding perceptions of the current state of various issues are in bold type. All resolutions passed by the senate are available at our web site. Resolutions dealing with similar issues are separated by my commentary, with commentary usually occurring after the related resolutions. What a remarkable year this has been. From residence halls, the China program, and the appointment of Shelton Hendricks to Associate Vice-Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Dean of the Graduate program to fetal tissue, budget reductions, and outstanding student and faculty achievements across campus, we have good reason to be proud of the various positions of leadership at this insurgent university. I have enjoyed very much working with you and your staff. The sun at UNOmaha is truly rising. Sincerely, Douglas L. Paterson, Ph.D 1999-2000 President of the UNOmaha Faculty Senate *** 1. Faculty Appointments to University and Other Committees As I mentioned in my introductory remarks, many of the senate resolutions involve appointments to committees. We were occasionally less than prompt with meeting some of these requirements, but I look for considerable improvement next year. Regarding the special committee on committees, the senate understands it was an important review but has not perceived much in the way of change in number of committees or workload since the review. However, one issue still seems to be pending in Central Administration: BE IT RESOLVED, that the following senators be recommended to the UNO Chapter of AAUP for service on a special Intellectual Property Committee to develop campus policy: Douglas Paterson John Shroder Michael O'Hara For Action By You and Vice Chancellor Hodgson: Resolution 2433, 03/01/00: Executive Committee; Paragraph Six Amended 03/08/00: Senate WHEREAS, the University of Nebraska regent's bylaws section 4.10 provides no clear policy with regard to faculty tenured or hired after 1994 and their creation of intellectual property in the context of electronic media, and WHEREAS, an artificial distinction separating electronic intellectual property rights from other intellectual property rights, such as ownership of course notes, classroom presentations, or textbooks, is a clear inequity, and WHEREAS, it clearly could be beneficial to move the delivery of some course instruction progressively toward more electronic means, aids, and state-of-the-art technologies, and WHEREAS, many university faculty certainly will need substantial support and motivation to adopt and effectively implement technology as a teaching aid, and WHEREAS, critical forms of university support of faculty development and distance education development include both technology and legal support (e.g. copyright clearance and licensing) to date UNO has focused on providing only technology support, and WHEREAS, university faculty can operate at a highly productive level only with commensurate support and incentives, and WHEREAS, the university faculty recognize the high costs associated with electronic media, and that nearly all distance education will require considerable budget expenses into the foreseeable future; therefore, BE IT RESOLVED, that: UNOmaha faculty will continue to own as intellectual property all copyrightable material, including without limitation all written, word processed, mapped, or otherwise personally constructed or created works of art, documents, computer programs, syllabi, course notes, CD-ROMS, web pages and other teaching and research materials, regardless of the medium of production, that are made in the course of normal instructional duties or research duties which are not covered by paragraph two. UNOmaha faculty given special assignment, or other compensation to produce special copyrightable materials would have those materials considered as a work for hire; however, UNO is encouraged to make this clearly understood prior to the faculty members acceptance of the assignment or compensation. Consistent with pre-1994 regent's bylaws section 4.10 any proceeds obtained from UNOmaha from the copyrightable materials created by faculty under special assignment as described in 2) above should be divided into three parts; one third to the faculty member, one third to the associated college, and one third to the university and UNO is encouraged to limit it's claims to recovery of its direct costs, overhead, and reasonable profit. UNOmaha faculty will retain the right of review and to revise all course materials used in distance learning or other functions by UNOmaha administration; and prior to UNOmaha reusing in any subsequent semester any copyrightable material, the creating faculty member shall be given a reasonable opportunity to object to the reuse on the grounds of academic quality (e.g. currency of information). UNOmaha faculty, in a separate written contract supported by separate consideration, may sign away their intellectual property rights of any educational materials to UNOmaha, or to any other corporate or educational entity; however UNO faculty should offer such materials to UNOmaha for right of first refusal when signing away to any other corporate or educational entity. UNOmaha administration, with abundant faculty participation, should formulate a more detailed policy on intellectual property that fully implements resolutions 1-5 above. Forwarded to Chancellor Belck: 03/01/00; Amended Resolution Forwarded 03/09/00 I, along with two colleagues, served on the Intellectual Property Committee, and submitted the above strong resolution to the senate which was passed. In the coming year, it would be beneficial if you could keep the senate apprised of any developments in the area of intellectual property. The resolution, it seems to me, shows how strongly the faculty feel about the matter. ** 2. Resolutions of Congratulations and Appreciation For Your Information: Resolution 2401, 08/18/99: On Behalf of the Assembly WHEREAS, the passing of former NU Regent Kermit Hansen marks the conclusion off a sterling career in public service, and WHEREAS, in his activities as regent, Kermit Hansen always had the good of the University at heart, and WHEREAS, Regent Hansen attended NU classes regularly to learn about the specific issues of teaching and learning, and WHEREAS, Kermit Hansen was thereby an exemplary regent; and WHEREAS, Regent Hansen was an extraordinary individual and caring family man in his own right; therefore, BE IT RESOLVED, that on behalf of the entire UNO faculty body, the Faculty Senate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha expresses its sympathy to the Hansen family and honors Regent Hansen's many achievements as one of Nebraska's most accomplished servants to public education. Forwarded to Chancellor Belck: 09/09/99 We were all saddened by the passing of Kermit Hansen, which the following resolution makes clear. As President of the Senate, I attended the memorial service. ___________________ The following are the end-of-year resolutions which were forwarded to you. I wanted especially to include these because I got a good one. For Your Information: Resolution 2443, 05/10/00: Executive Committee WHEREAS, she chaired the Executive Committee with vigorous leadership and a sense of efficiency, and WHEREAS, she served the Executive Committee and Senate with perceptive, critical insights on a wide range of matters important to faculty, and WHEREAS, she took a leave from the Senate to give birth to her fourth child and thereby perhaps felt more productive than doing Senate business in that important effort; therefore BE IT RESOLVED, that the Faculty Senate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha commends Professor Janice Rech for her capable and happily interrupted service to the UNOmaha Faculty Senate in this, the 1999-2000 academic year. Forwarded to Chancellor Belck: 05/30/00 For Your Information: Resolution 2444, 05/10/00: Executive Committee WHEREAS he kept track of the Senate Budget and dutifully reported our status from month to month, and WHEREAS he has brought a wonderfully measured and thoughtful analysis to difficult matters, and WHEREAS he has been a leader in helping the Senate understand a broad spectrum of concerns and opportunities in UNO's newest College, the College of Information Science and Technology; therefore, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Faculty Senate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha expresses its sincere appreciation to Professor Hesham Ali for his work as Secretary-Treasurer in this academic year 1999-2000, and for his tireless efforts to make UNOmaha a continually better educational institution. Forwarded to Chancellor Belck: 05/30/00 For Your Information: Resolution 2445, 05/10/00: Executive Committee WHEREAS he has chaired the Committee on Educational Resources and Services as well as the Cabinet with a precision and passion characteristic of his teaching and his life, and WHEREAS he brought both institutional wisdom and personal vision to matters such as the Paul Beck Scholarship and the rapidly transforming whirlwinds of educational technology, and WHEREAS he represents, as he has for many years, the finest possible commitment to UNOmaha education and to meeting the needs of a vibrant faculty; therefore, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Faculty Senate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha commends Professor William Clute for exemplary service to UNOmaha both as a Senator in this 1999-2000 Academic Year and, over many years, as an exemplary teacher. Forwarded to Chancellor Belck: 05/30/00 For Your Information: Resolution 2446, 05/10/00: Executive Committee WHEREAS she has risen to one of the most difficult and unheralded tasks the Senate requires as Chair of the Rules Committee, and WHEREAS this activity often resembles not only herding cats but trying to find cats to herd, and WHEREAS she has executed this demanding Chair position with professionalism and cool reason while still contributing her formidable insight to the discussions of the Executive Committee; therefore, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Faculty Senate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha expresses its appreciation to Professor Miriam DeLone for her leadership of the Rules Committee during this the 1999-2000 Academic Year. Forwarded to Chancellor Belck: 05/30/00 For Your Information: Resolution 2447, 05/10/00: Executive Committee WHEREAS he has assumed leadership for a wide array of discussions on the Professional Development Committee, and WHEREAS he has advocated effectively for institutional support of outstanding research and excellence in teaching at UNOmaha, and WHEREAS he has graced the Executive Committee with a buoyancy and humor essential for effective group action; therefore, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Faculty Senate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha commends Professor Chris Allen for his Senate leadership and faculty advocacy in this academic year 1999-2000. Forwarded to Chancellor Belck: 05/30/00 For Your Information: Resolution 2448, 05/10/00: Executive Committee WHEREAS he has provided effective leadership to the Goals and Directions Committee, and WHEREAS he and his committee pursued relentlessly the idea of a percentage of gifting to the university being designated for basic university needs, and WHEREAS his wit, skepticism, and graciousness have enlivened the deliberations of the Senate and Executive Committee and Cabinet; therefore, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Faculty Senate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha express its sincere appreciation to Professor Sufi Nazem for his professionalism and his zest for life in all his Senate activities during this 1999-2000 Academic Year. Forwarded to Chancellor Belck: 05/30/00 For Your Information: Resolution 2449, 05/10/00: Executive Committee WHEREAS he has as Chair of the Personnel and Welfare Committee energetically taken on numerous tasks remanded to his committee, and WHEREAS he has initiated several important analyses and investigations concerning issues such as intellectual property and faculty safety, and WHEREAS he has been and remains one of UNOmaha's most dedicated and thoughtful defenders of faculty rights; therefore, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Faculty Senate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha expresses its deep appreciation to Professor Kenneth Deffenbacher for his leadership both in this 1999-2000 Academic Year and for his many years of service in many capacities to UNOmaha. Forwarded to Chancellor Belck: 05/30/00 For Your Information: Resolution 2450, 05/10/00: Executive Committee WHEREAS he has provided confident and capable leadership to the Academic and Curricular Affairs Committee, and WHEREAS his analysis has been sought out by Officers and Senators alike on many matters confronting the UNOmaha faculty, and WHEREAS his insistence that excellence and accessibility in education cannot be separated; therefore, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Faculty Senate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha sincerely thanks Professor John Bartle for the solidity of his leadership and for his dedication to the integrity of the university in this, the 1999-2000 Academic Year. Forwarded to Chancellor Belck: 05/30/00 For Your Information: Resolution 2451, 05/10/00: Executive Committee WHEREAS he has served the University of Nebraska at Omaha in more ways than anyone can remember, and WHEREAS he has served as Parliamentarian of the Faculty Senate over literally decades, and WHEREAS his contributions to the Senate and to the larger university have been always marked by integrity, patience, and an unfailing desire to serve; therefore, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Faculty Senate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha commend Professor Dwayne Aschenbrenner for his exemplary service to the Senate as Parliamentarian in this 1999-2000 Academic Year, and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Faculty Senate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha bestow upon Professor Dwayne Aschenbrenner the title Parliamentarian Emeritus, with all the rights and privileges appertaining thereto. Forwarded to Chancellor Belck: 05/30/00 For Your Information: Resolution 2452, 05/10/00: Executive Committee WHEREAS she has managed the day-to-day business of the UNO Faculty Senate with extraordinary competence, and WHEREAS she brings humor, diligence, professionalism, initiative, and a breathtaking capacity to remember and address detail, and WHEREAS the UNO Faculty Senate would likely not function nearly as effectively were it not for her exceedingly capable efforts on our behalf; therefore, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Faculty Senate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha sincerely and deeply commends Sandy Jensen for her ongoing and essential service to the Faculty Senate in this 1999-2000 Academic Year. Forwarded to Chancellor Belck: 05/30/00 For Your Information: Resolution 2453, 05/10/00: Executive Committee WHEREAS, he has provided keen leadership with a dramatic flair, and WHEREAS, he has served as a principal voice defending faculty interests in the reallocation process and budgetary matters within the University of Nebraska system, and WHEREAS, he has provided a social voice and a social conscience for the academic community, and WHEREAS, he has expressed the concerns and appreciation of the faculty both honestly and passionately, and WHEREAS, he has maintained an open and amicable relationship with the administration and the media, and WHEREAS, his vision has encouraged the faculty and administration to look toward and enter the new millennium with anticipation and just concern; therefore, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Faculty Senate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha extends its deep appreciation to Professor Doug Paterson for his outstanding service to the faculty and the university as president of the UNOmaha Faculty Senate in the 1999-00 academic year. Forwarded to Chancellor Belck: 05/30/00 ** 3. Senate Processes and Administration For Your Information: Resolution 2409, 10/13/99: Executive Committee WHEREAS, the faculty senate president, in consultation with the Executive Committee, has ascertained the need to activate the senate Budget Advisory Committee in light of the recent budget reallocations, and WHEREAS, according to the senate bylaws, the committee shall be charged with acquiring detailed knowledge of the budget and expenditures of the entire University of Nebraska system and shall act as a source of information and independent opinion for the faculty senate; therefore, BE IT RESOLVED, that the following names go forward as appointments to the senate Budget Advisory Committee for three-year terms from October 13, 1999, through July 31, 2002: Martha Bruckner Carol Ebdon Dale Krane Janet West BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the secretary-treasurer of the faculty senate act as liaison between the committee and the Executive Committee and the senate president serve as ex-officio. Senate representatives will serve one-year terms from October 13, 1999, through May 17, 2000 (the end of the current senate year) at which time the 2000-2001 senate officers will step in. Hesham Ali, senate secretary-treasurer Douglas Paterson, senate president BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the following names go forward as appointments to the senate Budget Advisory Committee's Subcommittee on Health Care for three-year terms from October 13, 1999, through July 31, 2002: Boyd Littrell Hesham Ali, liaison to full committee Forwarded to Chancellor Belck: 10/14/99 For Action By You and Vice Chancellor Hodgson: Resolution 2410, 10/13/99: Committee on Academic and Curricular Affairs WHEREAS, resource allocation decisions should follow the careful evaluation of academic programs, and WHEREAS, the academic program reviews serve as a valuable source of information to guide future planning; therefore, BE IT RESOLVED, that the academic program reviews should be used as one of the criteria in the reallocation decision by the Chancellor's Office, and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that explicit reference should be made to the findings of the academic program reviews in the reallocation justification. Forwarded to Chancellor Belck: 10/14/99 For Your Information (new members will be notified by the faculty senate): Resolution 2417, 11/10/99: Executive Committee BE IT RESOLVED, that the following names go forward as appointments to the senate Budget Advisory Committee for three-year terms from November 10, 1999, through July 31, 2002: G. Griffith Elder Andrew Smallwood BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the following names go forward as appointments to the senate Budget Advisory Committee's Subcommittee on Health Care for three-year terms from November 10, 1999, through July 31, 2002: David Ambrose Forwarded to Chancellor Belck: 11/11/99 Because of the apprehensions felt by faculty generally and the senate specifically concerning the ongoing process of reallocation, I convened a special ad-hoc committee to advise me about budget issues, including those related to the health trust. This was a great asset to me, giving me specific understandings of university budgeting processes. We were grateful that Vice-President David Leckner was able to join us on several occasions. While I will likely never be even competent at the details of large budgeting processes, I hope to continue to be informed by this outstanding committee in the coming year. The faculty and the senate remain apprehensive about this ongoing budget crisis in the coming year. Certainly as we approach what might be a truly "rough" year for this reallocation process, it is appropriate that the UNOmaha Faculty Senate and UNOmaha Administration remain in close communication and consultation. For Your Information: Resolution 2418, 11/10/99: Committee on Faculty Personnel and Welfare WHEREAS, it is an honor for faculty to serve as marshals at commencement, and WHEREAS, the present system used to select faculty commencement marshals has proven difficult to implement fully; therefore, BE IT RESOLVED, that the following procedure will be used henceforth: two faculty marshals shall be selected for each commencement by the faculty senate president. Selection shall be from a list of faculty senate and faculty volunteers. Forwarded to Chancellor Belck: 11/11/99 We believe we have found a workable solution to the need for six faculty marshals per year. However, with a president gone most of the summer, as happened recently, and with faculty pursuing various projects en masse and often not available, it is clear we will need to alert each president early in the summer to attend to this matter. For Your Information: Resolution 2419, 12/08/99: Executive Committee BE IT RESOLVED, that the Executive Committee nominates Senator Paterson for president-elect. Forwarded to Chancellor Belck: 12/09/99 Again, the Senate seems to have come to the conclusion that this person is capable of leading the senate. This can only cast doubt on the competency of this body and on the competency of the faculty as an aggregate. Or, simply as a gag. For Your Information: Resolution 2422, 12/08/99: Committee on Rules WHEREAS, the need for new faculty senators to be elected in the spring semester of the academic year to take office in the subsequent fall semester and be available for Wednesday meetings (a minimum of two meetings: full senate and standing committee) is complicated by the scheduling of faculty teaching schedules and the early spring deadlines for final fall schedules; therefore, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Committee on Rules of the Faculty Senate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha encourages the college election of senators by the end of January in the spring semester of the academic year to facilitate appropriate schedule changes before the final revision of the upcoming fall schedule, which is generally early February. Forwarded to Chancellor Belck: 12/09/99 For Your Information: Resolution 2434, 03/08/00: Executive Committee WHEREAS, the Faculty Senate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha approved Resolution 2422 (copied below) on December 8, 1999, in an effort to update the election process and thereby facilitate appropriate schedule changes for newly elected representatives, and Resolution 2422, 12/08/99: Committee on Rules WHEREAS, the need for new faculty senators to be elected in the spring semester of the academic year to take office in the subsequent fall semester and be available for Wednesday meetings (a minimum of two meetings: full senate and standing committee) is complicated by the scheduling of faculty teaching schedules and the early spring deadlines for final fall schedules; therefore, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Committee on Rules of the Faculty Senate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha encourages the college election of senators by the end of January in the spring semester of the academic year to facilitate appropriate schedule changes before the final revision of the upcoming fall schedule, which is generally early February. WHEREAS, on February 9, 2000, the Executive Committee and Cabinet announced intent to introduce a motion to amend said bylaws at the March 8, 2000, meeting as required by Article VII, Section 1 (copied below); therefore, Article VII. Amendments. Section 1: These bylaws can be amended at any business meeting by simple majority vote of those eligible to be cast by the entire senate providing that at the preceding meeting an announcement has been made declaring intent to introduce a motion to amend at the next meeting and describing its content and purpose. The proposal must be reduced to writing when presented for a vote. BE IT RESOLVED, that the Bylaws of the Faculty Senate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha be amended as follows: FACULTY SENATE OF THE UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA AT OMAHA amendments by Bylaws Review Committee, February 27, 1998 amendments presented to the faculty senate, March 11, 1998 resolutions 2296 and 2305 presented to the faculty senate, April 8, 1998 approved by the faculty senate, April 8, 1998 resolution 2422 presented and passed by the faculty senate, Dec 8, 1999 proposed amendments presented to the faculty senate, February 9, 2000 resolution 3434 presented and approved by the faculty senate March 8, 2000 Article II. Elections. Section 4 3: No later than ~~the end of the second week in the month of March preceding the election of senators,~~ December the faculty senate president shall request the ~~chief executive officer of the university shall furnish the faculty senate president with~~ appropriate faculty rosters to be used ~~for~~ in determining the number of senators to be elected for the next academic year ~~from each college and from the "external faculty" serving on the UNO campus~~ from the director of Institutional Research. The rosters shall include; 1) all full-time faculty totaled by college and subtotaled by departments; 2) all full-time non-collegiate faculty totaled and sub-totaled by appointments (i.e., University Library); and 3) all full-time external NU faculty totaled and sub-totaled by college (UNK, UNL, UNMC). Definitions for all categories are included in the senate constitution. ~~A roster of "non-collegiate" faculty members shall also be provided at this time.~~ Section 4: After consulting with the Executive Committee, the faculty senate president shall notify the appropriate academic deans of the number of seats the respective colleges are entitled to fill during the ensuing academic year. This notification shall occur prior to the first of ~~April~~ January. Section 3 5: The election of senators shall be conducted by each college during the month of ~~April~~ January in two steps: a primary and a final election. ~~The r~~ Respective college faculties shall vote in a primary to determine the nominees for the final election. The final ballot shall list twice as many names as there are seats to be filled by each college. In the event of a tie in either election, a run-off shall be conducted between those candidates. Eligible persons receiving the highest number of votes cast for the respective seats shall be deemed elected to the senate. Section 5 6: According to its own governance procedures, the faculty of each college seating senators shall designate at least two of its members to count ballots and transmit the results of the election to the faculty senate president via e-mail by the last working day of January. Notices of final election results shall clearly identify the winner(s) and the name of the senator he/she is replacing. ~~, or winners, who shall fill the senate seat(s) to which a college is entitled.~~ Such notices shall also include a rank order listing of the next highest vote getters, which will be maintained in the faculty senate office and which will be used in accord with Article III of these bylaws to fill any vacancy that occurs in a college's senate delegation before the next election. Section 7:All academic deans are strongly encouraged to give due consideration to the scheduling of their elected senate representatives when putting together the fall schedules during the month of February. Senators are required to attend mandatory meetings on the first, second and last Wednesdays of every month. Senators who are elected within the senate to serve as an officer are also required to attend meetings on the third Wednesday of every month. Section 6 8: No later than the ~~end of the first week in the~~ month of ~~May following the election,~~ February, the faculty senate president shall certify to the ~~chief administrative officer~~ chancellor of the university and the director of University Affairs for publicity purposes the results of the election , which also shall be posted to the faculty senate web site. The faculty president shall also provide copies of the election certification to the deans of the academic colleges in order that they may notify their faculties of the official results. A copy of the election results shall also be provided to the Office of University Relations for other publicity purposes . Section 7 9: Elected senators shall assume their duties at an officially designated point during the last senate meeting of the academic year (May) in which they are elected and shall hold office until the corresponding point in the last meeting of the academic year (May) in which their successors are elected. Prior to the vote for officers for the following year, newly elected senators shall replace senators whose terms have expired. Forwarded to Chancellor Belck: 03/09/00 For Your Information: Resolution 2438, 05/10/00: Executive Committee BE IT RESOLVED, that the Executive Committee recommends to the Faculty Senate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha that the 467 faculty actively employed, on leave of absence, or on partial retirement with the rank of instructor or above as of the Spring, 2000, semester will be represented by the following distribution of seats for the 2000-2001 academic year: College of Arts and Sciences 15 College of Business Administration 4 College of Education 5 College of Fine Arts 3 College of Information Science and Technology 2 College of Library 1 College of Public Affairs and Community Service 5 College of External NU Faculty 2 TOTAL 37 Forwarded to Chancellor Belck: 04/13/00 We have in the above resolutions provided for elections of Faculty Senators before class schedules for Fall have been developed. This should help us avoid the difficulties of new senators who happen to teach on Wednesday afternoons. This will be our first year implementing what has been a long-term scheduling problem. Hopefully, the difficulties will be alleviated. For Your Information: Resolution 2458, 05/10/00: Committee on Rules WHEREAS, most cases are historically filed with the Academic Freedom and Tenure Committee during the Spring semester which corresponds with the changing membership of the committee, and WHEREAS, the Bylaws of the Faculty Senate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha requires that the committee membership under which a case is filed be maintained until the case is resolved, and WHEREAS, the chair of the Academic Freedom and Tenure Committee is thus compelled to manage two separate committees throughout the summer, depending on when the cases are filed, and WHEREAS, a slate of nominees that shall include for each vacancy to be filled one more candidate than the number of vacant seats must be presented to the senate prior to the full-faculty election; therefore, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Faculty Senate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha hereby changes the date of the election of members from April to October to allow the Committee on Rules time to present the ballot at the September meeting, and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the faculty senate coordinator run the election to be tallied by the Committee on Rules and presented at the October meeting, and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the senate Bylaws, Article VI, Section 6, 6.2 be amended as follows: 6.2 Academic Freedom and Tenure Committee. This committee, composed of five (5) tenured and two (2) non-tenured members of the UNO faculty, will sit on all cases covered by sections 4.14 of the Bylaws of the Board of Regents of the University of Nebraska. Members of the committee shall be elected by the faculty to a term of three (3) years. Every year at the ~~April~~ September meeting, the Committee on Rules shall present a slate of nominees that shall include for each vacancy to be filled one more candidate than the number of vacant seats created by reason of resignation, retirement, or the expiration of the term of a member. The senate shall be notified of the newly elected members by way of a resolution presented by the Committee on Rules at the October senate meeting. Non-tenured faculty members who receive tenure shall resign at the end of the academic year in which it is conferred and be replaced in the manner previously described. Elections to this committee shall be conducted in the same way ~~and at the same time~~ that faculty senators are elected. The committee shall elect its own chairperson. A committee with a case under consideration shall, when necessary, continue past ~~April~~ September with its membership unchanged until the case is resolved; in such an event, new cases shall be considered by the reconstituted committee. Forwarded to Chancellor Belck: 05/30/00 For Your Information: Resolution 2459, 05/10/00: Committee on Rules WHEREAS, members of the senate's Faculty Grievance Committee and Professional Conduct Committee are elected by ballot vote of the senate, and WHEREAS, the Faculty Grievance Committee's election is currently held in the month of September while the Professional Conduct Committee's election is currently held in the month of October; therefore, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Faculty Senate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha hereby changes the Professional Conduct Committee's election to the month of September to run concurrent with the Faculty Grievance Committee's election, and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the senate Bylaws, Article VI, Section 6, 6.3 be amended as follows: 6.3 Professional Conduct Committee. This committee, composed of five (5) tenured UNO faculty members holding the rank of assistant professor or above, will consider all professional conduct cases arising under section 4.15 of the Bylaws of the Board of Regents of the University of Nebraska. The election to fill committee vacancies due to resignation, retirement, or the expiration of a three-year term shall be held ~~no later than October 15th of~~ at the September meeting each year. The faculty senate shall choose committee members by plurality vote from a list of nominees prepared by the Committee on Rules. The ballot shall list one more nominee for each vacancy than there are positions to be filled and, insofar as feasible, wide representation of the faculty should be sought in the composition of the committee. Members of the committee shall serve staggered terms, meaning that the term(s) of one class of members will expire each year. Retiring members shall continue to serve for three (3) years as alternates who will be available as committee replacements should the need arise in a particular case. The committee shall elect its own chairperson from the membership. A committee with a case under consideration shall, when necessary, continue past September with its membership unchanged until the case is resolved; in such an event, new cases shall be considered by the reconstituted committee. Forwarded to Chancellor Belck: 05/30/00 The above resolution(s) attempt to align the appointments of these three important university-wide committees so that (1) the appointments occur at the same time; and (2) the appointments allow completion of activities over the summer. For Your Information: Resolution 2471, 05/10/00: Committee on Rules BE IT RESOLVED, that the following senators be appointed to the 2000-2001 faculty senate standing committees as designated: Committee on Academic and Curricular Affairs (6) Nora Bacon, A&S John Bartle, PACS James Carroll, A&S Melodee Landis, ED Carol Mitchell, ED Robert Smith, A&S Committee on Educational Resources and Services (6) Donald Baum, BA Deborah Irvin, ED Bonnie O'Connell, FA Karen Falconer Al-Hindi, A&S James Shaw, Library Andrew Smallwood, A&S Committee on Faculty Personnel and Welfare (6) Timi Barone, A&S Robert Carlson, A&S G. Vaughn Johnson, BA Vivek Mande, BA John Shroder, A&S Christopher Tuan, NU Rep Committee on Goals and Directions (6) Hesham Ali, IS&T Ann Coyne, PACS E. Terence Foster, NU Rep James Hagen, A&S Franklin Thompson, ED Angela Valle, A&S Committee on Professional Development (6) Chris Allen, A&S Theresa Barron-McKeagney, PACS Joong-Gun Chung, A&S G. Griffith Elder, A&S Bridget Ryalls, A&S Jihong (Solomon) Zhao, PACS Committee on Rules (6) Wally Bacon, A&S Miriam DeLone, PACS Richard File, BA Josie Metal-Corbin, ED Sharon Sobel, FA Hesham El-Rewini, IS&T Forwarded to Chancellor Belck: 05/30/00 For Your Information: Resolution 2472, 05/10/00: On behalf of the Assembly BE IT RESOLVED, that according to the Bylaws of the Faculty Senate of the University of Nebraska, Article VI, Section 1, the retiring standing committees have met and selected the following chairs from their continuing members: John Bartle, Academic and Curricular Affairs Donald Baum, Educational Resources and Services Jack Shroder, Faculty Personnel and Welfare Ann Coyne, Goals and Directions Chris Allen, Professional Development Sharon Sobel, Rules Forwarded to Chancellor Belck: 05/30/00 For Your Information: Resolution 2473, 05/10/00: On behalf of the Assembly BE IT RESOLVED, that according to the Bylaws of the Faculty Senate of the University of Nebraska, Article VI, Section 3, the senate president appoints the following senator chair of the Cabinet: John Shroder (to replace Senator William Clute). Forwarded to Chancellor Belck: 05/30/00 For Your Information: Resolution 2474, 05/10/00: On behalf of the Assembly, the Executive Committee BE IT RESOLVED, that according to the Constitution of the Faculty Senate of the University of Nebraska, Article IV, the faculty senate elects the following senator as their 2000-2001 vice president: Wally Bacon (to replace Senator Janice Rech). Forwarded to Chancellor Belck: 05/30/00 For Your Information: Resolution 2475, 05/10/00: On behalf of the Assembly, the Executive Committee BE IT RESOLVED, that according to the Constitution of the Faculty Senate of the University of Nebraska, Article IV, the faculty senate elects the following senator as their 2000-2001 secretary-treasurer: Hesham Ali (reappointed). Forwarded to Chancellor Belck: 05/30/00 For Your Information: Resolution 2479, 05/10/00: On behalf of the Assembly BE IT RESOLVED, that according to the Bylaws of the Faculty Senate of the University of Nebraska, Article VI, Section 5.6, the senate president appoints the following senator to serve as chair of the Committee on Rules: Sharon Sobel (to replace Senator Miriam DeLone). Forwarded to Chancellor Belck: 05/30/00 For Your Information: Resolution 2480, 05/10/00: On behalf of the Assembly BE IT RESOLVED, that according to the Constitution of the Faculty Senate of the University of Nebraska, Article VI, Section 5.6, the president appoints the following faculty member as the 2000-2001 senate parliamentarian: John Bartle (to replace Senator Duane Aschenbrenner). Forwarded to Chancellor Belck: 05/30/00 For Your Information: Resolution 2481, 05/10/00: On behalf of the Assembly BE IT RESOLVED, that according to the Bylaws of the Faculty Senate of the University of Nebraska, Article VI, Section 1, the standing committees met and selected the following vice chairs: James Carroll, Academic and Curricular Affairs Andrew Smallwood, Educational Resources and Services Robert Carlson, Faculty Personnel and Welfare James Hagen, Goals and Directions G. Griffith Elder, Professional Development Miriam DeLone, Rules. Forwarded to Chancellor Belck: 05/30/00 The above resolutions are included here merely as a reiteration of the leadership who will guide the senate in the coming academic year. *** 4. Reviews and Recommendations Regarding General University Issues and Policies For Your Action: Resolution 2396, 07/07/99: On Behalf of the Assembly WHEREAS, the Ak-Sar-Ben facility provided an inadequate setting for the Spring, 1999, graduation; therefore, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Executive Committee and Cabinet of the Faculty Senate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha brings their concerns to the attention of administration. Forwarded To Chancellor Belck: 07/15/99 For Your Information (Resolution 2396 Rescinded): Resolution 2403, 08/18/99: On behalf of the Assembly BE IT RESOLVED, by vote of the full senate on August 18, 1999, Resolution 2396 previously approved by the Executive Committee and Cabinet was officially rescinded: ~~Rescinded: Resolution 2396: Approval of Resolution 2396, 06/02/99: On Behalf of the Assembly~~ ~~WHEREAS, the Ak-Sar-Ben facility provided an inadequate setting for the Spring, 1999, graduation; therefore,~~ ~~BE IT RESOLVED, that the Executive Committee and Cabinet of the Faculty Senate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha brings their concerns to the attention of administration.~~ Forwarded to Chancellor Belck: 09/09/99 Once it was clear that Commencement would no longer be held at Ak-Sar-Ben, the senate was more than happy to rescind their July resolution. It seems holding the exercises in the City Auditorium is an excellent alternative. For Your Action: Resolution 2397, 07/07/99: On Behalf of the Assembly WHEREAS, the addition of residence halls has transformed the physical structures of campus, and WHEREAS, this change creates the opportunity to honor university alumni and former faculty and staff; therefore, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Faculty Senate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha inquire of administration about the possibility of naming the residence halls and the procedure for doing so. Forwarded To Chancellor Belck: 07/15/99 For Your Action (Resolution 2397 Amended): Resolution 2404, 08/18/99: On behalf of the Assembly BE IT RESOLVED, by vote of the full senate on August 18, 1999, Resolution 2397 previously approved by the Executive Committee and Cabinet was officially amended as follows: Amended: Resolution 2397, 06/02/99: On Behalf of the Assembly WHEREAS, the addition of residence halls has transformed the physical structures of campus, and WHEREAS, this change creates the opportunity to honor university friends, alumni and former faculty and staff; therefore, ~~BE IT RESOLVED, that the Faculty Senate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha inquire of administration about the possibility of naming the residence halls and the procedure for doing so.~~ BE IT RESOLVED, that the senate urges administration to consider naming the residence hall buildings, and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the senate ~~expects to~~ be included in the naming process. Forwarded to Chancellor Belck: 09/09/99 We are happy about both the process and the results of naming the residence halls. Thank you for bringing the senate into the loop. Forwarded to Chancellor Belck: 09/09/99 For Your Information: Resolution 2420, 12/08/99: Executive Committee WHEREAS, there have been in recent weeks political and other external threats to the academic integrity of the University of Nebraska and the ability of its faculty and students to pursue knowledge and express themselves in a manner consistent with the principles of academic freedom, and WHEREAS, L. Dennis Smith, President of the University of Nebraska has demonstrated principled courage in opposing these threats; therefore, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Faculty Senate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha commends President Smith for his defense of the university and academic freedom, and offers its whole hearted support to his efforts. Forwarded to Chancellor Belck: 12/09/99 It seems certain the issues surrounding fetal tissue research will arise again this year, not only during the election process but in the ongoing ritual of political forces making hay of what is in effect a non-issue. Please know that the senate remains committed to the resolution passed above and would welcome any request to be of further support. For Your Action: Resolution 2428, 02/09/99: Committee on Academic & Curricular Affairs WHEREAS, the UNO Strategic Plan stresses placing student needs at the center, expanding educational opportunities for students from under-represented populations, and building bridges to the community, and WHEREAS, the Peter Kiewit Conference Center credit classes have been eliminated, and WHEREAS, off-campus credit courses and enrollments have decreased 30% from the fall of 1998 to the fall of 1999, and WHEREAS, off-campus course offerings are vital to the health of an urban university; therefore, BE IT RESOLVED, that the UNO Faculty Senate urges the development of a long-range plan that strengthens off-campus credit programming at UNO and that the plan be developed through a collaborative process that includes UNO faculty from various colleges and appropriate administrators and staff. Forwarded to Chancellor Belck: 02/15/00 It was my sense that this resolution had two constituencies: (1) faculty who are deeply committed to UNOmaha's presence in the community through the offering of site-friendly classes; and (2) faculty who have for some time taught in or taught students who have taken advantage of classes held at the PKCC. It might be useful to have information now about UNOmaha's presence at the Center and any prospects for future development at the Center and in other off-campus sites. For Your Action: Resolution 2432, 02/09/00: On Behalf of the Assembly WHEREAS, the China program has been a topic of conversation on campus for several months without any formal document available for faculty review, and WHEREAS, UNOmaha faculty have a number of questions concerning the proposed UNOmaha degree program in China, and WHEREAS, the faculty has not received sufficient detailed information about the proposed contact despite Vice Chancellor Hodgson's gracious presentation to the Senate on the proposal; therefore, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Faculty Senate respectfully requests that it be kept fully informed by the administration both concerning generalities and details of the contract as it takes shape; and that the Faculty Senate be consulted in those matters contained in the contract and its implementation over which the faculty normally has governance prerogatives. Forwarded to Chancellor Belck: 02/15/00 For Action By You and Vice Chancellor Hodgson: Resolution 2436, 03/08/00: On Behalf of the Assembly WHEREAS, the Faculty Senate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha has discussed the proposal to offer the UNO Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science in China on numerous occasions during the past six months, and WHEREAS, the faculty senate and other faculty groups have repeatedly requested a clear, written description of the program, with (1) assurances that the quality of the degree would be maintained in this program and (2) statements of the conditions under which departments and individual faculty would provide the required resources to produce the educational materials for courses in the program and continue to monitor the quality of its delivery and implementation, and WHEREAS, none of these requests have received a written response covering the essential issues and now the faculty have been asked by the Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs to decide within two to three weeks whether to support UNO's participation in this program -- still without many of the questions having been answered clearly in writing; therefore, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Faculty Senate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha can not, at this time, support the participation of UNO in the proposed offering of the UNO Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science in China, and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the faculty senate will be willing to consider an appropriate response to the vice chancellor's request only after adequate information on which to base a decision has been provided to the faculty in the affected departments and colleges, and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the faculty senate recommends that a minimum of 90 days during the spring and fall semesters be given to the affected departments and colleges to consider the proposal. Forwarded to Chancellor Belck: 03/09/00 For Your Information: Resolution 2437, 03/08/00: On Behalf of the Assembly BE IT RESOLVED, that pursuant to the previous resolution (2436) the Faculty Senate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha supports UNOmaha's continuing commitment to deliver quality international and distance learning programs. Forwarded to Chancellor Belck: 03/09/00 The China program continues to attract the interest and curiosity of UNOmaha faculty. The senate would appreciate continuous updates on the development of what appears to be a pilot version of original ideas. It is my sense that faculty will be better able to assess this component of UNOmaha's larger commitment to distance education with a model, such as the pilot, to examine. For Your Action: Resolution 2435, 03/08/00: Executive Committee WHEREAS, quality education remains the primary mission of a metropolitan university such as the University of Nebraska at Omaha and academic excellence has already been established as a major goal of UNO's long-adopted Strategic Plan, and WHEREAS, university general education requirements comprising a liberal arts core is a necessary educational process at any university and that UNOmaha is less likely to receive significant financial support for this purpose from external sources such as gifts, donations and other funding, and WHEREAS, almost all of the money raised by the University Foundation is earmarked for specific programs and financial support for student scholarships and student development programs is relatively inadequate; therefore, BE IT RESOLVED, that the faculty senate strongly recommends that a specified percentage (for example five percent) of all gifts and donations be made available for placement in a vice chancellor of academic affairs fund for the purpose of supporting university general education requirements at the University of Nebraska at Omaha to help the broad academic mission of this metropolitan university to excel. While the senate realizes this request may seem unusual, there is a strong belief among faculty that special and private interests are having too much impact on the University of Nebraska and UNOmaha as a whole, and on the status of basic education in particular. The resolution was made it good faith in the belief that such a policy, implemented slowly and over a period of years, would not hinder the University's ability to attract private donations, and in fact would serve the pedagogy function of informing potential donors and the wider community that our fundamental commitment is to a quality, basic education of all students. We would appreciate a continuing dialogue on this matter. Forwarded to Chancellor Belck: 03/09/00 For Your Action:** Resolution 2440, 04/12/00: Committee on Faculty Personnel and Welfare WHEREAS, the Faculty Senate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha passed Resolution 2370 on April 14, 1999, endorsing domestic partnership benefits for all UNO non-married staff and faculty, and WHEREAS, neither the Board of Regents of the University of Nebraska nor the chancellor of UNO have responded to this resolution; therefore, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Faculty Senate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha wishes, yet again, to express its strongest support for the sentiments expressed in Resolution 2370. Resolution 2370, 04/14/99: Committee on Faculty Personnel and Welfare WHEREAS, the University of Nebraska has declared and affirmed a policy of equal employment opportunities, affirmative action in employment, and nondiscrimination; therefore, BE IT RESOLVED, the UNO Faculty Senate endorses domestic partnership benefits for all UNO non-married staff and faculty as long as procedures can be adopted that provide for documentation of: 1) the partners' commitment to each other (e.g. the partners have been in an exclusive relationship for a specified number of months and intend to remain together indefinitely; the partners are not married to each other or anyone else, or related to each other by blood so closely that state law would prohibit them from being married to each other, etc.), 2) sharing of financial obligations (e.g. they own a home together or are jointly listed on a lease; they hold joint bank accounts, they have joint liabilities, including motor-vehicle loans or credit-card accounts, etc.), and 3) joint responsibility for each other's welfare (e.g. they are named as each other's beneficiary on life-insurance policies; they are named as the primary beneficiary in each other's wills; etc.) Forwarded to Chancellor Belck: 04/13/00 Fortunately, UNOmaha is blessed with an activist faculty when it comes to matters of justice, fairness, and diversity. Because the disposition of Nebraska Regents is away from domestic partner benefits is not a reason to refrain from raising the issue. The above resolution was passed with only two negative votes, and thus upwards of 30 - 34 faculty senators support the resolution. We would like to see the matter continually moving toward one of the Regents' front burners. **** 5. Faculty Development For Action By You and Vice Chancellor Hodgson: Resolution 2455, 05/10/00: Committee on Professional Development WHEREAS, UNOmaha has always prides itself on excellence in teaching, and WHEREAS, the Center for Faculty Development continues to be an excellent resource for new and experienced faculty, and WHEREAS, the University Committee for the Advancement of Teaching (UCAT) has provided opportunities for summer fellowships for faculty to develop their courses and money to further pedagogical research, and WHEREAS, UCAT has also provided travel funds for faculty members to attend teaching conferences, often the only money available for such conferences, and WHEREAS, funding of both has been seen as a means to budget savings in the past, and WHEREAS, budget reallocations raise again the possibility that either program or both could suffer further cuts; therefore, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Faculty Senate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha urges the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs to maintain funding for both the Center for Faculty Development and the University Committee for the Advancement of Teaching. Forwarded to Chancellor Belck: 05/30/00 For Action By You and Vice Chancellor Hodgson: Resolution 2456, 05/10/00: Committee on Professional Development WHEREAS, research is the foundation of academic growth, and WHEREAS, funding of academic research varies widely among the disciplines, and WHEREAS, securing adequate funding is fundamental to research activities, and WHEREAS, the University Committee on Research (UCR) has provided valuable seed money for research projects across disciplines, and WHEREAS, UCR has also offered support for presentation of research results at academic conference by both faculty and students, and WHEREAS, UCR has been the target of budget cuts in the past, and WHEREAS, the current budget situation threatens UCR again; therefore, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Faculty Senate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha urges the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs to refrain from any cuts to the UCR budget due to reallocation of funds for the next fiscal year. Forwarded to Chancellor Belck: 05/30/00 We remain concerned about the permanent reduction UCR and UCAT received several years ago and are even more concerned about research and faculty development funding as the reallocation process goes forward. At the very least it would seem some of the increased tuition dollars should be directed toward UNO for faculty professional enrichment rather than impoverishment. ** 6. Professional Conduct For Your Information (Resolution 2379 Rescinded): Resolution 2402, 08/18/99: On Behalf of the Assembly BE IT RESOLVED, that the Faculty Senate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha rescinds the passage of Resolution 2379 on May 12, 1999: ~~For Your Action: Resolution 2379, 05/12/99: Committee on Faculty Personnel and Welfare~~ BE IT RESOLVED, that the Committee on Faculty Personnel and Welfare moves the approval, with no changes, of the "Issue Resolution and Complaint Procedures for Prohibited Discrimination University of Nebraska at Omaha" document previously submitted at the March 10, 1999, senate meeting. Just when we thought it was safe to get out of the water, we learn that the Kansas City office of Civil Rights has not accepted the Prohibited Discrimination document so carefully drawn up, changed, and amended these past two years. I presume the faculty will be informed if yet another version must be created. **** 7. Strategic Planning A number of senators have been involved directly in the Strategic Planning process. Now that the document has come to its first full realization, we look forward to its implementation, knowing that any plan is continually being reviewed and reassessed. However, we are aware that two of the Plan's leading voices - Profs. Reed and Smith-Howell - will be less available for leadership action this year. Please know that the senate is ready to help with the implementation of the Strategic Plan in any way possible.

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