University Governance

March 2, 2009

TO:  Marianne Berry, President, University Senate
         Nancy Kinnersley, President, Faculty Senate

From:  Sandra Gautt, Chair, University Senate Athletic Committee

Re:  Action Item from the Committee for Fy08-09  

The Committee is completing its work on the charges for FY08-09 with a final report anticipated prior to mid-April.  Due to scheduling challeanges our last meeting was not scheduled to occur until April 28.  However, the March meeting will be devoted to finalizing a draft report with final approval via e-mail to meet an earlier deadline. 

To facilitate SenEx action, I am forwarding the one action item that will be a part of our recommendations.  The Committee recommends that Paul Buskirk, Associate Director of Athletics, Student Athlete Support Services, be appointed as an ex-officio member of the committee.  The Committee feels that the addition of Mr. Buskirk would further strengthen the communication between University Senate and Athletics.  The current structure which includes the FAR has provided an excellent linkage for this communication.  Having an individual who has operational responsibilities in Athletics that reflect both academics and student athlete welfare extends this linkage by opening the opportunity for reciprocal dialog, understanding, and education around issues and concerns.  A significant number of the committee’s standing and specific charges have resulted in continuing interaction with Mr. Buskirk.  His membership on the committee will facilitate the continuity of information as well as increase our efficiency in meeting some of the committee’s data needs regarding academic issues. 

If you have any questions regarding the recommendation, please feel free to contact me.