Minutes of the University Committee
for October 8, 2002

The Committee met at 2:05 in D135 MOLN. Members present were John Buenker, Peggy James, James Kinchen, Don Kummings, Greg Mayer, and Gary Wood. Also present was Larry Duetsch.

The Committee took note of the health insurance options that are available to faculty (and staff) who live in Kenosha or Racine counties. Despite the protests that were recorded last year by individuals and by groups (like the Faculty Senate), there has been no expansion of the range of options open to employees. The Committee will continue to press for more choice. Three strategies will be pursued: a letter will be sent now to local legislators calling again for action to expand insurance choices, without an increase in insurance costs to the State (if possible); a new resolution (calling for action) will be prepared for consideration by the Faculty Senate this semester; and efforts will be made to join a confederation of other State employees who are lobbying for action.

The Committee then discussed recommendations of the Faculty Distinguished Service Award Committee that called for clarification of the criteria and the process that is to be followed. It was thought that the award should be given for any forms of service (internal or external) that are deemed extraordinary (beyond normal expectations) over an extended time period. It was also thought that nominees should be announced and members of the campus community invited to submit supporting letters or materials. It was agreed that the criteria/procedures for the teaching/research awards should be examined before a recommendation is made to the Senate.

The Committee briefly reviewed items for the next Faculty Senate meeting and identified nominees for vacancies on two administrative committees.

Finally, the Committee discussed the process that should be followed to replace the Secretary of the Faculty, who is planning to retire in 2003.

The meeting adjourned at 3:50.