MINUTES

 

Friday, July 13, 2007, 9:00 a.m.

Northeastern State University

NSU University Center, 601 Grand Avenue

Tahlequah, Oklahoma

 

      I.        ANNOUNCEMENT OF FILING MEETING NOTICE AND POSTING OF THE AGENDA IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE OPEN MEETING ACT

 

The Board of Regents of the Regional University System of Oklahoma met in regular session at 9:00 a.m., July 13, 2007, Ballroom Lounge, University Center, Northeastern State University, Tahlequah, Oklahoma.  Notice of the meeting had been properly filed with the Secretary of State, September 25, 2006, and a copy of the Agenda posted by 9:00 a.m., July 12, 2007 in compliance with the Open Meeting Act.

 

    II.        CALL TO ORDER AND REGENTS’ ROLL CALL

 

Chairman Howard called the meeting to order.  Roll call established the presence of a quorum with all Regents present.

 

Belva Howard, Chair, Position 2

Joe Anna Hibler, Vice Chair, Position 3

Jan Gordon, Secretary, Position 4

Harold Jackson, Regent, Position 1

Connie Reilly, Regent, Position 5

Richard Ryerson, Regent, Position 6

Ann Holloway, Regent, Position 7

Mark Stansberry, Regent, Position 8

Sandy Garrett, Regent, Position 9

 

GUESTS

 

Vice Chair Joe Anna Hibler recognized those in attendance:

 

University Presidents

 

Kim Cherry, Acting President, Northeastern State University, Tahlequah, Oklahoma

Janet Cunningham, President, Northwestern Oklahoma State University, Alva, Oklahoma

John Hays, President, Southwestern Oklahoma State University, Weatherford, Oklahoma

Richard Rafes, President, East Central University, Ada, Oklahoma

Jessie Snowden, Interim President, Southeastern Oklahoma State University, Durant, Oklahoma

Roger Webb, President, University of Central Oklahoma, Edmond, Oklahoma

 

Regional University System of Oklahoma Administrative Staff

 

Sheridan McCaffree, Executive Director

Charlie Babb, General Counsel

Amy Briley, Executive Assistant

 

Others in Attendance

 

Duane Anderson, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, East Central University

Dale Denwalt, The Northeastern, Northeastern State University

Tom Fagan, Vice President for Administration and Finance, Southwestern Oklahoma State University, Weatherford, Oklahoma

Amber Fite, General Counsel, Northeastern State University

Shirley Griffin, Northeastern State University

Kathryn Jones, Higher Education Alumni Council of Oklahoma

Steve Kreidler, Vice President for Administration and Finance, University of Central Oklahoma, Edmond, Oklahoma

Elizabeth Miller, The Northeastern, Northeastern State University

David Pecha, Vice President for Administration, Northwestern Oklahoma State University, Alva, Oklahoma

Sharon Robinson, Vice President Student Affairs, Southeastern Oklahoma State University

Blake Sonobe, Provost, Southwestern Oklahoma State University

Steve Turner, Interim Vice President for Administration, East Central University

Ross Walkup, Vice President for Business Services, Southeastern Oklahoma State University, Durant, Oklahoma

Neal Weaver, Vice President for University Relations, Northeastern State University

 

  III.        CONSENT DOCKET

 

Regent Gordon made the motion, seconded by Regent Ryerson, to approve the items listed on the consent docket:

 

In accordance with policy, Regent Ryerson directed that the following items be removed from the Building Committee portion of the consent docket:

 

C.   1.   Southeastern Oklahoma State University contract request.

C.   4.   b.  Southwestern Oklahoma State University Project Number 665-0054

C.   4.   d.  Southwestern Oklahoma State University retaining wall structure

C.   4.   h.  Southwestern Oklahoma State University mineral lease

C.   6.   a.  16) University of Central Oklahoma University Center Roof Replacement

C.   6.   a.  17) University of Central Oklahoma Parking, Sidewalks, Lights and Landscaping

 

The motion was therefore amended to approve the following items on the consent docket.

 

Voting for the motion by roll:  Regents Jackson, Howard, Hibler, Gordon, Reilly, Ryerson, Holloway, Stansberry, Garrett

 

Voting against the motion:  None

 

A.     MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS

 

R. #1 MINUTES OF MAY 17, 2007

 

R. #2 MINUTES OF JUNE 18, 2007

 

B.     ACADEMIC AFFAIRS COMMITTEE REPORT
Chair Connie Reilly
(Attachment A, Pages 42-72)

 

1.   Northwestern Oklahoma State University

 

R. #3 INTERLOCAL COOPERATIVE AGREEMENT

 

Approval to enter into an interlocal cooperative agreement between the Oklahoma Department of Corrections and Northwestern Oklahoma State University to provide continued residential substance abuse treatment services at the Charles E. “Bill” Johnson Correctional Center, Alva, Oklahoma, for a term of one (1) year.  NWOSU will receive an amount not to exceed three hundred thousand dollars ($300,000) for said services.

 

2.     R. #4 Northeastern State University

 

Attached is a Program Review Executive Summary for the following academic degree program at Northeastern State University:

 

Bachelor of Arts in Health and Human Performance (040)

 

3.     R. #5 Southwestern Oklahoma State University

 

a.     Program Modification Request for program requirement changes for the Bachelor of Science in Education in Mathematics Education.

 

3.  R. #6 SWOSU

 

b.    Action taken by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education relative to the accreditation of the education programs that are offered at SWOSU.

 

 

4.     R. #7 East Central University

 

a.     Program requirement change in the BA in English degree;

 

b.    Program requirement change in the Teacher Certification concentration of the BA in English degree

 

c.     Program requirement change in the Retail Merchandising concentration of the BS in Family and Consumer Sciences degree;

 

d.    Program requirement change in the Secondary Education-Sports Administration Option of the Master of Education degree;

 

e.     Program requirement change in the Library Media option of the Master of Education degree;

 

f.       Program requirement change in the Humanities Minor;

 

g.    Program requirement change in the English as a Second Language Minor

 

h.    Program requirement change in the Military Science Minor.

 

B.      BUILDING COMMITTEE REPORT – Chair, Richard Ryerson

(Attachment B, Pages 73-110)

 

Report of the Building Committee, Thursday, July 12, 2007, 3:00 p.m., Northeastern State University, University Center Ballroom Lounge, 612 N Grand Avenue, Tahlequah.

 

1.      Southeastern Oklahoma State University

 

Item removed from consent docket

 

2.      Northwestern Oklahoma State University

 

a.      R. #8 Project #5050023 – Health and Physical Education Building Renovation

 

Request approval to bid a renovation project for the Health and Physical Education Building and to award bid subject to approval of the Building Committee Chair and the Chair of the RUSO Board of Regents.  (Design approval was granted on July 29, 2005, R#6).  The project cost is estimated at $1,513,432 plus interest earned.  Funding Source:  Higher Education Bond Issue 2005 Funds. 

 

b.     R. #9 Project #5050028 – Science Building Renovation   

 

Request approval to bid a renovation project for the Science Building and to award bid subject to approval of the Building Committee Chair and the Chair of the RUSO Board of Regents.  (Design approval was granted on July 29, 2005, R#6).  The project cost is estimated at $2,800,000 plus interest earned.  Funding Source:  Higher Education Bond Issue 2005 Funds.

 

3.      East Central University

 

a.      R. #10 Project #230-0038 – Hallie Brown Ford Fine Arts Center

 

1)     Change Order #5 - Total Increase $36,134.94

Additional interior modifications including color changes and the addition of the ECU logo throughout the facility.

 

2)     Change Order #6 - Total Decrease $28,466.71

Delete moveable wall display panels.

 

3)     Change Order #7 - Total Increase $80,465.51

Modify and/or revise acoustical systems.

 

4)     Change Order #8 - Total Increase $91,485.00

Due to building code interpretations, modify and/or revise mechanical systems (i.e., smoke/fire dampers, HVAC ductwork).

 

5)     Change Order #9 - Total Increase $47,610.60

Replace tape library with a rack room to accommodate the various servers and switches required to operate TV and radio. Convert an equipment storage area into a radio station.

 

6)     Change Order #10 - Total Increase $17,911.86

Drainage system had to be modified in order to tie into the City of Ada's storm sewer. After modification the roof drain lines on south side of the building will tie into a new 18" HDPE storm sewer.

 

4.      Southwestern Oklahoma State University  (Page 110-115)

 

a.      R. #12 CAPITAL MASTER PLAN

 

Request approval of the FY08 Capital Master Plan.

 

b.     Item removed from consent docket

 

c.      R. #13 RETAINING WALL ARCHITECTS

 

Request permission to engage Meyer’s Architects Plus to design replacement structure for retaining wall south of the football practice field.

 

d.     Item removed from consent docket

 

e.      R. #14 COLONY TRANSPORTATION MUSEUM

 

Request approval of Project Agreement for Federal-Aid-Project for the development of the Colony Transportation Museum/Historical Information Center subject to contract review by Board legal counsel.

 

f.        R. #15 TRANSFER PARKER HALL TO E & G I

 

Request permission to officially transfer Parker Hall from an Auxiliary to E & G I.

 

g.     R. #16 PARKER HALL LOBBY RENOVATION

 

Request permission to design, bid and award the renovation of the center lobby of Parker Hall for temporary office, classroom and laboratory usage, SWOSU Project Numbers 665-0051 and 665-0035.  This space will be used to relocate displaced departments during renovation projects and for other temporary office usage.  Funds will be provided by the Higher Education Bond Issue at an estimated cost of $200,000.

 

h.     Item removed from consent docket.

 

i.        R. #17 RENOVATING UPWARD BOUND/ COMMUNTER LOUNGE PROJECT #665-0023

 

Report that due to water damage, we are renovating the Upward Bound/Commuter Lounge addition in the Memorial Student Center, SWOSU Project Number 665-0023 ahead of schedule.  This will include the removal of asbestos, the extension of the fire sprinkler and other improvements.

 

j.        R. #18 FIELD HOUSE ROOF

 

Present bid tab sheet for the Field House roof. 

 

k.      R. #19 STEWARD HALL ROOF

 

Present bid tab sheet for the Stewart Hall roof.

 

5.      Northeastern State University 

 

a.      R. #20 Project #4850058 – Enrollment Management Center

 

NSU requests ratification of the award for the construction contract approved by the Board Chair and the Building Committee Chair on June 14, 2007.  The contract has been awarded to Boldt Builds in the amount of $3,833,500.  The bid recap is as follows:

 

          Boldt Builds                         $3,833,500

          Oakridge Builders              $3,881,000

          Girdner Construction        $3,988,100

 

b.     R. #21 Project #4850063 – Residence Hall Renovation and Repair

 

1)     NSU requests permission to award a contract to Economy Siding in the amount of $41,060 for the replacement of vinyl siding and shutters and to John Green Gutter Service in the amount of $5,325 for new guttering for the Cedar Craft Apartments.  The project will be funded through Auxiliary Capital Replacement Funds.  The bid recap is a follows:

 

                                    Vinyl Siding Vinyl Shutters         Guttering

Economy Siding     $23,540          $17,520

Ragsdale                  $54,830          $27,600

John Green                                                                          $5,325

 

2)     NSU requests permission to bid and award a contract for the removal of the concrete window ledges on the southwest side of Leoser Residence Hall.  The conditions of these ledges have deteriorated and have been determined to be a hazard for pedestrians and vehicles parked nearby.  Engineers have reviewed their condition and estimate the cost of removal at approximately $110,000.  The project will be funded through Auxiliary Capital Replacement Funds.

 

3)     NSU requests approval to award a contract to Environmental Action Inc. for abatement of asbestos Haskell Hall annex renovation project.  The estimated cost of this project is $45,000 and will be funded through Auxiliary Capital Replacement Funds and Student Infrastructure Fees.

 

c.      R. #22 Project #4850060 – Haskell Hall Renovation

 

NSU requests approval to award a contract to Environmental Action Inc. for abatement of asbestos in the Haskell Hall renovation project.  The estimated cost of this project is $45,000 and will be funded through the 2005 State Higher Education Bond Issue.

 

d.     R. #23 Project #4850050 – Broken Arrow Campus Phase I

 

NSU is requesting approval of:

 

1)     Exhibit “G” of the Construction Management at Risk agreement for the monthly general conditions for Oakridge Builders in the amount of $21,315 to be funded through the 2005 State Higher Education Bond Issue.

 

2)     Amendment #d establishing the Guaranteed Maximum Price of $662,000 and permission to award contracts through the Oakridge Construction Management agreement for completion of the Banquet Facilities.  This project will finish one of the “shelled out” portions of Building A which was not completed in the original Phase I project.  This project will be funded through the 2005 State Higher Education Bond Issue.

 

3)     Amendment #g establishing the Guaranteed Maximum Price of $51,554 and permission to award contracts through the Oakridge Construction Management agreement for completion of the College of Business Office Suite.  This project will finish the “shelled out” area of Building B which was not completed in the original Phase I project.  This project will be funded through the 2005 State Higher Education Bond Issue.

 

4)     Amendment #h establishing the Guaranteed Maximum Price of $278,986 and permission to award contracts through the Oakridge Construction Management agreement for completion of the College of Education Reading Lab.  This project will finish the first floor area of Building C which was vacated when the Biology program moved into the new Science Building.  This project will be funded through the 2005 State Higher Education Bond Issue.

 

e.      R. # 24 Project #4850041 – Science Building Renovation

 

NSU requests permission to award contracts to Business Interiors in the amount of $210,516.38 for classroom furniture and to L&M Furniture in the amount of $104,582.27 for faculty office furniture and common areas for the newly renovated facility.  These purchases will be funded through the 2005 State Higher Education Bond Issue.

 

f.       Change Orders

 

1)     R. #25 Project #4850047 – Science Lab Building

 

Request approval of Change Order #6 with Oakridge Builders, Inc. in the amount of $17,126.27 for Science Lab Building.  The new contract amount will be $10,089,620.36.

 

Provide and install electrical and plumbing for two Autoclaves.

 

2)     R. #26 Project #4850047 – Science Lab Building

 

Request approval of Change Order #7 with Oakridge Builders, Inc. in the amount of $18,173.62 for Science Lab Building.  The new contract amount will be $10,107,793.98.

 

Provide and install additional electrical and plumbing for flammable cabinet and appliances requirements.

 

3)     R. #27 Project #4850041 – Science Building Renovation

 

Request approval of Change Order #1 with Oakridge Builders, Inc.  There is $0 change to contract with Oakridge Builders.  Items are reductions/additions to the allowance package in the amount of $18,866.59.  The contract total remains at $5,336,800.

 

i.              Modify the fire alarm system and the Metal Clad Cable – ($20,080) contract decrease.

ii.            Remove the topping slab at former greenhouse - $1,637.38 contract increase.

iii.          Repair the discontinuous lintel - $618.04 contract increase.

iv.          Provide leveling compound for restroom floors - $6,591.52 contract increase.

v.            Adjust the wall location and millwork to enclose exposed columns - $1,247.42 contract increase.

vi.          Modify the Dean and Departmental Offices -$5,137.61 contract increase.

vii.        Fur out all walls at the tiered classrooms - $23,714.62 contract increase.

 

g.      Campus Master Plan Update – See attached Master Plan Summary

 

1)     Deleted Projects

 

R. #28 Project #4850059 – Mike Synar Center Phase II

 

The second phase of this project has been deleted.

 

2)     Project Changes

 

i.        R. #29 Project #4850063 – Residence Halls Renovations and Repair

 

Increase the project cost from $2,500,000 to $5,000,000.

 

ii.      R. #30 Project #4850061 – Repair and Renovation to Campus Buildings

 

Increase the project cost from $500,000 to $1,000,000.

 

iii.    R. #31 Project #4850052 – Property Purchase Phase II

 

Increase the project cost from $800,000 to $1,000,000.

 

iv.   R. #32 Project #4850004 – Baseball Field Lighting

 

Increase these project cost from $75,000 to $150,000 and change the project name from Baseball Field Lighting to Sports Field Lighting.

 

6.      University of Central Oklahoma

 

a.      Request approval for funds for projects as follows:

 

1)     R. #33 Major Repairs and Deferred Maintenance - Project #1200027

Fund, design and award contract to Diversified Construction of Oklahoma, Inc., the Indefinite Delivery General Construction Contractor (previously approved on-call contractor), for the Renovation of the east entry lobby at Lillard Administration Building for the Leadership Library.  The project budget is $100,000.   (FY 07 Section 13 Offset and E&G Funds)

 

2)     R. #34 University Center Miscellaneous Renovations and Improvements - Project #1201010

Fund, design and award contract to Diversified Construction of Oklahoma, Inc., the Indefinite Delivery Construction Contractor (previously approved on-call contractor), for renovation of the International Student Offices.  The project budget is $55,000.  (FY 08 Section 13 Offset and E&G Funds) 

 

3)     R. #35 Health and Safety Projects – Project #1200060

Fund, design and bid contract for the Art Building HVAC modifications.  The project budget is $250,000.  (FY 08 Section 13 Offset Funds)

 

4)     R. #36 Health and Safety Projects - Project #1200060

Fund, design and bid contract for the Mitchell Hall Catwalk Replacement and safety projects.  The project budget is $350,000.  (FY 08 Section 13 Offset Funds)

 

5)     R. #37 Health and Safety Projects - Project #1200060

Fund, design and bid contract for Thatcher Hall piping and insulation replacement project Phase I.  The project budget is $300,000.  (FY 08 Section 13 Offset Funds and E&G Funds)

 

6)     R. #38 Roof Repair and Replacement - Project #1200043

Fund, design and bid contract for Liberal Arts Roof Repairs.  The project budget is $80,000.  (FY 08 Section 13 Offset Funds)

 

7)           R. #39 Health and Safety Projects – Project #1200060

Fund design and award contracts to Simplex-Grinnell, the fire and safety contract provider, for Fire Systems upgrades and replacements, Phase I.  The project budget is $500,000 for multiple phases.  (FY 08 Section 13 Offset Funds)

        

8)           R. #40 Parking, Sidewalks, Lights and Landscaping -  Project #1200013

Fund, design and bid contracts for additional Display Garden Elements.  The project budget is $125,000.  (FY 08 Section 13 Offset Funds)

 

9)           R. #41 Residence Hall Improvements - Project #1201012

Fund, design and bid contract for the exterior stair replacements for Murdaugh Hall, Phase I.  The project budget is $250,000.  (Housing Funds)

 

10)      R. #42 Residence Hall Improvements - Project #1201012

Fund, design and bid contract for the Housing Department Resident Advisor Kitchens Improvements.  The project budget is $75,000.  (Housing Funds)

 

11)      R. #43 Residence Hall Improvements - Project #1201012

Fund, design and bid contract for the Commons and Suites Interior Painting.  The project budget is 75,000.  (Housing Funds)

 

12)      R. #44 Parking, Sidewalks, Lights and Landscaping -  Project #1200013

Fund, design and bid contract for the Parking Lot 10, Phase 2 Improvements.  The project budget is $125,000.  (Auxiliary Funds)

 

13)      R. #45 Parking, Sidewalks, Lights and Landscaping - Project #1200013

Fund, design and bid contract for Parking Lot 24 improvements.  The project budget is $150,000.  (Auxiliary Funds)

 

14)      R. #46 Parking, Sidewalks, Lights and Landscaping -Project #1200013

Diversified Construction of Oklahoma, Inc. Final Completion of the East Hall Intramural Field Improvements as complete on July 12, 2007. The total cost of the contract is $58,780.  The Board approved the project March, 2006 (R# 216) (E&G Funds)

 

15)      R. #47 Parking, Sidewalks, Lights and Landscaping - Project #1200013

Diversified Construction of Oklahoma, Inc. Final Completion of the Donor Bell Tower and Plaza as complete on June 7, 2007.  The total cost of the contract is $83,828.61.  The Board approved the project June 2007.  (R# 376) (FY 07 Section 13 Offset Funds, E&G Funds & Private Funds)

 

16)      Item removed from consent docket

 

17)      Item removed from consent docket

 

b.     Change Orders

 

R. #48 Howell Hall Science Laboratories - Project #1200010

Diversified Construction of Oklahoma, Inc. Change Order #1 in the amount of $14,173.00 for Howell Hall Rm. 165/167.   The Board approved the project June 2006. (R #369)  (FY06-FY07 Section 13 Offset Funds & Private Gifts)

 

c.      Report of indefinite delivery general construction contracts with Diversified Construction of Oklahoma.  (See attached)

 

IV.        REPORT OF RUSO COMMITTEE PROCEEDINGS

 

A.      BUILDING COMMITTEE – Chair, Richard Ryerson

 

Report of the Building Committee, Thursday, July 12, 2007, 3:00 p.m., Northeastern State University, University Center Ballroom Lounge, 612 N Grand Avenue, Tahlequah. (Attachment B, Pages 105-142)

 

Regent Ryerson made the motion, seconded by Regent Holloway, to approve the following items.

 

Voting for the motion:  Regents Jackson, Howard, Hibler, Gordon, Reilly, Ryerson, Holloway, Stansberry, Garrett

 

Voting against the motion:  None

 

1.      R. #49 Southeastern Oklahoma State University

 

Request approval to authorize the President to execute a contract with the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, subject to General Counsel’s approval, for the lease of approximately 3 to 4 acres of land located at Eaker Field for the purpose of constructing an airplane hangar.

 

4.     Southwestern Oklahoma State University 

 

b.     R. #50 INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY BUILDING PROJECT 665-0054

 

Request permission to bid and, subject to Building Chair and Board Chair approval, award the Industrial Technology Building, SWOSU Project Number 665-0054, to be funded by the 2006 Higher Education Bond Issue at an estimated cost of $2,000,000.

 

d.     R. #51 RETAINING WALL

 

Request permission to bid and, subject to Building Chair and Board Chair approval, award the retaining wall structure funded by E & G I Repair and Replacement Contingency Funds at an estimated cost of $50,000.

 

h.     Mineral lease for the north 22 acres of the Weatherford main campus per the attached proposal (north of Davis Road and East of Caddo).  (See attachment.)

 

Item not approved.  Board recommends University renegotiate lease to include a prohibition on drilling on campus land.

 

6.       University of Central Oklahoma

 

These items were removed at the request of the University.  They were approved on May 17, 2007 (R. #259 and R. #260).

 

16)        University Center Roof Replacement – Project # 1201007

17)        Parking, Sidewalks, Lights and Landscaping – Project #1200013

 

Order of the agenda changed.

 

X.     NEW BUSINESS

 

R. #52 ECU DECLARATION OF EMERGENCY FOR REPAIRS

 

Regent Ryerson made the motion, seconded by Regent Holloway, to declare, by two-thirds majority, that an emergency exists pursuant to Title 61, section 130 of the Oklahoma Statutes, in relation to the repair of the storm drainage system and any unknown issues found during excavation located in the Norris Field parking lot on the campus of East Central University; and that the Board delegate authority to the Chair of the Building Committee to authorize and approve any contracts related to the emergency.

 

Voting for the motion:  Regents Jackson, Howard, Hibler, Gordon, Reilly, Ryerson, Holloway, Stansberry, Garrett

 

Voting against the motion:  None

 

The order of the agenda resumed.

 

IV.    REPORT OF RUSO COMMITTEE PROCEEDINGS

 

B.      SYSTEM ADVANCEMENT COMMITTEE REPORT – Chair, Mark Stansberry

 

Report of the System Advancement Committee, Thursday, July 12, 2007, 4:00 p.m., Northeastern State University, University Center, Room 228A, 612 N Grand Avenue, Tahlequah.

 

1.     R. #53 BESTOF THE BEST CENTENNIAL DINNER AND CELEBRATION

 

Committee Chair Mark Stansberry called on President’s Council Chair Roger Webb for a recommendation regarding the proceeds from the Best of the Best event.

 

President Webb presented the Presidents’ Council recommendation that the proceeds be divided equally among the six university foundations, and that the monies be used for student scholarships, faculty recognition, or arts programs as the Best of the Best event showcased arts groups from each university.

 

Regent Stansberry made the motion, seconded by Regent Ryerson, to accept the recommendation of the Presidents’ Council regarding the disposition of proceeds from the Best of the Best Event.

 

Voting for the motion:  Regents Jackson, Howard, Hibler, Gordon, Reilly, Ryerson, Holloway, Stansberry, Garrett

 

Voting against the motion:  None

 

2.     R. #54 LEGISLATIVE WRAP UP.

 

Steve Kelley made a presentation to the committee reviewing the last legislative session.  Regent Stansberry commended Mr. Kelley for his hard work on behalf of the board during the 2006-2007 legislative session. 

 

The Committee discussed legislators’ and the State Regents efforts to address disparities in funding in higher education and that their efforts should be acknowledged by the Board.

 

Regent Stansberry made the motion, seconded by Regent Holloway, to send a letter to the senators who supported efforts to address disparities in funding in higher education and also to the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education.

 

Voting for the motion:  Regents Jackson, Howard, Hibler, Gordon, Reilly, Ryerson, Holloway, Stansberry, Garrett

 

Voting against the motion:  None

 

3.      Report from System Advancement Ad Hoc Committee 

 

The efforts of the System Advancement Ad Hoc Committee will continue to be studied. 

 

4.      Legislative Agenda for FY 2008 and Goal setting discussion

 

We discussed goals for next year and we will have a more specific plan at the next meeting about a legislative reception for next year.

 

C.      AUDIT AND FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORT – Chair, Joe Anna Hibler

 

The committee met via conference call.  The committee has no report.

 

D.      PRESIDENTIAL REVIEW AD HOC COMMITTEE REPORT– Chair, Joe Anna Hibler

 

The committee and Sheridan McCaffree are scheduled to participate in an online demonstration of evaluation software on July 17, 2007 on the campus of Southwestern Oklahoma State University.  After the committee views the demonstration and discusses pricing options with the vendor, the committee should have a recommendation for the September 20, 2007 meeting.

 

E.      SEOSU PRESIDENTIAL SEARCH COMMITTEE REPORT – Chair Ann Holloway

 

Regent Holloway reported that the Board has advertised in the Chronicle of Higher Education print and online editions.  The online ad was viewed 609 times in June.  It will also run online in July and August.  The Board will run online ads in July and August in The Dallas Morning News, Academic Careers Online, Inside Higher Ed, and Higher Ed Jobs.  The Board will run print advertisements in the Oklahoman, Tulsa World, Durant Daily Democrat, and Sherman Dennison Herald Democrat.

 

On July 2, 2007 the Board office mailed 610 letters requesting nominations to 228 institutions of higher education in Oklahoma, Texas, Arkansas and Louisiana.  Letters were mailed to presidents, vice presidents and deans.

 

Meetings of the committee are set for September 5, 2007 and September 18, 2007 in the Frost Chambers, Room 315 of the Student Union Building, subject to availability of committee members.

 

  V.        PRESIDENTS’ RECOMMENDATIONS

 

A.      R. #55 SOUTHWESTERN OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY

 

Regent Garrett made the motion, seconded by Regent Reilly, to approve the President’s Recommendations for Southwestern Oklahoma State University as presented by President John Hays.  (Attachment C, pages 111-119)

 

Voting for the motion:  Regents Jackson, Howard, Hibler, Gordon, Reilly, Ryerson, Holloway, Stansberry, Garrett

 

Voting against the motion:  None

 

Chair Howard commended President Hays on the grants and contracts the university has received.

 

Regent Ryerson also commended Southeastern Oklahoma State University on its grants and contracts.  He requested that President Hays elaborate on the methods behind the university’s success.

 

President Hays credited Dr. Blake Sonobe, Provost, for spearheading the efforts on campus to capture more grants. 

 

B.      R. #56 EAST CENTRAL UNIVERSITY

 

Regent Gordon made the motion, seconded by Regent Hibler, to approve the President’s Recommendations for East Central University as presented by President Richard Rafes.  (Attachment D, pages 120-131)

 

Voting for the motion:  Regents Jackson, Howard, Hibler, Gordon, Reilly, Ryerson, Holloway, Stansberry, Garrett

 

Voting against the motion:  None

 

Regent Garrett commended East Central University for its futuristic thinking in using the summer Upward Bound program to offer high school credit, including two advanced science courses. 

 

President Rafes reported that East Central University has received an additional one million dollars in new grant money, bringing the total grants and contracts to $3.6 million.  The new grants consist of a $750,000 Veterans Administration grant and a $375,000 U.S. Department of Education grant. The university has a grant incentive program in place for faculty and staff, and new solicitations are up 30%.

 

Dr. Bill Chapman, former Dean of the School of Business (1974-1986), is returning as Interim Dean of the School of Business to serve until a permanent dean is identified.

 

C.      R. #57 NORTHWESTERN OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY  

 

Regent Gordon made the motion, seconded by Regent Stansberry, to approve the President’s Recommendations for Northwestern Oklahoma State University as presented by President Janet Cunningham.  (Attachment E, pages 132-136)

 

Voting for the motion:  Regents Jackson, Howard, Hibler, Gordon, Reilly, Ryerson, Holloway, Stansberry, Garrett

 

Voting against the motion:  None

 

Regent Hibler asked President Cunningham about the prospects for replacing departing nursing faculty.  President Cunningham responded that the university has added to the market incentive for faculty positions and that the university nursing director has been successful in finding candidates for openings.

 

D.      R. #58 UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL OKLAHOMA

 

Regent Stansberry made the motion, seconded by Regent Jackson, to approve the President’s Recommendations for the University of Central Oklahoma as presented by President Roger Webb.  (Attachment F, pages 137-149)

 

Voting for the motion:  Regents Jackson, Howard, Hibler, Gordon, Reilly, Ryerson, Holloway, Stansberry, Garrett

 

Voting against the motion:  None

 

President Webb discussed the Oklahoma Centennial plans at the University of Central Oklahoma and praised the community for its involvement. 

 

President Webb pointed out the mowing and landscape services contracts are part of a consortium of metro area private schools and public colleges to secure the best prices on these services.  President Webb commended Steve Kreidler for establishing this network to control costs.

 

President Webb noted Regent Garrett’s recent comments as State Superintendent of Public Instruction that public elementary and secondary schools should extend the school day to allow more time for instruction.  President Webb commented that universities will likely need to revisit the definition of a school year and a credit hour in the near future.

 

E.      R. #59 NORTHEASTERN STATE UNIVERSITY

 

Regent Hibler made the motion, seconded by Regent Gordon, to approve the President’s Recommendations for Northeastern State University as presented by Acting President Kim Cherry.   (Attachment G, pages 150-159)

 

Voting for the motion:  Regents Jackson, Howard, Hibler, Gordon, Reilly, Ryerson, Holloway, Stansberry, Garrett

 

Voting against the motion:  None

 

Acting President Kim Cherry distributed a copy of the Northeastern State University Foundation Report.

 

Chair Howard commended Northeastern State University and Acting President Kim Cherry for the large number of grants to the university.

 

Regent Hibler complimented Northeastern State University for its practice of advertising and hiring faculty nationwide.  She said that Northeastern State University does this consistently and it shows in the caliber of the faculty they are able to employ.

 

Chair Howard also expressed the gratitude of the Board for the hospitality shown by Northeastern State University while hosting the Board meeting.

 

F.       R. #60 SOUTHEASTERN OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY

 

Regent Hibler made the motion, seconded by Regent Reilly, to approve the President’s Recommendations for Southeastern Oklahoma State University as presented by Interim President Jesse Snowden.  (Attachment H, pages 160-166)

 

Voting for the motion:  Regents Jackson, Howard, Hibler, Gordon, Reilly, Ryerson, Holloway, Stansberry, Garrett

 

Voting against the motion:  None

 

R. #60 SEOSU

 

Interim President Snowden noted that Vice President Sharon Robinson received a well-deserved lifetime achievement award from the Oklahoma Personnel Association for her work in student affairs. 

 

Southeastern Oklahoma State University recently hosted five hundred K-12 teachers preparing for the national boards.  President Snowden noted this is a very popular and worthwhile program the university participates in every summer.

 

VI.        PRESIDENTS COUNCIL REPORT – President Roger Webb

 

No report.

 

VII.        EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS REPORT

 

No report.

 

VIII.        CHAIR’S REPORT – Regent Belva Howard

 

The Presidential Review Ad Hoc Committee will be dissolved and its functions assumed by the Personnel committee.

 

The Funding Formula Ad Hoc Committee has served its function and will be dissolved.

 

Chairman Howard requested feedback from regents and presidents regarding the proposed Board Meeting Schedule for the remainder of 2007 and for 2008.

 

Regents and Presidents proposed a change of date from Friday, October 26 to Thursday, October 25.

 

R. #61 BOARD MEETING SCHEDULE 2007-2008

 

Regent Holloway made the motion, seconded by Regent Gordon, to approve the board meeting schedule for the remainder of 2007 and for 2008.

(Attachment I)

 

Voting for the motion:  Regents Jackson, Howard, Hibler, Gordon, Reilly, Ryerson, Holloway, Stansberry, Garrett

 

Voting against the motion:  None

 

Chair Howard remarked that working with the Board is a pleasure.  RUSO has an outstanding group of board members and Presidents, and it is a true pleasure to work with everyone.

 

IX.        REGENTS COMMENTS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS

 

Regent Ryerson commented that Northwestern Oklahoma State University will be getting a large bronze sculpture executed at 1-1.25 scale.  During the purchasing process, Northwestern Oklahoma State University discovered that not only is the university exempt from sales tax, but the university foundations can also be exempt from sales tax.  General Counsel Charlie Babb distributed material on this subject to all of the regents and presidents for informational purposes.

 

Regent Ryerson requested that all agenda materials that are sent via postal mail be sent via priority mail, as he is not receiving them in a timely manner. 

 

Regent Holloway commended Northeastern State University on the new Riverhawk mascot and logo.  Acting President Kim Cherry commended Neal Weaver and his group for all of their hard work on the new logo and mascot.  Dr. Weaver mentioned that the community had really come behind this change, and that the students were also very excited about the change.  The new mascot will be introduced during the first home game.

 

  X.        NEW BUSINESS

 

This item moved to follow IV. Committee Reports, Item A, Building Committee

 

The Board Chair declared a break at 10:40 a.m.

 

Meeting resumed at 10:50 a.m.

 

XI.        RETREAT

 

Order of the Agenda changed

 

E.   Charlie Babb and Tom Fagan – Update on Oklahoma immigration bill.

(Attachment J)

 

House Bill 1804 was signed by the Governor May 8, 2007.  Provisions go into effect November 1, 2007 and July 1, 2008.

 

Charlie Babb and Tom Fagan gave a brief overview of the bill, specifically as it relates to higher education.

 

A few specific items of concern are the requirements that any entity that issues identification documents can only issue these documents to legal residents.  If the identification says on the face “valid on campus only” then the entity does not have to verify status.  However, this would mean re-issuing all student, faculty and staff identification cards.  It will also affect any agreements with off campus vendors allowing students to receive discounts.  The legislation requires participation in an employment status verification system which is separate from but duplicative of the federal I-9 verification system.

 

The board chair declared a break at 11:30 a.m.

 

Meeting was reconvened at the Branscum Alumni Center Great Room, 812 N. Cedar, Tahlequah, at noon.

 

The order of the Agenda resumed.

 

A.      Governor George Nigh, Keynote Speaker

 

Chair Belva Howard introduced the Honorable George Nigh, former Governor of Oklahoma.

 

George Nigh’s remarks were centered around the Oklahoma centennial and the importance of ideas.

 

Governor Nigh related when he was lieutenant governor he began an initiative to promote Oklahoma to filmmakers looking to shoot on location.  The film, “Where the Red Fern Grows” was the first movie made under this effort.

 

He spoke of the history of Oklahoma and the territories that had been combined to create the State of Oklahoma in 1807, specifically the Oklahoma Territory, the Indian Territory which had applied for statehood separately and No Man’s Land, the land abandoned by Texas that became the Oklahoma panhandle. 

 

He spoke about the Populist movement in politics during Oklahoma’s bid for statehood, and that this movement can be credited for Oklahoma’s ‘weak governor’ constitution, which gives more power to the legislature and constitutionally created boards.

 

Governor Nigh related that the Oklahoma constitution created a system of higher education founded on the idea that education should be accessible to everyone.  The founding fathers established colleges all over the state to ensure they were geographically accessible to everyone.  Governor Nigh challenged the presidents and regents to ensure that the regional universities remained accessible geographically, physically, and financially.

 

He also spoke of the challenges of creating a regional system identity.  He stressed the importance of creating the right image not only for each individual university, but for the system as a whole.  He said that the image of the system was key to getting support from the public, from the legislature, and from the governor’s office.

 

Governor Nigh said that one of the challenges facing both presidents and regents is to not only administer and manage, but to seek appropriate changes in your area of responsibility for this state.

 

B.      Dr. Peter Abramo – Technology and Connectivity:  The Emergence of the Creative Economy

(Attachment K)

 

C.      Dr. Jim Purcell – Brain Gain Initiative:  Retention and Graduation Rates – Where we are and what we can do

(Attachment L)

 

D.      Dr. Debra StuartMaking Place Matter:  Universities working with the community

(Attachment M)

 

E.      Charlie Babb and Tom Fagan – Update on Oklahoma immigration bill

This item immediately follows XI. Retreat on the agenda.

 

F.       Follow up and discussion

 

No discussion.

 

XII.        R. #62 ADJOURNMENT

 

Regent Holloway made the motion, seconded by Regent Reilly, to adjourn.

 

Voting for the motion:  Regents Jackson, Howard, Hibler, Gordon, Reilly, Ryerson, Holloway, Stansberry, Garrett

 

Voting against the motion:  None

 

 

Submitted by:           

 

 

 

 

 

_______________________________              ________________________________

Belva P. Howard                                                       Jan Gordon

Board Chair                                                               Secretary

 

 

Minutes approved by the Board of Regents of the Regional University System of Oklahoma this                 day of ___________, ______.

 

 

The next regular meeting of the Board of Regents of the Regional University System of Oklahoma is scheduled for 9:00 a.m., September 20, 2007, Northwestern Oklahoma State University, Alva, Oklahoma.