University Committee Meeting Minutes 2020-02-03

Minutes for February 3, 2020

Approved at the meeting 2/10/2020

UC members expected present: Halverson, Sandgren, Ventura, Warfield (chair), Wolf 

UC members expected absent: Campagnola

Others: Greg Bump, Heather Daniels, Michelle Felber, Amol Guyol, Yvonne Lee, Matt Mayrl, Jake Smith, Bill Tishler; as well as those mentioned below.

Chair Warfield called the meeting to order at 1:31 p.m. There was some discussion on the UC representation to the UW System Faculty Representatives group: the other campuses would especially like less turnover for Madison. Currently, the 2^nd year cohort take primary responsibility. Richard noted that the art work in 128 was refreshed with the latest student art exhibit pieces. The minutes of the meeting of January 27 were approved by consent.

Interim Vice Chancellor for Research and Graduate Education, Steve Ackerman, reviewed options for his “State of the Research Enterprise” he’s slated to give to the March Senate. Many, many topic and presentation ideas were discussed: available grant programs, IRBs, strategic initiatives, keeping in mind that many senators are junior faculty and to keep the topics relevant to them, and how anyone can participate, and how shared governance groups interact with the office.

Tamara Walker presented the recommendation from DoIt on how to replace the aged and creaky WiscList email system. (handout). There are pros and cons of existing systems (Office 365, Canvas, Google), but Google Groups seems to offer the most desired features. There was ample discussion around distinguishing between personal and profession email accounts and how to roll out to campus community to minimize angst.

Chancellor Rebecca Blank led with a Super Bowl story: she had her first press conference with a dog—Scout, who was successfully treated at the UW Vet School and featured in a commercial touting the school. Other updates included that the coronavirus has grounded all travel to/from China; Madison is hosting the Board of Regents meeting this week where the group will tour the George L. Mosse Humanities Building and learn why it’s a great candidate for replacement; UW will host a number of other presentations and events, including the Women in Science and Engineering (WISE): Nurturing Women’s Interests in STEM, given by Angela Byars-Winston.

Halverson moved to convene in closed session and it was seconded at 2:40.One rule waiver was approved and committee appointments were discussed. The UC selected finalists to interview for the Athletic Board.

Sandgren moved to reconvene in open session and it was seconded at 3:15 when Chair Warfield adjourned the meeting.