Faculty Senate Executive Summary

Sept. 13 Meeting

Chair of the Senate James Blumstein welcomed senators to the opening meeting of the Faculty Senate for the academic year. Introductions of past and present Executive Committee members (Malcolm Getz, Kenneth Wallston, Robert Rasmussen, A.J. Levine, James Staros and William Damon) were made, and Provost Tom Burish was recognized for his service to the University.

Blumstein acknowledged the difficult times our country is facing and introduced Michael J. Schoenfeld, vice chancellor for public affairs, who reported on the numerous activities in the Vanderbilt community organized to support students and others affected by the hijacking tragedy. Blumstein noted the commitment of Chancellor Gordon Gee and the Vanderbilt administration to partner with faculty as evidenced by the Academic Venture Fund and other initiatives. The Senate is sponsoring three forums during the 2001-02 academic year, the first of which will be held Oct. 11, from 3 to 4:30 p.m., and will focus on graduate education and its administration. Topics of future forums include undergraduate education and professional schools.

Three deans were invited to comment on their visions for the University. The panel consisted of Peabody Dean Camilla Benbow, Law Dean Kent Syverud and Arts and Science Dean Richard McCartney. Nursing Dean Colleen Conway-Welch was scheduled to participate but was unable to fly back to Nashville from out of town due to the shutdown of national air traffic. The panelists provided the senators with an overview of both successes and challenges of the University.

200102 Faculty Senate Meetings

Nov. 8, Dec. 13, Feb. 14, March 14, April 18, May 6