Friday, December 14, 2007
WANT TO POST OR READ COMMENTS ABOUT A SPECIFIC CANDIDATE?
Those can be found in the November postings. Just mouse over the November heading on the left of this page and you'll see the list of candidates. Thanks for being interested!
PJC HIRES NATIONAL CONSULTING FIRM TO ASSIST IN PRESIDENTIAL SEARCH
The PJC Board of Trustees has hired Dr. Jeff Hockaday to assist the Presidential Screening Committee and the Board of Trustees in their search for the next president of PJC.
Dr. Hockaday will help the Committee by recruiting at least eight candidates who meet the requirements and qualifications established by the College’s Board of Trustees for the position of President. Dr. Hockaday will meet with the Screening Committee approximately three times as the process continues and will also meet with the Board of Trustees as needed.
The Screening Committee is scheduled to hold its first meeting with Dr. Hockaday on Thursday, January 10, 2008.
Dr. Hockaday will help the Committee by recruiting at least eight candidates who meet the requirements and qualifications established by the College’s Board of Trustees for the position of President. Dr. Hockaday will meet with the Screening Committee approximately three times as the process continues and will also meet with the Board of Trustees as needed.
The Screening Committee is scheduled to hold its first meeting with Dr. Hockaday on Thursday, January 10, 2008.
Monday, December 3, 2007
URGENT: YOUR RETIREMENT DOLLARS
From Tom Auxter, UFF President
Colleagues:
In the past few days we have learned that the state Local Investment Fund that school districts and local governments use like a money-market account (to invest their money until they are ready to spend money on salaries and expenses) has been frozen. The problem was that the fund had bought worthless sub-prime paper associated with the failing real estate loan market. This led to a run on the fund when localities learned of the news. They rapidly withdrew money from the fund ($7-$8 billion in a matter of days)-- until the state placed a freeze on withdrawals. For some of the smaller school boards and localities the freeze means they cannot meet payroll this week.
It gets worse. The political appointees who manage state funds want to use the state pension fund (your retirement money) to secure the bad debt in the Local Investment Fund.
In other words, the state pension fund (Florida Retirement System) is targeted as a means to secure up to two billion dollars worth of bad debt.
Although the retirement fund has nothing to do with the irresponsible decisions undermining the Local Investment Fund, it is now slated as a means to bankroll a rescue of the Local Investment Fund and save the politicians who got us into this. Faculty retirement benefits are jeopardized by this scam.
The three member board that runs the fund will meet on Tuesday, December 4th, to plan the next steps. So far only Alex Sink, the state comptroller, is publicly criticizing the raid on the retirement funds of faculty and other state employees. She deserves your support and encouragement in her courageous fight against this unparalleled proposal Sink's email address is cfo@fldfs.com.
The other two members, Governor Charlie Crist (email charlie.crist@myflorida.com) and Attorney General Bill McCollum (ag.mccollum@myfloridalegal.com), are still not saying how they will vote on your future.
I (Tom Auxter) have asked the Florida Education Association to use all political and legal services resources available to support Alex Sink, to expose this scam, to mobilize educators, and to hold the state government accountable for the future of faculty and other state employees who for a lifetime invested their earnings and savings in this retirement fund -- with the expectation that Florida would honor its commitment to their retirement, without subtraction for unrelated and unethical purposes.
We will keep you posted as we learn more.
Note: For more information on this:
http://www.forbes.com/business/2007/11/30/florida-bush-lehman-biz-beltway-cx_mb_1130florida.html
Colleagues:
In the past few days we have learned that the state Local Investment Fund that school districts and local governments use like a money-market account (to invest their money until they are ready to spend money on salaries and expenses) has been frozen. The problem was that the fund had bought worthless sub-prime paper associated with the failing real estate loan market. This led to a run on the fund when localities learned of the news. They rapidly withdrew money from the fund ($7-$8 billion in a matter of days)-- until the state placed a freeze on withdrawals. For some of the smaller school boards and localities the freeze means they cannot meet payroll this week.
It gets worse. The political appointees who manage state funds want to use the state pension fund (your retirement money) to secure the bad debt in the Local Investment Fund.
In other words, the state pension fund (Florida Retirement System) is targeted as a means to secure up to two billion dollars worth of bad debt.
Although the retirement fund has nothing to do with the irresponsible decisions undermining the Local Investment Fund, it is now slated as a means to bankroll a rescue of the Local Investment Fund and save the politicians who got us into this. Faculty retirement benefits are jeopardized by this scam.
The three member board that runs the fund will meet on Tuesday, December 4th, to plan the next steps. So far only Alex Sink, the state comptroller, is publicly criticizing the raid on the retirement funds of faculty and other state employees. She deserves your support and encouragement in her courageous fight against this unparalleled proposal Sink's email address is cfo@fldfs.com.
The other two members, Governor Charlie Crist (email charlie.crist@myflorida.com) and Attorney General Bill McCollum (ag.mccollum@myfloridalegal.com), are still not saying how they will vote on your future.
I (Tom Auxter) have asked the Florida Education Association to use all political and legal services resources available to support Alex Sink, to expose this scam, to mobilize educators, and to hold the state government accountable for the future of faculty and other state employees who for a lifetime invested their earnings and savings in this retirement fund -- with the expectation that Florida would honor its commitment to their retirement, without subtraction for unrelated and unethical purposes.
We will keep you posted as we learn more.
Note: For more information on this:
http://www.forbes.com/business/2007/11/30/florida-bush-lehman-biz-beltway-cx_mb_1130florida.html
Friday, November 30, 2007
Presidential Screening committee
The committee met today at 2:00 to see the ranked candidates with complete applications who will be sent to the BOT. The top candidates are: Cantor, Cummiskey, Fettrow, Hafner, Holdnak, Kibler, Martin, Meadows, Nevious, and Spraggs.
One community member strongly urged the group to make the recommendation of using an outside search firm. She stated that too many of the applicants had inadequate experiences for the job. After much discussion, 14 on the committee voted to present this recommendation to the board as well as the list of names.
College members made many comments and shared information about several applicants. These comments were well received as well as surprising to other committee members.
The Board of Trustees meets on Monday, Dec. 3, at 5:00 to receive the list as well as the recommendation from Mr. Conner.
One community member strongly urged the group to make the recommendation of using an outside search firm. She stated that too many of the applicants had inadequate experiences for the job. After much discussion, 14 on the committee voted to present this recommendation to the board as well as the list of names.
College members made many comments and shared information about several applicants. These comments were well received as well as surprising to other committee members.
The Board of Trustees meets on Monday, Dec. 3, at 5:00 to receive the list as well as the recommendation from Mr. Conner.
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
At last night's Board of Trustee's meeting someone in attendance asked me to post the complete list of applicants - qualified, non-qualified, with complete application packages as well as incomplete application packages. Here it is (as of November 26, 2007):
Thirty-four complete application packets are on file:
1. Dr. Simon Priest
2. Dr. Alan G. Phillips
3. Dr. Jeffrey A. Cantor
4. Dr. Rodger A. Bates
5. Dr. Frank R. Vivelo
6. Dr. K. K. Bentil
7. Dr. Gregory W. Gray (withdrew from consideration)
8. Dr. Raymond Cummiskey
9. Dr. David Mosby
10. Dr. Mary R. Vaughn
11. Dr. James E. Martin
12. Dr. June Linke (packet is complete – not qualified)
13. Dr. Jacquelyn Madry-Taylor
14. Dr. Charles E. Meadows
15. Dr. Diann Schindler
16. Dr. Lawrence Cox
17. Dr. William A. Nevious
18. Dr. Jan Gehler
19. Dr. Laurence D. Spraggs
20. Dr. John R. Holdnak
21. Dr. Dennis Harkins
22. Dr. Lars A. Hafner
23. Dr. Brenda S. Fettrow
24. Dr. Daniel A. Bain (packet is complete – not qualified)
25. Dr. Maurice B. Hickey
26. Dr. Howard W. Smith
27. Dr. Terrance Hitchcock (packet is complete – not qualified)
28. Dr. Bruce Brunson
29. Dr. Alan Roberts
30. Dr. Douglas M. Littles
31. Dr. William L. Kibler
32. Dr. Hamid Eydgahi
33. Dr. Eric W. Jackson
34. Dr. William J. Mariani
Eleven incomplete application packets are on file:
1. Dr. Pamella J. Dana
2. Dr. Brian Sutcliffe
3. Mr. Ken Golaszewski
4. Dr. Frank Williams
5. Dr. Martin Shapiro
6. Dr. Lewis L. Jones
7. Dr. Tricia Devin
8. Dr. Thomas C. Henry (no application materials received)
Thirty-four complete application packets are on file:
1. Dr. Simon Priest
2. Dr. Alan G. Phillips
3. Dr. Jeffrey A. Cantor
4. Dr. Rodger A. Bates
5. Dr. Frank R. Vivelo
6. Dr. K. K. Bentil
7. Dr. Gregory W. Gray (withdrew from consideration)
8. Dr. Raymond Cummiskey
9. Dr. David Mosby
10. Dr. Mary R. Vaughn
11. Dr. James E. Martin
12. Dr. June Linke (packet is complete – not qualified)
13. Dr. Jacquelyn Madry-Taylor
14. Dr. Charles E. Meadows
15. Dr. Diann Schindler
16. Dr. Lawrence Cox
17. Dr. William A. Nevious
18. Dr. Jan Gehler
19. Dr. Laurence D. Spraggs
20. Dr. John R. Holdnak
21. Dr. Dennis Harkins
22. Dr. Lars A. Hafner
23. Dr. Brenda S. Fettrow
24. Dr. Daniel A. Bain (packet is complete – not qualified)
25. Dr. Maurice B. Hickey
26. Dr. Howard W. Smith
27. Dr. Terrance Hitchcock (packet is complete – not qualified)
28. Dr. Bruce Brunson
29. Dr. Alan Roberts
30. Dr. Douglas M. Littles
31. Dr. William L. Kibler
32. Dr. Hamid Eydgahi
33. Dr. Eric W. Jackson
34. Dr. William J. Mariani
Eleven incomplete application packets are on file:
1. Dr. Pamella J. Dana
2. Dr. Brian Sutcliffe
3. Mr. Ken Golaszewski
4. Dr. Frank Williams
5. Dr. Martin Shapiro
6. Dr. Lewis L. Jones
7. Dr. Tricia Devin
8. Dr. Thomas C. Henry (no application materials received)
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
ADDRESSING THE BOARD AT MEETINGS
To address the the BOT, follow the procedures outlined in the PJC Policy Manual 6Hx20-1.002.
(k) Individuals or organizations wishing to present requests, problems, or
proposals to the Board shall submit their requests to be placed on the
agenda for a regular meeting of the Board. Such requests shall be
made in writing to the President with a brief statement of the purpose
not later than ten (10) days prior to the regular Board meeting date.
The Board will meet Tuesday, November 27 and again in a special session on December 3.
(k) Individuals or organizations wishing to present requests, problems, or
proposals to the Board shall submit their requests to be placed on the
agenda for a regular meeting of the Board. Such requests shall be
made in writing to the President with a brief statement of the purpose
not later than ten (10) days prior to the regular Board meeting date.
The Board will meet Tuesday, November 27 and again in a special session on December 3.
POST A COMMENT ABOUT DR. BRENDA S. FETTROW HERE
This is where you can make comments about Dr. Brenda S. Fettrow.
POST A COMMENT ABOUT DR. LARS A. HAFNER HERE
This is where you can make comments about Dr. Lars A. Hafner.
POST A COMMENT ABOUT DR. JOHN R. HOLDNAK HERE
This is where you can make comments about Dr. John R. Holdnak.
POST A COMMENT ABOUT DR. CHARLES E. MEADOWS HERE
This is where you can make comments about Dr. Charles E. Meadows.
POST A COMMENT ABOUT DR. JAMES E. MARTIN HERE
This is where you can make comments about Dr. James E. Martin.
POST A COMMENT ON DR. MARY R. VAUGHN HERE
This is where you can make comments about Dr. Mary R. Vaughn.
POST A COMMENT ON DR. RAYMOND CUMMISKEY HERE
This is where you can post comments about Dr. Raymond Cummiskey.
POST A COMMENT ABOUT DR. JEFFREY A. CANTOR
This is where you can make comments about Dr. Jeffrey A. Cantor.
POST A COMMENT ABOUT DR. K.K. BENTIL HERE
Here is where you can post comments about Dr. K.K. Bentil.
POST A COMMENT ON DR. RODGER A. BATES HERE
This is where you can make comments on Dr. Rodger A. Bates.
MEMBER SUGGESTS USING BLOG TO DEVELOP LIST OF QUESTIONS FOR PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATES
From a concerned faculty member:
...I had asked if someone would compile a list of questions for the presidential candidates. Perhaps they could be submitted via the blog.....So here is my question:
A long time ago, the cafeteria had a hot-food lunch: two lines for the students, and one line for faculty and staff. We had our own dining room. Being a new teacher and eating lunch with my newfound colleagues, made a profound influence on me as a beginning teacher that PJC was a We-are-in-this-together” type of institution.
Well, the bean counters discovered that the food lines “lost money” and so, did away with them. Clearly, the people involved in this decision, just didn’t get it. It was about this time that the College turned into an Us-and-Them institution and has operated this way for far too long.
So my question to all the presidential candidates is “Do you get it? Do you know how to turn PJC back into a We-are-in-this-together institution?”
...I had asked if someone would compile a list of questions for the presidential candidates. Perhaps they could be submitted via the blog.....So here is my question:
A long time ago, the cafeteria had a hot-food lunch: two lines for the students, and one line for faculty and staff. We had our own dining room. Being a new teacher and eating lunch with my newfound colleagues, made a profound influence on me as a beginning teacher that PJC was a We-are-in-this-together” type of institution.
Well, the bean counters discovered that the food lines “lost money” and so, did away with them. Clearly, the people involved in this decision, just didn’t get it. It was about this time that the College turned into an Us-and-Them institution and has operated this way for far too long.
So my question to all the presidential candidates is “Do you get it? Do you know how to turn PJC back into a We-are-in-this-together institution?”
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
THE APPLICATION LIST FOR THE FIRST VIEWING IS COMPLETE
Here the applicatants from last week:
Dr. William A. Nevious:
June 2007: Hudepohl & Associates
Manchester, NH
Principal, Higher Education Practice
2001 – 2007: Chester College of New England
Chester, NH
President and CEO
Education – Southern Illinois University, Ph.D., Speech Communication
Dr. Jan Gehler:
2005 – 2006: University of Alaska, Anchorage
Anchorage, AK
Interim Provost
2000 – Present: University of Alaska, Anchorage
Anchorage, AK
Dean, Community and Technical College
Education – Oregon State University, Ed.D., Vocational Education
Dr. Laurence D. Spraggs:
2004 – Present: Broome Community College
Binghamton, NY
President
Education – Idaho State University, Doctor of Arts, Biology
Dr. John R. Holdnak:
2001 – Present: Gulf Coast Community College
Panama City, FL
Vice President, Administrative Services and Chief Business Officer
Education – University of West Florida, Ed.D., Curriculum and Instruction
Dr. Dennis R. Harkins:
1999 – Present: Georgia Perimeter College
Decatur, GA
Provost
Education – Georgia State University, Ph.D., Education HRD
Dr. Lars A. Hafner:
2007 – Present: St. Petersburg College
St. Petersburg, FL
Provost
1998 – 2006: Senior Administrative Manager/Associate Vice President in charge
of the University Partnership Center, Government Relations,
Athletics
Education – Barry University, Ph.D., Higher Education Administration
Dr. Brenda S. Fettrow:
2007 – Present: Brevard Community College
Cocoa, FL
Vice President, Resource Development and Interim Executive
Director, BCC Foundation, Commissioner, SACS Commission on
Colleges
2005-2007: Brevard Community College
Vice President, Student Services
Education – University of Florida, Ed.D., Education
Dr. Daniel A. Bain: (not qualified)
1999 – Present: St. Louis Community College
St. Louis, MO
Director
Education – University of Missouri-St. Louis, Ph.D., Higher Education Leadership and
Policy Studies
Dr. Howard W. Smith:
1996 – Present: Pittsburg State University
Pittsburg, KS
Assistant to the President
Education – Kansas State University, Ph.D., Educational Administration
Dr. Terrance Hitchcock: (not qualified)
2004 – Present: Argosy University (on-line)
Adjunct Instructor
2000 – Present: Everyday Hero
Chairman and CEO
Bloomington, MN
Education – Woodrow Wilson College of Law, J.D., Corporate Law
Dr. Bruce H. Brunson:
1999 – Present: Florida Community College - Jacksonville
Jacksonville, FL
Executive Director, Open Campus
Education – Texas Tech University, Ph.D., Consumer Economics
Dr. Alan P. Roberts:
1989 – Present: Indian River Community College
Fort Pierce, FL
Vice President, Applied Science and Technology
Education – University of Central Florida, Ed.D., Curriculum and Instruction
Dr. Douglas M. Littles:
2000 – Present: Reid State Technical College
Evergreen, AL
President
Education – Clark Atlanta University, Ph.D., Public Policy
Two incomplete packets were received from:
1. Dr. William L. Kibler:
2004 – Present: Mississippi State University
Mississippi State, MS
Vice President, Student Affairs
Education – Texas A&M University, Ph.D., Educational Administration
2. Dr. William J. Mariani:
2007 – Present: D'Youville College
Buffalo, NY
Associate Professor
1997 – 2007: Erie Community College
President
Education – D'Youville College, Ed.D., Educational Leadership
Summary (as of November 19, 2007)
Thirty complete application packets are on file: (these are in order that the application was received)
1. Dr. Simon Priest
2. Dr. Alan G. Phillips
3. Dr. Jeffrey A. Cantor
4. Dr. Rodger A. Bates
5. Dr. Frank R. Vivelo
6. Dr. K. K. Bentil
7. Dr. Gregory W. Gray (withdrew from consideration)
8. Dr. Raymond Cummiskey
9. Dr. David Mosby
10. Dr. Mary R. Vaughn
11. Dr. James E. Martin
12. Dr. June Linke (packet is complete – not qualified)
13. Dr. Jacquelyn Madry-Taylor
14. Dr. Charles E. Meadows
15. Dr. Diann Schindler
16. Dr. Lawrence Cox
17. Dr. William A. Nevious
18. Dr. Jan Gehler
19. Dr. Lawrence D. Spraggs
20. Dr. John R. Holdnak
21. Dr. Dennis Harkins
22. Dr. Lars A. Hafner
23. Dr. Brenda S. Fettrow
24. Dr. Daniel A. Bain (packet is complete – not qualified)
25. Dr. Maurice B. Hickey
26. Dr. Howard W. Smith
27. Dr. Terrance Hitchcock (packet is complete – not qualified)
28. Dr. Bruce Brunson
29. Dr. Alan Roberts
30. Dr. Douglas M. Littles
Eleven incomplete application packets are on file:
1. Dr. Pamella J. Dana
2. Dr. Brian Sutcliffe
3. Mr. Ken Golaszewski
4. Dr. Frank Williams
5. Dr. Martin Shapiro
6. Dr. Lewis L. Jones
7. Dr. Tricia Devin
8. Dr. Thomas C. Henry (no application materials received)
9. Dr. Hamid Eydgahi
10. Dr. William L. Kibler
11. Dr. William J. Mariani
Dr. William A. Nevious:
June 2007: Hudepohl & Associates
Manchester, NH
Principal, Higher Education Practice
2001 – 2007: Chester College of New England
Chester, NH
President and CEO
Education – Southern Illinois University, Ph.D., Speech Communication
Dr. Jan Gehler:
2005 – 2006: University of Alaska, Anchorage
Anchorage, AK
Interim Provost
2000 – Present: University of Alaska, Anchorage
Anchorage, AK
Dean, Community and Technical College
Education – Oregon State University, Ed.D., Vocational Education
Dr. Laurence D. Spraggs:
2004 – Present: Broome Community College
Binghamton, NY
President
Education – Idaho State University, Doctor of Arts, Biology
Dr. John R. Holdnak:
2001 – Present: Gulf Coast Community College
Panama City, FL
Vice President, Administrative Services and Chief Business Officer
Education – University of West Florida, Ed.D., Curriculum and Instruction
Dr. Dennis R. Harkins:
1999 – Present: Georgia Perimeter College
Decatur, GA
Provost
Education – Georgia State University, Ph.D., Education HRD
Dr. Lars A. Hafner:
2007 – Present: St. Petersburg College
St. Petersburg, FL
Provost
1998 – 2006: Senior Administrative Manager/Associate Vice President in charge
of the University Partnership Center, Government Relations,
Athletics
Education – Barry University, Ph.D., Higher Education Administration
Dr. Brenda S. Fettrow:
2007 – Present: Brevard Community College
Cocoa, FL
Vice President, Resource Development and Interim Executive
Director, BCC Foundation, Commissioner, SACS Commission on
Colleges
2005-2007: Brevard Community College
Vice President, Student Services
Education – University of Florida, Ed.D., Education
Dr. Daniel A. Bain: (not qualified)
1999 – Present: St. Louis Community College
St. Louis, MO
Director
Education – University of Missouri-St. Louis, Ph.D., Higher Education Leadership and
Policy Studies
Dr. Howard W. Smith:
1996 – Present: Pittsburg State University
Pittsburg, KS
Assistant to the President
Education – Kansas State University, Ph.D., Educational Administration
Dr. Terrance Hitchcock: (not qualified)
2004 – Present: Argosy University (on-line)
Adjunct Instructor
2000 – Present: Everyday Hero
Chairman and CEO
Bloomington, MN
Education – Woodrow Wilson College of Law, J.D., Corporate Law
Dr. Bruce H. Brunson:
1999 – Present: Florida Community College - Jacksonville
Jacksonville, FL
Executive Director, Open Campus
Education – Texas Tech University, Ph.D., Consumer Economics
Dr. Alan P. Roberts:
1989 – Present: Indian River Community College
Fort Pierce, FL
Vice President, Applied Science and Technology
Education – University of Central Florida, Ed.D., Curriculum and Instruction
Dr. Douglas M. Littles:
2000 – Present: Reid State Technical College
Evergreen, AL
President
Education – Clark Atlanta University, Ph.D., Public Policy
Two incomplete packets were received from:
1. Dr. William L. Kibler:
2004 – Present: Mississippi State University
Mississippi State, MS
Vice President, Student Affairs
Education – Texas A&M University, Ph.D., Educational Administration
2. Dr. William J. Mariani:
2007 – Present: D'Youville College
Buffalo, NY
Associate Professor
1997 – 2007: Erie Community College
President
Education – D'Youville College, Ed.D., Educational Leadership
Summary (as of November 19, 2007)
Thirty complete application packets are on file: (these are in order that the application was received)
1. Dr. Simon Priest
2. Dr. Alan G. Phillips
3. Dr. Jeffrey A. Cantor
4. Dr. Rodger A. Bates
5. Dr. Frank R. Vivelo
6. Dr. K. K. Bentil
7. Dr. Gregory W. Gray (withdrew from consideration)
8. Dr. Raymond Cummiskey
9. Dr. David Mosby
10. Dr. Mary R. Vaughn
11. Dr. James E. Martin
12. Dr. June Linke (packet is complete – not qualified)
13. Dr. Jacquelyn Madry-Taylor
14. Dr. Charles E. Meadows
15. Dr. Diann Schindler
16. Dr. Lawrence Cox
17. Dr. William A. Nevious
18. Dr. Jan Gehler
19. Dr. Lawrence D. Spraggs
20. Dr. John R. Holdnak
21. Dr. Dennis Harkins
22. Dr. Lars A. Hafner
23. Dr. Brenda S. Fettrow
24. Dr. Daniel A. Bain (packet is complete – not qualified)
25. Dr. Maurice B. Hickey
26. Dr. Howard W. Smith
27. Dr. Terrance Hitchcock (packet is complete – not qualified)
28. Dr. Bruce Brunson
29. Dr. Alan Roberts
30. Dr. Douglas M. Littles
Eleven incomplete application packets are on file:
1. Dr. Pamella J. Dana
2. Dr. Brian Sutcliffe
3. Mr. Ken Golaszewski
4. Dr. Frank Williams
5. Dr. Martin Shapiro
6. Dr. Lewis L. Jones
7. Dr. Tricia Devin
8. Dr. Thomas C. Henry (no application materials received)
9. Dr. Hamid Eydgahi
10. Dr. William L. Kibler
11. Dr. William J. Mariani
Thursday, November 15, 2007
FLORIDA COLLEGE PRESIDENTS SCORE HIGH ON PAY
A recent St. Petersburg Times newspaper article addressed the issue of how high Florida university and college presidents' salaries are. To go directly to the article online, click the link below:
http://www.sptimes.com/2007/11/12/State/Florida_college_presi.shtml
http://www.sptimes.com/2007/11/12/State/Florida_college_presi.shtml
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
AS DEADLINE NEARS FOR FIRST VIEWING, THINGS ARE HEATING UP
Seven new complete application packets were received from:
Dr. Mary R. Vaughn:
2006 – 2007: Grambling State University
Grambling, LA
Executive Assistant to the President
Education – Tennessee State University, Ed.D., Administration and Supervision
Dr. James E. Martin:
2003 – Present: Pensacola Junior College
Pensacola, FL
Vice President, Student Affairs
Education – Bowling Green State University, Ph.D., Educational Administration and
Supervision
Dr. June Linke:
2002 – Present: Pensacola Junior College
Pensacola, FL
Academic Department Head
Education – Mississippi State University, Ph.D., Sociology
Dr. Jacquelyn Madry-Taylor:
Currently: PJYM Associates
Reston, VA
President
Education – University of Florida, Ed.D., Curriculum and Instruction
Dr. Charles E. Meadows:
2003 – Present: Lurleen B. Wallace Community College
Andalusia, AL
President
Education – Ball State University, Ed.D., Biology
Complete applications received (continued)
Dr. Diann Schindler:
1999 – Present: Schindler and Associates, Inc.
President/CEO
1997 – 1999: Oakland Community College
Auburn Hills, MI
President
Education - University of Akron, Ph.D., Education
Dr. Lawrence Cox:
2005 – Present: Stark State College of Technology
Canton, OH
Provost
President/CEO
Education – Southern Illinois University, Ph.D., Sociology
Dr. Mary R. Vaughn:
2006 – 2007: Grambling State University
Grambling, LA
Executive Assistant to the President
Education – Tennessee State University, Ed.D., Administration and Supervision
Dr. James E. Martin:
2003 – Present: Pensacola Junior College
Pensacola, FL
Vice President, Student Affairs
Education – Bowling Green State University, Ph.D., Educational Administration and
Supervision
Dr. June Linke:
2002 – Present: Pensacola Junior College
Pensacola, FL
Academic Department Head
Education – Mississippi State University, Ph.D., Sociology
Dr. Jacquelyn Madry-Taylor:
Currently: PJYM Associates
Reston, VA
President
Education – University of Florida, Ed.D., Curriculum and Instruction
Dr. Charles E. Meadows:
2003 – Present: Lurleen B. Wallace Community College
Andalusia, AL
President
Education – Ball State University, Ed.D., Biology
Complete applications received (continued)
Dr. Diann Schindler:
1999 – Present: Schindler and Associates, Inc.
President/CEO
1997 – 1999: Oakland Community College
Auburn Hills, MI
President
Education - University of Akron, Ph.D., Education
Dr. Lawrence Cox:
2005 – Present: Stark State College of Technology
Canton, OH
Provost
President/CEO
Education – Southern Illinois University, Ph.D., Sociology
Monday, November 5, 2007
TWO MORE CANDIDATES SUBMIT APPLICATIONS
Dr. Raymond Cummiskey:
2004 - Present – Southeastern Illinois College
Harrisburg, IL
President
Education - University of Missouri-Kansas City, Ph.D., Educational Administration
Dr. David C. Mosby:
1999 – Present: Prince George's Community College
Dean of Facilities Management
Largo, MD
Education – Morgan State University, Ed.D., Community College Leadership
2004 - Present – Southeastern Illinois College
Harrisburg, IL
President
Education - University of Missouri-Kansas City, Ph.D., Educational Administration
Dr. David C. Mosby:
1999 – Present: Prince George's Community College
Dean of Facilities Management
Largo, MD
Education – Morgan State University, Ed.D., Community College Leadership
Friday, November 2, 2007
WILL PJC's NEW PRESIDENT'S SALARY RANK 20TH IN THE STATE?
During the open forum at the Milton campus, the topic of salaries was raised. I would very much urge the new president to make a commitment to raising faculty salaries. The 5% raise this year (2007) and the 4% raise in 2006 were greatly needed, but failed to adequately address the issue of fair compensation.
The salary article of the PJC collective bargaining agreement contains a commitment to increase faculty salaries to be within the top 20% of salaries for Florida’s junior and community colleges. That goal should put PJC’s average salary at about the 5th or 6th position in ranking. In the fall of 2000, PJC reached the 10th ranking. According to the Florida Community College System Fact Book, as of the Fall 2006 semester, PJC faculty’s average salary was ranked 20th out of 28 community colleges - approximately $6500 below the state average. In seven years, PJC has dropped ten positions in salary ranking rather than climb to number 5 or 6.
We are in a competitive environment. As the presidential search takes place, we know we have to offer a salary that will attract the best. Will the best apply for the president’s position if the salary offered is ranked 20th in the state? Certainly not. How can PJC attract the best instructors by offering such a low salary? We can't.
I urge the Presidential Screening Committee to select candidates for consideration who will develop a plan to fulfill the commitment to increase faculty salaries to be within the top 20% of Florida’s community colleges. A commitment without a plan has been proven to be no commitment at all.
The salary article of the PJC collective bargaining agreement contains a commitment to increase faculty salaries to be within the top 20% of salaries for Florida’s junior and community colleges. That goal should put PJC’s average salary at about the 5th or 6th position in ranking. In the fall of 2000, PJC reached the 10th ranking. According to the Florida Community College System Fact Book, as of the Fall 2006 semester, PJC faculty’s average salary was ranked 20th out of 28 community colleges - approximately $6500 below the state average. In seven years, PJC has dropped ten positions in salary ranking rather than climb to number 5 or 6.
We are in a competitive environment. As the presidential search takes place, we know we have to offer a salary that will attract the best. Will the best apply for the president’s position if the salary offered is ranked 20th in the state? Certainly not. How can PJC attract the best instructors by offering such a low salary? We can't.
I urge the Presidential Screening Committee to select candidates for consideration who will develop a plan to fulfill the commitment to increase faculty salaries to be within the top 20% of Florida’s community colleges. A commitment without a plan has been proven to be no commitment at all.
Monday, October 29, 2007
Miami Dade College Campus President Applies for PJC Position
Two new complete application packets have been received by Human Resources:
1. Dr. Frank R. Vivelo:
2003 -2004: Remington College
President
Nashville, TN
Education – Rutgers University, Ph.D., Anthropology
2. Dr. K. K. Bentil:
2005 – 2007: Miami Dade College
Campus President
Miami, FL
Education - University of Florida, Ph.D., Civil Engineering
1. Dr. Frank R. Vivelo:
2003 -2004: Remington College
President
Nashville, TN
Education – Rutgers University, Ph.D., Anthropology
2. Dr. K. K. Bentil:
2005 – 2007: Miami Dade College
Campus President
Miami, FL
Education - University of Florida, Ph.D., Civil Engineering
Monday, October 22, 2007
Another complete application for the position of PJC's next President has been received
4. Dr. Rodger A. Bates:
2006 - Present – New Mexico State University
Special Assistant to the Vice Provost
Las Cruces, NM
Education - University of Delaware, Ph.D., Sociology
2006 - Present – New Mexico State University
Special Assistant to the Vice Provost
Las Cruces, NM
Education - University of Delaware, Ph.D., Sociology
RESPONSES TO PRESIDENTIAL SEARCH POSTINGS
October 16, 2007
Anonymous 1 said:
Are these people new to the pool? They aren't finalists, yet, are they?
Response: These three people are just the first three to submit complete applications. Each member of the Presidential Screening Committee will submit a list of 10 "finalists" to Human Resources by November 27th. Human Rsources will determine which 10 of the finalists received the most "votes." This list of 10 will be discussed by the Committee on November 30th and at that meeting a list of 4-8 names will be selected to give as a recommendation to the Board of Trustees.
Anonymous said...
I hope these candidates are asked why they are interested in Pensacola Junior College. It wouldn't be just that it's a college president opening.I thought someone well known from one of the Florida colleges was suppose to apply. This list of applicants is NOT SATISFACTORY.
Anonymous 1 said:
Are these people new to the pool? They aren't finalists, yet, are they?
Response: These three people are just the first three to submit complete applications. Each member of the Presidential Screening Committee will submit a list of 10 "finalists" to Human Resources by November 27th. Human Rsources will determine which 10 of the finalists received the most "votes." This list of 10 will be discussed by the Committee on November 30th and at that meeting a list of 4-8 names will be selected to give as a recommendation to the Board of Trustees.
Anonymous said...
I hope these candidates are asked why they are interested in Pensacola Junior College. It wouldn't be just that it's a college president opening.I thought someone well known from one of the Florida colleges was suppose to apply. This list of applicants is NOT SATISFACTORY.
Response: That's a good question to ask and you will have the opportunity to ask that question and others of the finalists during the open hearings in February. At this point, the Committee is not interviewing candidates, just reviewing the applications.
October 16, 2007 1:11 PM
Anonymous said...
where can people see the complete application package?
October 21, 2007 5:50 PM
Response: All the applications are on file and available to any interested party. Please see Rhonda Likely in Human Resources.
What is collective bargaining and why does it matter as PJC searches for a new president?
What is collective bargaining and why does it matter as PJC searches for a new president?
Collective Bargaining is a process of negotiation between employers (or their representatives) and a union on wages and other employment conditions.
Not everyone is aware that the faculty of PJC belong to a union. In a time where we often speak in acronyms, not everyone knows who PJCFA is. We are the Pensacola Junior College Faculty Association. We are members of the United Faculty of Florida, the Florida Education Association, the American Federation of Teachers and the National Education Association.
The primary purpose of the union is to represent workers in their employment and to negotiate a contract that improves wages, benefits and working conditions and protects workers from unfair treatment. PJCFA preserves the rights which have been negotiated and enforces the negotiated contract.
Why is this important as PJC searches for a new president?
The President of PJC must understand that the faculty work within the scope of a negotiated contract. This is a fairly unique situation in the South where unions are not as common as in other areas of the country. The President will have the responsibility of naming the members of the administration’s negotiating team as well as the college’s contract enforcement officer. These are duties that should be taken seriously and with knowledge and understanding of what it means to work within the parameters of a collective bargaining agreement.
Therefore, as the committee screens applications, I urge them to seek candidates who have experience working with a unionized faculty.
Collective Bargaining is a process of negotiation between employers (or their representatives) and a union on wages and other employment conditions.
Not everyone is aware that the faculty of PJC belong to a union. In a time where we often speak in acronyms, not everyone knows who PJCFA is. We are the Pensacola Junior College Faculty Association. We are members of the United Faculty of Florida, the Florida Education Association, the American Federation of Teachers and the National Education Association.
The primary purpose of the union is to represent workers in their employment and to negotiate a contract that improves wages, benefits and working conditions and protects workers from unfair treatment. PJCFA preserves the rights which have been negotiated and enforces the negotiated contract.
Why is this important as PJC searches for a new president?
The President of PJC must understand that the faculty work within the scope of a negotiated contract. This is a fairly unique situation in the South where unions are not as common as in other areas of the country. The President will have the responsibility of naming the members of the administration’s negotiating team as well as the college’s contract enforcement officer. These are duties that should be taken seriously and with knowledge and understanding of what it means to work within the parameters of a collective bargaining agreement.
Therefore, as the committee screens applications, I urge them to seek candidates who have experience working with a unionized faculty.
Monday, October 15, 2007
LATEST INFO ON PRESIDENTIAL SEARCH
There are now 3 applications on file for review by the presidential screening committee. They are (in order of date application received):
1. Dr. Simon Priest:
2006 - Present - Colorado Technical University Online
Provost and Vice-Chancellor of Academics
Hoffman Estates, IL and Colorado Springs, CO
Education - University of Oregon, Ph.D., Experiential Learning
2. Dr. Alan G. Phillips:
2005 - Present - Spoon River Community College
Executive Director of the Spoon River College Foundation,
Spoon River College Director of Development
Canton, IL
Education - University of Arkansas, Ed.D., Higher Education Administration
and Business Management
3. Dr. Jeffrey A. Cantor:
2005 - Present - Pensacola Junior College
Provost
Pensacola, FL
2007 - Present - Pensacola Junior College
Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs,
Pensacola, FL
Education - Florida State University, Ph.D., Educational Leadership
1. Dr. Simon Priest:
2006 - Present - Colorado Technical University Online
Provost and Vice-Chancellor of Academics
Hoffman Estates, IL and Colorado Springs, CO
Education - University of Oregon, Ph.D., Experiential Learning
2. Dr. Alan G. Phillips:
2005 - Present - Spoon River Community College
Executive Director of the Spoon River College Foundation,
Spoon River College Director of Development
Canton, IL
Education - University of Arkansas, Ed.D., Higher Education Administration
and Business Management
3. Dr. Jeffrey A. Cantor:
2005 - Present - Pensacola Junior College
Provost
Pensacola, FL
2007 - Present - Pensacola Junior College
Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs,
Pensacola, FL
Education - Florida State University, Ph.D., Educational Leadership
2007 LEGISLATIVE UPDATE
2007 LEGISLATIVE UPDATE – October 12, 2007
(from UFF)
On to Special Session D!
The Florida Legislature, after passing the revised budget has adjourned, Sine Die, bringing the 2007C Special Session to a close. Special Session D will begin on Monday, October 15.
Senate President Pruitt has set a meeting of the Senate Finance and Tax Committee for Monday at 11:30 am to workshop property tax legislation. Proposed legislation was not available at the time this report was written.
On Tuesday, the Finance and Tax Committee will meet at 9 am to vote on the bill. The agenda for that meeting will also include a bill necessary to put the amendment before the voters in January.
On Wednesday, October 17, both chambers will go into session for a floor vote on the bills – if all goes as planned. The House calendar was not available at the time this report was compiled.
Budget Reductions/Appropriations passes along party lines
To recap what this means to education:
• Community Colleges: Community college programs were cut a total of $19.4 million or 1.8%, after nonrecurring funds were added back. A 5% tuition increase also passed.
• Universities: The final reduction number for state universities was $58.8 million or 2.5%. A 5% tuition increase also passed.
• Pre-kindergarten: 5.9% decrease in funding but the per pupil funding was not impacted as it is intended to revert only funding for students who failed to enroll in prekindergarten.
• K-12: reduced K-12 FEFP appropriations by $269.8 million. After the reduction, the net increase from the 2006-07 appropriations is 5.19% per student. The reduction incorporates the total 2007-08 Merit Award Program (MAP) appropriation of $147.5 million. Most line items were reduced 0.69% except with no reduction in the Teachers Lead program. All school districts were reduced 1.4% but this includes their MAP distributions that were not available for 2007-08 expenditures.
• Public School Workforce: This program was cut a total of $9.5 million or 2.3%.
Adjustments to Education Appropriations/Pre K-12 bill passes
Bill highlights:
o Authorizes commissioner to reduce the class size penalty transfer to fixed capital outlay by 10 percent if the class size operating categorical is reduced in a subsequent appropriation during the same fiscal year.
o Provides for flexible but limited use of reading instruction and instructional materials funding if districts do so by a resolution of the school board.
o Modifies the use of 2-mill capital outlay funds to clarify that school districts’ class size reduction compliance does not include schools (charter) that do not use district
facilities and that for 2007-08 up to $25 per un-weighted FTE can be used for 2007-08 expenses for property and casualty insurance and purchase of certain vehicles.
o Provides that MAP funds are distributed by July 31 and changes the distribution of funds from September 1 to October 1. Documentation of district MAP expenditures is moved back to November 1.
o Allows proration of the National Board mentoring payments in any year where funds are insufficient to pay the full amount of the payment.
o Expresses the intent of the Legislature that any reductions in expenditures by school districts in response to any of the appropriation reductions for the 2007-2008 fiscal year be made in functions other than classroom instruction.
(from UFF)
On to Special Session D!
The Florida Legislature, after passing the revised budget has adjourned, Sine Die, bringing the 2007C Special Session to a close. Special Session D will begin on Monday, October 15.
Senate President Pruitt has set a meeting of the Senate Finance and Tax Committee for Monday at 11:30 am to workshop property tax legislation. Proposed legislation was not available at the time this report was written.
On Tuesday, the Finance and Tax Committee will meet at 9 am to vote on the bill. The agenda for that meeting will also include a bill necessary to put the amendment before the voters in January.
On Wednesday, October 17, both chambers will go into session for a floor vote on the bills – if all goes as planned. The House calendar was not available at the time this report was compiled.
Budget Reductions/Appropriations passes along party lines
To recap what this means to education:
• Community Colleges: Community college programs were cut a total of $19.4 million or 1.8%, after nonrecurring funds were added back. A 5% tuition increase also passed.
• Universities: The final reduction number for state universities was $58.8 million or 2.5%. A 5% tuition increase also passed.
• Pre-kindergarten: 5.9% decrease in funding but the per pupil funding was not impacted as it is intended to revert only funding for students who failed to enroll in prekindergarten.
• K-12: reduced K-12 FEFP appropriations by $269.8 million. After the reduction, the net increase from the 2006-07 appropriations is 5.19% per student. The reduction incorporates the total 2007-08 Merit Award Program (MAP) appropriation of $147.5 million. Most line items were reduced 0.69% except with no reduction in the Teachers Lead program. All school districts were reduced 1.4% but this includes their MAP distributions that were not available for 2007-08 expenditures.
• Public School Workforce: This program was cut a total of $9.5 million or 2.3%.
Adjustments to Education Appropriations/Pre K-12 bill passes
Bill highlights:
o Authorizes commissioner to reduce the class size penalty transfer to fixed capital outlay by 10 percent if the class size operating categorical is reduced in a subsequent appropriation during the same fiscal year.
o Provides for flexible but limited use of reading instruction and instructional materials funding if districts do so by a resolution of the school board.
o Modifies the use of 2-mill capital outlay funds to clarify that school districts’ class size reduction compliance does not include schools (charter) that do not use district
facilities and that for 2007-08 up to $25 per un-weighted FTE can be used for 2007-08 expenses for property and casualty insurance and purchase of certain vehicles.
o Provides that MAP funds are distributed by July 31 and changes the distribution of funds from September 1 to October 1. Documentation of district MAP expenditures is moved back to November 1.
o Allows proration of the National Board mentoring payments in any year where funds are insufficient to pay the full amount of the payment.
o Expresses the intent of the Legislature that any reductions in expenditures by school districts in response to any of the appropriation reductions for the 2007-2008 fiscal year be made in functions other than classroom instruction.
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
BROWARD CC AT IMPASSE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 1, 2007
BCC TRUSTEES DECLARE IMPASSE IN CONTRACT NEGOTIATIONS
The Broward Community College District Board of Trustees has declared an impasse in its contract negotiations with the Broward Community College chapter of the United Faculty of Florida.
Negotiations between the BCC chapter of the United Faculty of Florida began in April and 14 negotiating sessions were held during the time period between April 12 and September 17.
The BCC administration’s bargaining team members are: Dr. Edna Chun, chief negotiator, vice president for human resources and equity, David Asencio, dean of student affairs, A. Hugh Adams Central Campus, Dr. Hank Martel, dean of academic affairs, Judson A. Samuels South Campus, Miguel Menendez, dean of the FAU/BCC University/College Library, Central Campus.
The members of the United Faculty of Florida, BCC chapter negotiating team are: Dr. Daniel Rieger, chief negotiator, associate professor, Behavioral Sciences Dept., North Campus, Lorenzo Harrison, assistant professor of nuclear medicine assisting, North Campus, Maria Bernal-Dobek, assistant professor of reading, North Campus, Dr. Blaine Browne, senior professor, Behavioral Sciences Dept., North Campus.
Although progress was made during the negotiations, according to Chun, some issues remain outstanding, including resolution of the compensation and benefits package.
Despite budget difficulties resulting from reductions in state appropriations, the college has offered base salary increases, a strong benefits plan, and at the same time has maintained its commitment to meeting the demands of an increased student enrollment, avoiding layoffs, and filling all existing vacancies including faculty positions.
A significant issue during negotiations has been the maintenance of a competitive, affordable health plan for the college’s employees. College health care costs for fiscal year 2006 amounted to $11,361,411 and since fiscal year 1998, BCC’s health plan claims and expenses have risen 141%. As a result, the college’s Healthcare Taskforce, comprised of faculty, administrative, and professional technical staff representatives, unanimously recommended changes that would not change the employee contribution in the three types of health plans offered. Limited changes would be made to the pharmacy benefit plan and co-pays for doctors’ visits. BCC’s health insurance plan is one of the most competitive in the Florida community college system. The college subsidizes 82 percent of healthcare benefit costs, a higher percentage than the national average and that of other Florida community colleges. Some community colleges pay only 74 percent of their employees’ coverage, and do not offer as many options or choices of coverage as BCC. Even with the changes proposed by the Healthcare Taskforce, the college’s health plan provides a more competitive health care package than most employers in the private or public sector.
“Despite the fact that both negotiating teams have worked very hard, it is a difficult budget year and some issues still remain unresolved,” Chun said. “Ultimately, these issues have caused the college to bring the negotiations to a close and to ask the state’s impasse process to bring us to a resolution.”
The state’s Public Employee Relations Commission has been notified and the formal process will begin. The need to reach agreement on the health care plan is time sensitive, because the college’s health plan administrators will need to hold open enrollment and implement the policy changes soon for the needed plan changes to take effect.
Additionally, BCC administration proposed a base salary increase of $1000 for the year starting July 1, 2007 for all full-time instructional and non-instructional faculty. State agencies will only be awarding a non-basebuilding increment of 1000.
For BCC faculty, the $1,000 increase represents, on average, a boost of approximately 2 percent, with the highest percentage increases at entry level instructional positions of 3 percent. Eligible faculty may also receive additional increases for years of experience based on the faculty salary schedule.
The BCC District Board of Trustees already has approved a $1000 basebuilding increase for non-represented professional technical staff and administrators. This adjustment represents a 3 to 4 percent increase for entry-level and other lower-paid non-represented employees.
“The college believes that these are fair increases that are helpful to our lowest-paid employees especially, and are reasonable and prudent in light of state budget uncertainties,” Chun said.
“We appreciate that our college administration team and faculty union team have negotiated for many months in good faith, but they have not been able to reach agreement and it is time for us to use the state’s process to help us reach a resolution,” said Lourdes Garrido, chair of the BCC District Board of Trustees. “We are confident that we will soon be able to resolve these issues, and in the meantime our faculty, staff and administrators will continue to do a professional job focused on educating students.”
Cynthia A. Thuma Coordinator, communication and publications Broward Community College Willis Holcombe Downtown Center 225 E. Las Olas Boulevard, 302C Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
BCC TRUSTEES DECLARE IMPASSE IN CONTRACT NEGOTIATIONS
The Broward Community College District Board of Trustees has declared an impasse in its contract negotiations with the Broward Community College chapter of the United Faculty of Florida.
Negotiations between the BCC chapter of the United Faculty of Florida began in April and 14 negotiating sessions were held during the time period between April 12 and September 17.
The BCC administration’s bargaining team members are: Dr. Edna Chun, chief negotiator, vice president for human resources and equity, David Asencio, dean of student affairs, A. Hugh Adams Central Campus, Dr. Hank Martel, dean of academic affairs, Judson A. Samuels South Campus, Miguel Menendez, dean of the FAU/BCC University/College Library, Central Campus.
The members of the United Faculty of Florida, BCC chapter negotiating team are: Dr. Daniel Rieger, chief negotiator, associate professor, Behavioral Sciences Dept., North Campus, Lorenzo Harrison, assistant professor of nuclear medicine assisting, North Campus, Maria Bernal-Dobek, assistant professor of reading, North Campus, Dr. Blaine Browne, senior professor, Behavioral Sciences Dept., North Campus.
Although progress was made during the negotiations, according to Chun, some issues remain outstanding, including resolution of the compensation and benefits package.
Despite budget difficulties resulting from reductions in state appropriations, the college has offered base salary increases, a strong benefits plan, and at the same time has maintained its commitment to meeting the demands of an increased student enrollment, avoiding layoffs, and filling all existing vacancies including faculty positions.
A significant issue during negotiations has been the maintenance of a competitive, affordable health plan for the college’s employees. College health care costs for fiscal year 2006 amounted to $11,361,411 and since fiscal year 1998, BCC’s health plan claims and expenses have risen 141%. As a result, the college’s Healthcare Taskforce, comprised of faculty, administrative, and professional technical staff representatives, unanimously recommended changes that would not change the employee contribution in the three types of health plans offered. Limited changes would be made to the pharmacy benefit plan and co-pays for doctors’ visits. BCC’s health insurance plan is one of the most competitive in the Florida community college system. The college subsidizes 82 percent of healthcare benefit costs, a higher percentage than the national average and that of other Florida community colleges. Some community colleges pay only 74 percent of their employees’ coverage, and do not offer as many options or choices of coverage as BCC. Even with the changes proposed by the Healthcare Taskforce, the college’s health plan provides a more competitive health care package than most employers in the private or public sector.
“Despite the fact that both negotiating teams have worked very hard, it is a difficult budget year and some issues still remain unresolved,” Chun said. “Ultimately, these issues have caused the college to bring the negotiations to a close and to ask the state’s impasse process to bring us to a resolution.”
The state’s Public Employee Relations Commission has been notified and the formal process will begin. The need to reach agreement on the health care plan is time sensitive, because the college’s health plan administrators will need to hold open enrollment and implement the policy changes soon for the needed plan changes to take effect.
Additionally, BCC administration proposed a base salary increase of $1000 for the year starting July 1, 2007 for all full-time instructional and non-instructional faculty. State agencies will only be awarding a non-basebuilding increment of 1000.
For BCC faculty, the $1,000 increase represents, on average, a boost of approximately 2 percent, with the highest percentage increases at entry level instructional positions of 3 percent. Eligible faculty may also receive additional increases for years of experience based on the faculty salary schedule.
The BCC District Board of Trustees already has approved a $1000 basebuilding increase for non-represented professional technical staff and administrators. This adjustment represents a 3 to 4 percent increase for entry-level and other lower-paid non-represented employees.
“The college believes that these are fair increases that are helpful to our lowest-paid employees especially, and are reasonable and prudent in light of state budget uncertainties,” Chun said.
“We appreciate that our college administration team and faculty union team have negotiated for many months in good faith, but they have not been able to reach agreement and it is time for us to use the state’s process to help us reach a resolution,” said Lourdes Garrido, chair of the BCC District Board of Trustees. “We are confident that we will soon be able to resolve these issues, and in the meantime our faculty, staff and administrators will continue to do a professional job focused on educating students.”
Cynthia A. Thuma Coordinator, communication and publications Broward Community College Willis Holcombe Downtown Center 225 E. Las Olas Boulevard, 302C Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
Monday, October 1, 2007
Faculty Help to Win Battle on Budget Cuts
FROM: Tom Auxter, UFF President
The Florida House and Senate proposed budget cuts of 2.3% for universities and 1.8% for community colleges -- after an intense faculty grassroots effort to contact all legislators through district offices.
Legislators rejected the Governor's initial recommendation of a 6.2% cut for universities and a 4.5% cut for community colleges. A conference committee still must iron out relatively small differences in proposed expenditures. A report on the numbers from Kevin Watson at Florida Education Association follows.
The Governor can still change the outcome for universities by vetoing the 5% tuition increase. Governor Crist can be contacted at: charlie.crist@myflorida.com
----------------Original Message--------------------------
From: Kevin Watson, FEA Dept. of Public Policy Advocacy
Subject: Legislative Update - A little Budget cutting and a lot of funding shifts
The House and Senate fiscal committees met Thursday to review very similar proposals for potential cuts or adjustment to the 07-08 budget. No district runs or line item budget are available. Nothing in this report should be considered final. Special session begins next week and more will be known at that time.
Community Colleges
The Community Colleges Program Fund faces a net reduction to state funds of $18.4M (1.8%. this includes a 3.3% reduction to recurring GR but is offset by providing $11.4M recurring tuition revenue generated by a 5% spring tuition increase. An additional $11.4M nonrecurring GR retires the fall tuition veto.
State Universities
State Universities face an operating budget net reduction to state funds of $58.8M (2.3%). This includes a 3.9% reduction to recurring GR. But the reductions are offset by providing $9.5M recurring tuition revenue generated by a 5% spring tuition increase and $9.5M nonrecurring revenue to restore the fall tuition veto.
This policy is similar for both community colleges and universities. The tuition increase proposals in both chambers would restore the increase for the spring semester and use other state money to reimburse the schools for a fall semester shortfall - $9.5 million for the universities and $11.4 million for the community colleges - that resulted from the veto.
------------
United Faculty of Florida
850-224-8220
The Florida House and Senate proposed budget cuts of 2.3% for universities and 1.8% for community colleges -- after an intense faculty grassroots effort to contact all legislators through district offices.
Legislators rejected the Governor's initial recommendation of a 6.2% cut for universities and a 4.5% cut for community colleges. A conference committee still must iron out relatively small differences in proposed expenditures. A report on the numbers from Kevin Watson at Florida Education Association follows.
The Governor can still change the outcome for universities by vetoing the 5% tuition increase. Governor Crist can be contacted at: charlie.crist@myflorida.com
----------------Original Message--------------------------
From: Kevin Watson, FEA Dept. of Public Policy Advocacy
Subject: Legislative Update - A little Budget cutting and a lot of funding shifts
The House and Senate fiscal committees met Thursday to review very similar proposals for potential cuts or adjustment to the 07-08 budget. No district runs or line item budget are available. Nothing in this report should be considered final. Special session begins next week and more will be known at that time.
Community Colleges
The Community Colleges Program Fund faces a net reduction to state funds of $18.4M (1.8%. this includes a 3.3% reduction to recurring GR but is offset by providing $11.4M recurring tuition revenue generated by a 5% spring tuition increase. An additional $11.4M nonrecurring GR retires the fall tuition veto.
State Universities
State Universities face an operating budget net reduction to state funds of $58.8M (2.3%). This includes a 3.9% reduction to recurring GR. But the reductions are offset by providing $9.5M recurring tuition revenue generated by a 5% spring tuition increase and $9.5M nonrecurring revenue to restore the fall tuition veto.
This policy is similar for both community colleges and universities. The tuition increase proposals in both chambers would restore the increase for the spring semester and use other state money to reimburse the schools for a fall semester shortfall - $9.5 million for the universities and $11.4 million for the community colleges - that resulted from the veto.
------------
United Faculty of Florida
850-224-8220
Friday, September 28, 2007
WHO ARE THE MEMBERS OF THE PRESIDENTIAL SCREENING COMMITTEE?
Mr. John O'Connor, serving as the Chairman of the Screening Committee and the Vice-Chair of the PJC Board of Trustees. 708 Peake's Point Drive, Gulf Breeze, FL 32561. MAC7871@aol.com; 470-9555
Dr. Isaac Brigham, Senior Vice President, PJC. 1699 Condor Drive, Cantonment, FL 32533. Ibrigham@pjc.edu ; 484-1717.
Mr. James A. Hightower, 6430 Dunleith Place, Pensacola, Fl 32504. jhightower@pjc.edu ; 477-3044. Representing PJC Faculty.
Mr. Keith Prendergast, PO Box 30141, Pensacola, FL 32504. kprendergast@pjc.edu ; 478-6632. Representing PJC Faculty.
Ms. Charlotte Sweeney, 10402 Pine Hill Terrace, Pensacola, FL 32514. csweeney@pjc.edu ; 484-2007. Representing PJC Faculty.
Ms. Peggy Lou Akerman, 4315 Roxborough place, Pensacola, FL 32514. pakerman@pjc.edu ; 484-3946. Representing PJC Adjunct Faculty.
Mr. Earl Evans, 3500 Creighton Road LC, Pensacola, FL 32504. eevans@pjc.edu ; 484-2377. Representing PJC Managerial/Professionals.
Dr. Martin Gonzalez, 1301 East Jackson Street, Pensacola, FL 32501. mgonzalez@pjc.edu ; 484-4436. Representing PJC Managerial/Professionals.
Ms. Coreen G. Goben, 6295 Highway 95A North, Molino, FL 32577. cgoben@pjc.edu ; 484-1533. Representing PJC Career Service Staff.
Ms. Carol Quinn, 6621 Black Oak Place, Pensacola, FL 32526. cquinn@pjc.edu ; 944-3969. Representing PJC Career Service Staff.
Mr. Daniel Scott Crongeyer, 5709 Bronco Place, Milton, FL 32570. dsc1057@students.pjc.edu ; 686-9120. Representing PJC Students.
Ms. Stephanie Lightfoot, 216 Dogwood Drive, Pensacola, FL 32505. slightfoot2003@yahoo.com ; 261-0390. Representing PJC Students.
Mr. Chris Randall, 4880 La Ceiba Drive, Pensacola, FL 32526. cjrandall882@aol.com ; 457-4423. Representing PJC Students.
Ms. Sandy Cesaretti-Ray, 3210 Quietwater Lane, Gulf Breeze, FL 32563. scesaretti@wsre.org ; 572-3279. Representing WSRE Foundation.
Ms. Elba Robertson, 5358 Conecuh Street, Milton, FL 32570. robertson1503@bellouth.net ; 623-2182. Representing PJC Foundation.
Mr. Norm Ross, 215 West Garden Street, Pensacola, FL 32502. nross@escambia.k12.fl.us ; 469-6131. Representing Escambia County public schools.
Ms. Diane Coleman, 9507 Acorn Lane, Navarre, FL 32566. dianecoleman@bellsouth.net ; 449-0970. Representing Santa Rosa County public schools.
Ms. Evon Emerson, 117 West Garden Street, Pensacola, FL 32502. Representing Escambia/Pensacola Chamber of Commerce.
Ms. Donna Tucker, 5247 Stewart Street, Milton, FL 32570. director@srcchamber.com ; 623-2339. Representing Santa Rosa Chamber of Commerce.
Mr. Darnell Sims, 17 West Maxwell Street, Pensacola, FL 32501. dsims@youthbuildpcola.org ; 433-0593.
Dr. Deborah Ford, 11000 University Parkway, Pensacola, FL 32514. dford@uwf.edu ; 474-2214.
Ms. Susan Bullock, 510 East Government Street, Pensacola, FL 32502. susan.d.bullock@smithbarney.com ; 501-8444. Representing Escambia County community at-large.
Mr. Thomas D. Tait, 7417 Old Baypointe Road, Milton, FL 32583. ttait@whitneybank.com ; 444-3240. Representing Santa Rosa community at-large.
Chief Bobby Johns Bearheart, 125333 Polonius Parkway, Pensacola, FL 32506. bearheart1@cox.net ; 492-3593. Representing Native American minorities.
Ms. Shigeko Honda, 11000 University Parkway, Pensacola, FL 32514. shonda@uwf.edu . Representing Asian Pacific minorities.
Dr. Isaac Brigham, Senior Vice President, PJC. 1699 Condor Drive, Cantonment, FL 32533. Ibrigham@pjc.edu ; 484-1717.
Mr. James A. Hightower, 6430 Dunleith Place, Pensacola, Fl 32504. jhightower@pjc.edu ; 477-3044. Representing PJC Faculty.
Mr. Keith Prendergast, PO Box 30141, Pensacola, FL 32504. kprendergast@pjc.edu ; 478-6632. Representing PJC Faculty.
Ms. Charlotte Sweeney, 10402 Pine Hill Terrace, Pensacola, FL 32514. csweeney@pjc.edu ; 484-2007. Representing PJC Faculty.
Ms. Peggy Lou Akerman, 4315 Roxborough place, Pensacola, FL 32514. pakerman@pjc.edu ; 484-3946. Representing PJC Adjunct Faculty.
Mr. Earl Evans, 3500 Creighton Road LC, Pensacola, FL 32504. eevans@pjc.edu ; 484-2377. Representing PJC Managerial/Professionals.
Dr. Martin Gonzalez, 1301 East Jackson Street, Pensacola, FL 32501. mgonzalez@pjc.edu ; 484-4436. Representing PJC Managerial/Professionals.
Ms. Coreen G. Goben, 6295 Highway 95A North, Molino, FL 32577. cgoben@pjc.edu ; 484-1533. Representing PJC Career Service Staff.
Ms. Carol Quinn, 6621 Black Oak Place, Pensacola, FL 32526. cquinn@pjc.edu ; 944-3969. Representing PJC Career Service Staff.
Mr. Daniel Scott Crongeyer, 5709 Bronco Place, Milton, FL 32570. dsc1057@students.pjc.edu ; 686-9120. Representing PJC Students.
Ms. Stephanie Lightfoot, 216 Dogwood Drive, Pensacola, FL 32505. slightfoot2003@yahoo.com ; 261-0390. Representing PJC Students.
Mr. Chris Randall, 4880 La Ceiba Drive, Pensacola, FL 32526. cjrandall882@aol.com ; 457-4423. Representing PJC Students.
Ms. Sandy Cesaretti-Ray, 3210 Quietwater Lane, Gulf Breeze, FL 32563. scesaretti@wsre.org ; 572-3279. Representing WSRE Foundation.
Ms. Elba Robertson, 5358 Conecuh Street, Milton, FL 32570. robertson1503@bellouth.net ; 623-2182. Representing PJC Foundation.
Mr. Norm Ross, 215 West Garden Street, Pensacola, FL 32502. nross@escambia.k12.fl.us ; 469-6131. Representing Escambia County public schools.
Ms. Diane Coleman, 9507 Acorn Lane, Navarre, FL 32566. dianecoleman@bellsouth.net ; 449-0970. Representing Santa Rosa County public schools.
Ms. Evon Emerson, 117 West Garden Street, Pensacola, FL 32502. Representing Escambia/Pensacola Chamber of Commerce.
Ms. Donna Tucker, 5247 Stewart Street, Milton, FL 32570. director@srcchamber.com ; 623-2339. Representing Santa Rosa Chamber of Commerce.
Mr. Darnell Sims, 17 West Maxwell Street, Pensacola, FL 32501. dsims@youthbuildpcola.org ; 433-0593.
Dr. Deborah Ford, 11000 University Parkway, Pensacola, FL 32514. dford@uwf.edu ; 474-2214.
Ms. Susan Bullock, 510 East Government Street, Pensacola, FL 32502. susan.d.bullock@smithbarney.com ; 501-8444. Representing Escambia County community at-large.
Mr. Thomas D. Tait, 7417 Old Baypointe Road, Milton, FL 32583. ttait@whitneybank.com ; 444-3240. Representing Santa Rosa community at-large.
Chief Bobby Johns Bearheart, 125333 Polonius Parkway, Pensacola, FL 32506. bearheart1@cox.net ; 492-3593. Representing Native American minorities.
Ms. Shigeko Honda, 11000 University Parkway, Pensacola, FL 32514. shonda@uwf.edu . Representing Asian Pacific minorities.
PRESIDENTIAL PUBLIC HEARINGS END
For the past four days, public hearings have been held to give faculty, staff, students and the local community the opportunity to tell Pensacola Junior College's Board of Trustees and members of the Presidential Screening Committee what they see as the qualities and skills that are necessary for the next PJC President.
With the exception of last night's hearing, I felt that all sessions had been well attended with good representation from the host campus. I'll be making entries for each session after this.
Hats off to BOT member Dona Usury who attended every hearing and was diligent in her note-taking. Hats off as well to Keith Prendergast (representing PJC faculty) who also attended every hearing. Several other committee members also attended every session and many made at least 3 of the 4. I believe that speaks very highly as to the commitment of this screening committee to have the best interests of PJC in mind as they review applications.
With the exception of last night's hearing, I felt that all sessions had been well attended with good representation from the host campus. I'll be making entries for each session after this.
Hats off to BOT member Dona Usury who attended every hearing and was diligent in her note-taking. Hats off as well to Keith Prendergast (representing PJC faculty) who also attended every hearing. Several other committee members also attended every session and many made at least 3 of the 4. I believe that speaks very highly as to the commitment of this screening committee to have the best interests of PJC in mind as they review applications.
COMMENTS FROM THE THURSDAY EVENING HEARING HOSTED ON THE PENSACOLA CAMPUS
While the turnout from the Screening Committee members and PJC administrators was good, there were not many community members in attendance. Ms. Celeste Norris, BOT member, conducted the session. Again, the answers to questions are my paraphrasing of the answers given by either Ms. Norris, Dr. Brigham or other PJC staff.
Here are the comments and questions from this session:
Here are the comments and questions from this session:
Has PJC chosen a professional search committee? Not at this time. PJC is currently going forward using in-house staff to conduct the search, but the BOT has retained the right to hire a professional search committee to assist in the process if needed.
What kind of response/inquiries have been from candidates? To date there are 5 letters of inquiry on file. Official advertising of the position will begin October 12th in national, regional and local publications. There is a link about the Presidential search on the PJC homepage.
COMMENTS
- the #2 qualification (commitment to diversity) is very important. Appreciated the way in which Dr. Delaino reached out to the Black media. Would like to see more collaboration with WSRE and the Black media.
- the issue of morale must be addressed. New president must recognize the importance of people. He/She will not manage a college, but will manage people. It is important that the new president be a part of the college. There is a division between Bldg. 7 (Administration) and the rest of the college. Visit the classrooms, walk the halls of the buildings, be a part of the college.
- Another member of the audience agreed that the issue of morale was important.
COMMENTS FROM THE WEDNESDAY HEARING HOSTED ON THE MILTON CAMPUS
This session was also chaired by Mr. Vincent Andry, president of the PJC Board of Trustees.
Here are the comments from the Milton hearing.
The new president of PJC must/should:
Mr. Vince Andry, Chairman of the PJC Board of Trustees, answered questions such as: (the answers are my paraphrasing of his response)
How are the Board of Trustees chosen?
The BOT is appointed by the Governor. Mrs. Usury, a trustee, also commented on the detailed application that each person interested in serving as a trustee must submit in order to be considered.
Is there any expectation of the length of service for a new president?
There is the hope that the new president will lead PJC for a number of years. Of course, there is no way to force someone to stay in a position and the BOT also has the responsibility to evaluate the president regularly to determine if the president is performing the job effectively. The president will be judged on his/her success.
How many students are involved in the process?
3 - one representing each campus SGA.
What is the measurement for all the listed minimum and desired qualifications?
Please see my (Charlotte) answer to a very similar question about "significant leadership" at Monday's session.
How do you look deeper than the paper case?
Once the Screening Committee has reviewed the applications and made its recommendation of 4 - 8 candidates to the BOT, criminal and financial background checks will be conducted. Personal references will be checked. There has been discussion at the BOT meetings about whether a psychological screening should be conducted.
Here are the comments from the Milton hearing.
The new president of PJC must/should:
- understand that PJC has 3 full service campuses and each campus needs to be fully funded.
- have a commitment to technology in the classroom. Needs to look forward to cutting edge classroom technology.
- be very energetic. Ready to go. Have a focus on academics.
- make decisions that are driven by data. Be able to use data effectively. Be able to plan effectively.
- have a commitment to recruitment. Push for better salaries.
- network in the community. Locate and develop alternate money supplies. Develop relationships with business, local, state and federal governments.
- better manage the recruitment process. Good candidates are already employed by the time PJC starts searching for new faculty.
- improve recognition of adjunct faculty. Work for retention of adjunct faculty. Develop relationships with adjunct faculty.
- care as much for career service employees as faculty. Support across the board raises.
- be willing to set the tone by having a a simple inauguration rather than an extravagant event.
Mr. Vince Andry, Chairman of the PJC Board of Trustees, answered questions such as: (the answers are my paraphrasing of his response)
How are the Board of Trustees chosen?
The BOT is appointed by the Governor. Mrs. Usury, a trustee, also commented on the detailed application that each person interested in serving as a trustee must submit in order to be considered.
Is there any expectation of the length of service for a new president?
There is the hope that the new president will lead PJC for a number of years. Of course, there is no way to force someone to stay in a position and the BOT also has the responsibility to evaluate the president regularly to determine if the president is performing the job effectively. The president will be judged on his/her success.
How many students are involved in the process?
3 - one representing each campus SGA.
What is the measurement for all the listed minimum and desired qualifications?
Please see my (Charlotte) answer to a very similar question about "significant leadership" at Monday's session.
How do you look deeper than the paper case?
Once the Screening Committee has reviewed the applications and made its recommendation of 4 - 8 candidates to the BOT, criminal and financial background checks will be conducted. Personal references will be checked. There has been discussion at the BOT meetings about whether a psychological screening should be conducted.
COMMENTS FROM THE TUESDAY HEARING HOSTED ON THE WARRINGTON CAMPUS
This session was chaired by Mr. Vincent Andry, Chairman of the PJC Board of Trustees.
Again, this will be a bulleted list of the comments made.
The new president must/should:
Again, this will be a bulleted list of the comments made.
The new president must/should:
- recognize the potential of the planetarium. Understand the importance of instructional technology and distance learning.
- be willing to establish collaborative relationships particularly those with NAS and local hospitals.
- be supportive of all health care programs.
- support simulation as an instructional tool.
- focus on faculty and staff development.
- work to make resources (library, computer lab) available to students 24/7. Recognize that students are trying to fit learning around the rest of their life.
- be an exceptional fundraiser.
- be very engaged on what is going on ALL campuses. Have a shared vision with all campuses. Promote staff, faculty and adjuncts all working together.
- return PJC to its national reputation for academic excellence.
- be able to meet the budgetary challenges and the competition for dollars. Have a commitment to faculty and staff training. Develop PJC's human resources. Appreciate and demonstrate diversity.
- identify with and be committed to faculty, students and the community. The best person could be someone from another area of government or education who already resides in the community.
COMMENTS FROM THE MONDAY SESSION HOSTED ON THE PENSACOLA CAMPUS
Monday's session was chaired by Mr. John O'Connor, Vice-Chair of the PJC Board of Trustees, who is the chairman of the Presidential Screening Committee.
In response to a comment regarding the importance that the new President have significant teaching experience and a history of sustained academic excellence, Mr. O'Connor expressed surprise that such a qualification was not a given. He shared his impression that college administrators "come up through the ranks".....sort of from instructor to professor to department head to provost to vice-president to president. He seemed to truly appreciate having that "myth" debunked.
I'll just be making a bulleted list of comments and questions so that you can see the concerns that were raised. If anyone feels that I did not do a proper job of summarizing your comment, please post a clarification. Thanks!
The new president must/should:
In response to a comment regarding the importance that the new President have significant teaching experience and a history of sustained academic excellence, Mr. O'Connor expressed surprise that such a qualification was not a given. He shared his impression that college administrators "come up through the ranks".....sort of from instructor to professor to department head to provost to vice-president to president. He seemed to truly appreciate having that "myth" debunked.
I'll just be making a bulleted list of comments and questions so that you can see the concerns that were raised. If anyone feels that I did not do a proper job of summarizing your comment, please post a clarification. Thanks!
The new president must/should:
- understand and be willing to work within the parameters of a faculty united under a collective bargaining agreement.
- be willing to embrace diversity.
- keep students in mind and be interactive with students.
- understand the importance of grants.
- have teaching experience. Recommendation of having president have at least six years of teaching experience in the community college environment. A record of sustained excellence in teaching.
- understand that education is now a competitive business. Be able to work to get students in.
- understand what is already working well and balance that with new ideas. Want to partner with those already here. Have a vision for PJC. Be able to articulate practical steps to reach that vision.
- remember PJC's academic record as it stood in the 1970's when PJC was ranked #3 in the nation. Commitment to academic excellence.
- appreciate libraries and their contribution to learning. Be an innovative leader.
- recognize that academics are important but also be willing to embrace PJC's mission across the board - developmental studies, vocational and academics.
- should be the total package. Have a vision that is centered on the student. Be able to "schmooze." Show support for the faculty.
- recognize the importance of community outreach. Develop partnerships and collaborative ventures with UWF.
- support continuing education and see the importance of non-credit programs.
- have a vision of the whole student. Dream big.
- be active in the classroom. Remember the mission of the college. understand the importance of vocational programs.
Questions were also posed during the session.
Who is actually on the Presidential Screening Committee?
I'll answer that question in a separate posting.
What is meant by "significant leadership in a senior level administrative position" as listed as part of the minimum requirements?
Dr. Brigham addressed this question. Having been on the search process committee, let me merge my answer with Dr. Brigham's. There were no definitive decisions made about what constitutes "significant leadership."
Dr. Marshall McLeod (who has since retired from PJC) was to review each application to make that determination. Certainly, anyone who had served or was currently serving as president or vice-president of a college, university, or community college would qualify. Dr. McLeod was urged to keep in mind that after that level it became harder to determine the responsibilities that went with the title. Campus presidents, provosts, deans could all possibly handle the same responsibilities depending on the organizational structure of the institution.
No mandatory years of experience were placed on the qualification.
"Significant leadership" is very subjective. Because Dr. McLeod had been an instrumental participant in the past two presidential searches, the committee and the BOT were comfortable with his making the determination of what constituted "significant leadership." How his retirement affects the process remains to be seen.
However, all applications are available for review by committee members as well as the general public. There will be two files that will now be housed in Human Resources. One will be the applications that have been reviewed and it has been determined that all components of the application are complete and that the application meets the minimum requirement. The other will be a file of applications that have been reviewed and determined to be either incomplete or not meeting the minimum qualifications or both.
Thursday, September 20, 2007
BUDGET CUTS AND FLORIDA HIGHER EDUCATION
From Tom Auxter, President, UFF:
UFF Members:
It is critical that we contact legislators now -- by email or by phoning their local district offices -- to make sure they understand that their constituents do not want more damage done to Florida higher education through the process of budget cuts. (You may have heard that the Governor is recommending a 6.2% cut for universities and a 4.5% cut for community colleges.) Emphasize that these cuts hurt students and deprive them of the education they expected when they enrolled.
Talking Points for Legislators
1. The student-faculty ratio is already at the bottom (49th) in national rankings. (Only Louisiana is worse.) More cuts require a hiring freeze on faculty this year and make things even worse for students. Students cannot get the courses they need to graduate, and they cannot get the attention they deserve from professors who are teaching overcrowded classes. Students' access to higher education is threatened by these proposed cuts. Enrollment at the state universities has been frozen. Budget cuts limit access, increase graduation time, and decrease rates of graduation.
2. Faculty are leaving Florida higher education at an alarming rate. In the universities, the turnover rate last year was 14%. It is impossible to staff departments with the qualified faculty they need to cover all the subjects necessary because they leave as soon as they find employment elsewhere -- at higher salaries and with better teaching conditions. Recruiting new faculty is especially difficult when they hear that there is a freeze on salaries or that classes are crowded (if students can even get the classes they need). In many of the community colleges, the starting salaries are lower than the starting salaries for teachers in the local school district while the costs of housing are beyond reach. This makes recruitment and retention an on-going problem that directly affects students.
3. The quality of the education students receive is threatened by these severe budget problems. The quality deteriorates when students cannot get the attention they deserve from faculty teaching crowded classes and when classes are not available. The quality also deteriorates when faculty specialists are leaving at a rate that makes it impossible to cover all the specialized topics that need to be covered in a department.
4. It is shortsighted to think that the State can save money by reducing its commitment to higher education. Higher education is the engine that drives the State's economy. A developed economy requires a developed higher education system to supply the kinds of employees necessary to run it. Moreover, large business operations will not open their doors in a state that cannot attract talented employees with educational benefits. The State also saves money from an educated population that has less crime and fewer health problems.
5. The only lasting solution for a viable higher education system is to change the tax structure so that there is enough revenue to support the needs of students and so that funds available do not change dramatically with every fluctuation in sales tax collection or real estate market values. We need reform now in creating a sustainable relationship between budget and taxation.
IMPORTANT: (1) Short, polite messages are most effective with legislators. One or two sentences is enough to make the point.
(2) Use an off-campus computer or private phone for messages.
Click here to find how to contact your Senator and Representative.
Tom AuxterPresident
United Faculty of Florida
UFF Members:
It is critical that we contact legislators now -- by email or by phoning their local district offices -- to make sure they understand that their constituents do not want more damage done to Florida higher education through the process of budget cuts. (You may have heard that the Governor is recommending a 6.2% cut for universities and a 4.5% cut for community colleges.) Emphasize that these cuts hurt students and deprive them of the education they expected when they enrolled.
Talking Points for Legislators
1. The student-faculty ratio is already at the bottom (49th) in national rankings. (Only Louisiana is worse.) More cuts require a hiring freeze on faculty this year and make things even worse for students. Students cannot get the courses they need to graduate, and they cannot get the attention they deserve from professors who are teaching overcrowded classes. Students' access to higher education is threatened by these proposed cuts. Enrollment at the state universities has been frozen. Budget cuts limit access, increase graduation time, and decrease rates of graduation.
2. Faculty are leaving Florida higher education at an alarming rate. In the universities, the turnover rate last year was 14%. It is impossible to staff departments with the qualified faculty they need to cover all the subjects necessary because they leave as soon as they find employment elsewhere -- at higher salaries and with better teaching conditions. Recruiting new faculty is especially difficult when they hear that there is a freeze on salaries or that classes are crowded (if students can even get the classes they need). In many of the community colleges, the starting salaries are lower than the starting salaries for teachers in the local school district while the costs of housing are beyond reach. This makes recruitment and retention an on-going problem that directly affects students.
3. The quality of the education students receive is threatened by these severe budget problems. The quality deteriorates when students cannot get the attention they deserve from faculty teaching crowded classes and when classes are not available. The quality also deteriorates when faculty specialists are leaving at a rate that makes it impossible to cover all the specialized topics that need to be covered in a department.
4. It is shortsighted to think that the State can save money by reducing its commitment to higher education. Higher education is the engine that drives the State's economy. A developed economy requires a developed higher education system to supply the kinds of employees necessary to run it. Moreover, large business operations will not open their doors in a state that cannot attract talented employees with educational benefits. The State also saves money from an educated population that has less crime and fewer health problems.
5. The only lasting solution for a viable higher education system is to change the tax structure so that there is enough revenue to support the needs of students and so that funds available do not change dramatically with every fluctuation in sales tax collection or real estate market values. We need reform now in creating a sustainable relationship between budget and taxation.
IMPORTANT: (1) Short, polite messages are most effective with legislators. One or two sentences is enough to make the point.
(2) Use an off-campus computer or private phone for messages.
Click here to find how to contact your Senator and Representative.
Tom AuxterPresident
United Faculty of Florida
COMMITTEE MEMBERS NAMED
Appointments were made to standing PJC committees on behalf of PJCFA:
Budget Modeling: Audrey Morrison, Business, Pensacola campus; Charlotte Sweeney, LRC, Pensacola campus.
Benefits: Narla Zinermon, English/Communicaitons, Pensacola campus; Domma Mathia, Dental Hygiene, Warrington campus.
Budget Modeling: Audrey Morrison, Business, Pensacola campus; Charlotte Sweeney, LRC, Pensacola campus.
Benefits: Narla Zinermon, English/Communicaitons, Pensacola campus; Domma Mathia, Dental Hygiene, Warrington campus.
PJCFA EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING
The PJCFA Board met yesterday afternoon and here's a short report of what took place:
We talked about making additions, updates and corrections to the web page. Thought it would be good to have the Constitution and by-laws up there as well as a direct link to the CBA. Update the administrative and professional salary list and maybe start using it to conduct some surveys. What would you like to see on the web page?
Work was done over the summer on the administrative evaluations by faculty. The plan is still to administer the evaluations in March or April.
Reminder that voting for ratification is currently taking place with ballots due October 2.
It was agreed that PJCFA would pay travel reimbursement for official local PJCFA business. Executive Board members, Negotiating Team members, PJCFA members serving as representatives on PJC or PJCFA committees will submit a travel reimbursement request when they have to travel among the campuses or from their home to campus on non-duty days.
Everyone agreed that the recent Bargaining and Membership training that was given by UFF and FEA was excellent. It was also good to network with UWF and Chipola. We think that there is much that we learned that can put into action right away.
The Executive Board voted to change the by-laws so that the nomination for Chief Negotiator will take place at the September meeting; Chief Negotiator will be voted on at October meeting; nominations for the bargaining team will take place at the November meeting; bargaining team will be elected at the December meeting. This change was made to allow the team to have time to meet, conduct research and prepare for negotiations which usually begin in March or April.
It was approved that up to 3 members will attend the FEA bargaining training to be held October 24 in Orlando.
Some of the PJCFA Senators will be attending the UFF Senate meeting October 5-7. Sessions held by the Distance Learning Task Force and the Librarians Task Force will be held in addition to the Senate meeting.
Campus Luncheons were planned. More information will be distributed as those plans are finalized.
Appointments were made to two PJC committees.
The next PJCFA Executive Board meeting will be held on October 17 at 1:30pm in the PJCFA Office , Room 9725.
We talked about making additions, updates and corrections to the web page. Thought it would be good to have the Constitution and by-laws up there as well as a direct link to the CBA. Update the administrative and professional salary list and maybe start using it to conduct some surveys. What would you like to see on the web page?
Work was done over the summer on the administrative evaluations by faculty. The plan is still to administer the evaluations in March or April.
Reminder that voting for ratification is currently taking place with ballots due October 2.
It was agreed that PJCFA would pay travel reimbursement for official local PJCFA business. Executive Board members, Negotiating Team members, PJCFA members serving as representatives on PJC or PJCFA committees will submit a travel reimbursement request when they have to travel among the campuses or from their home to campus on non-duty days.
Everyone agreed that the recent Bargaining and Membership training that was given by UFF and FEA was excellent. It was also good to network with UWF and Chipola. We think that there is much that we learned that can put into action right away.
The Executive Board voted to change the by-laws so that the nomination for Chief Negotiator will take place at the September meeting; Chief Negotiator will be voted on at October meeting; nominations for the bargaining team will take place at the November meeting; bargaining team will be elected at the December meeting. This change was made to allow the team to have time to meet, conduct research and prepare for negotiations which usually begin in March or April.
It was approved that up to 3 members will attend the FEA bargaining training to be held October 24 in Orlando.
Some of the PJCFA Senators will be attending the UFF Senate meeting October 5-7. Sessions held by the Distance Learning Task Force and the Librarians Task Force will be held in addition to the Senate meeting.
Campus Luncheons were planned. More information will be distributed as those plans are finalized.
Appointments were made to two PJC committees.
The next PJCFA Executive Board meeting will be held on October 17 at 1:30pm in the PJCFA Office , Room 9725.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
PRESIDENTIAL SEARCH PUBLIC HEARINGS
The Presidential Search Screening Committee will hold the following campus hearings for the community-at-large and the college community to express comments regarding the search for a new president.
2:00 p.m. Sept. 24, 2007 Pensacola Campus, Hagler Auditorium Rm. 252
2:00 p.m. Sept. 25, 2007 Warrington Campus, Health Sciences Bldg., Rm. 3736
2:00 p.m. Sept. 26, 2007 Milton Campus, Building 4900, Rm. 4902
7:00 p.m. Sept. 27, 2007 Pensacola Campus, Hagler Auditorium, Rm. 252
I'll be attending each of the hearings and hope that you will attend at least one of them. This is your chance to say what qualities, characteristics and experience you want the next president of PJC to possess.
I'll be on each campus visiting around prior to the hearing so let me know if you'd like to meet with me then. See you soon!
2:00 p.m. Sept. 24, 2007 Pensacola Campus, Hagler Auditorium Rm. 252
2:00 p.m. Sept. 25, 2007 Warrington Campus, Health Sciences Bldg., Rm. 3736
2:00 p.m. Sept. 26, 2007 Milton Campus, Building 4900, Rm. 4902
7:00 p.m. Sept. 27, 2007 Pensacola Campus, Hagler Auditorium, Rm. 252
I'll be attending each of the hearings and hope that you will attend at least one of them. This is your chance to say what qualities, characteristics and experience you want the next president of PJC to possess.
I'll be on each campus visiting around prior to the hearing so let me know if you'd like to meet with me then. See you soon!
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
PRESIDENTIAL SCREENING PROCESS TO BEGIN
This Friday, September 14th, will be the first meeting of the Presidential Screening Committee. The faculty who are serving on this committee are Dr. Jimmy Hightower,Business; Mr. Keith Prendergast, English; and me. At the meeting on the 14th, we'll receive an overview of what activities are being planned and what our role will be in the process. I'll post a summary after the meeting, but please contact Jimmy, Keith or me when you have questions or concerns or just want make sure your opinion is heard.
CBA RATIFICATION PENDING
All faculty members should have received an email today with the proposed changes to the CBA attached to the email. The major changes have to do with Article 18 (Distance Learning) and salaries.
We agreed to remove a lot of the language from Article 18 during this round of negotiations. The main reason for this is that having lived with distance learning for several years, we have learned that many of the items that we initially believed had to be included separately are actually addressed within other articles of the contract.
We will continue to work on the issues of class size and office hours in distance learning.
Everyone received the proposed 5% raise in their last paycheck pending ratification of the CBA. The other proposal affecting wages is the additional $3 to be added to the overload.
If you have questions about the ratification process or want more information about the contract, please give me (x2007) or Tom Grow (x1101) a call.
You should receive your ballot by Monday, September 17 and ballots should be returned by Tuesday, October 2.
We agreed to remove a lot of the language from Article 18 during this round of negotiations. The main reason for this is that having lived with distance learning for several years, we have learned that many of the items that we initially believed had to be included separately are actually addressed within other articles of the contract.
We will continue to work on the issues of class size and office hours in distance learning.
Everyone received the proposed 5% raise in their last paycheck pending ratification of the CBA. The other proposal affecting wages is the additional $3 to be added to the overload.
If you have questions about the ratification process or want more information about the contract, please give me (x2007) or Tom Grow (x1101) a call.
You should receive your ballot by Monday, September 17 and ballots should be returned by Tuesday, October 2.
Wednesday, August 1, 2007
TIME FOR A BREAK
Tomorrow will complete my contractual obligation to the college for this summer term and I plan to take a break until the New Faculty Orientation on August 17th. I will periodically check my work voice mail and email and respond as needed. Hopefully, I won't be needed! I'll also be taking a break from the blog unless something that needs sharing comes up. So enjoy these last few weeks before the new term starts and come back ready and raring to go!
NOMINEES FOR PRESIDENTIAL SCREENING COMMITTEE NAMED
The PJCFA Executive Board will nominate Dr. Jimmy Hightower (Business/Legal Assisting), Mr. Keith Prendergast (English/Communications) and Ms. Charlotte Sweeney (LRC) as the faculty members to be appointed to the Presidential Screening Committee. The nominees must be confirmed by the Pensacola Junior College Board of Trustees.
Thursday, July 26, 2007
IDEAS FOR CONVOCATION?
PJCFA has been asked to hold a session during Convocation from 8am - 10:30am. What a time slot! So go grab some coffee and pastries and head in to see what we've been up to. Right now the topics we have planned to cover are: CBA update, Initial Credentialing, Portfolios for Promotion, and Benefits of Membership. What else would you like to know more about? Presidential Search? Just let us know!
Monday, July 23, 2007
Florida Universities Brace for Budget Cuts; What does that mean for PJC?
From the Chronicle of Higher Education www.chronicle.com
issue dated 7/27/07
Florida Universities Brace for Budget Cuts
By LYNDSEY LEWIS
In muggy Gainesville, Fla., where college sports reign supreme, some leaders at the University of Florida are mulling the use of football tickets as a way to entice students to help cut costs.
To motivate students to graduate faster, the university may offer them a better chance of receiving tickets if they take on heavier course loads. The proposed policy is one of several money-saving measures under consideration at the institution, which faces a projected deficit of at least $20-million for the fiscal year that began July 1.
The University of Florida is not the only public college in the state trying to trim costs. After Gov. Charlie Crist blocked a 5-percent increase in statewide tuition in May, Florida's 11 public universities began bracing for a fallout. But the state's slumping housing market helped slow the economy, causing a shortfall in tax revenue that will force the colleges and other agencies to cut their budgets by at least 4 percent.
Now higher-education officials are drawing up plans to further shave costs with hiring suspensions, enrollment freezes, and other money-saving measures.
All told, the state's universities stand to lose at least $100-million with a 4-percent budget reduction, but the universities have been warned to prepare for a cut of up to 10 percent.
While midyear budget cuts are not as common as they were earlier this decade, public colleges in at least one other state, Maryland, have also been urged to tighten their belts.
The Board of Governors, which oversees Florida's public universities, will enforce a statewide enrollment freeze to cope with the deficit. Still, as colleges prepare for a tight year, administrators say their main priority is ensuring that students do not feel the brunt of budget-cutting efforts.
"Hopefully, we can shield them from most of the cuts," said J. Bernard Machen, president of the University of Florida.
That institution's 50,000 or so students are bound to notice some changes, though. After Mr. Crist reported the revenue shortfall, the University of Florida announced a campuswide hiring freeze.
Although there are no estimates on how many positions could be affected, Mr. Machen emphasized that the freeze is "not just a game."
Richard A. Yost, a chemistry professor at the University of Florida and chairman of the university's Faculty Senate, said faculty members would inevitably have to take on heavier teaching loads. "Given the size of the shortfall, I don't think the university has a lot of choices," he said.
The University of Central Florida, in Orlando, has instituted a similar hiring freeze, although certain positions can still be filled. For example, Central Florida is moving forward with plans to beef up its campus police force, and the university's planned medical school will also probably be an exception to the freeze.
But Central Florida, which is the state's fastest-growing institution, may still struggle to serve a booming population.
"That's going to be the biggest impact — the inability to hire faculty to meet our current enrollment," said Daniel C. Holsenbeck, a university spokesman.
Sudden Downturn
Even as administrators pledge to protect the quality of their institutions, students are growing wary of coming changes.
At Florida State University, which has instituted an enrollment freeze for the next admissions cycle, students seem "frustrated and disappointed at the same time," said Joseph O'Shea, the university's student-body president.
"It all happened so quick," he said.
The freeze will prevent Florida State from expanding its student body for the 2008-9 academic year, and the university is looking for other ways to trim about $15-million from its budget.
"You've got to go a long dang way to find that," said T.K. Wetherell, Florida State's president.
To save money, the university will cut back on some services. For example, the hours at campus libraries and computer labs may be reduced, Mr. Wetherell said. There will probably be fewer courses offered, and students will pay extra for transcript copies.
"We'll jack thermostats up in the summer and down in the winter," Mr. Wetherell added.
While Florida State is committed to shielding its student body as much as possible, Mr. Wetherell said, students are bound to feel some of the impact.
In Tampa, at the University of South Florida, administrators will feel it, too. This fall, the university's provost, Renu Khator, is scheduled to teach a beginner's-level Hindi class in addition to her administrative chores.
Other high-ranking officials at the University of South Florida, such as deans, may also be taking on teaching work, and the institution has announced its own hiring freeze.
Florida's 28 community colleges will also take a hit. Although the steps ordered by the Board of Governors do not affect those institutions, they are still set to lose money during the next year. The boards of trustees for each college have just begun to make plans for dealing with the budget cuts.
By the 2008-9 academic year, however, a few Florida universities will receive a boost. Mr. Crist recently signed a bill allowing the state's top three research institutions — the University of Florida, Florida State University, and the University of South Florida — to increase tuition by as much as 40 percent over several years.
Still, that measure will not take effect for another year, and it does not affect Florida's other eight public universities. The state's Board of Governors recently joined a lawsuit filed by a former U.S. senator, Bob Graham, to wrest control of tuition from the Legislature.
Mr. Graham, a Democrat who is also a former governor, hopes to secure that power for the Board of Governors so that it can raise tuition on its own. Although the Legislature approved a tuition increase this year, lawmakers have typically tried to keep rates low.
For now, though, all 11 of the state's public universities have to work with what they have.
"We've been doing a lot of planning to take these cuts, and we're trying to do it in a way so the students won't feel the pain," said Ms. Khator, of South Florida. "But it's very difficult."
Section: Government & Politics
issue dated 7/27/07
Florida Universities Brace for Budget Cuts
By LYNDSEY LEWIS
In muggy Gainesville, Fla., where college sports reign supreme, some leaders at the University of Florida are mulling the use of football tickets as a way to entice students to help cut costs.
To motivate students to graduate faster, the university may offer them a better chance of receiving tickets if they take on heavier course loads. The proposed policy is one of several money-saving measures under consideration at the institution, which faces a projected deficit of at least $20-million for the fiscal year that began July 1.
The University of Florida is not the only public college in the state trying to trim costs. After Gov. Charlie Crist blocked a 5-percent increase in statewide tuition in May, Florida's 11 public universities began bracing for a fallout. But the state's slumping housing market helped slow the economy, causing a shortfall in tax revenue that will force the colleges and other agencies to cut their budgets by at least 4 percent.
Now higher-education officials are drawing up plans to further shave costs with hiring suspensions, enrollment freezes, and other money-saving measures.
All told, the state's universities stand to lose at least $100-million with a 4-percent budget reduction, but the universities have been warned to prepare for a cut of up to 10 percent.
While midyear budget cuts are not as common as they were earlier this decade, public colleges in at least one other state, Maryland, have also been urged to tighten their belts.
The Board of Governors, which oversees Florida's public universities, will enforce a statewide enrollment freeze to cope with the deficit. Still, as colleges prepare for a tight year, administrators say their main priority is ensuring that students do not feel the brunt of budget-cutting efforts.
"Hopefully, we can shield them from most of the cuts," said J. Bernard Machen, president of the University of Florida.
That institution's 50,000 or so students are bound to notice some changes, though. After Mr. Crist reported the revenue shortfall, the University of Florida announced a campuswide hiring freeze.
Although there are no estimates on how many positions could be affected, Mr. Machen emphasized that the freeze is "not just a game."
Richard A. Yost, a chemistry professor at the University of Florida and chairman of the university's Faculty Senate, said faculty members would inevitably have to take on heavier teaching loads. "Given the size of the shortfall, I don't think the university has a lot of choices," he said.
The University of Central Florida, in Orlando, has instituted a similar hiring freeze, although certain positions can still be filled. For example, Central Florida is moving forward with plans to beef up its campus police force, and the university's planned medical school will also probably be an exception to the freeze.
But Central Florida, which is the state's fastest-growing institution, may still struggle to serve a booming population.
"That's going to be the biggest impact — the inability to hire faculty to meet our current enrollment," said Daniel C. Holsenbeck, a university spokesman.
Sudden Downturn
Even as administrators pledge to protect the quality of their institutions, students are growing wary of coming changes.
At Florida State University, which has instituted an enrollment freeze for the next admissions cycle, students seem "frustrated and disappointed at the same time," said Joseph O'Shea, the university's student-body president.
"It all happened so quick," he said.
The freeze will prevent Florida State from expanding its student body for the 2008-9 academic year, and the university is looking for other ways to trim about $15-million from its budget.
"You've got to go a long dang way to find that," said T.K. Wetherell, Florida State's president.
To save money, the university will cut back on some services. For example, the hours at campus libraries and computer labs may be reduced, Mr. Wetherell said. There will probably be fewer courses offered, and students will pay extra for transcript copies.
"We'll jack thermostats up in the summer and down in the winter," Mr. Wetherell added.
While Florida State is committed to shielding its student body as much as possible, Mr. Wetherell said, students are bound to feel some of the impact.
In Tampa, at the University of South Florida, administrators will feel it, too. This fall, the university's provost, Renu Khator, is scheduled to teach a beginner's-level Hindi class in addition to her administrative chores.
Other high-ranking officials at the University of South Florida, such as deans, may also be taking on teaching work, and the institution has announced its own hiring freeze.
Florida's 28 community colleges will also take a hit. Although the steps ordered by the Board of Governors do not affect those institutions, they are still set to lose money during the next year. The boards of trustees for each college have just begun to make plans for dealing with the budget cuts.
By the 2008-9 academic year, however, a few Florida universities will receive a boost. Mr. Crist recently signed a bill allowing the state's top three research institutions — the University of Florida, Florida State University, and the University of South Florida — to increase tuition by as much as 40 percent over several years.
Still, that measure will not take effect for another year, and it does not affect Florida's other eight public universities. The state's Board of Governors recently joined a lawsuit filed by a former U.S. senator, Bob Graham, to wrest control of tuition from the Legislature.
Mr. Graham, a Democrat who is also a former governor, hopes to secure that power for the Board of Governors so that it can raise tuition on its own. Although the Legislature approved a tuition increase this year, lawmakers have typically tried to keep rates low.
For now, though, all 11 of the state's public universities have to work with what they have.
"We've been doing a lot of planning to take these cuts, and we're trying to do it in a way so the students won't feel the pain," said Ms. Khator, of South Florida. "But it's very difficult."
Section: Government & Politics
CONVOCATION
PJCFA has been asked to conduct a workshop during Convocation. Topics that we've been asked to include are: CBA updates, initial credentialing, and the portfolio process. As it's scheduled now, PJCFA's time slot will be 8:00am -10:30am on August 20th. That's our first day back, so I'm not feeling great about attendance. Would it help to schedule the topics in 30 minute "blocks" so folks don't feel obligated to sit through more than they want to hear about? Help!
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
TO CONSULT OR NOT TO CONSULT
Last night's Board of Trustees' meeting was pretty ho-hum until the topic of the Presidential Search came up.
Should a consultant group be hired to assist in the presidential search process? One BOT member was very much in favor of hiring a consultant. Her concern is that PJC presidential search should seek out the very broadest, deepest, and best qualified applicants. Can that caliber of applicants be found through the traditional channels of journal and newspaper advertising? Through networking? She believes that consultant groups may be aware of candidates who might not apply unless contacted by a consultant.
A number of BOT members feel comfortable with Dr. McLeod (who has been an active participant in the last two presidential searches) and other PJC people being completely in charge of the advertising, head-hunting aspects of getting qualified people into the applicant pool.
When it was all said and done, it was left up to the Presidential Search Process Committee to decide whether or not to hire a consultant group.
The other question that generated some discussion was the minimum qualifications - which are minimum. The minimum qualifications are an earned doctorate from an regionally accredited university or college. That's pretty darn minimum. Personally, I feel that the preferred qualities make up for keeping the minimum so minimal. But the question that arose was whether or not it was necessary for a candidate to have an earned doctorate. This topic had been the discussed at length during the Presidential Search Process Committee's meetings earlier this summer. After more discussion by the BOT, it was agreed that the minimum qualification would still be an earned doctorate.
Comments on using consultants? Requiring an earned doctorate?
Finally, it was announced that Mr. Vincent Andry will be the new President of the Board and Mr. John O'Connor will be the new Vice Chair.
Should a consultant group be hired to assist in the presidential search process? One BOT member was very much in favor of hiring a consultant. Her concern is that PJC presidential search should seek out the very broadest, deepest, and best qualified applicants. Can that caliber of applicants be found through the traditional channels of journal and newspaper advertising? Through networking? She believes that consultant groups may be aware of candidates who might not apply unless contacted by a consultant.
A number of BOT members feel comfortable with Dr. McLeod (who has been an active participant in the last two presidential searches) and other PJC people being completely in charge of the advertising, head-hunting aspects of getting qualified people into the applicant pool.
When it was all said and done, it was left up to the Presidential Search Process Committee to decide whether or not to hire a consultant group.
The other question that generated some discussion was the minimum qualifications - which are minimum. The minimum qualifications are an earned doctorate from an regionally accredited university or college. That's pretty darn minimum. Personally, I feel that the preferred qualities make up for keeping the minimum so minimal. But the question that arose was whether or not it was necessary for a candidate to have an earned doctorate. This topic had been the discussed at length during the Presidential Search Process Committee's meetings earlier this summer. After more discussion by the BOT, it was agreed that the minimum qualification would still be an earned doctorate.
Comments on using consultants? Requiring an earned doctorate?
Finally, it was announced that Mr. Vincent Andry will be the new President of the Board and Mr. John O'Connor will be the new Vice Chair.
TRUST AND RESPECT
We "think" we finished with this year's negotiations on Monday. Both sides hope that whatever is left to be done can be tweaked by email without requiring us to go to the table again.
Earlier this summer, Dr. Samuels said (perhaps tongue in cheek) that the reason we have a contract is that neither side trusts the other. I guess that statement will soon be put to the test.
The language that we have finally agreed on will allow faculty and department heads to agree on a schedule that gives faculty members "flexibility" in scheduling their office hours.
If the department head trusts the faculty to work as a professional and respects the faculty as a professional, all should be well. After all, doesn't the faculty member better know the time required to teach, administer and oversee the course successfully? Doesn't the faculty member better know when students need assistance and how the students prefer to receive that assistance - in the office, by email, or online in a chat room?
On the other hand, we recognize that the department also needs the faculty to be an active part of the department.
If the faculty member respects the needs of the department and trusts the department head to have the best interests of the department as well as interests of the student and the faculty member at heart, there should be no problem in creating a schedule that accommodates the needs of the student, the faculty, and the department.
Utopia, right? We'll see.
Earlier this summer, Dr. Samuels said (perhaps tongue in cheek) that the reason we have a contract is that neither side trusts the other. I guess that statement will soon be put to the test.
The language that we have finally agreed on will allow faculty and department heads to agree on a schedule that gives faculty members "flexibility" in scheduling their office hours.
If the department head trusts the faculty to work as a professional and respects the faculty as a professional, all should be well. After all, doesn't the faculty member better know the time required to teach, administer and oversee the course successfully? Doesn't the faculty member better know when students need assistance and how the students prefer to receive that assistance - in the office, by email, or online in a chat room?
On the other hand, we recognize that the department also needs the faculty to be an active part of the department.
If the faculty member respects the needs of the department and trusts the department head to have the best interests of the department as well as interests of the student and the faculty member at heart, there should be no problem in creating a schedule that accommodates the needs of the student, the faculty, and the department.
Utopia, right? We'll see.
Thursday, July 12, 2007
BARGAINING ON MONDAY
Many thanks to all of you who took the time to let me hear about your experiences and thoughts about distance learning and office hours. All your comments will be presented to the Bargaining Team.
Also, remember that anyone can attend bargaining sessions. We'll be bargaining again Monday, July 16, at 1pm in Room 416. You'd be welcome!
Also, remember that anyone can attend bargaining sessions. We'll be bargaining again Monday, July 16, at 1pm in Room 416. You'd be welcome!
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
MORE DISTANCE LEARNING
Thanks to all who have posted their opinions. I truly appreciate Rodney for jumping in with a different opinion. There's still time for more discussion.
Monday, July 9, 2007
DISTANCE LEARNING ISSUES
I've mentioned that the other article (besides salaries) that is being negotiated this summer is about distance learning. It's time to poll the faculty.
Should faculty who teach a full load via distance learning have to come on campus for office hours? All of the office hours? A percentage of the office hours? A certain number each week? How much is enough?
Should faculty strictly adhere to the virtual office hours they post each term? That means only being online and/or answering emails when you said you would - not "just checking my email" and then spending half an hour or more during unscheduled office hours.
What suggestions do you have for reassuring admin that they are getting their money out of faculty who teach online?
Should faculty who teach a full load via distance learning have to come on campus for office hours? All of the office hours? A percentage of the office hours? A certain number each week? How much is enough?
Should faculty strictly adhere to the virtual office hours they post each term? That means only being online and/or answering emails when you said you would - not "just checking my email" and then spending half an hour or more during unscheduled office hours.
What suggestions do you have for reassuring admin that they are getting their money out of faculty who teach online?
BACK FROM VACATION
Well, I've broken not one, but two of the ten commandments of blogging - I went more than four days without a post and I didn't tell you that I wouldn't be posting for a while. Anyway, I did have a great visit with my dad and am now back at work. So here goes.......
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
PRESIDENTIAL SCREENING COMMITTEE
Over the summer, I have been serving on the PJC Presidential Search Process Committee. This committee had 5 charges from the Board of Trustees: to recommend (1) the job description for the new PJC President, (2) the required and preferred qualities of the new president, (3) a tentative schedule for the search process, (4) a proposed screening committee list and (5) a list of search firm consultants.
At the June Board of Trustee's meeting, the Board accepted the recommendations. Now the real work begins!
PJCFA has been asked to nominate 3 full-time faculty to serve on the Presidential Screening Committee. This will be a very serious undertaking which will demand a great deal of time and attention from each committee member.
The schedule calls for the first meeting of the screening committee to be held September 14th. There will be three or four public hearings in September to get input from PJC faculty and staff as well as the Pensacola area community. Committee members are expected to attend these.
The first viewing of the applications will be at mid-November. The expectation based on previous searches is that there will be from 30-50 applicants who will make it through the initial screening process and will be considered by the committee. Each committee member will have to review and score each application. There will be committee meetings to discuss the application reviews as well as committee assignments.
On December 3rd, the committee will recommend 4-8 applicants to the Board of Trustees.
That's a lot of work to be done in a short time, but very important work.
If you are interested in serving on this committee or would like to nominate a faculty member (with his or her permission), please let me know by July 16th. My email is csweeney@pjc.edu. The PJCFA Executive Board will be meeting on July 18th to discuss the nominations.
Thursday, June 21, 2007
MORE COLLECTIVE BARGAINING
We are still very close to having changes ready to be brought to the faculty for ratification. Salaries didn't go the way we had hoped - the administration's latest offer was 4.5% increase to the base for initial hires; 5% increase to the base for returning faculty; and $3 added to the overload. The team accepted the offer because it does provide for a differential between new hires and returning faculty. It's our hope to continue to address the issue of salary compression when the entire contract is open next year.
While most discussion surrounding Article 18 (Distance Learning) has gone well, section 18.05 has proven to be difficult. It continues to be PJCFA's position that class size cannot be increased by more than 10% and that any increase in class size must be done in consultation with the faculty member. The Administration's position is that class size can be set before an instructor is assigned a section. Once the faculty member agrees to teach that section, then class size can only be increased by 10%.
PJCFA's position is that if you taught a class last term and the class size was 20 and if you are teaching the same class this term, class size should only be increased by 10%. So the discussion continues.......
One agreed upon change in Article 18 is that class size consultations will be done on a section by section basis rather than the current wording of "course by course."
Bargaining will be held next on Monday, June 25th at 1pm in Room 416 and is open to all.
While most discussion surrounding Article 18 (Distance Learning) has gone well, section 18.05 has proven to be difficult. It continues to be PJCFA's position that class size cannot be increased by more than 10% and that any increase in class size must be done in consultation with the faculty member. The Administration's position is that class size can be set before an instructor is assigned a section. Once the faculty member agrees to teach that section, then class size can only be increased by 10%.
PJCFA's position is that if you taught a class last term and the class size was 20 and if you are teaching the same class this term, class size should only be increased by 10%. So the discussion continues.......
One agreed upon change in Article 18 is that class size consultations will be done on a section by section basis rather than the current wording of "course by course."
Bargaining will be held next on Monday, June 25th at 1pm in Room 416 and is open to all.
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
Collective Bargaining
This year's bargaining team has been negotiating two main issues - distance learning and salaries. We'll be negotiating again tomorrow (June 20th) in Room 416 at 1:00 and the sessions are open. Just a reminder....the chief negotiator does the talking :->
It seems that we are close to agreement on both Article 15 and Article 18. Of course, the article of greatest interest to most faculty is salaries. The administration has offered a 5% increase to the base and a $3 increase to the overload. PJCFA has asked that the administration look at increasing the initial hire salary by 5% and increasing the salary of all returning faculty by a higher amount to keep salary compression from taking place.
Patricia Reppenhagen and Pete Falzone have both presented position pieces addressing salary issues to the team and Dr. Samuels.
Members of this year's team are Chief Negotiator Tom Grow, Paige Anderson, Cynthia App, Rich Cacace, Pete Falzone, and Patricia Reppenhagen. If you are interested in serving on next year's team, please let me know. There will be training opportunities coming up throughout the year and PJCFA would like for those interested in serving as negotiators to be able to attend.
It seems that we are close to agreement on both Article 15 and Article 18. Of course, the article of greatest interest to most faculty is salaries. The administration has offered a 5% increase to the base and a $3 increase to the overload. PJCFA has asked that the administration look at increasing the initial hire salary by 5% and increasing the salary of all returning faculty by a higher amount to keep salary compression from taking place.
Patricia Reppenhagen and Pete Falzone have both presented position pieces addressing salary issues to the team and Dr. Samuels.
Members of this year's team are Chief Negotiator Tom Grow, Paige Anderson, Cynthia App, Rich Cacace, Pete Falzone, and Patricia Reppenhagen. If you are interested in serving on next year's team, please let me know. There will be training opportunities coming up throughout the year and PJCFA would like for those interested in serving as negotiators to be able to attend.
What's new? This blog!
In an effort to keep the PJC faculty aware of news that affects or may be of interest to them, I'm going to try blogging. You will be able to read the blog by going to it directly or by linking from the PJCFA website at www.pjcfa.org. If you have a question or a topic for discussion, please post it and we'll see what happens.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)