Cabinet Meeting Notes August 19, 2014

Tuesday, August 19, 2014
9:30 a.m.
President's Office - Conference Room

Cabinet was called to order by President Turner at 9:30 a.m. President Turner welcomed the group and commented on an exciting and busy time. Fall in underway and campus traffic is up.

Members present were: Dr. Steve Turner, Mr. David Koehn, Dr. Mark Arant, Dr. Laura Boren, and Mr. Ben Hardcastle

Members absent were: None

Proposal on Tuition and Fee Reallocation: Mr. Koehn presented a proposal on future tuition and fee rates. He stated that this would assist in meeting strategic goals and could increase enrollment by allowing more funds to be available for scholarships. The group discussed historical utilization rates and opportunities benefiting students as well as university programs. More on this as the plan is developed.

Proposal for Changes to Policy Committee Membership (Due to Organization Changes): Mr. Koehn explained that the intent of the original membership was for all areas to be equally represented. With the latest organizational changes, not all areas have equal representation. Proposed changes to the membership will include at least one representative from each Cabinet member's area. All agreed to the changes as proposed. Mr. Koehn will provide the needed updates.

President's Annual Report: Mr. Hardcastle handed out a revised review copy of the report. He stated that the report is 90+ complete and asked members to review for complete and accurate information. Members were asked to get any updates or additions to Mr. Hardcastle no later than next Tuesday. A final report will be produced after all updates and changes are made.

Enrollment Report: Dr. Boren updated the group on fall enrollment numbers. Enrollment continues to be down (2.5%) in credit hour generation as compared to this same time last year. While the number of applications for financial aid are down by -2.1%, the number of financial aid packages awarded are up by 8.33%. Enrollment will continue through the add/drop period and census date is at the end of August. Final numbers will be reported as soon as possible.

Financial Literacy Program-task force proposal: Dr. Boren provided a proposal and discussed the need for developing a task force. The purpose of the task force would be to develop a comprehensive university plan to increase financial literacy and decrease student loan defaults. Points of focus would include (but not limited to) studying the student population, review current efforts, identify best practices, and establish goals for each area. Each Cabinet member was asked to nominate one representative from their area. All members agreed to proceed as requested.

Fitness Center: This item was tabled until next week's meeting.

Light the Way Emergency Fund: Dr. Boren provided the group with the approved documentation explaining the fund, the award process, criteria, application process, contact information, and the application. It is important to note that this is not a scholarship fund, nor is it a loan program. Funds awarded through this program will be made through Touch Net. Students receiving funds are encouraged to Pay it Forward by making a donation to the fund if/when able in order that future students are accommodated. More information can be obtained by contacting Student Affairs and donations may be made through the Foundation Office.

Cherokee Nation Government Retreat Breakfast: President Turner reminded the group of the breakfast being planned by Cherokee Nation to be held on Saturday, August 30th. NSU will host the event and Cabinet members were invited to attend.

Tulsa Chamber-One Voice Summit: President Turner provided a historical account of this meeting and advised the group that NSU will have a delegation attending on September 10th. The group will decide who should attend as soon as more detailed information is received.

OSRHE - Regional Education Program: President Turner informed the group of the upcoming meeting in Oklahoma City on September 25th. NSU will have a delegation attending this meeting.

Signature Authority Guidelines (Cont d Discussion): President Turner provided an updated document and emphasized changes that had been made from the previous draft. Members were asked to review and provide feedback at the next meeting.

Opening Meeting After-Action Needs: President Turner asked the group for comments related to requested changes in preparation for next years meeting. The group discussed the need to have more discussions early on to assist with preparation of speaking items. Overall this year's meeting was a success with a lot of participation from the campus community.

Staff Development Day: The group continues to discuss needs for this program to be held in late October. More on this discussion as it develops. Cabinet members were asked to bring speaker ideas to next week's meeting.

Announcements

The meeting was adjourned at 11:30 a.m.

Respectfully submitted,
Robin Hutchins