CMU has long advocated for fair and equitable funding from the state on a per-student basis, particularly for in-state undergraduate students, and believes that all 15 of the state’s public universities can and should work together to help advance Michigan’s future and educate the state’s people. All of the state’s universities serve large undergraduate populations and will play a critical role in the future in meeting the Governor’s initiative to significantly increase the number of Michiganians who have college degrees, which is connected with the reasons that CMU does not support separation of some universities in the state’s budget.

Based on 2005 data, the most recent figures available, the average combined revenue (tuition and fees and State appropriations) for CMU was $9,215. The average of all Michigan universities was $14,038. For Doctoral/Research universities throughout the nation, the average was $12,720. Florida public four-year universities, which have almost identical average full time equivalent students (FTE) as CMU, averaged $12,307. The per student allocation of state appropriations alone during this same period range from $8,818 to $3,340 among the 15 public universities, with CMU the fourth lowest at $3,844 per student. CMU’s argument for equitable per-student funding must continue.

Adopting equitable per-student funding will ensure that students can select a university that best fits their needs by preserving the diverse landscape of the Michigan higher education system. Your advocacy again this year for equitable per-student funding for CMU and all universities continues to be critical. More information is available at http://www.cmich.edu/govrelations/gov-relations.htm Thank you for taking the time to support CMU and all of Michigan’s universities.

Governor’s Budget Proposal

Governor Granholm’s budget proposal released in February included a 2.5 percent across-the-board increase for all 15 public universities for 2007-2008 and offered two higher education funding bills, one that includes Michigan State University, University of Michigan, and Wayne State University, and one that includes the other 12 public four-year institutions, including CMU. Separating the universities sets an ill-advised precedent for higher education funding in Michigan. The executive budget proposal also included a two percent sales tax on services, which has met with opposition in the Legislature. On March 23, the Governor issued an executive order to address the current year shortfall, which includes at least $3.7 million in current year reductions to CMU. The executive order has been accepted by both houses of the Legislature.

These are the first steps in a budget process for the State. The Senate is just beginning its budget process on April 20 with the first hearing, at which CMU will be one of the universities testifying this week.

May Commencement

CMU anticipates almost 3,400 students to graduate during the spring commencement ceremonies on May 5 in Rose Arena. Three ceremonies will be held and divided by degrees. Jack Krasula, President, Trustinus, LLC will speak at the 9:30 a.m. ceremony; 1979 CMU alumnus John Grogan, author of the bestselling book, Marley and Me, will speak at the 1:30 p.m. ceremony and Clarence Tuma, 1950 alumnus, will receive an honorary degree. At 5 p.m., Florine Mark, President and Chair of the Board of the largest Weight Watchers International franchise, will address the audience and Thomas Keating, an orthopedic surgeon, sports medicine specialist, and CMU team physician, will receive an honorary degree. Congratulations, graduates!

CMU 2010 Update

The review of proposals for fiscal year 2008 (FY08) funding under CMU 2010 are complete. Of the 20 proposals that were submitted, three have been approved for funding. A list of the approved proposals is available on the CMU 2010 Web site at http://www.planning.cmich.edu Thank you to all members of the faculty and staff and students who contributed to this process.

Change to RSO Non-Discrimination Policy

A recent inquiry prompted a review of CMU’s non-discrimination clause in its Registered Student Organization Manual and general counsel has advised that the legal principle in question is “freedom of association,” which has been protected by the courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court, in several cases. Like most universities, CMU will not oppose established principles as promulgated by the highest courts. In the fall 2007 semester, a change will be made to the Central Michigan University Registered Student Organization Manual.

Diversity Initiatives

In response to the extensive set of charges associated with diversity issues distributed in December 2006, plans continue to be submitted and implemented. Summaries of the plans that have been reviewed and accepted may be found on-line at http://www.cmich.edu/diversity_charges.htm Assessment of the impact at CMU of the passage in November 2006 of Proposal 2, the Michigan Civil Rights Initiative, also continues. Please visit http://www.cmich.edu/diversity.htm for more information about this work.

Each member of the university brings a wide range of life experiences to be appreciated and respected. A democratic society depends on participation by all citizens and the assurance that all of our voices will be valued and heard. As part of its diversity initiatives, CMU is committed to providing students with the opportunity to learn about the diverse voices represented in our society. To be prepared for a more diverse world and the opportunities it brings on many levels, the university believes that diversity will become increasingly important. The relationship between diversity and excellence strengthens daily. We want our graduates to be afforded access to the excellence that comes from diversity, recognizing that diversity brings challenges that promote open dialogue. Please join me in helping to ensure that all people are treated with respect.

Academic Division Senior Officer Searches

A search firm will soon be selected to assist in the search for a new provost. The university will advertise the position and review applications over the summer, in preparation for recommending candidates for campus interviews in the fall. Meanwhile, I thank Gary Shapiro for his excellent work as interim provost.

One additional candidate for the associate vice president for institutional diversity position will visit campus for interviews this month.

Searches for the vice provost for research and the graduate dean positions will continue to bring finalists to visit CMU this month.

Vice President Ross

Vice President George Ross was named by the Mississippi Higher Learning system as the next president of Alcorn State University. While I am pleased for George for this well-deserved presidency, I am disappointed that we will lose him as a member of the team. I met last week with the officers of the finance and administrative services division to consider questions regarding this unanticipated transition. Details regarding his replacement and a timeline for transition are forthcoming. Please join me in congratulating George on achieving this important career goal. Monica and I will host a reception in George’s honor on May 1, 2-3:30, in the University Center Rotunda.

Responsibility Centered Management and UBAC

The University Budget Advisory Council (UBAC) has met this semester to review budget presentations by non-general fund units and proposals for new budget requests, and work toward development of an operating budget for 2007-2008. A UBAC subcommittee also continues to study the version of responsibility centered management currently implemented at CMU, as discussed in some detail in Update 57 (http://www.cmich.edu/president/update57.html). For additional information regarding the university’s budget and activities of the UBAC, please visit http://www.budget.cmich.edu/UBAC.html

Wellness Efforts and Self-Funded Health Care Plans Continue to Improve Health, Avoid Cost Increases

I am pleased to recognize employees who are participating in CMU’s wellness programs and encourage others to consider choices leading to healthier lifestyles. This will improve the overall quality of life for CMU employees and reduce healthcare costs. Wellness programs and the choices employees are making to maintain and improve their health will result in a three per cent decrease in premiums for medical plans available to staff and temporary faculty. National insurance costs are expected to increase 12% next year. Beginning with the 2007-2008 plan year, a new gainsharing incentive will be added to wellness programs. For additional information, please visit http://www.hrs.cmich.edu/wellness/cash-in.html

Additional Information about Professional Development Support

Last year, I established a fund for professional development support for faculty and staff as first mentioned in Update 58. This year, I will add another $15,000 of one-time money to the fund. To provide assistance to as many as possible, the awards will continue to range from $100-$750, typically as a match for funds provided by the requestor’s department, college, or other source. The awards will focus on national and international leadership opportunities, such as presentations at conferences or professional development activities that lead to well-cited publications in national and international journals.

Research Travel Fund

Also available through the president’s office is a research travel fund used to make one-time awards of up to $1000 for travel to pursue external grant funding. Please visit http://www.orsp.cmich.edu/pdf/grantdev.pdf for additional information.

Posters in the Capitol

On April 17, CMU undergraduate students will present “Posters in the Capitol,” featuring their work on a wide range of significant problems, issues, and interests. CMU’s “Posters in the Capitol” will take place from 10:30-2:30 in the State Capitol Rotunda.

Student Research and Creative Endeavors Celebrated at CMU

Congratulations and thanks to our students and my faculty colleagues who will participate in the annual Student Research and Creative Endeavors Exhibition in Finch Fieldhouse on April 18. I am always impressed with the quality of the work and creativity displayed at this event. I hope you will visit.