Kevin Jones

The 2022-2027 Strategic Plan for the University of Houston-Downtown aims to position the institution as the university of choice for Houstonians by nurturing talent, generating knowledge, and driving socioeconomic mobility. The plan is structured around key strategic goals including enhancing student success, fostering strategic learning partnerships, cultivating a dynamic learning environment, engaging faculty and staff, ensuring sustainable operations, elevating visibility and recognition, promoting impactful knowledge creation, and increasing student enrollment.

The meeting featured guest presentations regarding Gator Giving Day and the upcoming Bayou Bash. Updates were provided on the search for the Staff Ombuds position and the formation of the Staff Elections Committee. Other discussion topics included staff engagement opportunities such as the Astros Spirit Day and the UHD Chili Cook-Off, recognition of award winners, and information regarding employee tax services.

The meeting covered the introduction of executive board members in their new positions and the review of the October meeting agenda. Guest speakers presented on institutional policies, including the Policy Dashboard, Policy Management System, and the Institutional Policies and Compliance SharePoint. There was a presentation regarding the SACSCOC Onsite Visit, focusing on responding to non-compliance with Standard 7.1 and building an improvement-oriented assessment culture. The new dining services partnership with SodexoMagic was introduced, with discussion on the current menu, catering options, and future plans, including payment methods and menu adjustments based on feedback regarding pricing and offerings like salads and smoothies. Staff Council business included updates on the Staff Ombuds Position, the Staff Climate Survey 2025, and upcoming Staff Council Elections. Staff engagement opportunities shared included updates on a Basic Needs Drive, sports/fitness events, free tax filing, a conference, and a Chili Cook-Off, alongside celebrating Black History Month.

The meeting commenced with the review of the agenda and the approval of the May meeting minutes. Key agenda items included new employee announcements and the Edge Grant presentation, with the June and July Kudos recognized. A special presentation was delivered by the Director and Specialist from Emergency Management focusing on Hurricane Preparedness, including recommendations for evacuation routes, cash on hand, and an update on the fire warden program restructuring. Staff Council Business covered an update on the Staff Climate Survey 2025, the recap of SC Resolution No. SC-25-01 regarding presidential term extension, updates on the Staff Council Membership Board for FY26, and Staff Award Nominations. Discussions also addressed staff comments concerning proposed state legislation (SB 37 and SB 2615) impact on shared governance and remote work policies, as well as concerns regarding staff compensation benchmarking against national averages. The meeting concluded with updates on various Staff Engagement Opportunities, including drives and upcoming training workshops.

The meeting covered agenda items including a review of the meeting agenda, announcement of new employees, and a presentation regarding the Edge Grant. Key discussions involved receiving October kudos, sharing good news updates such as staff professional achievements and contest winners, and presentations from guest executive leaders. Sandra Jacobson presented on the Annual Giving Campaign, detailing various ways to donate and a matching challenge. Kimberly Lambert-Thomas provided an update on the budget and campus-wide projects, noting financial challenges such as high inflation and declining enrollment, while discussing budget planning for FY24 and FY25, and updates on the Gator Expansion projects and TxDOT NHHIP. Chief Casey Davis and Cynthia Vargas presented on Public Safety and Emergency Management, covering holiday shopping safety tips, the SafeZone app, and efforts to address criminal activity near Allen's Landing. April Frank provided updates on the College Release/Staff Education Reimbursement Program, including eligibility and application processes. Staff Council business included updates on the Travel Policy (resolving the Provost signature requirement for the Embargo Form) and a poll regarding relocating holiday door decorations. Community engagement opportunities included a Toy Drive.