Maegan Ames

This strategic plan for the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse serves as a roadmap to define its identity and achieve aspirational goals, ensuring institutional success and enhancing its role as a regional academic, cultural, and economic anchor. It is structured around four key pillars: 'The Driftless Difference,' focusing on elevating UWL's identity and regional impact; 'People as a Priority,' fostering an inclusive campus culture; 'Elevating Excellence through Educational Innovation,' preparing stakeholders for the future; and 'Mission-Driven Management & Mindful Stewardship,' building a resilient and sustainable institution. The plan aims to achieve excellence in teaching, research, community engagement, and student success, guiding the university through an evolving higher education landscape with purpose and resilience.

The Academic Staff Council meeting included the reappointment of the Vice Chair, a discussion regarding Employee Enrichment Day, and updates on the Strategic Plan online initiatives. Feedback is due by February 15th. The Madison Representative provided updates, including increased attendance by student representatives and accessibility concerns. Committee updates were given for Bylaws, Election, and Policies/Procedures, Professional Development, and HR. Announcements included the Chancellor's opening remarks, New Employee orientation, and the Spring Kickoff. Several upcoming events were mentioned, including International Women's Day, the Pride Centers annual drag show, Sexual Assault Awareness month, Social Justice Week, Kids College, and the International Banquet.

The Academic Staff Council meeting included discussions on open enrollment, medical premium increases, and fall enrollment numbers. Updates were provided on the Employee Action Form (EAF) and student change form now available on BP Logix, and the extension of ATP to July 2025. Committees are being finalized, and updates were shared on the Professional Development Grants and Search and Screen Committees, including the Chancellor's Search and the Vice Chancellor for D&I position. The council also discussed campus situations and encouraged members to support UW schools. Announcements included National Coming Out Day events, a Cross County meet, and the university theatre's production of Dr. Faustus.

The meeting included introductions of FY24 ASC members and elections of new officers for various positions, such as Chair, Vice Chair, Communications Chair, Madison Representative. An update was provided on the Administrative Transformation Program (ATP), including its timeline and purpose. There were discussions regarding position cuts at other campuses and committee calls. Announcements were made about the Academic Staff Excellence awards, Professional Development Grants, and upcoming events like Eagle Fest, LGBTQ+ Welcome Social, and Pride in the Park. Information on a Special Education Certificate for K-12 Teachers was also shared.

The Academic Staff Council meeting included updates from Interim Chancellor Betsy Morgan on current searches for the Vice Chancellor of Administration and Finance and the Vice Chancellor of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. The start date for Chancellor Dr. James Beeby was announced, and Bobbi Webster was named as the Executive Assistant to the Chancellor. Discussions covered the NIAS overload policy and a tuition increase. A presentation was given by AFT representatives John Yaggi and Melanie Cary. Award deadlines for Professional Development and Academic Staff Excellence were reviewed, and there was an update on Academic Staff Council member openings. Committee updates were provided, and speaker suggestions were made for future meetings. Announcements included Mental Health Awareness month, Sexual Assault Awareness Month, and Student Employment Recognition Week.