Marcus Copeland

The meeting of the Southern Arkansas University Tech AQIP Action Project #9 Team focused on determining how to proceed with the project. The team discussed the "Six Steps to Deploying a Cost-Containment Strategy" and considered how the college would enforce compliance, ensure transparency, reward employees for success, and appoint a strong leader to promote the process. The team members discussed recommendations from a survey of current practices at America's State Colleges and Universities, the college's energy plan, outsourcing the college Bookstore, program/course review, the use of adjunct faculty, purchasing through the state consortium, a skills inventory, and the college's health, life, dental and disability coverage. The team agreed to gather data on what departments have already done to reduce expenses, set short- and long-term goals to reduce expenses, and add cost containment goals to the Master Plan. The team also discussed student debit cards and paperless payroll.

The meeting of the Southern Arkansas University Tech AQIP Action Project #9 Team focused on the SAU Tech Cost Containment Website, including a form for suggestions and a form to track employee activities. A subcommittee was appointed to maintain the website's accuracy. The team discussed Act 14.94, which established targets for cost reduction, and considered involving the Planning Committee to set target percentages for SAU Tech. Research was assigned to explore incentives and tracking methods used by other schools for employee suggestions.

The strategic plan of Southern Arkansas University Tech focuses on helping students learn, meeting student and other stakeholder needs, and valuing employees. Key areas of focus include providing quality educational programs, ensuring relevant and high-quality instruction, and promoting student success. The plan also emphasizes building collaborations and partnerships, enhancing student engagement, and supporting ethical scholarly practices. The ultimate goal is to position the college as a leader in economic and educational transformations.

The meeting focused on cost containment strategies, with discussions on the recycling program at SAU Tech. Information on the recycling program will be published on the Cost Containment webpage, along with a photo on the SAUT homepage featuring students recycling. Updates on the StEP Plan were reviewed, and the committee will examine the Default Prevention Plan and contact Jennifer Williams with any questions.

The Systems Portfolio outlines Southern Arkansas University Tech's approach to technical training and university transfer programs, emphasizing its role in economic development and workforce training in south Arkansas. It details the college's mission, core values, and strategic goals, focusing on student success, access to higher education, quality programs, accountability, resource development, and collaborative partnerships. The document also describes various programs, including adult education, career academy, fire training, and environmental training, highlighting the college's commitment to meeting the diverse needs of its constituencies and leading Arkansas in economic and educational transformations.