Mason Anderson

Key discussions focused on several administrative and academic items. The council addressed providing service letters to Graduate Council members and began developing a Standard Operating Procedure to define the length of term for council members, with research assigned to Dr. Ambrose Anoruo. Graduate faculty applications were reviewed and approved for five individuals. Graduate curriculum proposals, including specific MBA courses, were reviewed, and the approval process tiers were explained. New members volunteered for the graduate curriculum committee. Discussions were held regarding the requirements for a new Master of Science in Environmental Systems Management degree plan and conflicts with the Graduate School's approval process concerning course designations. The council also initiated a review, led by Dr. Ari Sherris, concerning the feasibility of electronic signature pages for dissertations and theses instead of physical signatures, and plans were made to discuss IRB form submission protocols further in the next meeting. Updates on graduate program reviews for the 2021-2022 and 2022-2023 academic years were noted.

Key discussions included the potential removal of the Graduate Council Representative (GCR) requirement due to perceived lack of value to theses, with research assigned to investigate GCR roles at other universities. The council reviewed and approved an adjunct graduate faculty application. There was also discussion regarding the process for recruitment of graduate faculty, noting that tenured/tenure-track faculty status is automatic and that updates on the process should be disseminated to Deans and Chairs. Finally, the council addressed graduate program reviews, advocating that the University or graduate office, rather than the department, should cover the external review costs.

Discussions included reports on upcoming regional workshops concerning the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) innovation and transition, and a National Semiconductor Texas Workshop. The main business involved reviewing and approving several adjunct graduate faculty applications. Furthermore, numerous graduate curriculum proposals were addressed, resulting in approvals, rejections, or requests for revision for various course and certificate programs across disciplines like BIOL, CHEM, EDLC, PHEN, PSYC, and EVEN. The Council also addressed tenure for council membership, standardizing terms after reviewing practices at peer institutions, and voted to adopt DocuSign for electronic signatures on theses and dissertations instead of hard copy signatures.

The event is the 53rd annual Havlin Athletics Hall of Fame dinner. The proceedings included remarks from Alan Harwell, the assistant athletic director for external relations, and a historical overview of the Hall of Famers by Fred Nous, a 1995 Hall of Famer. The speaker, Michael Selenus (the newest athletic director), expressed gratitude to the President and executive leadership team, recognized head coaches, and the Hall of Fame committee. Michael Selenus also highlighted the current student athletes' cumulative GPA of 3.14 and over 4,000 hours of community service. Special recognition was given to past coaches Ron Harms and Richard Kundiff for their impact, as well as various distinguished guests and supporters, including the 1967 football team members. A meritorious award was presented to Harriet Williams, known as Mama Hog, for her exceptional support of the university and athletics, noted for attending over 50 home football games.

The Campus Master Plan for Texas A&M University-Kingsville serves as a multi-year blueprint for future campus growth and improvements across its five locations. It aims to enhance the overall experience for campus users, foster the growth of research capabilities, and develop improved outdoor spaces. Key priorities include establishing a consistent campus experience, promoting expansion through diverse programs and facilities, and cultivating partnership opportunities. The plan outlines recommendations for new and renovated facilities, transportation initiatives, and landscape enhancements to support student success, enrollment growth, and regional development over the next decade and beyond.