Ryan Bench

The "Soaring to New Heights" strategic plan for the University of Wisconsin-River Falls outlines the institution's direction from 2023 to 2027. It is built upon four core pillars: Success, Belonging, Sustainability, and Vitality. The plan aims to provide transformative educational opportunities, ensure student and employee achievement, cultivate a diverse and inclusive campus environment, formalize commitment to environmental and social sustainability, and manage the institution for stability and future growth through increased public awareness, enrollment, and strategic partnerships.

The Academic Staff Council meeting included updates from the Student Government Association, University Staff Senate, Human Resources, Chancellor's Cabinet, and UW System representatives. Discussions covered topics such as developmental education outcomes, academic array management, program and financial management, civil dialogue, and proposed outlook for the biennium. The Falcon Forum on November 21 was reviewed, highlighting the Campus Climate survey results and the extended strategic plan through 2027. Updates were provided on the Chapter 6 Committee and the 2025 Board of Regents Academic Staff Excellence Awards. The council also discussed upcoming events and the ASC Spring meetings schedule.

The meeting included liaison and officer reports from the Student Government Association, University Staff Senate, Faculty Senate, and Human Resources. Discussions covered the search for a new chancellor, the budget situation, changes to renewable contracts for Instructional Academic Staff, and the extension of the strategic plan. Committee appointments were addressed, including the Academic Staff Compensation Committee, Chapter 6 Committee, Positive Action Committee, and others. The council also reviewed the Title Review Policy AP-06-103, discussing potential amendments to Chapter 6. Announcements included upcoming events such as the Falcon Forum and an employee flu vaccine clinic.

The Academic Staff Council meeting included discussions on the strategic enrollment management plan, leadership position updates, and challenges in higher education. The council also discussed the 2025 Board of Regents Academic Staff Excellence Awards and the Faculty Senate Election. Additionally, there were announcements about upcoming events and the ETF Wellness Grant for a recovery room in the Fitness Center.

The Academic Staff Council meeting included reports from the Student Government Association and UW System representatives, covering topics such as lobbying efforts, campus events, and policy proposals. Discussions involved strategic enrollment management, webpage updates, and Workday training. The council addressed old business, including the 2025 Board of Regents Academic Staff Excellence Awards and Faculty Senate elections. New business included updates on Chapter 6 Committee, Chancellor's Awards committees, the Federal Updates Working Group, and the Campus Climate Survey, with a focus on improving employee satisfaction. Announcements and reminders were shared regarding upcoming events and elections.