University of Colorado System Office

The Board of Regents reviewed and approved the implementation of Regent Policy 13.H, which grants the university president limited authority to transfer certain non-restricted auxiliary funds to university-affiliated entities. This policy aims to facilitate strategic investments in university-owned or controlled technologies and research endeavors, provided such transfers serve a valid public purpose and directly benefit the university's mission.

The committee welcomed a new member and discussed ongoing communications projects, including the Faculty Voices series and the Committee Corner. The redesign of the Faculty Council website was reviewed, with plans to incorporate rotating updates. A discussion was held regarding the Faculty Handbook's web traffic and potential policy navigation improvements. The committee also planned the development of a semesterly newsletter and established a subcommittee to revise the committee's charge with a focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.

The committee discussed the launch of Faculty Voices in CU Connections, a new initiative to feature faculty-written op-ed articles. Key details covered included project logistics such as funding, article length, compensation, and frequency of publication. Guidelines for the editorial process were reviewed, emphasizing the need for well-researched, original, and timely topics relevant to higher education. Action items were assigned regarding presentations to campus faculty assemblies and the drafting of project guidelines and statements of intent.

The committee discussed the finalization of a Committee Corner article, including the development of a faculty guide survey, selection of polls, and coordination of headshots. The group also reviewed feedback on a Faculty Voice article and provided updates regarding the Faculty Guide links, focusing on ongoing resource development and anticipating next steps based on faculty survey results.

The committee discussed updates from various university campuses regarding DEI initiatives, including anti-racism training, the creation of a Center for African and African American Studies, faculty diversity action plans, and DEI fund allocation. The meeting covered the search for the VP of Communication and website redesign projects. Members approved a revision to the committee's charge. Additionally, the group reviewed alignment with the Divest2Invest movement. Discussions with the Chief Diversity Officer addressed concerns regarding racial bias in software, system-wide exit interviews, the review of DEI policies, the need for more affirmative action officers, and upcoming surveys. Finally, the committee explored the creation of a system-wide DEI working group.