Mission College Academic Senate

Ext. 5413

Unapproved Minutes

Thursday, September 30, 2004

I. Call to Order/Roll Call

The meeting was called to order by President Alex Braun at 2:10 p.m.

Senators	A	P	Senators	A	P
Braun (Ext. 5355) Pres/Tech		X	Lavallo (Ext. 5399) Math		X
Brichko (Ext. 5222) CATA		X	Martin (Ext. 5356) Tech.	X
Charland (Ext. 5046) Stud. Dev.		X	McKay (Ext. 5312) Comm		X
Cogswell (Ext. 5388) AAS		X	Musat (Ext. 5331) Math		X
Cox (Ext.5164) CommSvc		X	Perlas (Ext. 5041) Stud.Dev.		X
Dooley (Ext. 5379) AAS	X		Rath (Ext. 5413) AF/CIT		X
Harris (Ext. 5796) AF/Comm		X	Smebye (Ext. 5305) CommServ		X
Kashima (Ext. 5319) ESL		X	Szabados (Ext.5289) CATA	X
Laird (Ext. 5186) SocSci		X	Zeisler (Ext. 5426) Comm		X
Guests: F.Chong, K.Dworak, M.Jahan, R.Lowenberg, H.Robles, C.Vinson		X X X	Lam (DCC Rep)		X

II. Approval of the Minutes

The minutes for the meeting of September 23, 2004 were accepted and approved as submitted (M/S/P – Charland/Harris).

III. Order of the Agenda

The Senators agreed to move Item VIII.B up to follow Item VII.A (M/S/U – McKay/Harris).

IV. Oral Communication from the Public

There was no oral communication from the public at today’s meeting.

V. Information & Announcements

1. Senator Cox noted that the West Valley College Academic Senate has recommended that a District Program Review Task Force be formed to deal with program review, SLOs and accreditation. Alex will discuss the matter with Vivian Lock and report back to the Senate.

2. A fund raiser sponsored by 3DI will be held on Wednesday, October 6, 2004, at West Valley College for those who wish to participate.

3. Regarding plagiarism, it was reported in an article from an SJSU professor that a student had submitted a paper authored by the professor. Senator Charland noted that written communication, honesty and integrity are among the top 10 skills looked for in industry.

4. President Braun announced that he will cancel next week’s Senate meeting. This will provide an opportunity for the Senate subcommittees to meet.

VI. Administrative Business/Actions/Appointments

A. Curriculum Committee - Dianne reported that the deadline for submitting new courses has passed and the committee is working on curriculum to be approved by the Board in October.

B. Staff Recognition - A resolution was presented and approved at today’s meeting (M/S/U – McKay/Harris).

C. Committee Appointments

1.Technology Advisory Committee –Alex reported that Cindy Vinson has received permission to serve from the appropriate persons. Her appointment to the committee was approved unanimously (M/S/U – Charland/Cox).

D. Oral Reports – No reports were presented at today’s meeting.

VII. Old Business

A. Update Report on Kuwait Project

President Frank Chong was invited to address the Academic Senate on the issue of the Kuwait project. Frank acknowledged the Senate’s meeting with the Chancellor and came to share his thoughts on the Kuwait project with the Senate. He noted that the college’s mission statement includes preparing students as global stewards.

This summer, Frank met with members from the Kuwait firm that wants to establish an American community college in Kuwait. He listed the following rationales for this project:

• Kuwaiti students in the United States do not appear to have much success.

• In the Muslim culture, many students remain at home until married.

• One third of the entire Kuwait population consists of ex-patriots from America and other countries. These people would like the opportunity to attend college.

At this time the proposal is exploratory. The District has asked the Kuwait firm to cover expenses that will be incurred in working with the Accreditation Commission to determine if the proposal is feasible. The District has requested funding to hire a person from within the District to work on the feasibility study as well. Frank remarked that the questions posed by the Academic Senate were well thought out and, in accordance with District Policy, the District intends to rely primarily on the advice of the Academic Senate.

As for a compelling educational reason for the proposal, President Chong stated his belief that utopia is a world without borders. The Kuwait firm is looking for an opportunity to gain an education for their students, and this in turn could provide an opportunity for our faculty to teach in Kuwait. From his perspective, philosophically, this program will not take slots away from American students. As the President of the college, he would not undertake any projects that were not in the best interest of the college. A community college in Florida has made considerable money from this type of program, and those funds go directly to benefit the students. There are many possibilities and opportunities for international education, and what we learned from the experience in Thailand, and what did not go right there, is not pertinent in this case.

Discussion ensued, and several Senators raised issues and concerns. Frank was asked why Mission College was considered out of all the community colleges in California. The President responded that the proposal was initiated through Interim WVC President Bob Jensen. Dr. Jensen was approached by the Kuwait firm when he was in Arizona and then again at West Valley College. The Chancellor, on behalf of the District, wanted more information. Frank also advised Dr. Jensen has no interest in serving as President of the Kuwait campus and will not benefit from this proposal in any way.

Considering all the tasks that the Academic Senate must accomplish this year, a Senator asked why resources should be taken away from those tasks now when the Senate should be focused on solving the issues at hand? What benefit is there for Mission College? Frank replied that last year, there were budget constraints. The District needs to consider other resources for revenue, and this project could provide that opportunity. He stated that when he was interviewed for his position, it was clear that the college wanted an entrepreneur for president – someone who is participatory, transparent, and inclusive. If the college takes on this project, it will be done right and with the participation of all.

Another concern expressed related to the proposed time line in the Memo of Understanding. How can the Academic Senate answer all the issues related to the academics of the campus in less than one full year? The letter indicates that classes would start next September. The project would then necessarily require much time and energy from the Academic Senate. The timeline is too tight to do anything that respects the legal responsibility of the Academic Senate. It should have been obvious from the beginning that the project was set up to fail. It was a bad idea to sign a Memo of Understanding (MOU) and establish a timeline during the summer at a time when no advance consultation with the Academic Senate was possible. Harriett explained that it was her understanding that one of the drivers for the MOU and the time line was that the Kuwait government required some indication of interest by November in order for the project to move forward. The corporation involved could not move forward without some commitment for educational endeavors. The feeling was that if the project could be developed, it would then be brought to the Academic Senate and other pertinent groups.

Frank reiterated that the proposal is in the exploratory stage and, although there is the cost of time and energy from District personnel at this time, the Kuwait firm has been asked to fund the feasibility study. In the interim, the Chancellor is working on the accreditation issue with members of the Accreditation Commission and he is looking to respond to some of the concerns and questions raised by this Senate. The Academic Senate will, however, have to provide advice on faculty hiring and curriculum issues.

A Senator stated his view that the reasons given to date for this project do not provide a compelling educational reason. This college is a world without borders unto itself and the student population is under-represented in Hispanics and other ethnic groups. Time, energy, and resources might be better spent reaching out within our own area. When asked if there was a business plan and how much revenue is anticipated should the project be implemented, Frank replied that no business model has been drawn to date and no figures are available. The project is just a vision at this time.

Another area of concern is the District’s open access policy. Will the Kuwait campus have open access to all, particularly in light of the cost per unit for our international students ($150/unit), and how will that policy be enforced? Frank indicated those questions remain unanswered at this time, and he will continue to seek the answers.

Although some Senators indicated their constituents were open to the proposal, the process for the development remains a problem. It was alarming for the Academic Senate to see a signed agreement without input from the Academic Senate. The President acknowledged that the timing was not good and in retrospect, the issue should have been brought to the Academic Senate sooner. Another concern raised is safety issues. Dr. Chong stated that the Middle East is clearly a hot bed and there are public safety issues. He reiterated, however, that one third of the population in Kuwait are ex-patriots, and stated that there is currently an ivy league university operating a program in Kuwait at this time. The United States and Kuwait are allies, and it is important to have a dialogue in that part of the world.

As discussion continued, a Senator expressed concern regarding the time line. Apparently, Dr. Jensen had been approached regarding this proposal some time ago at Pima College and then again as interim at WVC. Why was November suddenly a deadline? Decisions should not be made when told there is a need to move quickly. The world of academia moves slower because academic programs and academic integrity require deliberation. If the district is trying to make this proposal happen, then it should have waited until a representative group could have met together before moving forward. The District allowed itself to make a decision without due diligence of academic issues. These actions are reminiscent of actions that led to a vote of no confidence in the Chancellor, and indicate a lack of leadership and a disregard of the Academic Senate and its role in a place where its role is dominant.

In behalf of the project, it was stated that there are many Arab cities looking for a two-year college program. This would bring many opportunities to our classes, particularly distance learning classes. These companies have been very successful in the Middle East and want to extend their programs to community colleges.

Dr. Chong expressed his respect for the opinions of the Senate and stated he understands the Senate’s concerns and hesitation. What is done cannot be undone. He acknowledged that the process could have been handled better and the proposal should have been brought to the Academic Senate sooner. The intentions from the beginning of this project were honest and sincere. He expressed his view that education is a right, not a privilege, to the extent that community colleges serve students regardless of gender, point of origin, etc. to develop intellectual capacity regardless of their ability to pay. Education is so important and it becomes difficult when barriers are built. In this case, the Kuwait firm is subsidizing the project. It presents a problem for him when we in this country are willing to use immigrants for low paying menial jobs but we are unwilling to provide them with an education. He once again thanked the Academic Senate for its input. He understands the Senate’s concern regarding the integrity of the college and he does not intend to jeopardize that integrity. He will continue to ask questions, and he stated that much more information is needed before the District/College can say no to the proposal.

As agreed, the order of the agenda was suspended and moved to Item VIII.B to accommodate guests.

VIII. New Business

B. Discuss Proposed Distance Learning Strategic Plan

Mina Jahan introduced Cindy Vinson, who has taken on the role of Distance Learning Coordinator. Cindy stated that the college needs a strategic plan for distance learning and a one-day retreat will be held on Friday, October 29, 2004, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. to help launch the plan, to set the vision and higher level goals. A subcommittee will develop the plan and bring it to the Academic Senate for approval. Cindy acknowledged that a broad-based representation is desirable, and it was suggested that at least one representative from the Curriculum Review Committee, from CATA, and from Social Services should be included.

Cindy reported that the Distance Learning Committee is working with West Valley College to identify a one-course management system to use district-wide. It makes sense to pool resources because license fees are so high and because of the need to tie into Datatel. . It was suggested that each division be invited to select a representative to attend the retreat to ensure that all areas are covered, The Senate Office will issue a call for interested faculty to attend. GRA PUT OUT CFIF

The order of the agenda was resumed.

VII. Old Business (continued)

B. Update Report from Subcommittees Dealing w MCAS Goals/Objectives

Brief update reports were received from some of the committees. It was agreed that the cancellation of next week’s meeting will provide an opportunity for those committees to meet and continue their task. AGENDA

At this time, President Braun left the meeting and turned the gavel over to Vice President McKay.

C. Update on College-Wide Marketing Budget

An e-mail was received from Peter Anning dated September 29^th, relative to the marketing concerns raised at last week’s meeting. Peter provided the following clarifications:

• The college does have a line-item for Marketing. It was $86,000/year until Spring 2003. It was reduced to $10,000 due to budget shortfalls.

• The Mercado AMC does display Mission College slides, twelve of them designed by Rozi Mesaros and approved by the President’s Council. They rotate on a monthly basis.

• Money was received from the Community College Financial Aid Offices (FAO) to make underrepresented students aware of Financial Aid and the benefits of community colleges. The funds were used to pay for on-campus banners, back of bus signs, inside bus cards and bus shelter signs, and this August’s emergency ad campaign. Peter noted that DeAnza received $580,000 this year from the FAO. Peter has met with Marketing Directors from six other community colleges in Santa Clara County and they are crafting a proposal to coordinate a radio and print ad campaign to be funded with this money to benefit all of our colleges for a better rate than each individual college could expect to receive on its own.

• Regarding the marquee sign facing Highway 101, the project is on hold at this time. The height and size allowance for this sign proved to be unreadable among the larger, taller signs for the Mercado Shopping Center. Peter has lobbied for a similar, lower-level sign at the entrance of the campus, but that too will be quite expensive and may not be built in the near future.

In his message, Peter thanked the Senate for its interest and support. He welcomes any ideas that will help facilitate and improve Mission College marketing, advertising, and outreach.

Discussion ensued, and it was suggested that the students be polled to determine what attracted them to the college, that graphic arts classes might be used to collaborate in the college’s marketing efforts, that a concerted plan be developed along with a system for review. The Senators made it clear that they support Peter and his efforts, and there is a clear need for additional funds for marketing. Several Senators noted they received materials that were incorrect and/or provided inaccurate information, and it was agreed they should be forwarded to Peter for his information.

Alex had been directed to discuss the matter at GAP and the District Council. Since he was no longer at the Senate meeting, it was agreed to obtain his report at the next meeting, and then determine what the Academic Senate can do to support Peter and marketing efforts. AGENDA

D. Update Report on 16 Week Calendar Concerns

Alex reported that Harriett Robles, VP of Instruction, was notified of the motion passed by the Senate at last week’s meeting. Harriett acknowledged the information and advised that she will handle the dead-week issue with Health Occupations directly. The calendar is a negotiated item, and the Senate’s recommendation was forwarded directly to Pat Andrews, ACE President. No response has been received from Pat to date.

Several Senators spoke to the issue, some indicating the positives and others the negative. It was stated that it is very difficult to schedule meetings due to the new schedule. It was also stated that starting a semester on a Wednesday places Monday and Tuesday classes on a 14-week schedule. Another issue is the time schedule, which is not established “on the hour.” Other colleges have a similar schedule on the hour and also include a pass time, with a gap in the middle of the day (Noon – 1:00 p.m.). Dianne McKay, who was Interim VP of Instruction at the time, explained that this college adopted the Pierce Model, which was being used at West Valley College, in order to be on the same clock as WVC. In addition, the schedule effectively maximized the amount of WSCH to be collected. The college hour was rejected for two reasons: 1) many Mission College students take classes during their lunch hour at work, and 2) we had to figure out how to fit the 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. time block into this college, considering its facility problems.

If the Academic Senate wants to recommend a change, the Senators should discuss the matter with their Division Chairs and the VP of Instruction.

The Senator from ESL indicated that her division was happy with the schedule. The Senators from Math, however, indicated that the time slot for a five-unit math course makes it very difficult for students to remain focused for two hours and concentrate effectively. There has been a surge in the use of the lab as well. Senator Cox advised that the schedule is working relatively well for the Library. However, there will be a problem if the college moves to inter-sessions. The Library staff will lose the ability to do many of the tasks currently handled during semester breaks. It was noted that all student services will have the same difficulty if the college moves to an inter-session.

VIII. New Business (continued)

A. Discuss Intersession Proposals

Based on the discussion that just took place, it is clear that the Senate must address the concerns and problems that will face the college in the event that an intersession is held. This Senate needs to discuss the action taken by the West Valley College Academic Senate relative to an intersession as well. This matter will be addressed further at the next Senate meeting. AGENDA

IX. Correspondence, Publications, & Announcements

Correspondence - None

Publications/Minutes

1. The agenda for the September 29, 2004, meeting of the District Council.

2. The agenda for the September 30, 2004, meeting of the ACE Council.

3. The FSA applications dates from ACE.

Announcements - None

X. Future Agenda Items

No new items were added at today’s meeting.

XI. Adjournment

The meeting was adjourned at 4:10 p.m. (M/S/U – Smebye/Cox). These minutes are respectfully submitted by Grace Hazán, Academic Senate Secretary.