Present:  Susan Coultrap-McQuin (presiding, recording). Fritz Messere, Richard Skolnik, Yvonne Petrella, Rhonda Mandel, David Bozak, Rameen Mohammadi, Cathy Santos, Linda Rae Markert.

Guests:  Nate Emmons, Kathy Evans, Jackie Campbell, Joe Grant, Jim Scharfenberger, Michele Bandla

1.  The Laker Education Dynamics (Goal Quest) program for new entering and transfer students

The group discussed implementing this retention program with all new and transfer students this fall.  LED went through a pilot process with Johnson Hall students this past year.  This fall all students will be enrolled in GST 100 for 1 credit.  First Year advisors and First Choice instructors will encourage students to complete the program because it provides so much good information for the transition to college.  Students will have the option, however, of dropping the course.  The program works like Facebook in many ways and provides information in formats that students prefer.  It will help us to identify students who are at risk and to reach out to them.  More information will be sent soon to chairs and others.  Deans will answer questions about the project.

2.  College Hour

We discussed the memo going out to department chairs and program directors today about two options for College Hour in Spring 2009.

3.  Graduation

Susan expressed deep appreciation for all the faculty members who participated in graduation last Saturday.  It showed a real interest in and commitment to our students.

 -Adjourned