Alabama Council of Graduate Deans

Mr. Jose Santiago, from ETS, discussed three initiatives that will impact graduate schools. First, revisions have been made to the TOEFL to increase security and provide a more accurate assessment of a student’s ability to speak English. Second, revisions have been made to the GRE in an attempt to improve the instrument. It is anticipated that the changes will be implemented in fall 2007. Third, Mr. Santiago explained the process for an institution to be considered as a test site for the GRE. He encouraged interested parties to contact ETS.

Margit Schatzman explained the Bologna Process, its history and intended outcomes regarding the recognition of three-year degrees for graduate admission. This initiative began in Europe as an attempt to harmonize credentials of graduates across countries.

Ms. Schatzman provided recommendations and approaches for graduate schools to consider regarding this issue.

Don Meagher, from Harcourt Assessment, discussed the advantages of using the MAT, and future plans for the test.

Alan Sheppard led an interesting discussion about graduate student organizations. Several institutional representatives offered suggestions based on these organizations at their campuses. This presentation was particularly helpful for campuses who are contemplating the establishment of graduate student organizations.

Gordon Emslie, President of CSGS, provided an overview of the annual conference in Little Rock, Arkansas in February 2006. There were many outstanding presentations and Gordon suggested a visit to the CSGS web site to review the presentations.

The day ended with reflection time and discussion about graduate student issues. The group enjoyed good fellowship for the traditional dinner at Zeke’s.

Friday, April 21, 2006

Ellen Haulman and Tim Vick provided a report from ACHE. Tim Vick announced a change in commissioners. Some members rotated off, and three new members joined the commission. ACHE anticipated filling the Executive Director position by July 2006. Tim stated he thought this would be delayed. During the legislative session, the proprietary schools attempted to promote their presence and access to state funding. A bill was passed allowing students to have access to financial aid who are students at proprietary schools. A bill has been introduced whereby proprietary schools would not fall under ACHE authority and the approval of programs. They are also attempting to receive

post-secondary status. Gordon Stone, Higher Education Partnership, joined the discussion and emphasized the importance of institutions realizing that the proprietary schools will need to be contended with. Tim also stated discussions are occurring to address the budgetary process and how to improve. Some decisions regarding the SREB will result in a reduction of funding for minority doctoral students. Ellen updated the group regarding program viability and program review. She emphasized the importance of institutional responses to NISPS, and stated the commission relies heavily on those responses. Several programs are ready for approval at the fall meeting. The two year institutions have created a car manufacturing program and will establish a regional center in Talladega.

Gordon Stone announced a two year growth in the Education Trust Fund. He was pleased with the excellent turnout at higher education day. Gordon again emphasized the importance of the attempt of proprietary schools to gain a stronger presence and recognition in Alabama. He suggested the establishment of a committee to convene in Montgomery to develop strategies to approach this issue. Gordon is willing to facilitate this meeting. He also thinks we need to meet with legislators to promote ourselves.

We must be prepared to discern how we are different from proprietary institutions and the advantages of traditional institutions. Gordon also asked the group to consider updating the report on the economic impact of graduate education.

The minutes of the March 8, 2006 meeting were approved by all in attendance.

Joe Wilkins presented the treasurer’s report, and it was accepted by all in attendance.

As of 4/21/06 the Council has $5, 145.64 on hand. The nominating committee presented the following slate of officers for approval:

Chair—Deb Moriarity

Vice-Chair, Chair Elect—Dianne Barron

Immediate Past Chair—John Schmitt

Secretary—Jean Pugliese

Treasurer—Joe Wilkins

Member-at-Large—Alan Sheppard

Communications Officer—Steve McFarland

The slate was approved. It was decided that the ACGD would meet at the Island House next year for the annual retreat. Joe Wilkins was thanked for his handling of many of the logistics for the annual retreat.

Upcoming Meetings

Executive Committee

June 21, 2006

October 4, 2006

Council

July 19, 2006

November 1, 2006

Meeting adjourned!

Developed by Dr. Stephen L. McFarland and Junmo Yang