Strategic plan topic of 'State of University' speech

Faculty members want more time and resources for research. They want diverse co-workers. Increased communication is key.

For nearly a year, the university has been developing a strategic plan to identify where it wants to be in the next three to five years. Steps for how to get there were outlined during President Dr. Ken Dobbins' annual "State of the University" address Thursday.

Objectives for five focus areas — academics and student experience, people, communication, funding and infrastructure — were presented in a brochure. More specific tasks for the current school year were also listed.

Among the tasks: Identify needed academic programs, strengthen academic advising, create a "one stop shop" for student services in Academic Hall, develop a customer service training program for employees, recruit more diverse faculty and staff, and better brand the university. Developing a process for marketing messages and key events and expanding private funding to exceed $7 million were also listed.

Other tasks include implementing an indoor warning system in residence halls, designing a Center for Energy Efficiency and developing a succession plan to replace retiring employees.

"By 2011, 36 percent of faculty will be eligible to retire," Dobbins said, saying it will result in a loss of talent, expertise and institutional knowledge. "But it will also present an opportunity to reallocate resources."

Much of Dobbins' address focused on giving the university a pat on the back. He highlighted events at the River Campus, enrollment increases, the marching band's performance in Scotland, and a new partnership with Southeast Missouri Hospital to deliver health clinic services. Other events and "sources of pride" were showcased during a 12-minute video.

In concluding his speech, Dobbins highlighted a new initiative to encourage employees to car pool and described two areas where he has asked for one-time funds to be used: $175,000 to replace 143 computers in academic labs and an unspecified amount of money to increase transportation budgets. The money will come from increases in enrollment, he said.

He also warned that the university could face a "very real financial challenge" in 2009 to 2010 because of tuition caps and a tight economy.

After the address, faculty members sounded off on their personal priorities for the university. Faculty Senate Chair Dr. Mary Elizabeth Ambery said she hopes to see a continued emphasis on professional development and maintaining time for research.

Dr. Susan Swartwout, an English professor, said multiple methods of communication would be beneficial. For assistant professor Dr. Sophia Scott, increasing faculty diversity is essential.

"I'm seeing progress, and I'd like to see more," Scott said.

lbavolek@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 123

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