February 2005 Board Report

Board Report: February 2005

by Stephen J. Ciesinski '70, Chairman, Board of Trustees

Dear Friends of Union -

The College's Board of Trustees met on campus for its regular winter meeting, one that began with a tribute to President Roger Hull, who announced last month that he would be leaving the College at the end of June. Those of us who know Roger's passion for education are not at all surprised that he plans to establish a charitable foundation that will focus on at-risk grade-school students and how colleges and universities can change their lives.

The trustees took stock of Roger's 15 years of leadership, a time of impressive transformation in academics, admissions and the physical infrastructure of the College. The word "expansion" comes to mind when we consider all the changes since Roger's arrival in 1990. Union has grown, not only in terms of a physical expansion beyond the wrought iron fence and in the number of students enrolled, but in the quality of that student body, the faculty and the staff and the dedication of all three groups to both the institution and the surrounding community.

As we look back on Roger's tenure, we can also look forward to a promising future. We approach a new era with talented people, enlightened programs and arguably one of the "best dressed" campuses in America. Union is truly poised to make an even greater impact on the lives of it current and future students, the immediate neighborhood and the educational community.

I am delighted that Frank Messa '73, a loyal alumnus and trustee, has agreed to help start our next chapter by leading the search for our 18 th President. In only several weeks, Frank has moved quickly to establish a blue chip committee that will guide this important process.

Golub House dedication

The trustees were pleased to be part of a special dedication for Golub House, my former fraternity house, and I'm pleased to report that the Chi Psi building has never looked better. Named in honor of William Golub '26, and made possible by a gift from his son, trustee Neil Golub and his wife, Jane, and their daughter, Mona, the renovated building is the third named building of the College's seven Minerva Houses. (Beuth House and Wold House were dedicated last fall.) Roger and Neil have worked closely together over the years on behalf of Union and for the betterment of Schenectady. Barbara Danowski, the faculty representative to Golub House and student representative Brooke Lamparello made moving remarks about the Golub family's longstanding commitment to the College and the city. They also spoke of the transformative effect that Golub House has had in just a few months.

The financial update

The trustees discussed the upcoming year's budget after concerns last fall over skyrocketing energy costs, estimates of heavier claims volume in our self-insured medical plans and a slightly smaller than usual freshman class. Fortunately, a mild winter and stable oil prices have lessened our energy concerns, medical claims have returned to an acceptable level, and a better-than-expected retention of upperclass students has provided significant additional revenues.

Once again, I can report that the College's overall financial situation is strong and that we have a balanced budget. After much collaboration with the College's financial staff and the campus Planning and Priorities Committee, the board has adopted a balanced budget for 2005-2006 of about $111 million. The board approved a comprehensive fee of $41,595 for 2005-2006. The comprehensive fee, instituted last year, allows students to take extra courses at no additional cost, provided they meet academic prerequisites. To keep Union accessible to all students and to support the merit-aid program, the board has approved a financial aid budget of $26.1 million. The College places great emphasis on attracting and retaining the best faculty and staff. The compensation pool, which represents almost half of the College's operating budget, will be increased by 4 percent, the largest increase in a few years.

Best practices

The trustees heard a report on an initiative called "Best Practices for Converging Technology" in which a Union team -- led by Doug Klein, director of the Center for Converging Technology, and Bill Schwarz, director of communications and public affairs -- has identified and analyzed notable programs at institutions nationally. They are developing a marketing plan to enhance Union's reputation with CT and to drive our position in Tech Valley. The trustees were very excited with Doug and Bill's presentation, and encouraged them to market this widely.

Committee reports

Highlights from the Trustee committee reports included:

The Academic Affairs Committee reported that the College is undergoing a "Periodic Review" to assess our progress in responding to recommendations from Middle State Reaccreditation Review in 2000. The faculty is discussing proposed revisions to the GenEn curriculum that include an increased emphasis on core competencies, a proposed sophomore seminar emphasizing research skills, a three-course interdisciplinary cluster and new science requirements to include Converging Technology courses. Increased cooperation between Academic and Student Affairs has resulted in a dramatic decline of students on academic warning, 19 this year compared to 30 or more in previous years. This has positive implications for improving retention.

We continue to strive to increase the number of students who make presentations at professional conferences and the National Conference on Undergraduate Research. This fall students attended meetings in bioethics, philosophy and the Society for Hispanic Engineers. Five students attended the Semiconductor Research Corporation's Graduate Fellowship Conference, where they were the only undergraduates presenting.

Prof. Therese McCarty of economics has organized a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program at the Kenney Community Center in which 10 students, certified by the IRS, will receive course credit for assisting low-income families with their tax returns. Twenty-nine faculty from 18 departments volunteered to teach a course for 145 students on the 2004 election. This course, organized by Prof. Hal Fried of economics, was called Minerva I, the first in a series of one-time interdisciplinary courses. Two classes made extensive use of videoconferencing. Prof. William Garcia of modern languages taught his "Caribbean Literature and Politics" course from Union with cooperation from Hobart and William Smith Colleges. Prof. Andrew Feffer facilitated videoconferences between Union students and their counterparts in Rennes, France, to talk about the U.S. Presidential Election.

The ninth annual Feigenbaum Forum focused on Converging Technology. Presenters were Professors Valerie Barr, computer science; Raymond Martin, philosophy; Doug Klein, director of the Center for Converging Technologies; President Hull; and, of course, alumni Armand V. and Donald S. Feigenbaum, leading authorities on Total Quality Management.

The board approved the tenure and promotion to associate professor of six faculty: Charles Batson, Michelle Chilcoat and Daniel Mosquera,of modern languages; Quynh Chu-LaGraff, biology; Robert Hislope, political science; and Mehmet Fuat Sener of economics. George Smith of biology was promoted to the rank of full professor. Congratulations to each of these very valued members of the Union faculty.

The Student Affairs and Admissions Committee reported the Minerva Houses, inaugurated last fall, have hosted some 60 separate events, many involving both faculty and students. With events ranging from a French Club crepe night to a post-lecture reception with Benjamin Barber, students have found the Minervas to offer a fresh and rewarding experience. Integrating academic classes, the First-year Preceptorial in particular, has helped to orient students toward their houses. Assessments are that faculty involvement is higher than anticipated, and students are coming to understand what the Minervas are all about -- blending the academic, social and residential spheres of the College.

Applications were at a record high last week -- a five percent increase to 4,310 over this time last year -- and admissions staffers are embarking on their next projects: enlisting faculty help in yielding a quality class and reaching out to high school juniors. We believe these robust numbers are the product of excellent recruiting, and we are also convinced -- by the reaction of many students, parents, and guidance counselors -- that the academic and social co-curricular initiatives undertaken in the past few years are "rewarding" us.

The Communications Office is saying farewell to two longtime colleagues -- Peter Blankman and George Cuttita. Peter, a talented writer and photographer, is retiring with nearly three decades of service and an encyclopedic memory of Union history. George, the College's most loyal sports fan and the first sports information director when he joined us in 1980, is moving to Florida, where his wife has begun a new career.

Bill Schwarz has assumed the role of director of communications and public affairs to lead the implementation of our long-planned integrated communications marketing plan.

The web office is developing improved sites that reflect the College's distinctive features: the Minervas, Undergraduate Research, Converging Technologies, International Study and Community Service. The office also is working toward the implementation of a content management system that will help to effectively and efficiently manage our extensive online content.

The news bureau and media relations have been busy telling some of the many stories that have accompanied this year's launch of the Minerva Houses, and the total circulation of media hits in the last quarter of 2004 totaled nearly 19 million. There have been a considerable number of news stories, and glowing op-eds and letters to the editor about President Hull's contributions to the College and the city. The office is also busy producing stories to update the Union community about the search for the next president, led by Trustee Messa.

The College Relations committee was pleased to report that total cash receipts for the year were up 57 percent and that the $200 million "You are Union" campaign launched last fall during Homecoming and Family Weekend with $80 million is now at $83 million in gifts and commitments. A number of regional kickoffs are planned around the country, starting with a Capital Region event on April 27. Corporate and Government Relations is building partnerships with Tech Valley organizations including one fascinating internship program with Cardiomag Imaging Corp., a leading high-tech cardiac diagnostic venture.

More than 2,500 alumni, parents and friends came to campus for Homecoming and Family weekend last fall, and there have been nearly 30 regional alumni events over the fall and winter months. Outreach is going strong through the on-line alumni newsletter, "About U." More than half of the 11,000 alumni who receive it are taking the time to open and read sections or the entire newsletter.

Alumni and friends who attend ReUnion 2005 on May 19 - 22 will find much to celebrate including 35 years of coeducation, 50 years of the Dutch Pipers, and the bicentennial of the inauguration of President Eliphalet Nott. Other events will highlight alumni authors, our many Watson Fellows and the Minerva Houses.

The Facilities and Environment Committee reported that renovations are complete on the seventh and final Minerva, Orange House. Excited students moved into the former Sigma Phi building on January 2 and are now enjoying the large common spaces. The stunning Viniar Athletic Center was dedicated on January 15, but not before David Viniar '76 hit a number of jump shots in the alumni game. Both the men's and women's basketball teams opened their new home with victories over Vassar. Renovations to College Park Hall are complete and 230 students are enjoying their new home in the former Ramada Inn. Both soccer teams made extensive use of the new artificial field next to College Park Hall; the women hosted and won the ECAC tournament.

On behalf of the Trustees, I would like to thank you for all of you continued support of your alma mater. The gifts that you are making provide an exceptional 'ROI' on your commitments--the endowment return now ranks among the top 10% of all peer institutions, and the programs and facilities investments' are receiving exceptionally high marks from faculty, students and applicants. I again encourage you to make plans to attend ReUnion the weekend of May 20-22 where we will have many special events planned.

Stephen J. Ciesinski '70
Chairman, Board of Trustees

	Home \| Academics \| Admissions \| Alumni \| Athletics \| News & Events \| Offices & Services \| Student Life
About Union Mission Statement History of Union Office of the President Board of Trustees Presidents of Union College Union Notables Exhibit Traditions of Union What to do AroundU? The Union Campus Great Grads of Union	Board Report: February 2005 by Stephen J. Ciesinski '70, Chairman, Board of Trustees Dear Friends of Union - The College's Board of Trustees met on campus for its regular winter meeting, one that began with a tribute to President Roger Hull, who announced last month that he would be leaving the College at the end of June. Those of us who know Roger's passion for education are not at all surprised that he plans to establish a charitable foundation that will focus on at-risk grade-school students and how colleges and universities can change their lives. The trustees took stock of Roger's 15 years of leadership, a time of impressive transformation in academics, admissions and the physical infrastructure of the College. The word "expansion" comes to mind when we consider all the changes since Roger's arrival in 1990. Union has grown, not only in terms of a physical expansion beyond the wrought iron fence and in the number of students enrolled, but in the quality of that student body, the faculty and the staff and the dedication of all three groups to both the institution and the surrounding community. As we look back on Roger's tenure, we can also look forward to a promising future. We approach a new era with talented people, enlightened programs and arguably one of the "best dressed" campuses in America. Union is truly poised to make an even greater impact on the lives of it current and future students, the immediate neighborhood and the educational community. I am delighted that Frank Messa '73, a loyal alumnus and trustee, has agreed to help start our next chapter by leading the search for our 18 th President. In only several weeks, Frank has moved quickly to establish a blue chip committee that will guide this important process. Golub House dedication The trustees were pleased to be part of a special dedication for Golub House, my former fraternity house, and I'm pleased to report that the Chi Psi building has never looked better. Named in honor of William Golub '26, and made possible by a gift from his son, trustee Neil Golub and his wife, Jane, and their daughter, Mona, the renovated building is the third named building of the College's seven Minerva Houses. (Beuth House and Wold House were dedicated last fall.) Roger and Neil have worked closely together over the years on behalf of Union and for the betterment of Schenectady. Barbara Danowski, the faculty representative to Golub House and student representative Brooke Lamparello made moving remarks about the Golub family's longstanding commitment to the College and the city. They also spoke of the transformative effect that Golub House has had in just a few months. The financial update The trustees discussed the upcoming year's budget after concerns last fall over skyrocketing energy costs, estimates of heavier claims volume in our self-insured medical plans and a slightly smaller than usual freshman class. Fortunately, a mild winter and stable oil prices have lessened our energy concerns, medical claims have returned to an acceptable level, and a better-than-expected retention of upperclass students has provided significant additional revenues. Once again, I can report that the College's overall financial situation is strong and that we have a balanced budget. After much collaboration with the College's financial staff and the campus Planning and Priorities Committee, the board has adopted a balanced budget for 2005-2006 of about $111 million. The board approved a comprehensive fee of $41,595 for 2005-2006. The comprehensive fee, instituted last year, allows students to take extra courses at no additional cost, provided they meet academic prerequisites. To keep Union accessible to all students and to support the merit-aid program, the board has approved a financial aid budget of $26.1 million. The College places great emphasis on attracting and retaining the best faculty and staff. The compensation pool, which represents almost half of the College's operating budget, will be increased by 4 percent, the largest increase in a few years. Best practices The trustees heard a report on an initiative called "Best Practices for Converging Technology" in which a Union team -- led by Doug Klein, director of the Center for Converging Technology, and Bill Schwarz, director of communications and public affairs -- has identified and analyzed notable programs at institutions nationally. They are developing a marketing plan to enhance Union's reputation with CT and to drive our position in Tech Valley. The trustees were very excited with Doug and Bill's presentation, and encouraged them to market this widely. Committee reports Highlights from the Trustee committee reports included: The Academic Affairs Committee reported that the College is undergoing a "Periodic Review" to assess our progress in responding to recommendations from Middle State Reaccreditation Review in 2000. The faculty is discussing proposed revisions to the GenEn curriculum that include an increased emphasis on core competencies, a proposed sophomore seminar emphasizing research skills, a three-course interdisciplinary cluster and new science requirements to include Converging Technology courses. Increased cooperation between Academic and Student Affairs has resulted in a dramatic decline of students on academic warning, 19 this year compared to 30 or more in previous years. This has positive implications for improving retention. We continue to strive to increase the number of students who make presentations at professional conferences and the National Conference on Undergraduate Research. This fall students attended meetings in bioethics, philosophy and the Society for Hispanic Engineers. Five students attended the Semiconductor Research Corporation's Graduate Fellowship Conference, where they were the only undergraduates presenting. Prof. Therese McCarty of economics has organized a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program at the Kenney Community Center in which 10 students, certified by the IRS, will receive course credit for assisting low-income families with their tax returns. Twenty-nine faculty from 18 departments volunteered to teach a course for 145 students on the 2004 election. This course, organized by Prof. Hal Fried of economics, was called Minerva I, the first in a series of one-time interdisciplinary courses. Two classes made extensive use of videoconferencing. Prof. William Garcia of modern languages taught his "Caribbean Literature and Politics" course from Union with cooperation from Hobart and William Smith Colleges. Prof. Andrew Feffer facilitated videoconferences between Union students and their counterparts in Rennes, France, to talk about the U.S. Presidential Election. The ninth annual Feigenbaum Forum focused on Converging Technology. Presenters were Professors Valerie Barr, computer science; Raymond Martin, philosophy; Doug Klein, director of the Center for Converging Technologies; President Hull; and, of course, alumni Armand V. and Donald S. Feigenbaum, leading authorities on Total Quality Management. The board approved the tenure and promotion to associate professor of six faculty: Charles Batson, Michelle Chilcoat and Daniel Mosquera,of modern languages; Quynh Chu-LaGraff, biology; Robert Hislope, political science; and Mehmet Fuat Sener of economics. George Smith of biology was promoted to the rank of full professor. Congratulations to each of these very valued members of the Union faculty. The Student Affairs and Admissions Committee reported the Minerva Houses, inaugurated last fall, have hosted some 60 separate events, many involving both faculty and students. With events ranging from a French Club crepe night to a post-lecture reception with Benjamin Barber, students have found the Minervas to offer a fresh and rewarding experience. Integrating academic classes, the First-year Preceptorial in particular, has helped to orient students toward their houses. Assessments are that faculty involvement is higher than anticipated, and students are coming to understand what the Minervas are all about -- blending the academic, social and residential spheres of the College. Applications were at a record high last week -- a five percent increase to 4,310 over this time last year -- and admissions staffers are embarking on their next projects: enlisting faculty help in yielding a quality class and reaching out to high school juniors. We believe these robust numbers are the product of excellent recruiting, and we are also convinced -- by the reaction of many students, parents, and guidance counselors -- that the academic and social co-curricular initiatives undertaken in the past few years are "rewarding" us. The Communications Office is saying farewell to two longtime colleagues -- Peter Blankman and George Cuttita. Peter, a talented writer and photographer, is retiring with nearly three decades of service and an encyclopedic memory of Union history. George, the College's most loyal sports fan and the first sports information director when he joined us in 1980, is moving to Florida, where his wife has begun a new career. Bill Schwarz has assumed the role of director of communications and public affairs to lead the implementation of our long-planned integrated communications marketing plan. The web office is developing improved sites that reflect the College's distinctive features: the Minervas, Undergraduate Research, Converging Technologies, International Study and Community Service. The office also is working toward the implementation of a content management system that will help to effectively and efficiently manage our extensive online content. The news bureau and media relations have been busy telling some of the many stories that have accompanied this year's launch of the Minerva Houses, and the total circulation of media hits in the last quarter of 2004 totaled nearly 19 million. There have been a considerable number of news stories, and glowing op-eds and letters to the editor about President Hull's contributions to the College and the city. The office is also busy producing stories to update the Union community about the search for the next president, led by Trustee Messa. The College Relations committee was pleased to report that total cash receipts for the year were up 57 percent and that the $200 million "You are Union" campaign launched last fall during Homecoming and Family Weekend with $80 million is now at $83 million in gifts and commitments. A number of regional kickoffs are planned around the country, starting with a Capital Region event on April 27. Corporate and Government Relations is building partnerships with Tech Valley organizations including one fascinating internship program with Cardiomag Imaging Corp., a leading high-tech cardiac diagnostic venture. More than 2,500 alumni, parents and friends came to campus for Homecoming and Family weekend last fall, and there have been nearly 30 regional alumni events over the fall and winter months. Outreach is going strong through the on-line alumni newsletter, "About U." More than half of the 11,000 alumni who receive it are taking the time to open and read sections or the entire newsletter. Alumni and friends who attend ReUnion 2005 on May 19 - 22 will find much to celebrate including 35 years of coeducation, 50 years of the Dutch Pipers, and the bicentennial of the inauguration of President Eliphalet Nott. Other events will highlight alumni authors, our many Watson Fellows and the Minerva Houses. The Facilities and Environment Committee reported that renovations are complete on the seventh and final Minerva, Orange House. Excited students moved into the former Sigma Phi building on January 2 and are now enjoying the large common spaces. The stunning Viniar Athletic Center was dedicated on January 15, but not before David Viniar '76 hit a number of jump shots in the alumni game. Both the men's and women's basketball teams opened their new home with victories over Vassar. Renovations to College Park Hall are complete and 230 students are enjoying their new home in the former Ramada Inn. Both soccer teams made extensive use of the new artificial field next to College Park Hall; the women hosted and won the ECAC tournament. On behalf of the Trustees, I would like to thank you for all of you continued support of your alma mater. The gifts that you are making provide an exceptional 'ROI' on your commitments--the endowment return now ranks among the top 10% of all peer institutions, and the programs and facilities investments' are receiving exceptionally high marks from faculty, students and applicants. I again encourage you to make plans to attend ReUnion the weekend of May 20-22 where we will have many special events planned. Stephen J. Ciesinski '70 Chairman, Board of Trustees
	Copyright 2008, Union College. All rights reserved. Union College \| 807 Union St. \| Schenectady NY 12308 \| 518 388-6000 Directory \| Contact Us