Trustees meet, approve university matters - 09/23/05
COLUMBUS – A new professorship and a new named chair are among the endowments accepted by The Ohio State University Board of Trustees at their meeting Friday (9/23). Trustees accepted a total of $6.36 million in gifts to the university during June 2005 and 272 research grants and contracts totaling $28.1 million awarded to the university in July 2005.
In other business, the board approved a variety of personnel, academic, fiscal and construction-related matters.
Named endowed professorship
•The W. Arthur Cullman Professorship in Marketing, $1,051,446, provided by gifts from Joseph F. Cullman III of New York, N.Y., in honor and memory of his brother, W. Arthur Cullman, to support the teaching and research of a recognized scholar in marketing
Named endowed chair
•The Jay J. Jacoby, M.D., Ph.D., Chair in Anesthesiology, $1,500,067, provided by a gift from Helene Kurshan Jacoby in honor and memory of her late husband, Jay J. Jacoby, to support the work of The Jay J. Jacoby, M.D., Ph.D., Chair in Anesthesiology
Named endowed funds
•The Ohio Eminent Scholar in Nanotechnology: Computational Nanotechnology, $1,500,000, provided by support from the General Assembly of the state of Ohio and private gifts to provide salary and program support for the work of an outstanding mechanical engineering professor and scholar in nanotechnology
•The Development Support Fund, $1,266,390, provided by gifts from the estate of Ruth Herndon (B.A., 1929) to support University Development operations
•The Longaberger Foundation Critical Difference for Women Re-entry Scholarship Endowment Fund, $155,100, provided by a gift from The Longaberger Foundation to support educational diversity at the university
•The Bell Family Fund, $100,000, provided by a gift from Mary Chambers Bell (B.S.H.E., 1925) designated by her sons, Dr. David C. Bell, Sr. (D.D.S., 1957) and James Ivan Bell, in memory of their parents, Mary Chambers Bell and Francis I. Bell (B.S. Agr., 1923) to provide scholarships to deserving first-year students from Williams County, Ohio
•The Albert F. and Margaret E. Gehres 4-H Fund, $85,104, provided by gifts from the estate of Albert F. and Margaret E. Gehres to support programs sponsored by the National 4-H Council, provide scholarships for Ohio students who are or have been 4-H members planning to enroll as freshmen, and for leadership development projects at the direction of the state 4-H leader
•The James J. Baechle Innovation Fund, $80,000, provided by gifts from James J, Baechle (B.S.Bus Adm, cum laude, 1954) of Mill Neck, N. Y., $80,000, to be used by the dean of the Fisher College of Business to support activities of the faculty, students and staff in accordance with the strategic plan of the college
•Frederick H. Davidorf Ophthalmology Lectureship Endowment Fund, $85,104, provided by gifts from Frederick and Holly Davidorf, family, friends, patients and colleagues of Dr. Davidorf, professor of ophthalmology (B.S., 1960; M.S., 1963; M.D., 1965), to support the honorarium and expenses for a distinguished lecturer to provide the keynote address at the Annual Research Symposium in the Department of Ophthalmology
•OSU Medical Alumni Society Merit Scholarship Endowment Fund, $38,403, provided by gifts from the alumni and friends of the College of Medicine and Public Health to provide scholarships to medical students enrolled in the College of Medicine and Public Health
•The Anthony J. Marone Jr. Scholarship Fund, $37,125, provided by gifts from the family and friends of Anthony J. Marone Jr. (B.S.Bus.Adm., 1975) to provide scholarships to undergraduate students majoring in accounting
•The Margaret H. Hines and Richard J. Hines Memorial Scholarship Fund in Anatomy, $33,528, provided by gifts made in loving memory of their parents by sons, Richard L. Hines and Steven B. Hines (M.A., 1981) and their families, and special gifts from family, friends and colleagues given in memory of the late Margaret H. Hines, Ph.D., and Richard J. Hines, to provide support to graduate students in anatomy at the College of Medicine and Public Health
•The James H. Given Jr. Farm Science Review Educational Improvement Fund, $32,201, provided by gifts from James H. Givens Jr. (B.S., 1974) of Powell and members of the Farm Science Review Alumni Association
•Sylvia K. Mendelson Medical Student Scholarship Fund, $28,000, provided by gifts from the estate of Louis H. Mendelson (B.S., 1923; M.D., 1923), clinical assistant professor in the College of Medicine and Public Health from 1951 to 1965. His gift was made in memory of his wife, the late Sylvia K. Mendelson of Columbus, and in honor of the late John A. Prior, Sr. (B.A., 1935; M.D., 1938) and Ernest W. Johnson (B.A., 1948; M.D., 1952; M.A., 1957). The fund will provide scholarships to medical students enrolled in the College of Medicine and Public Health who demonstrate integrity in their character, the desire to pursue research and a genuine wish to serve humanity through medicine.
•Joanne G. Sniadoski Coronary Occlusion Research Fund, $26,740, provided by a gift from the estate of Joanne G. Sniadoski of Chillicothe to support medical research on acute coronary occlusion in the Division of Cardiovascular Medicine in the College of Medicine and Public Health
•Fechko Alumnae Scholarship House Fund, $26,740, provided by gifts from the estate of Ruth M. Fechko (B.S.Bus.Adm., 1947) and gifts from family and friends in her memory, to support Alumnae Scholarship House purposes as determined by the board of the Alumnae Scholarship House
•Mohican Area – OSU Mansfield Education Endowment Fund, $25,300, provided by gifts from community leaders in the Loudonville area to provide scholarships to students at OSU-Mansfield who are graduates of Loudonville High School or live in the Loudonville area
•Knowlton School of Architecture Alumni Society Scholarship Fund, $25,086, provided by gifts from the Knowlton School of Architecture Alumni Society to provide scholarships to undergraduate landscape architecture or architecture students or returning graduate students in city and regional planning, landscape architecture or architecture
•The Berwanger Family Foundation Phi Gamma Delta Scholarship Fund, $25,000, provided by gifts from Marlene (B.S.Ed., 1961) and Joe Berwanger (B.A., 1960) to provide scholarships to members of the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity who have financial need
•Janet Garmhausen Bock Enrichment Fund for Ph.D. Students in Nursing, $25,000, provided by gifts from Dr. J. John (B.S., 1952; M.D., 1957) and Mrs. Janet G. Bock (B.S.Nurs., cum laude, 1956) in honor of Janet Bock's 50th anniversary of graduation from The Ohio State University College of Nursing to enrich the Ph.D. program in the College of Nursing by supporting the project work of Ph.D. students with preference given to community service projects that focus on minority populations
•The Nona Glimcher Endowment Fund, $25,000, provided by a gift from David J. and Victoria Glimcher to support gynecologic oncology research at the Comprehensive Cancer Center – The Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute
•The Bruce L. Hull Food Animal Student Fund, $25,000, provided by gifts from friends, family and former students of Dr. Hull to support the activities of students interested in food animal medicine and surgery
•Thomas F. Mauger and L. Carol Laxson Endowment Fund for Ophthalmology Research, $25,000, provided by gifts from Thomas F. Mauger (M.S., 1981; O.D., 1981; M.D., 1984) and L. Carol Laxson (Ph.D., 1982; M.D., 1985) to support research in the Department of Ophthalmology until the endowment principal reaches $750,000 at which time the fund will support a professorship in research in the Department of Ophthalmology
•Michael Moritz and Family – Phi Gamma Delta Scholarship Fund, $25,000, provided by gifts from Lou Ann Moritz (Cert.Grad.Dent.Hyg., 1958) in memory of Michael Moritz (B.S.Bus.Adm., 1958; J.D., 1961)to give scholarships to OSU students who are active members of the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity who live in the fraternity house and have financial need
•The Edwin L. and Mary Jane Overmyer Scholarship Fund, $25,000, provided by a gift from Edwin L. (B.S.Agr., 1961) and Mary Jane Overmyer of Columbus to provide scholarship support to undergraduate students in the Fisher College of Business who demonstrate outstanding leadership skills
•The Helen and Joseph Skilken Family Innovation Fund, $25,000, provided by gifts from Steve (B.S.Bus.Adm., 1972) and Karen Skilken (B.S.Bus.Adm., 1985) to support the activities of the faculty, students and staff of the Fisher College of Business in accordance with the strategic plans of the college
•Medical Education Student Project Fund, $5,016 (grandfathered), provided by gifts from alumni and community physicians, including Paul A. Weber, M.D., to be used at the discretion of the vice dean for education in the College of Medicine and Public Health to support projects and facilities
Change in description of named endowed professorship
•Robert M. Critchfield Professorship in Engineering
Change in name of named endowed funds
•Arthur E. Baggs Memorial Fund
•The Greater Cincinnati Alumni Scholarship Endowment Fund
•The Helen M. and Milton O. Lee Fellowships Fund
•The Mark D. Schwabero Family Endowment Fund
Change in name and description of named endowed professorship
•Donald G. Lux Scholarship in Technology Education is now the Donald G. Lux and Harriet H. Lux Scholarship Fund in Technology Education
•Geography Faculty Fellow Fund is now the Lawrence A. Brown Faculty Fellow Fund
•Sandra M. and Michael J. Hermanoff Endowment Fund is now the Sandra M. and Michael J. Hermanoff Scholarship Fund
Personnel appointments
•Joseph T. Barr has been named to The E.F. Wildermuth Foundation Professorship in Optometry in the College of Optometry, effective Oct. 1, 2005
•Arthur F. Greenbaum has been named to The James W. Shocknessy Professorship of Law in The Michael E. Moritz College of Law, effective Aug. 16, 2005
•Joseph P. Heremans has been named The Ohio Eminent Scholar in Nanotechnology: Computational Nanotechnology in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, effective Oct. 1, 2005. He is currently Research Fellow at the Delphi Corporation, Delphi Research Labs, in Troy, Mich.
•Douglas A. Kniss has been named senior associate vice president for research in the Office of Research, effective Oct. 1, 2005. He is currently a professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and the Center for Biomedical Engineering.
•Mac A. Stewart has been named special assistant to the president for diversity, effective July 1, 2005. He holds a concurrent position as vice provost in the Office of Minority Affairs.
•L. Keith Todd has been named association vice president for development in the Office of University Development for the Medical Center, effective Aug. 1, 2005. Prior to this appointment, he was vice president for university advancement at the Medical College of Georgia in Augusta, Ga.
•Christian K. Zacher has been named secretary of the University Senate in the Office of Academic Affairs, effective Oct. 1, 2005, through Sept. 30, 2008. He will hold a concurrent position as professor in the Department of English.
•Xiaodong Zhang has been named to the Robert M. Critchfield Professorship in Engineering in the College of Engineering, effective Jan. 1, 2006, through Dec. 31, 2010. He is currently chair and Lattie Pate Evans Professor in the Department of Computer Science at the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, Va.
Regional campus board appointment
•Jessica Geiger has been appointed a student trustee to the Lima Regional Campus Board of Trustees, effective July 1, 2005, through June 30, 2006.
Investments Committee appointment
•David A. Rismiller has been appointed as an ex-officio member of board's Investments Committee. He is a member of the Ohio State University Foundation Board.
Appointment of chairpersons and directors
•Mark A. Bennett has been named interim chair of the Department of Horticulture and Crop Science, effective Aug. 1, 2005, through July 31, 2006.
•Michael T. Brady has been named interim chair of the Department of Pediatrics, effective Sept. 1, 2005, through Aug. 31, 2006.
•Jean-Michel Guldmann has been named interim director of the Knowlton School of Architecture, effective Oct. 1, 2005, through Sept. 30, 2006.
•Carolyn J. Merry has been named chair of the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, effective July 1, 2005, through June 30, 2006.
•Berl R. Oakley has been named interim chair of the Department of Molecular Genetics, effective Oct. 1, 2005, through Sept. 30, 2006.
•Daniel D. Sedmak has been named interim chair of the Department of Anesthesiology, effective Sept. 1, 2005, through Aug. 31, 2006.
•Bruce W. Weide has been named interim chair of the Department of Computer Science and Engineering, effective Sept. 1, 2005, through Dec. 31, 2005.
•Caroline C. Whitacre has been named director of the School of Biomedical Sciences, effective Sept. 1, 2005, through June 30, 2009.
•Xiaodong Zhang has been named chair of the Department of Computer Science and Engineering, effective Jan. 1, 2006, through Dec. 31, 2009.
•Thomas L. Bean has been reappointed interim chair of the Department of Food, Agricultural and Biological Engineering, effective Oct. 1, 2005, through Sept. 30, 2006.
•Fusun Ozguner has been reappointed chair of the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, effective July 1, 2005, through June 30, 2006.
Emeritus titles
•Bunny C. Clark, Distinguished University Professor emeritus in the Department of Physics, effective Oct. 1, 2005
•Wolfgang D. Bauer, professor emeritus in the Department of Horticulture and Crop Science, effective Oct. 1, 2005
•James B. Brooks, Jr., professor emeritus in the Austin E. Knowlton School of Architecture, effective Oct. 1, 2005
•Lee F. Johnson, professor emeritus in the Department of Molecular Genetics, effective Oct. 1, 2005
•Marilyn A. Johnston, professor emeritus in the School of Teaching and Learning, effective Sept. 1, 2005
•Patrick E. Lipps. professor emeritus in the Department of Plant Pathology, effective Sept. 1, 2005
•Allan R. Millett, professor emeritus in the Department of History, effective Jan. 1, 2006
•James L. Murphy, professor emeritus in University Libraries, effective Sept. 1, 2005
•Shoichiro Nakamura, professor emeritus in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, effective Sept. 1, 2005
•John A. Rothney, professor emeritus in the Department of History, effective Sept. 1, 2005
•Steven M. Still, professor emeritus in the Department of Horticulture and Crop Science, effective Sept. 1, 2005
•Ralph A. Walkling, professor emeritus in the Department of Finance, effective Sept. 1, 2005
•Raymond J. Krasniewski, associate professor emeritus in the Department of Accounting and Management Information Systems, effective Sept. 1, 2005
•Joyce R. McDowell, associate professor emeritus in Ohio State University Extension, effective Sept. 1, 2005
•Larry A. Nagode, associate professor emeritus in the Department of Veterinary Biosciences, effective Sept. 1, 2005
•Thomas E. Noyes, assistant professor in Ohio State University Extension, effective Oct. 1, 2005
•Herbert M. Lane, instructor emeritus in Ohio State University Extension, effective Sept. 1, 2005
Resolutions in memoriam
•Andrew Broekema, dean emeritus in the College of the Arts, who died July 30, 2005
•Marian F. Chase, associate professor emeritus in the School of Allied Medical Professions (Physical Therapy), who died June 21, 2005
•Mary Ellen Clay, associate professor emeritus in the Department of Entomology, who died Aug. 4, 2005
•Ernest G. Ehlers, professor emeritus in the Department of Geological Sciences, who died June 23, 2005
•Robert M. Giesy III, associate professor emeritus in the former Department of Botany (now the Department of Evolution, Ecology and Organismal Biology), who died May 27, 2005
•Sheila E. Hodgson, associate professor emeritus in the Department of Radiology, who died July 12, 2005
•Lester E. Krueger, professor in the Department of Psychology, who died March 21, 2005
•M. Elizabeth Lloyd, assistant professor emeritus in the Department of Art Education at the Lima Campus, who died Jan. 29, 2005
•Delma I. McCourt, assistant professor emeritus in the Ohio State University Extension, who died June 1, 2005
•Ralph W. Newman, instructor emeritus in the Ohio State University Extension, who died on Aug. 15, 2005
•Roman T. Skarda, professor in the Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, who died July 20, 2005
•McIver W. Woody, associate director emeritus in The Ohio State University Research Foundation, who died Aug. 4, 2005
Construction projects
The board authorized the university to enter into feasibility study contracts for the following projects:
•Upgrade of Cunz Hall, 1841 Millikin Road, to allow the School of Public Health to expand its research, faculty and number of graduates. Projected cost of the study is $85,000 to be provided by departmental and local funds.
•Creation of an up-to-date facility for the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering in Koffolt Laboratories, 140 West 19th Avenue. Projected study cost is $300,000 to be provided by departmental and local funds.
The board authorized the university to enter into design contracts for the following projects:
•Second phase of laboratory space renovation at 1214 Kinnear Road to create wet lab research space to house the anticipated growth of the environmental health sciences within the School of Public Health. Projected cost is $1.8 million with funding provided by College of Medicine and School of Public Health general funds.
•Renovation of the north side of the James Cancer Hospital, 300 West 10th Avenue, to accommodate 12 out-patient ambulatory bone-marrow transplant units and supporting activities. Projected cost is $1.4 million with funding provided by University Hospital auxiliary funds.
•Renovation of the Biomedical Engineering Center in Bevis Hall, 1080 Carmack Road, to improve research space. Projected cost is $486,000 with funding provided by House Bill 16.
•Upgrade or replacement of the five air-handling units in Goss Laboratory, 1925 Coffey Road, to enhance the indoor air quality of academic and research units. Projected cost is $265,000 with funding provided by House Bill 16.
•Replacement of the 1943 roof on Johnston Laboratory, 176 West 19th Avenue. Projected cost is $246, 256 with funding provided by House Bill 16.
•Upgrade of the original air distribution units in Jones Tower, 101 Curl Drive. Projected cost is $1.04 million with funding provided by future university bond proceeds.
•Window and masonry renovations in Kottman Hall, 2021 Coffey Hall. Projected cost is $660,000 with funding provided by House Bill 16.
•Construction of a new 1,500-space parking garage south of Lane Avenue between Neil Avenue and Tuttle Park Place. Projected cost is $28 million with funding provided by future university bond proceeds.
•Elimination of the concrete manhole on Cannon Drive and relocation of the Lincoln Tower steam line to prevent steam discharges onto the sidewalk and roadway. Projected cost is $200,000 with funding provided by House Bill 16.
•Upgrade of the existing fire alarm systems in the north low-rise dorms to meet current codes. Projected cost is $2 million with funding provided by future university bond proceeds.
•Design, construction and paving of the gravel portion, including drainage and lighting, of the Polo parking lot west of Cannon Drive, which provides 1,215 spaces. Projected cost is $1.85 million to be provided by Transportation and Parking auxiliary funds.
•Phase II of the roof replacement at Pomerene Hall, 1760 Neil Avenue. Projected cost is $265,000 with funding provided by House Bill 16.
•Electrical system upgrades to three south campus high-rise residence halls – Smith, 92 West 11th Avenue; Steeb, 70 West 11th Avenue; and Park, 110 West 11th Avenue. Projected cost is $3.34 million with funding provided by future university bond proceeds.
•Replacement of two deteriorating steel manhole covers west of Lincoln Tower and between Fry Hall and Prior Science Library with new concrete covers. Projected cost is $210,000 with funding provided by House Bill 16.
•Construction of a new Student Academic Services Building to free up space in Lincoln Tower for student housing. Projected cost is $33 million with funding provided by central university funds.
•Addition of a new, two-story entrance on the south side of the Wilce Student Health Center, 1875 Millikin Road, to provide an elevator, central staircase and drive-through pneumatic tube delivery system for the pharmacy. Projected cost is $3.3 million with funding provided by future university bond proceeds.
The board authorized the university to enter into construction contracts for the following projects:
•Improvements to the elevators in Building #8 at 650 Ackerman Road. Projected construction cost is $756,499 with funding provided by University Hospital auxiliary funds.
•Renovation of space at 930 Kinnear Road for the Center of Automative Research. Projected cost is $871,579 with funding provided by House Bill 675.
•Installation of new office system furniture and carpet in Halterman Hall at the Agricultural Technical Institute in Wooster. Projected cost is $45,287 with funding provided by House Bills 640 and 675.
•Clinical space reorganization on the first floor of Doan Hall, 410 West 10th Avenue for University Hospital administration. Projected cost is $40,000 with funding provided by University Hospital auxiliary funds.
•Clinical space reorganization on the first floor of Doan Hall to provide office space for the Department of Human Resources. Projected cost is $131,769 with funding provided by University Hospital auxiliary funds.
•Clinical space reorganization on the ground floor of Rhodes Hall, 450 West 10th Avenue, to accommodate improved support facilities for corrections officers. Projected cost is $42,626 with funding provided by University Hospital auxiliary funds.
•Clinical space reorganization of the first floor of Rhodes Hall, 450 West 10th Avenue, to provide new admissions space, including 10 new consult rooms, an expanded waiting area and reception desk, and expanded Gift Shop space. Projected cost is $1.18 million with funding provided by University Hospital auxiliary funds.
•Construction of a third-floor pavilion addition to the Morehouse Medical Plaza, 2050 Kenny Road. Projected cost is $1.7 million with funding provided by University Hospital auxiliary funds and future university bond proceeds.
•Construction of a new parking garage and surface parking lot at the Morehouse Medical Plaza, 2050 Kenny Road. Projected cost is $5.75 million with funding provided by University Hospital auxiliary funds and future university bond proceeds.
•Upgrade of the air-handling system at Selby Hall of the Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center in Wooster. Projected cost is $158,436 with funding provided by House Bill 16.
•Renovation of the first floor of Starling Loving Hall, 320 West 10th Avenue, to accommodate new office space for the clinical trials area. Projected cost is $1.1 million with funding provided by College of Medicine general funds and University Hospital auxiliary funds.
•Upgrades of the restrooms, stairwells and corridors in the Wilce Student Health Center, 1875 Millikin Road. Projected cost is $294,327, with funding provided by Student Affairs auxiliary funds.
•Renovation and expansion of the Woody Hayes Athletic Center. Projected cost is $19.97 million with funding provided by Athletics development funds.
The board authorized the university to increase construction contracts for the following projects:
•Roof replacements on Medical Center Buildings 2 and 4 at 650 Ackerman Road. The construction budget has increased from $1.025 million to $1.27 million because of additional labor required to complete both roofs prior to inclement weather. Funding is provided by University Hospital auxiliary funds.
•Clinical space reorganization of 8 East Rhodes Hall for medical and surgical beds. The project budget has increased because of additional scope of work from $2.38 million to $3.03 million with funding provided by University Hospital auxiliary funds.
•Renovation of the second floor of the James Cancer Hospital for inpatient treatment. The project budget has increased from $1 million to $1.79 million due to the need to keep the floor partially occupied and increased project scope. Funding is provided by James Cancer Hospital auxiliary funds.
•ADA modifications to the Lima Campus. The project budget has increased from $33,000 to $103,888 due to changes in project scope. Funding is provided by House Bills 790 and 748.
•Upgrade of the 1918 drainage system at the McCracken Power Plant, 304 West 17th Avenue. The budget has increased due to recent labor and material price increases and project complexity from $225,000 to $435,000 with funding provided by House Bills 640 and 675.
•Spill control at the McCracken Power Plant, 304 West 17th Avenue. The budget has increased from $300,000 to $349,000 due to recent labor and material price increases and project complexity. Funding is provided by House Bills 850 and 675.
Board hears quarterly update on capital projects
Trustees heard a quarterly report from William J. Shkurti, senior vice president for business and finance, on the status of current capital projects.
•Biomedical Research Tower: on time and on budget in the bidding/construction stage. Estimated move-in is between August and December 2006.
•Jennings Hall renovation: in the bidding/contracting stage and on budget. It is on a five-month delay, and construction should begin in November. Estimated move-in is in 2007.
•Larkins Hall replacement: Construction on Phase I, which opened in August, was pushed back seven months due to weather conditions, complex coordination for some construction areas and other construction issues.
•McCracken Power Plant upgrade: on time and on budget in the construction stage
•Ohio Union replacement: in programming/schematic design stage. Budget and timeline to be determined. Estimated move-in is 2009.
•Physical Sciences Research Building: in construction stage. Timeline and budget were negatively affected by issues relating to water line ruptures and electrical contractor's bankruptcy. Final move-in is estimated at June 2006.
•Psychology Building: in construction stage. The project is on time and on budget but the project schedule is very tight. A recovery plan to make up for state budget cuts is in place. Estimated move-in is December 2005.
•Peter L. and Clara M. Scott Laboratory (Mechanical Engineering Building replacement): on time and on budget in construction stage. Estimated move-in is between July and December 2006.
•Thompson Library renovation: in construction document stage. Budget and timeline to be determined. Estimated move-in is in 2009 or 2010.
•Wexner Center building renovations: in construction stage and on time and on budget. Gallery opening is set for November 2005.
Interim authorization for capital projects granted
The board approved granting authorization for two capital construction projects during the period between the July and September board meetings. Authorization was granted by the chair of the Fiscal Affairs Committee to initiate change orders to design contracts and begin demolishing the two-story north Doan Hall appendage as part of the Doan Hall/Digestive Diseases project and to enter into construction contracts for emergency repairs to the Woody Hayes Bridge steam line.
Construction services authorized for Medical Center expansion
The board authorized the Medical Center to enter into contracts for architect/engineering firms, programming and construction management services for the Medical Center Facility Master Plan Clinical Expansion projects, which will include the South Cannon Garage Replacement, MRI relocation, diagnostic and therapeutic building, in-patient cancer tower and site infrastructure projects. Estimated total costs for design, programming and related services is expected to be up to $20 million with funding to be provided by university bond proceeds, with debt service to be paid by the Medical Center. Services will be provided in stages, with each stage to cost no more than $10 million. Any commitment or expenditure for the additional $10 million will require subsequent board authorization.
Property purchase authorized
The board authorized the purchase of improved real property at 1445 East Granville Street in Columbus from Benny and Betty Upchurch for $50,000. Funding for the acquisition and use of the property will be provided by University Hospitals East.
University responds to Hurricane Katrina
The board authorized the university to enroll undergraduate, graduate and professional students who have been accepted and paid tuition at universities closed, or whose operation has been seriously impacted, as a result of Hurricane Katrina or its aftermath, as visiting students for Autumn Quarter (Autumn Semester for the Moritz College of Law). The university will waive instructional and general fees and, as authorized, any other tuition or application or other mandatory fees. The administration will report back to the board at its December meeting on enrollment of displaced students and on Winter Quarter plans.
Use of "center" approvedThe board approved the use of the word "center" for The Esther L. Dardinger Neuro-Oncology Center in The Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute; the Center for Fetal Care in the College of Medicine and Public Health; and the Todd Anthony Bell National Resource Center on the African-American Male in the Office of Minority Affairs. Faculty rules specify that the use of the word "center" be limited to academic centers unless approved by the Council on Academic Affairs, which reviewed these requests in August and had no objections.
Student residence complex named for Bill Hall
The board waived the administrative code requirement that buildings may not be named for university employees unless they have been retired or have otherwise left the position for at least three years, in order to approve naming the student housing complex on south campus in honor of Bill Hall. Hall joined Ohio State in 1977 and has served as director of residence and dining halls, assistant vice president and, since 2001, vice president for student affairs. The south campus complex, built under his leadership, is the first new student housing built since the 1960s and will be named the William H. Hall Student Residential Complex.
Competitive bidding requirements waived
The board accepted the quarterly report on waivers of competitive bidding requirements, which can be granted in the event of an emergency, when a sufficient economic reason exists or when the goods or services can be purchased from only a single source. During the period of April to June 2005, the senior vice president for business and finance granted 72 waivers for annual purchases totaling approximately $39.6 million, and the vice president for health services granted 54 waivers for annual purchases totaling approximately $18.4 million.
Development report heard
James C. Schroeder, vice president for university development, briefed the board's Investments Committee on the status of the university's development efforts. During the period of July 2004 through June 2005, 104,607 individuals made gifts to the university, totaling $204.5 million.
University endowment updated
University Treasurer James L. Nichols told the Investments Committee that the university's endowment stands at $1.769 billion as of Aug. 31, 2005, an increase of $43 million from June 30, 2005.
Appointment of investment managers approved
The board approved the appointment and reappointment of external investment managers who assist in the management of the university's Endowment Fund. The board's Investment Committee periodically reviews the results obtained by the managers and the amount of funds assigned to each of them, adjusting if necessary the mix and amounts of money as economic conditions and performance change.
2005-06 operating budget approved
Trustees gave final approval to details of the university's spending and income plan for the 2005-06 fiscal year, after initially approving the budget framework at its meeting in July. For the year, revenues and expenditures are expected to be $3.4 billion across the university, including self-funded auxiliary operations such as the health system and athletics, and regional campuses. The approved budget also includes spending details on restricted use funds such as federal research grants and private gifts.
The general funds portion of the budget for the Columbus campus is $967.2 million, an increase of approximately 5 percent in revenue and spending in support of the priorities of the Academic Plan, the university's strategy to become a top-tier research university.
State support for the Columbus campus is expected to increase by 1.5 percent, marking the second year in a row that state support has increased slightly. However, the state share of Columbus campus general fund revenues continues to decline, and still remains below its level of fiscal year 2001. In response, the university will continue its focus on efforts to generate revenues from other sources, including private fund-raising and sponsored research.
Capital plan approved
The board approved the final recommendations for the FY 2007 through FY 2012 capital plan. Preliminary recommendations were submitted to the board in July. Major changes from the July document include reworking priorities to reflect the Medical Center's facility master planning process; raising the Koffolt Lab expansion from 8th to 5th on the list of priorities, exchanging places with the Interdisciplinary Research Building; updating the recommendation on the Airport Master Plan; and realigning projects for the FY 2005 and FY 2007 bond issues. The university will ask for $58.5 million in state allocations for capital projects during the 2007-08 biennium, with the renovation of Thompson Library at the top of the priority list. Approval of the recommendations signifies only adoption of the long-range plan. Individual projects will still require board approval for design and for construction.
Core purchasing processes reviewed
Trustees heard a report from Helen DeSantis, assistant vice president for business operations, on new purchasing initiatives that have resulted in savings of $21 million in fiscal year 2005 — far exceeding a goal of $12 million-$15 million for the year. The practices are part of a long-term business strategy designed to harness the buying power of Ohio State and to implement internal efficiencies in order to free up additional funds for core mission projects at a time when new funding is limited.
Among the cost saving/avoiding measures is continued leveraging of a preferred vendor contract with IBM, awarded in August 2003, which has saved the university $5 million. Prices for hardware and related products are approximately 22 percent less, on average, and IBM's pricing structure has been a catalyst to drive down other supplier's prices.
Purchasing is one of six areas trustees identified in May 2003 for routine reviews of core processes. Progress reports are presented to trustees on a regular basis. Since the last report in September 2004, DeSantis said the three procurement organizations (Central, Health System and Research Foundation) have made substantial progress in moving from tactical to strategic buying. Plans are in place to generate an additional $13 to $14 million in cost savings.
Trustees approve new Student Information System
Trustees approved the implementation of a new student information system at an anticipated cost of $40 million to $50 million over the next four years. Approval of the PeopleSoft/Oracle's Student Administration modular system follows a feasibility study spearheaded this past year by the Offices of Undergraduate Studies and Information Technology. Project planning, staffing and team training will be under way through winter quarter, and the new system will be phased in over several months, beginning autumn quarter 2008, with the goal that all modules — academic advising, financial aid, recruiting and admissions, student financials and student records — will be in place and fully operational by autumn quarter 2009. The project will be funded over a multi-year period through a combination of central funds and assessments to the colleges and support units using the system.
Replacing Ohio State's last major administrative system will result in several improvements, including the ability to share information across administrative, student and faculty users and ensure an integrated source of student-related data. It also will allow the university to move away from its current use of Social Security number as a student identifier.
Progress report on faculty tracks heard
Trustees heard from representatives of the four colleges who have hired or anticipate hiring clinical-track or research-track faculty, options resulting from the passage of university rules passed by the University Senate and trustees in 2002 and 2004, respectively.
Associate Dean for Faculty Sharon Davis, Moritz College of Law, Associate Dean Robert Gustafson, College of Engineering, and Senior Associate Dean Steven Mangum, Fisher College of Business, told trustees that clinical faculty help prepare students for professional practice by serving as links between college and industry. Clinical track faculty are experienced professionals who often possess special skills and serve as facilitators or advisers for clinics held by their respective colleges, among other contributions.
Vice Provost for Academic Affairs Carole Anderson, who introduced the four, said the option to create such faculty tracks allows Ohio State to compete for top talent among those for whom tenure is no longer important.
Department of Athletics updated
Gene Smith, director of Athletics, provided an update on developments, including the transition of the Student-Athlete Support Services Office (SASSO) to the Office of Academic Affairs. During the 2005-06 academic year, SASSO will provide assistance to approximately 900 student-athletes who will compete in 36 varsity sports. Martha Garland, vice provost and dean for undergraduate studies, added that a more comprehensive plan was needed to meet their unique needs. The ultimate goal is to enable students to reach their highest potential as competitors and to ensure graduation within a five-year period. Elements in the revised program include targeted progress toward a degree, services more specific to academic levels of preparation, and the development of closer partnerships and collaborations between academic units and departments. The selection of a new SASSO director is in its final stages.
Greek life highlighted
Tracy Stuck, director of the Ohio Union and chair of the Greek Life Task Force, told trustees that a significant amount of work and progress has occurred over the past six years to ensure the integrity and viability of fraternities and sororities on the Ohio State campus. Efforts included the development of the Standards of Excellence that outline expectations toward academics, recruitment, advisers, fiscal responsibility, community service, risk management and diversity education. A three-year assessment, completed in 2004, indicated a steady increase in the academic performance of students involved in Greek organizations along with a renewed commitment to diversity, charitable giving and the university community. Heather McGinnis, assistant director for the Ohio Union, said students continue to need assistance with the new member process and that ongoing education regarding alcohol use is required.
Student receives Board recognition
Elizabeth Lubnina, a senior from Copley, Ohio, received the board's Student Recognition Award. Lubnina, a triple major in finance, international business and Russian, maintains a 3.92 GPA and is involved in the Honors Cohort Program in the Fisher College of Business. Lubnina has served as president of a junior class honorary, president of the Russian Club and vice president of a sophomore class honorary. She has completed internships with Merrill Lynch in New York and with a juice company in Poland.
Faculty award winners heard
Trustees heard a presentation by three faculty members who have won awards reflecting their excellence in teaching, research and service. Neelima Bendapudi, associate professor of marketing and logistics in the Fisher College of Business and a recipient of the 2001 Alumni Award for Distinguished Teaching, spoke on the role of teaching at a top-tier research university and the ways in which research informs teaching.
Gregory Jusdanis, director of the Modern Greek Program in the Department of Greek and Latin and a recipient of the 2003 Distinguished Scholar Award, spoke on the importance of ensuring that research is relevant to the student experience.
Gregory M. Reed, the Bud and Marilyn Jenne Designated Professor in Equine Clinical Sciences and Research and recipient of the 2002 Faculty Award for Distinguished University Service, discussed the importance of service to the university beyond classroom and clinical duties.
