Minutes of the Board of Regents of Stephen F. Austin State University. 2009, Volume No. 251

              Stephen F. Austin
State University
Minutes of the
Board of Regents
Nacogdoches, Texas
April 20 and 21, 2009 (Volume 251)
TABLE OF CONTENTS
BOARD MINUTES FOR APRIL 20-21, 2009
Meeting 251
Page
Approval of Minutes
Board Order 09-18
Approval of January 26 and 27, 2009 Minutes
Personnel
Board Order 09-19
Faculty Appointments for 2009-2010 3
Staff Appointments for 2009-2010 4
Changes of Status for 2009-2010 5
Retirements 6
Promotions 7
Tenure 8
Faculty Development Leave for 2009-2010 8
Regents Professorship for 2009-2010 8
Academic and Student Affairs
Board Order 09-20
Small-Size Classes Spring 2009 9
Curriculum Changes 9
Name Change for Department of Sociology, Anthropology and Gerontology 9
Building and Grounds
Board Order 09-21
Morgan, Hill, Sutton and Mitchell Architectural Services 10
Renovation of Piney Woods Conservation Center Sewer System 10
Approval of the North Street and East College Street Corner Concept 10
Selection of an Architect for the Freshman Residence Hall and Parking Garage 11
Selection of a Construction Manager at Risk for the Freshman Residence Hall
and Parking Garage 11
Financial Affairs
Board Order 09-22
Increase in SFA Purple Promise Program 12
Property, Boiler and Machinery and Inland Marine Insurance 12
Furniture Purchase for the Early Childhood Research Center 13
Donations to the Richard and Lucille DeWitt School of Nursing Project 13
Adoption of 2009 Summer Budget 13
Board Order 09-23
FY2010 Room and Board Rates 14
Board Order 09-24
Campus Recreation Fee 14
Board Order 09-25
Course and Lab Fees 15
Board Order 09-26
Designated Tuition Increase for 2009-2010 15
Board Order 09-27
Library Fee Increase for 2009-2010 15
Board Order 09-28
Technology Fee Increase for 2009-2010 16
University Policies and Procedures
Board Order 09-29
Policy Revisions 16
Reports
President
Audit Services Report
Faculty Senate
Student Government Association
Board Order 09-30
Election of Board Officers 2009-2010 16
Appendices
Appendix 1 - Small-Size Classes Spring 2009
Appendix 2 - Curriculum Changes
Appendix 3 - Room and Board Rates for 2009-2010
Appendix 4 - Course and Lab Fees for 2009-2010
Appendix 5 - Policy Revisions
Academic Accommodation of Students with Disabilities (F-33)
Awarding Academic Credit for Noncollegiate
Sponsored Instruction (A-52)
Building Security/Special Events (F-5)
Cellular Telephone and Wireless Communication Devices (F-42)
Dead Week (A-15)
Departmental Accounting Responsibilities (C-l 1)
Emeritus (E-14A)
Employee Scholarship Program (E-65)
Employment of Persons with Criminal History (E-19)
Establishing Centers, Institutes, and Specialized Testing or
Service Laboratories (A-71) NEW
Ethics (E-56)
Expenditure Authority for Financial Transactions (C-53)
Faculty Workload (A-l 8)
Financial Aid Code of Conduct (D-53) NEW
Gramm Leach Bliley Act Required Information Security (D-54) NEW
Hall 20 Guest Rooms (B-l 1)
Historically Underutilized Businesses (C-l6.5)
Identity Theft Protection (C-60) NEW
Indirect Cost Recovery, Distribution and Use (A-51)
Kennedy Auditorium (B-l6)
Leave of Absence (Faculty) (E-29A)
Leave of Absence (Non-Academic)(E-30N)
Overtime and Additional Compensation (E-36)
Parking and Traffic Regulations (D-24)
Personnel Action Request (E-39)
Probationary Period of Employment (E-40N)
Radioactive or Radiation Producing Materials or Equipment (D-27)
Research Development Program (A-65)
Research Enhancement Program (A-39)
Salary Supplements, Stipends, and Additional Compensation (E-9)
Smoking and Use of Tobacco Products (E-35.5)
Solicitation on Campus (D-33)
Staff Development (E-47.2)
Student Discipline (D-34)
Student Employment Center (F-26)
The Ed and Gwen Cole Art Center and the Griffith Gallery (B-36) NEW
Time Sheets (E-52N)
University Vehicles (Rental & 15 Passenger Vans) (B-30)
Use of Amplified Sound on Campus Grounds (D-21)
Wireless Networking (D-49)
Stephen F. Austin State University
Minutes of the Meeting of the
Board of Regents
Nacogdoches, Texas
April 20 and 21,2009
Austin Building 307
Meeting 251
Monday. April 20, 2009
The regular meeting of the Board of Regents was called to order in open session at 8:00
a.m., Monday, April 20, 2009, by Chair James Thompson.
PRESENT:
Board Members:
President:
Vice-Presidents:
Mr. James Thompson, Chair
Mr. Carlos Amaral
Mr. Richard Boyer
Dr. Scott Coleman
Ms. Lacey Claver
Mr. James Dickerson
Ms. Valerie Ertz
Mr. Bob Garrett
Mr. Steve McCarty
Mr. Melvin White
Dr. Baker Pattillo
Dr. Richard Berry
Mr. Danny Gallant
Mr. Steve Westbrook
General Counsel: Ms. Yvette Clark
Other SFA administrators, staff, and visitors
The Building and Grounds Committee convened at 8:00 a.m. and adjourned at 3:15p.m.
The Finance/Audit Committee convened at 3:15 p.m. and adjourned at 4:35 p.m. The
Academic and Student Affairs Committee convened at 4:48 p.m. and adjourned at 5:12
p.m.
The chair called for an executive session at 5:20 p.m. to consider the following items:
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Consultation with Attorney Regarding Legal Advice or Pending and/or Contemplated
Litigation or Settlement Offers, including but not limited to, Watkins Trust and
CampusPartners.(Texas Government Code, Section 551.071)
Deliberations Regarding Negotiated Contracts for Prospective Gifts or Donations (Texas
Government Code, Section 551.073)
Deliberations Regarding the Deployment, or Special Occasions for Implementation, of
Security Personnel or Devices (Texas Government Code, Section 551.076)
• Receipts Audit
Consideration of Individual Personnel Matters Relating to Appointment, Employment,
Evaluation, Assignment, Duties, Discipline, or Dismissal of an Officer or Employee,
including but not limited to physical plant personnel, basketball coaches, deans,
coordinator of special projects, vice presidents and president (Texas Government Code,
Section 551.074)
The executive session ended at 6:25 p.m. and the board meeting was recessed for the
evening with no further action.
Tuesday, January 26, 2009
The chair reconvened the board meeting in open session at 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April
21,2009.
PRESENT:
Board Members:
President:
Vice-Presidents:
General Counsel:
Mr. James Thompson, Chair
Mr. Carlos Amaral
Mr. Richard Boyer
Dr. Scott Coleman
Ms. Lacey Claver
Mr. James Dickerson
Ms. Valerie Ertz
Mr. Bob Garrett
Mr. Steve McCarty
Mr. Melvin White
Dr. Baker Pattillo
Dr. Richard Berry
Mr. Danny Gallant
Mr. Steve Westbrook
Ms. Yvette Clark
Other SFA administrators, staff, and visitors
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Regent White led the pledge to the flags and provided the invocation.
RECOGNITIONS
Chair Thompson and President Pattillo recognized outgoing regent Paul Pond and his
family. Regent Pond was presented with a portrait and a commemorative Lumberjack
Axe with thanks for his service on the Board of Regents.
Athletic Director Robert Hill introduced the coaches and players of the Southland
Conference Champion Lumberjack Basketball Team and the Ladyjack Track and Field
Team. Director of Student Life Michael Preston introduced the National Champion Small
Co-Ed Cheerleading Squad and Pom Squad. Steve Westbrook recognized Pat Spence,
who recently was named TIP A State Adviser of the Year. Baker Pattillo introduced Bob
Wright, newly named the executive director of marketing and public affairs. Michael
Stroup was introduced as the interim dean of the Rusche College of Business. Ric Berry
introduced the group of newly promoted full professors and the Regents Professor of
2009-2010, Dr. Tom Segady.
The Honorable Campbell Cox II, Judge of the 145th District Court, was introduced to
swear in the newly appointed regents Dr. Scott Coleman and Mr. Steve McCarty and the
reappointed regent Ms. Valerie Ertz.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Board Order 09-18
Upon motion by Regent Amaral, seconded by Regent Dickerson, with all members
voting aye, the minutes of the January 26 and 27, 2009 board meeting were approved.
PERSONNEL
Board Order 09-19
Upon motion by Regent Garrett, seconded by Regent White, with all members voting
aye, the following personnel items were approved:
FACULTY APPOINTMENTS FOR 2009 - 2010
Education
Hope Elisabeth Wilson, Assistant Professor of Elementary Education, M.Ed.
(Hardin Simmons University), at an academic year salary of $49,000 for 100
percent time, effective September 1, 2009, contingent upon completion of
doctorate by August 31, 2009.
Christine Bergan, Assistant Professor of Human Services, Ph.D. (University of
Iowa) at an academic year salary of $60,000 for 100 percent time, effective
September 1,2009.
Fine Arts
Kevin Kelleher, Instructor of Sound Recording Technology, M.ME (Old
Dominion University) at an academic year salary of $45,000 for 100 percent time,
effective September 1, 2009.
Forestry and Agriculture
Steven H. Bullard, Dean of Arthur Temple College of Forestry and Agriculture,
Ph.D. (Virginia Polytechnic Institute), at an annual salary of $151,000 for 100
percent time, effective July 1, 2009.
Liberal and Applied Arts
Charles Patterson, Assistant Professor of Modern Languages, M.A. (University of
New Mexico), at an academic year salary of $46,000 for 100 percent time,
effective September 1, 2009, contingent upon completion of doctorate by August
31,2009.
Jessica A. Sams, Assistant Professor of English, Ph.D. (University of Colorado),
at an academic year salary of $46,000 for 100 percent time, effective September
1,2009.
Paul J. P. SanduL Assistant Professor of History, M.A. (California State
University), at an academic year salary of $45,000 for 100 percent time, effective
September 1, 2009, contingent upon completion of doctorate by August 31, 2009.
Bob Schaller, Assistant Professor of Communication, M.A. (University of
Wyoming) at an academic year salary of $45,000 for 100 percent time, effective
September 1, 2009, contingent upon completion of doctorate by August 1, 2009.
STAFF APPOINTMENTS FOR 2009 - 2010
Admissions
Victoria N. Colla, Admissions Counselor, at an annual salary of $30,160 for 100
percent time, effective January 12,2009.
Athletics
Kurt Corbin, Assistant Football Coach, at a 10.5 month salary of $44,000 for 100
percent time, effective March 2, 2009.
Bruce Erik Slaughter, Assistant Football Coach, at a 10.5 month salary of $44,000
for 100 percent time, effective March 2, 2009.
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Forestry and Agriculture
Joshua E. TrammelL Research Specialist-Temple, at an annual salary of $35,000
for 100 percent time, effective January 5, 2009.
Human Resources
Jamie Nelson Derrick, Senior Human Resources Representative, at an annual
salary of $50,000 for 100 percent time, effective January 19, 2009.
Public Affairs
Robert E. Wright, Executive Director of Public Affairs and Marketing, at an
annual salary of $107,000 for 100 percent time, effective February 9, 2009.
CHANGES OF STATUS FOR 2009 - 2010
Athletics
Aaron Delatorre, from Assistant Football Coach at a 10.5 month salary of $24,720
for 100 percent time, to Assistant Football Coach at a 10.5 month salary of
$30,340 for 100 percent time, effective March 2, 2009.
Business
Violet Rogers, from Dean of College of Business at an annual salary of $134,750
for 100 percent time, to Professor of Accounting at an academic year salary of
$102,000 for 100 percent time, effective June 1, 2009.
Michael Stroup, from Associate Dean of College of Business at an annual salary
of $109,817 for 100 percent time, to Interim Dean of College of Business at an
annual salary of $125,000 for 100 percent time, effective June 1, 2009.
Education
Elizabeth A. Gound, from adjunct faculty in Secondary Education at a five month
salary of $5,000 for 50 percent time, to Visiting Instructor of Secondary
Education at a five month salary of $20,000 for 100 percent time, effective
January 20, 2009.
Graduate Studies
James O. Standley, from Professor of Sociology at an academic year salary of
$78,816 for 100 percent time, to Dean of Graduate Studies and Professor of
Sociology at an annual salary of $114,000 for 100 percent time, effective April
22, 2009.
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Liberal and Applied Arts
Jeana Paul-Urena, from Associate Professor of Modern Languages at an academic
year salary of $54,497 for 100 percent time, to Chair and Associate Professor of
Modern Languages at an annual salary of $95,000 for 100 percent time, effective
August 1,2009.
Lee W. Payne, from Instructor of Government at an academic year salary of
$40,000 for 100 percent time, to Assistant Professor of Government at an
academic year salary of $45,000 for 100 percent time, effective January 1, 2009.
Library
Marty Prince, from Adjunct Faculty in Fine Arts at a five month salary of $13,500
for 50 percent time, to Digital Project Specialist at an annual salary of $34,400 for
100 percent time, effective March 23, 2009.
Physical Plant
Dewain Ray Robberson, from Leadperson Electrical at an annual salary of
$43,843 for 100 percent time, to Supervisor Mechanical Maintenance at an annual
salary of $60,000 for 100 percent time, effective March 1, 2009.
Public Affairs
Shirley Luna, from Interim Executive Director of Marketing at an annual salary of
$81,500 for 100 percent time, to Associate Director of Media Relations at an
annual salary of $59,225 for 100 percent time, effective February 9, 2009.
Sciences and Mathematics
Petra B. Collyer, D.V.M. (University of Berne, Switzerland), from Adjunct
Faculty in Biology at an academic year salary of $22,500 for 100 percent time, to
Assistant Professor of Biology at an academic year salary of $50,000 for 100
percent time, effective September 1, 2009.
University Affairs
Christina Moreno, from Orientation Assistant at an annual salary of $14,008 for
75 percent time, to Assistant Director of Orientation at an annual salary of
$36,000 for 100 percent time, effective February 1, 2009.
RETIREMENTS
Joyce Hoffman, Associate Professor of Management, Marketing and International
Business, effective December 31, 2008.
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Thomas Martin Matthys, Associate Professor of Theatre, effective August 31,
2009.
Craig A. Wood, Chair and Professor of Computer Science, effective August 31,
2009.
PROMOTIONS
The following individuals were granted promotion to the academic rank indicated,
effective fall semester, 2009.
To Associate Professor:
Dr. Ann Wilson
Dr. Mikhail Kouliavtsev
Dr. Darla Daniel O'Dwyer
Dr. Amanda Rudolph
Dr. Elizabeth Witherspoon
Dr. Jeffery Gergley
Dr. Mary Nelle Brunson
Dr. Jennifer Dalmas
Dr. Scott Harris
Dr. I-Kuai Hung
Dr. Michael Given
Dr. Kenneth Untiedt
Dr. Kathleen Belanger
Dr. Kevin Langford
Dr. Cynthia McCarley
Dr. Donald Pratt
To Professor:
Dr. T. Parker Ballinger
Dr. Susan Jennings
Dr. Alan Sowards
Dr. Jerry Williams
Dr. Sharon Templeman
Dr. Michael Tkacik
Dr. Josephine Taylor
Dr. Stephen Wagner
To Professor Emeritus:
Dr. Craig Wood
Dr. Michael Legg
Dr. Scott Beasley
Dr. Allen Richman
Dr. Ann Doyle-Anderson
General Business
Economics and Finance
Human Sciences
Secondary Education
Elementary Education
Kinesiology
Elementary Education
Music
Music
Forestry
English and Philosophy
English and Philosophy
Social Work
Biology
Nursing
Biology
Economics and Finance
General Business
Elementary Education
Sociology
Social Work
Government
Biology
Biology
Computer Science
Forestry
Forestry
History
Modern Language
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To Librarian II:
Ms. Christine Hennessey Library
To Librarian III:
Ms. Linda Reynolds Library
TENURE
Academic tenure was awarded to the following individuals, effective fall
semester, 2009.
Dr. Ann Wilson General Business
Dr. Deborah Buswell Kinesiology
Dr. Darla Daniel O'Dwyer Human Sciences
Dr. Amanda Rudolph Secondary Education
Dr. Jennifer Dalmas Music
Dr. Scott LaGraff Music
Dr. Steven H. Bullard Forestry
Dr. I-Kuai Hung Forestry
Dr. Michael Given English and Philosophy
Dr. Kenneth Untiedt English and Philosophy
Dr. Kevin Langford Biology
Dr. Donald Pratt Biology
Dr. Cynthia McCarley Nursing
Ms. Linda Reynolds Library
FACULTY DEVELOPMENT LEAVE FOR 2009 - 2010
The faculty members listed below were awarded Faculty Development Leave for
the semester indicated.
Fall 2009
Theresa Coble Forestry
Dean Coble Forestry
Norjuan Austin English
REGENTS PROFESSORSHIP FOR 2009 - 2010
Dr. Tom Segady, Professor of Sociology, was awarded a Regents Professorship
for the academic year 2009-2010.
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ACADEMIC AND STUDENT AFFAIRS
Board Order 09-20
Upon motion by Regent Boyer, seconded by Regent Amaral, with all members voting
aye, the following academic and student affairs items were approved.
SMALL-SIZE CLASSES SPRING 2009
WHEREAS, the board considered the following: Texas Higher Education Coordinating
Board rules require that all regular organized undergraduate classes with fewer than ten
students enrolled and regular graduate classes with fewer than five students enrolled be
approved by the Board of Regents. Under policies established by the board, such classes
can only be taught for specific reasons, such as the course being needed for students to
meet graduation requirements, etc. Courses for Spring 2009 are listed in Appendix 1.
Therefore, the Spring 2009 small-size class list in Appendix 1 was approved.
CURRICULUM CHANGES
Whereas, the board considered the following: Changes in curriculum originate in the
department and are reviewed by the college and university curriculum committees, the
graduate council, the appropriate dean and the provost/vice president for academic
affairs. After approval by the Board of Regents, curriculum changes are submitted to the
Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.
Therefore, the Board of Regents approved the undergraduate and graduate curriculum
changes listed in Appendix 2.
NAME CHANGE FOR DEPARTMENT OF SOCIOLOGY, ANTHROPOLOGY AND
GERONTOLOGY
Whereas, the board considered the following: The Department of Sociology,
Anthropology and Gerontology is requesting a name change to the Department of Social
and Cultural Analysis. This will reflect the current disciplinary alignment, due to two
significant alterations:
■ The gerontology program has been absorbed into sociology.
■ The geography program was added several years ago.
Thus the current name no longer describes the mix of disciplines contained in the unit.
Therefore, the Department of Sociology, Anthropology and Gerontology was renamed
the Department of Social and Cultural Analysis.
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BUILDING AND GROUNDS
Board Order 09-21
Upon motion by Regent Garrett, seconded by Regent McCarty, with all members voting
aye, the following building and grounds items were approved.
MORGAN, HILL, SUTTON AND MITCHELL ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES
Whereas, the board considered the following: Government Code 2254 requires that
architectural services be procured through the selection of the most highly qualified
provider based on demonstrated competence and qualifications. The architectural firm of
Morgan, Hill, Sutton and Mitchell has worked on various university projects using an
hourly fee arrangement for many years.
Therefore, based on the firm's knowledge of SFA and past performance at the
university, it was approved for the university to sign a five year contract that includes
annual rate negotiation with Morgan, Hill, Sutton and Mitchell to provide architectural
services on an hourly basis as needed for various projects.
RENOVATION OF PINEY WOODS CONSERVATION CENTER SEWER SYSTEM
Whereas, the board considered the following: The university operates an on-site sewer
collection and treatment system at the Piney Woods Conservation Center. Inspections of
the system components that are visible during operation revealed significant corrosion
that needed to be repaired to properly maintain the system. A plan was developed for
repair and recoating of the wastewater treatment plant to maintain compliance with
guidelines of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. Request for proposals
were issued and the bid was awarded to Pennington Utility in the amount of $64,468.12.
The original contract required the contractor to only pump out approximately two feet of
liquids in the aeration basin for refurbishing. Drainage of the reservoir revealed
extensive corrosion and deterioration of the plant structure. While the reservoir was
drained, necessary repairs were made to restore the structural integrity of the reservoir.
Unanticipated restoration costs added $41,355.48 to bring the total cost of the contract to
$105,823.60.
Therefore, the Board of Regents ratified the total amount of $105,823.60 paid to
Pennington Utility.
APPROVAL OF THE NORTH STREET AND EAST COLLEGE STREET CORNER
CONCEPT
Whereas, the board considered the following: At the January 27, 2009 meeting, the
Board of Regents authorized the site development of the North Street and East College
Street corner. Concepts were to be prepared and presented to the Board of Regents for
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approval. The Building and Grounds Committee considered the proposed concepts at its
meeting on April 20, 2009, and recommended the design incorporating a water feature
and adding an adequate lighting design by SFA staff.
Therefore, approval was given to the site development concept incorporating a water
feature and lighting design, and the president was authorized to sign associated contracts
and purchase orders at a cost not to exceed $200,000. The fund source is the capital
reserve.
SELECTION OF AN ARCHITECT FOR THE FRESHMAN RESIDENCE HALL AND
PARKING GARAGE
Whereas, the board considered the following: At the January 27, 2009 meeting the
Stephen F. Austin State University Board of Regents authorized the administration to
issue a Request for Qualification (RFQ) for an architect to design the Freshman
Residence Hall and Parking Garage. A committee reviewed and ranked the responses of
the top six finalists to be presented to the Building and Grounds Committee. The
Building and Grounds Committee met by telephone conference on March 27, 2009 and
voted to recommend that the top three finalists make presentations: Kirksey from
Houston, Perkins + Will from Dallas, and Randal Scott Associates, Inc. from Dallas. The
Building and Grounds Committee at its meeting on April 20, 2009, selected Kirksey as
the most qualified architect for this project, with Randall Scott selected as the second
most qualified architect for the project. Major discussion issues in the selection of an
architect for the Freshman Residence Hall included:
• creativity and flexibility for the project as demonstrated in the presentation
• connection with the university's campus and architecture
Recommendation:
Therefore, the Board of Regents selected Kirksey as the most qualified architect for the
Freshman Residence Hall and Parking Garage from the three finalists and authorized the
administration to open negotiations with the firm for design services. If negotiations are
unsuccessful, the board authorized negotiations with Randall Scott, named as the second
most qualified architect for the project. The board further authorized the president to sign
the negotiated contract.
SELECTION OF A CONSTRUCTION MANAGER AT RISK FOR THE FRESHMAN
RESIDENCE HALL AND PARKING GARAGE
Whereas, the board considered the following: At the January 27, 2009 meeting the
Stephen F. Austin State University Board of Regents authorized the administration to
issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) for a construction manager at risk to construct the
Freshman Residence Hall and Parking Garage. A committee reviewed and ranked the
responses of the top six finalists to be presented to the Building and Grounds Committee.
The Building and Grounds Committee met by telephone conference on March 27, 2009
and voted to recommend that the top three finalists make presentations: J.E. Kingham
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Construction Company from Nacogdoches, Spawglass from Houston, and The Whiting-
Turner Contracting Company from Piano. At its April 20, 2009 meeting the Building and
Grounds Committee selected J.E. Kingham Construction Company as the most qualified
construction manger at risk firm, if their proposed aggregate total of the Pre-Construction
fees, Construction Manager at Risk fees and General Conditions fees can be negotiated to
match the proposed aggregate total of the Pre-Construction fees, Construction Manager at
Risk fees and General Condition fees of Whiting-Turner; and if Kingham confirms that
the project can be timely completed in 22 months. If negotiations with Kingham are
unsuccessful, the Building and Grounds Committee recommended the second choice firm
be The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company. Major discussion issues in the selection
included:
• best value in the areas considered by the evaluation team
• estimated cost based on the fees and general conditions
Therefore, the Board of Regents selected J.E. Kingham Construction Company as
construction manager at risk for the Freshman Residence Hall and Parking Garage if the
aggregate total of the proposed Pre-Construction fees, Construction Manager at Risk fees
and General Conditions fees can be negotiated to match the aggregate total of the
proposed Pre-Construction fees, Construction Manager at Risk fees and General
Conditions fees of The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company; and if Kingham confirms
that the project can be timely completed in 22 months. If negotiations with Kingham are
unsuccessful, The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company was selected as the next most
qualified firm to serve as construction manger at risk for this project. The president was
authorized to sign the negotiated contracts.
FINANCIAL AFFAIRS
Board Order 09-22
Upon motion by Regent White, seconded by Regent Amaral, with all members voting
aye, the following financial affairs items were approved.
INCREASE IN SFA PURPLE PROMISE PROGRAM
WHEREAS, the board considered the following: At its January 27, 2009 meeting, the
Board of Regents approved a program to cover the full costs of tuition and fees for four
years for students whose family income is $25,000 or less, as part of the university's
efforts to increase enrollment and its actions to support the access and participation goals
of the state's "Closing the Gaps" initiative. In the spirit of cooperation with the Texas
Legislature in its endeavor to make college affordable for students and their families, the
university proposes raising the income threshold for this program to students whose
family income is $30,000 or less. The "SFA Purple Promise" program will be available to
all students whose families fall into this financial category, who are admitted to the
university, maintain specified academic standards, and complete a specified number of
credit hours per semester.
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Therefore, the Board of Regents approved this expanded MSFA Purple Promise"
program, effective for fall semester, 2009.
PROPERTY, BOILER & MACHINERY, AND INLAND MARINE INSURANCE
Whereas, the board considered the following: Pursuant to State of Texas requirements,
the university utilizes the Statewide Property Insurance Program provided by the State
Office of Risk Management (SORM) for property, boiler and machinery, and inland
marine insurance. The insurance policy period extends from May 1st through April 30th
of each year. The university's current insurance contract with SORM began May 1, 2008
and ends April 30, 2009. The State Office of Risk Management is currently negotiating
rates with insurance carriers.
Therefore, it was approved that the university continue coverage under the Statewide
Property Insurance program through the State Office of Risk Management (SORM). The
new policy period will extend from May 1, 2009 through April 30, 2010. The president
was authorized to sign the contract.
FURNITURE PURCHASE FOR THE EARLY CHILDHOOD RESEARCH CENTER
Whereas, the board considered the following: Construction of the Early Childhood
Research Center is nearing completion and departments will begin moving in to the new
facility during the summer. The Construction Manager at Risk (CMR) J.E. Kingham has
identified project savings and has submitted a change order that lowers the CMR
guaranteed maximum price of the project from $24,862,881 to $24,112,881.
Therefore, the Board of Regents approved reallocation of $500,000 of the savings to
purchase furniture for the Early Childhood Research Center. The fund source will be
construction project savings.
DONATIONS TO THE RICHARD AND LUCILLE DEWITT SCHOOL OF NURSING
PROJECT
Whereas, the board considered the following: The university has received $260,000 in
donations and a commitment for an additional $500,000 for the purchase of equipment
not originally included in the Richard and Lucille DeWitt School of Nursing Building
project. These donations will allow the School of Nursing to purchase additional modern
technology and equipment that was not originally planned. A testing center in the
Nursing building will eliminate the need to return to the main campus for testing and will
also provide advanced teaching equipment in the simulation center.
Therefore, the Board of Regents accepted the donations to be used for their intended
purpose and authorized expansion of the scope of WHR, project architect, to include
medical technology planning services for the additional equipment made possible by the
donations. The project budget was increased from $13,000,000 to $13,760,000, with the
additional amount of $760,000 funded from donations, and the administration was
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authorized to file an amended project budget with the Texas Higher Education
Coordinating Board, if necessary. The equipment will not be purchased until the
donations are secured by the university.
ADOPTION OF 2009 SUMMER BUDGET
Whereas, the board considered the following: The fiscal year 2008-09 summer budget
contains two regular summer semesters and a mini-semester. The 2008-09 annual budget
includes $4,148,981 that is available to support summer school academic salaries and
benefits. In addition, $868,000 of actual income in excess of budget and $210,825 from
E&G salary savings are used to fund summer school salaries. Additional faculty salaries,
professional salaries, student wages and benefits totaling $54,899 are supported from
budgeted designated funds. Summer salaries and benefits of $129,927 are funded from
restricted contract and grant funds.
Therefore, approval was given to the 2008-09 summer budget that totals $5,412,632.
Board Order 09-23
Upon motion by Regent White, seconded by Regent Garrett, with all members voting
aye, the following item was approved:
FY2010 ROOM AND BOARD RATES
Whereas, the board considered the following: Projected housing and food service
operating costs support the need to increase the room and board rates for the 2009 - 2010
academic year.
Pursuant to the provisions within the food service contract, the administration and
Aramark have negotiated a rate increase of 4% for the provision of board plan food
service during the 2010 fiscal year. The contract uses the percentage increase in the Food
and Beverage element of the Consumer Price Index published by the Bureau of Labor
Statistics, U. S. Department of Labor, for urban consumers ("CPI-U") in the South as a
benchmark for the rate increase considered. This CPI element was 4.9% for the past 12
months, however negotiations yielded the smaller increase.
The proposed room and board rates for FY2010 are presented on Appendix 3. The
average increase in proposed room rates is 4.78% while the proposed increase in meal
plan rates is 1%.
The revised rates will become effective in the fall semester of 2009.
Therefore, the Board of Regents approved the negotiated 4% Aramark increase and the
proposed room and board rates for FY2010 in accordance with the schedule presented in
Appendix 3.
Board Order 09-24
Upon motion by Regent White, seconded by Regent Dickerson, with all members voting
aye, the following item was approved:
-14-
CAMPUS RECREATION FEE
Whereas, the board considered the following: The current summer campus recreation
fee is $60 per summer semester. There is a reduced fee of $25 for part-time summer
school students, those enrolled for less than six hours. Currently, students enrolled for six
hours, which is full-time status in the summer, are assessed the part-time fee. This
proposed fee modification correctly aligns the fees based on enrollment status.
Therefore, the Board of Regents authorized that the campus recreation fee schedule be
modified to assess the full-time summer semester fee of $60 to students enrolled at full-time
status of six hours or more.
Board Order 09-25
Upon motion by Regent White, seconded by Regent Dickerson, with all members voting
aye, the following item was approved:
COURSE FEES AND OTHER FEES FOR 2009-2010
Whereas, the board considered the following: Course fees provide instructional
departments with funds to support the actual cost of consumable supplies, service, and
travel related to specific courses. Course fees are allocated to instructional departments
for expenditure within the academic year for which they are collected.
Therefore, the Board of Regents adopted the schedule of course fees and other fees
(additions and changes) for the 2009-2010 academic year shown in Appendix 4. This
amended 2009-2010 fee schedule will be effective for the fall semester.
Board Order 09-26
Upon motion by Regent White, seconded by Regent Garrett, with Regents Amaral,
Coleman, Dickerson, Ertz, Garrett, McCarty and White voting aye, Regent Boyer voting
nay, the following item was approved:
DESIGNATED TUITION INCREASE FOR 2009-2010
Whereas, the board considered the following: Stephen F. Austin State University
currently assesses $106 per semester credit hour in designated tuition. The total amount
of designated tuition charged to a student does not exceed the amount one pays with a 16
semester credit hour load. Since the 81st Texas Legislature is currently in session, our
state appropriation funding is uncertain at this time. It is necessary to obtain Board of
Regents approval for fiscal year 2009-10 tuition and fee increases before fall 2009
registration begins on April 28, 2009.
Therefore, the Board of Regents approved an increase in designated tuition of $5 per
semester credit hour. The new rate will be $111 per semester credit hour.
Board Order 09-27
Upon motion by Regent White, seconded by Regent Amaral, with all members voting
aye, the following item was approved:
-15-
LIBRARY FEE INCREASE FOR 2009-2010
Whereas, the board considered the following: The university currently assesses a library
fee of $12 per semester credit hour. The revenue from the fee is used to support library
operations.
Therefore, the Board of Regents approved an increase in the library fee from $12 per
semester credit hour to $13 per semester credit hour in order to support library
operations.
Board Order 09-28
Upon motion by Regent White, seconded by Regent Dickerson, with all members voting
aye, the following item was approved:
TECHNOLOGY FEE INCREASE FOR 2009-2010
Whereas, the board considered the following: The university currently assesses a
technology fee of $16 per semester credit hour to support campus computer technology
and networking.
Therefore, the Board of Regents approved that the technology fee be increased from
$16 per semester credit hour to $20 per semester credit hour to fond technology support.
UNIVERSITY POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
Board Order 09-29
Upon motion by Regent White, seconded by Regent McCarty, with all members voting
aye, the Board of Regents adopted the policy revisions as presented in Appendix 5.
REPORTS
President Pattillo gave a report on the following topics:
• Commencement will be held on May 16. Judge Thomas Reaveley will be the
commencement speaker.
• The summer board meeting will be July 20 and 21, with the grand opening of
the Early Childhood Research Center on Sunday, July 19 at 2:00 p.m.
Summer commencement will be held on August 15.
• The Pine Burrs, a group of women students from the 1950s will be on campus
for a reunion this week and will be hosted by the Pattillos
• The Texas House and Senate have recently passed resolutions recognizing the
Nacogdoches/SFA Day, the Lumberjack Basketball team, and the 85th
anniversary of SFA.
• Institutional assessment
• A newly appointed Admissions Standards Committee will be headed by Gary
Wurtz and will present a report in October.
-16-
• A presentation was made to Lacey Claver, student regent, acknowledging her
contributions to the board at this last regular meeting for her. Her term ends
May 31 and the new student regent will be appointed by June 1.
Gina Oglesbee made her audit services report on the university receipts audit, the bond
compliance audit and the state comptroller's post payment review.
Sally Ann Swearingen, chair of the Faculty Senate, introduced Dr. Marie Saracino and
Dr. Tara Newman, who reported on their online Headstart degree completer program in
Child and Family Development. Ms. Swearingen also reported on the wellness for
faculty.
Brian Sullivan reported as president of the Student Government Association. They had a
very successful competition for the 2009 Big Idea, which was won by the student chapter
of the Society of American Foresters. He introduced the 2009-2010 SGA president
Courtney Harvey and the vice president Laterrious Starks. Mr. Sullivan provided a
summary of activities for the spring semester.
ELECTION OF OFFICERS
Board Order 09-30
Regent Ertz gave the report from the Nominating Committee. Upon motion by Regent
Ertz, seconded by Regent Garrett, with all members voting aye, the following officers
were elected for 2009-2010:
James A. Thompson, Chair
Melvin R. White, Vice Chair
John R. "Bob" Garrett, Secretary
The meeting was adjourned at 11:36 a.m.
-17-
Appendix 1
Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board Rules Currently in Effect (9-2006)
Chapter 5. Rules Applying to Public Universities and/or Health-Related Institutions of Higher
Education in Texas
Subchapter B. Role and Mission, Tables of Programs, Course Inventory
§5.23 Definitions
§5.23.5 Organized classes—Classes whose primary mode of instruction is lecture,
laboratory, or seminar.
§5.23.8 Small classes—Undergraduate level classes with less than 10 registrations,
and graduate level classes with less than five registrations.
§5.26 Offering of Small Classes by Public Universities
In accordance with Texas Education Code, §51.403(d), public universities may offer
organized small classes which:
§51.403(d.l) have been approved by the governing board of the university;
§51.403(d.2) is a required course for graduation (the course is not offered each
semester or term, and, if canceled, may affect the date of graduation of those
enrolled);
§51.403(d.3) is a required course for majors in this field and should be completed
this semester (or term) to keep proper sequence in courses;
§51.403(d.4) is a course in a newly established degree program, concentration, or
support area;
§51.403(d.5) is part of an interdepartmental (cross-listed) course taught as a
single class by the same faculty at the same station, provided that the combined
enrollments do not constitute a small class;
§51.403(d.6) is a first-time offering of the course;
§51.403(d.7) is class size-limited by accreditation or state licensing standards;
§51.403(d.8) is class size-limited by availability of laboratory or clinical facilities;
or
§51.403(d.9) is voluntarily offered by a faculty member in excess of the
institutional teaching load requirement and for which the faculty member receives
no additional compensation.
Source Note: The provisions of this §5.26 adopted to be effective May 28, 2003, 28
TexReg 4124
SMALL CLASSES Spring 2009
Appendix 1
Total Estimated Credit Hours in Small Classes 714
Total Estimated SFA Credit Hours Spring 2009 137,430
Estimated Small Class Credit Hours as a Percentage of SFA Total Credit Hours .52%
Appendix 2
Undergraduate New Course Proposals
MKTS62 Sports Promotion New Course
MKT major emphasis Sports Marketing New Course
MKT minor Sports Marketing New Course
HMS426 Field Experience in Human Sciences New Course
HMS442 Visual Merchandising Display II New Course
HMS404L Quantity Food Production & Service Lab New Course
HMS407 Understanding customer relationships New Course
HMS407L Customer relations for hospitality industries lab New Course
ARTS 17 Digital Photography New Course
ART419 Alternative Process Photography New Course
ART431 Advanced Sculpture: Casting New Course
ART432 Advanced Sculpture: Installation New Course
ART463 Digital Media: Motion Graphics New Course
ART464 Digital Media: Time Based Media New Course
ART478 Art Advertising Practicum New Course
FOR252 Environmental Interpretation Methods New Course
FOR441 Ecology, Management & Harvesting of White-tailed Deer New Course
FOR441L ECO/MGMT/HARVEST WHITE-TL Deer New Course
ENV407 Water Resources Management New Course
HRT420 Plant Nutrient Management New Course
COLLEGE OF UBERAL & APPLIED ARTS
COM 202 Communication Research Methods New Course
COM 300 Intro to Media Studies New Course
COM 400 Adv. Topics in Media Studies New Course
COM 402 Mass media and Society New Course
ENG 373 Technical & Professional Editing New Course
ENG 460 Literary Publishing Internship New Course
ENG 465 Topics in Creative Writing New Course
GEO 220L Introduction to GIS Lab New Course
GER 13 lL Elementary German Lab New Course
GER 132L Elementary German Lab New Course
GER 231 Intermediate German I New Course
GER 232 Intermediate German II New Course
HIS 349 African American History New Course
PHI 480 Phosophy in Media New Course
PHI 482 Ethics, Tehcnology & Society New Course
PSC 305 Appellate Advocacy I New Course
PSC 328 International Terrorism New Course
PSC 340 International Conflict & Peace New Course
PSC 405 Appellate Advocacy II New Course
PSC 442 Readings in Public Law New Course
PSC 498 Intern Seminar New Course
PSY 200 Scientific Literacy in Psychology New Course
PSY 311 Social Psychology New Course
PSY 351 Sensation & Perception New Course
PSY 360 Cognitive Psychology New Course
Page 1: New
Appendix 2
Page 2: New
Appendix 2
BIO342 Comparative Vertebrate Zoology New Course
BIO342L Comparative Vertebrate Zoology Lab New Course
BIO350 Economic Botany New Course
BIO351 Plant Kingdom New Course
BIO351L Plant Kingdom Lab New Course
GOL451 Hydrogeology Field Techniques New Course
GOL450 Cave & Karst Systems New Course
Page 3: New
Appendix 2
Undergraduate Course Change Proposals
FIN369 Personal Finance Change course number
FIN415 Personal Fiancial Planning change course description
GBU485 Internship in General Business change in course description
BLW4S7 Regulation of Business by National Government change in title & description
MGT463 Business Policy & Strategy-Formulation change in pre-requisites
HMS414L Commercial Design II Modification
RDG320 Literacy Dev in Middle Childhood Modify Course
SED460 Managing a Learner-Centered Classroom Modify Course
ECHS51 Child-Centered En Modify Course
RDG314 Text-based RDG Tech & procedures Modify Course
ECH432 Professional Roles & Responsibilites Modify Course
HMS204 Aesthetics Modify Course
HMS214 Accessories in Interiors Modify Course
HMS314 Building Construction Systems Modify Course
HMS355 Nutrition for Healthcare Modify Course
HMS404 Quantity Food Production & Service Modify Course
HMS414 Commercial Design II Modify Course
COLLEGE OF MNE ARTS
THR460 History of the Theatre I Modify Course
THR461 History of the Theatre II Modify Course
THR471 Topics in the Theatre & Drama Modify Course
ART479 Ad Campaign Modify Course
AGNS67 [Weed Science Modify Course
CJS41S Legal Research Writing Modification
COM 102 Intro. To Communication Theory Modification
GRK 131 Elementary Classical Greek I Modification
GRK 132 Elementary Classical Greek II Modification
LAS 300 Intro to Latin American Studies Modification
LBA 398 Advanced Liberal Studies Modification
PSC 403 Constitutional Law: Individual and His. Modification
PSC 499 Internship in Political Science & Public Modification
PSY 198 Learning & Study Skills Modification
PSY 310 Industrial/Organizational Psychology Modification
PSY 330 Psychological Statistics Modification
PSY 341 Research Design in Psychology Modification
PSY 350 Biopsychology Modification
PSY 361 Learning & Conditioning Modification
PSY 375 Abnormal Psychology Modification
PSY 385 Psychology of Aggression Modification
PSY 400 Positive Psychology Modification
PSY 420 Hitory & Systems of Psychology Modification
PSY 475 Special Problems Modification
PSY 497 Research Seminar Modification
PSY 498 Topics in Psychology Modification
ANT 382 Area Studies in Anthropology Modification
Page 1: Changes
Appendix 2
ANT 477 Special Topics in Anthropology Modification
SPA 235 Intermediate Spanish Conversastion Modification
SPA 303 Advanced Grammar and Composition Modification
SPA 304 Introduction to Hispanic Literacy Modification
SPA 310 Spanish Phonetics Modification
SPA 330 History of Hispanic American Culture I Modification
SPA 340 History of Spanish Culture I Modification
MTH138 College Algebra Modify Course
MTH439 Advanced Calculus I Modify Course
MTH440 Advanced Calculus II Modify Course
BIO313 General Ecology Modify Course
BIO313L General Ecology Lab Modify Course
Page 2: Changes
Appendix 2
Undergraduate Course Deletions
■■■I llllllllllll
ACC431 Government Accounting Delete Course
ACC432 Legal Prin Related to Accounting Delete Course
ACC433 Mgmt Acct Information System I Delete Course
ACC434 Mgmt Acct Information System II Delete Course
ACC443 Taxation on Business Delete Course
ACC451 Introduction to Oil & Gas Acc"t Delete Course
ACC463 Accounting Theory Delete Course
COLLEGE OF EDUCATION
HSC483 Driver & Traffic Safety Ed I Delete Course
HSC484 Driver & Traffic Safety Ed II Delete Course
KIN 107 Gymnastics Delete Course
KIN125 Emergency Care Delete Course
KIN207 Gymnastics Delete Course
KIN220 Body Mechanics Delete Course
KIN331 Activities/Games/Sport Children Delete Course
SED445 Practicum Delete Course
FOR452 Envrionmental Interpretation Methods Delete Course
AGN442 Senior Seminar Delete Course
AGN267 World Crops Delete Course
AGN345 Soil & Water Conservation Delete Course
AGN345L Soil & Water Conservation Lab Delete Course
ENV223 GIS & Mapping Environmental Resources Delete Course
ENV223L Lab: GIS & Mapping Environmental Resources Delete Course
FOR105 Engineering Drawing Delete Course
FOR105L Lab: Engineering Drawing Delete Course
FOR241 Wood Properties Delete Course
FOR241L Lab: Wood Properties Delete Course
FOR312 Tree Growth/Wood Quality Relationships Delete Course
FOR402 Field Ecology Delete Course
FOR402L Lab: Field Ecology Delete Course
FOR405L Environmental Communication Interpretation Lab Delete Course
FOR434 Soil Fertility Delete Course
FOR434L Soil Fertility Lab Delete Course
FOR454L Non-game Wildlife Ecology Lab Delete Course
FOR465L Range Development & Evaluation Lab Delete Course
HRT418 Landscape Plant Materials II Delete Course
HRT418L Landscape Plant Materials II Lab Delete Course
PLS433 Introduction to Agricultural Data Analysis Delete Course
COLLEGE OF LIBERAL & APPLIED ARTS
CJS414 Appeals & Briefs Delete Course
ENG 220 Reading in British Literature Delete Course
ENG 386 Literary Theory Delete Course
HIS 235 Introduction to Public History Delete Course
PSC 402 American Consitutional Law: Structure Delete Course
PSY210 Developmental Psychology Delete Course
PSY 240 Human Consciousness Delete Course
PSY 250 Computer Applications in Psychology Delete Course
PSY 290 Experimental Social Psychology Delete Course
Page 1: Deletions
Appendix 2
PSY 390 Psychology of Aging Delete Course
PSY 476 Special Problems Delete Course
PSY 490 Human Assessment Delete Course
PSY 495 Psychopathology Delete Course
PSY 499 Undergrad. Practicum in Communications. Delete Course
SOC 432 Sociology in Art Delete Course
NUR327 Holistic Nursing Delete Course
BIO241 Comparative Vertebrate Zoology Delete Course
BIO241L Comparative Vertebrate Zoology Lab Delete Course
BIO250 Economic Botany Delete Course
BIO251 Plant Kingdom Delete Course
BIO251L Plant Kingdom Lab Delete Course
BIO411 Phylogenetics Delete Course
Page 2: Deletions
Appendix 2
Undergraduate Program Change Proposals
FIN Major change in options with major
FIN emphasis financial planning emphasis
GBUS minor change to reflect FIN269 to FIN369
INTB major change in options in part B
MKT major emphasis Promotion Emphasis
Sales Minor
HMS 478 Interior Design
New minor
Modify degree plan
BS Human Sciences with emphasis in Hospitality Admin, Modify Program
Online Head Start Completer Program Modify Program
Certificate for Construction Management New Program
Certificate in Hospitality Administration New Program
Special Education EC 12 Completer Program-Human Services New Program
BS HS with emphasis in Interior Merchandising Modify Program
COLLEGE OF FINE ARTS
Choral/Instrumental/Elementary New pre-certification tracks
Piano Pedagogy Minor Modify Minor
Museum Studies Certificate New Program
COMS Program Changes
PSYC Program Changes
SOCI Program Changes
SPAN Program Changes
MCM Program Changes
lliiilll
Combined Sciences Minor |New Program Request Form
Page 1: Programs
Appendix 2
ill
CSC 425G
CSC 520, cross list with CSC
425—Differentiation Bachelors vs. Masters
CSC431G
CSC 530, cross list with CSC
431—Differentiation Bachelors vs. Masters
CSC 435G
CSC 560, cross list with CSC
435—Differentiation Bachelors vs. Masters
CSC441G
CSC 540, cross list with CSC
441—Differentiation Bachelors vs. Masters
CSC445G
CSC 550, cross list with CSC
445—Differentiation Bachelors vs. Masters
CSC 511 Programming Languages Change prerequisite to include CSC 540
CSC 524
Database Management Systems - Architecture and
Management Change prerequisite to include CSC 520
CSC 541 Compiler Principles and Techniques Change prerequisite to include CSC 540
CSC 542 Operating Systems Concepts Change prerequisite to include CSC 540
CSC 563 Computer Networks and Distributed Systems Change prerequisite to include CSC 560
BLW 547 International Legal Environment of Business Modify Course
BCM 520 Managerial Communication New Course
ACC 557 Seminar in Internal Auditing Modify Course
Master of Arts Degree in
Student Affairs and
Higher Education degree New program New Program
COU 543 The Contemporary College Student New Course
COU 544 Student Affairs Legal Organization and Practice New Course
COU 545 Leadership and Administration in Student Affairs New Course
COU 546 Advanced Seminar in College Student Development New Course
COU 581 Interviewing and Helping Skills New Course
COU 596 Student Affairs Practicum New Course
>SPE 561 Medical and Educational Aspects Modify Course
COU 534 School Counseling Programs Degree Plan change
Master Mathematics
Teacher EC-4 Certificate New certificate program New Program
ELE 556 Mathematics Curriculum and Content Development New Course
ELE 557
Early Childhood Mathematical Processes and
Instruction New Course
'ELE 558 Assessment and Diagnostics in Mathematics Education New Course
'ELE 559 The Master Mathematics Teacher as a Professional New Course
SPE 532 Educational Appraisal of Exceptional Children Degree plan change
♦HMS512 Design of Long-Term Care and Senior Living Facilities New Course
HMS511 Introductory Dietetics Practice New Course
HMS 565 Pediatric Nutrition New Course
ELE 542 PBIC Field Internship Modify Course
Page 1: Graduate
Appendix 2
HMS531 Supervised Practice I Modify Course
'KIN 551 Athletic Training Clinical V Modify Course
COU510 Survey of Abnormalities New Course
COU 590 Supervision in School Counseling New Course
'KIN 521 Athletic Training Clinical I Modify Course
*KIN 522 Athletic Training Clinical II Modify Course
'KIN 541 Athletic Training Clinical III Modify Course
HMS 526 Field Experience in Human Sciences New Course
*SED 553 Teacher Leadership and Mentoring New Course
SED541 PBIC Internship/First Semester New Course
HMS 520 Advanced Practicum New Course
SED561 Classroom Management Delete Course
SED 580 Assessment and Evaluation Delete Course
SED 545 PBIC Internship Distant Delete Course
SED 544 PBIC Internship Delete Course
SED 526 Field Based Professional Learning Delete Course
ELE 543 PBIC Internship - Distance Modify Course
SED 542 PBIC Student Internship Modify Course
COU 523 Legal Ethical Issues in Counseling Degree plan change
COU 521 Seminar: Alcohol and Drug Abuse New Course
COU 541 Seminar in Rehabilitation Modify Course
*SED 595 Graduate Seminar New Course
HMS 514 Interior Design Studio I New Course
KIN 565 The Role of Sports in Society Modify Course
KIN 560 Biomechanics Modify Course
KIN 562 Motor Learning Modify Course
COU 534 School Counseling Programs New Course
'KIN 542 Athletic Training Clinical IV Modify Course
KIN 515 Adapted Physical Education Modify course
KIN 553 Physiology of Exercise Modify Course
KIN 545 Current Trends and Issues in Physical Ed Modify course
KIN 525 Curr Construction in Physics Ed Modify Course
Graduate Hospitality
Certificate New Certificate
Graduate Distance Online
Superintendent
Certification New Certificate
Graduate Off Campus
Face to Face Program.
MED with Principal
Certification New Certificate
Graduate Off Campus
Face to Face Program.
MA School of Counseling New Program
Graduate ott Campus
Face to Face Program.
Endorsement in Visual
Impairment New Program
llllllli
ART419/ART519 Modify Course
ART 431/ART 534 Modify Course
ART432/ART535 Modify Course
ART463/ART 563 Modify Course
ART 464/ART 564 Modify Course
ART 479/ART 579 Modify Course
Page 2: Graduate
Appendix 2
RT478/ART578 Art/Advertising Practicum New Course
raduate Certificate in
/luseum Studies Art New Cerfificate Program
UIT505 Proseminar in Art Museum Studies New Course
/lasters of Art in Art
Education Art New Degree
RT 506 Seminar in Art Museum Education New Course
RT 508 Practicum in Artistic Creativity New Course
RT 509 Readings and Research in Museum Studies New Course
AHL 574 Studies in Music Literature New Course
HIS 553 ecent American History ew Course
HIS 557 )elete Course
OM 505 dv. Topics in Media Studies ^ew Course
COM 525 sychology of Speech Communication slew Course
:OM 542 ladio-Television Programming slew Course
ENG 524 }reat Texts to 1650 slew Course
ENG 525 }reat Texts after 1650 slew Course
ENG 565 oetics and Prosody slew Course
ENG 583 Special Topics Modify Course
BA 505 ublic Administration Methods Modify Course
BA510 ublic Personnel Administration vlodify Course
BA515 ublic Budgeting and Finance Management Vlodify Course
'BA 520 olicy System and Evaluation vlodify Course
(BA 525 Public Organization and Manage vlodify Course
'BA 530 opics in Public Affairs vlodify Course
'BA 535 sadership in Public Administration vlodify Course
'BA 540 Administrative Law and Procedure Slew Course
»BA 575 Spec Res Pro Public Adm '. vlodify Course
'BA 576 ipec Res Pro Public Adm II vlodify Course
'BA 545 :thics in Public Administration New Course
'BA 599 Public Administration Internship Modify Course
SY501 'sychological Statistics [vlodify Course
PSY 507 Experimental Design Modify Course
PSY 505 Adv Developmental Psychology Delete Course
PSY 520 Adv Professional Practicum Delete Course
PSY 521 Positive Psychology Delete Course
PSY 524 Adv Applied Psychology Delete Course
PSY 527 Advising/Technology Delete Course
PSY 530 History and Systems Delete Course
PSY 540 Human Assessment Delete Course
PSY 576 Adv Graduate Studies Delete Course
SWK518 Child Welfare Services Modify Course
SWK528 Social Work in Mental Health Modify Course
International Certificate in
Community Development Certificate Program in Social Work New Certificate Program
SWK531 International Social Work New Course
SWK532 Sustainable Community Development New Course
SWK 533 Diversity Appreciation New Course
SWK 538 Social Work with the Aged Modify Course
SWK 549 Advanced Field Instruction Modify Course
Page 3: Graduate
Appendix 2
FOR 587 Seminar Modify Course
FOR 503 Remediation/Reclamation of Disturbed Land Delete Course
FOR 503L Lab: Remediation/Reclamation of Disturbed Land Delete Course
FOR 514 Wetland Delineation and Functional Assessment Delete Course
FOR514L Lab: Wetland Delineation and Functional Assessment Delete Course
ENV503 Remediation/Reclamation of Disturbed Land New Course
ENV 503L Lab: Remediation/Reclamation of Disturbed Land New Course
ENV 507 Water Resources Management New Course
ENV 512 Environmental Hydrology New Course
ENV512L Lab: Environmental Hydrology New Course
ENV 514 Wetland Delineation and Functional Assessment New Course
ENV514L Lab: Wetland Delineation and Functional Assessment New Course
ENV 515 Environmental Assessment and Management New Course
ENV515L Lab: Environmental Assessment and Management New Course
FOR 509 Forest Hydrology New Course
FOR 509L Lab: Forest Hydrology New Course
FOR 512 Timber Management New Course
FOR 525 Forest Economics New Course
FOR 528 Regional Silviculture New Course
FOR 548 Range Management New Course
FOR 551 Management of Outdoor Recreation Areas New Course
FOR551L Lab: Management of Outdoor Recreation Areas New Course
FOR 554 Non-game Wildlife Ecology New Course
FOR 555 Environmental Communication /Interpretation New Course
FOR 556 Environmental Attitudes and Issues New Course
FOR 565 Range Development and Evaluation New Course
ANS 552 Equine Law Studies New Course
AGN 548 Range Management New Course
AGN 569 Plant Protection New Course
PLS 520Lab Agricultural Waste Management Lab New Course
HRT 520 Plant Nutrient Management New Course
AGR 507 Advanced Soils Delete Course
HRT 515 Public Garden Management Delete Course
ENV 500L Survey Environmental Toxicology Lab Delete Course
ENV 502L Environmental Waste Management Lab Delete Course
ENV 504L Occupational and Environmental Health Lab Delete Course
ENV 508 Microbial Ecology Delete Course
ENV 508L Microbial Ecology Lab Delete Course
ENV 520L Fund.Industrial Hygiene Lab Delete Course
ENV 524L Principles Applied Toxicology Lab Delete Course
ENV 526 Industrial Hygiene Intern Delete Course
ENV 526L Industrial Hygiene Lab Delete Course
ENV 540L Advanced Occupational and Environmental Health Lab Delete Course
ENV 542L General Principles Epidemiology Lab Delete Course
ENV 544L Social/Behavioral Aspects Community Health Lab Delete Course
ENV 546L Admin Health Service Org Lab Delete Course
FOR 502 Advanced Field Ecology Delete Course
FOR 502L Lab: Advanced Field Ecology Delete Course
FOR511L Lab: Conservation Natural Resources Delete Course
FOR 557 Ecological Field Methods Delete Course
FOR 557L Lab: Ecological Field Methods Delete Course
FOR 558 Resource Management Planning Delete Course
Spatial Analysis Certificate Program in Forestry New Certificate Program
Page 4: Graduate
Appendix 2
SCE 501 Foundations of Science New Course
SCE 564 Concepts in Life Science New Course
SCE 565 Topics in Chemistry Education New Course
SCE 566 Concepts in Physics New Course
SCE 567 Concepts in Earth and Space Science New Course
SCE 571 Special Topics in Science Education New Course
SCE 572 Special Tobpics in Science Education New Course
SCE 575 Advanced Graduate Studies in Science Education New Course
SCE 576 Advanced Graduate Studies in Science Education New Course
MTH513 Complex Analysis I Modify Course
MTH514 Complex Analysis II Modify Course
MTH 539 Real Variables I Modify Course
MTH 540 Real Variables II Modify Course
CHE 503L Intro Biotechnology Lab Delete Course
CHE 512 Coordination Chemistry Delete Course
CHE 557L Advanced Metabolism Lab Delete Course
CHE 558L Biophysical Chem Lab Delete Course
CHE 570 Environmental Inst Analysis Delete Course
CHE 570L Environmental Inst Analysis Lab Delete Course
CHE 571 Chemical Toxicology Delete Course
CHE571L Chemical Toxicology Lab Delete Course
CHE 573 Advanced Environmental Chem Delete Course
CHE 573L Advanced Environmental Chem Lab Delete Course
CHE 571 Advanced Special Topics New Course
CHE 581 Supervised Instruction of Laboratory Courses Modify Course
BIO 516 Advanced Plant Anatomy New Course
BIO516L Advanced Plant Anatomy Lab New Course
BIO 526 Advanced Pathogenic Bacteriology New Course
BIO 526L Advanced Pathogenic Bact Lab New Course
BIO 527 Advanced Immunology New Course
BIO 527L Advanced Immunology Lab New Course
BIO 528 Advanced Virology New Course
BIO 528L Advanced Virology Lab New Course
BIO 539 Advanced Parasitology New Course
BIO 539L Advanced Parasitology Lab New Course
PHY 530 Thermodynamics New Course
PHY 541 Optics New Course
PHY 541L Optics Lab New Course
PHY 550 Introductory Quantum Mechanics New Course
GOL551&551L Hydrogeology Field Techniques New Course
GOL 550 Cave and Karst Systems New Course
Master Science Teacher
Certificate Certificate Program in Science New Program
Page 5: Graduate
Appendix 3
Stephen F. Austin State University
Room and Board Rates for 2009-2010
Summer Semesters
w/7 Day w/7 Day
14 Meals 20 Meals
$1,087
$1,087
$1,239
$1,239
Rates above include sales tax for Board
Apartments Number Rent
Appendix 4
COURSE
Course Fees
College Department Course # Course Name Present Proposed
BUS General Business GBU 485 Intemationship in General Business $ 30.00
BUS General Business GBU 557 Negotiation and Dispute Resolution $ 30.00 $ 40.00
BUS MMIB MGT 463 Business Policy & Strategy $ 20.00 $ 30.00
BUS MMIB MGT 517 Strategic Management $ 35.00
BUS MMIB MKT358 Sports Marketing 45.00
BUS MMIB MKT478 Advertising Campaign I 75.00
BUS MMIB MKT479 Advertising Campaign II $ 75.00
EDU Human Services COU 524 School Counseling $ 200.00
EDU Human Services COU 533 Counseling Skills $ 200.00
EDU Human Services COU 534 School Counseling Programs $ 200.00
EDU Human Services COU 535 Multicultural Counseling $ 200.00
EDU Human Services COU 541 Seminar in Rehabilitation $ 200.00
EDU Human Services COU 594 Practicum in Counseling $ 200.00
EDU Human Services COU 595 Internship in Counseling $ 200.00
EDU Human Services SPE 532 .501 Educational Appraisal of Exceptional Children $ 15.00
EDU Human Services SPE 564 .501 Early Childhood Special Education $ 15.00
EDU Human Services SPH 471.02 Practicum -Deaf and Hard of Hearing $ 150.00
EDU Elementary Ed. ECH 328 Psychosocial Development $ $ 20.00
EDU Elementary Ed. ECH 586 Evaluation in Early Childhood Education $ 12.00 $
EDU Elementary Ed. MLG 401 The Middle Level Learning Community $ 30.00 $ 40.00
EDU Elementary Ed. RDG 501 Early Literacy of Young Child $15.00
EDU Elementary Ed. RDG 518 Reading Methods for EC $15.00
EDU Human Sciences HMS 407 Customer Relations for the Service Industries $ $ 55.00
EDU Human Sciences HMS 414 Commercial Design I $ 95.00 $ 110.00
EDU Elementary Ed. ECH 328 L Psycho-Social Development Lab 12.00 $ 20.00
EDU Elementary Ed. ECH 328 L sec. 500-699 Psychosocial Development Lab $ 12.00 $ 30.00
EDU Elementary Ed. ECH 331 L Child-Centered Environments Lab $ 12.00 $ 20.00
EDU Elementary Ed. ECH 331L sec. 500-699 Child-Centered Environments Lab $ 10.00 $ 20.00
EDU Elementary Ed. MLG 401L sec. 500-699 The Middle Level Learning Community Lab $ $ 30.00
FA Art ART 312 Photographic Lighting $ 26.00 $ 85.00
FA Art ART 315 .001 Color $ 80.00
FA Art ART 317 Digital Photography 85.00
FA Art ART 462/ART 562 Digital Meia: Interactive Arts 85.00
FA Art ART 463/ART 563 Digial Media: Motion Graphics (New) $ 85.00
FA Art ART 464/ART 564 Digital Media: Time Based Media (New) $ 85.00
FA Art ART 505 Proseminar in Art Museum Studies $ 100.00
FA Art ART 506 Seminar in Art Museum Education $ 20.00
FA Art ART 507 Practicum in Art Museum Studies $ 100.00
FA Art ART 508 Practicum in Artistic Creativity 70.00
FA Art ART518/ART418 Color Photography $ 100.00
FA Art ART519/ART419 Alternative Photographic Processes $ 85.00
FA Art ART 534/ART 431 Graduate Sculpture, Casting $ 135.00
FA Art ART 535/ART 432 Graduate Sculpture, Installation $ 100.00
FA Music MUT417 Music Recording and Production III $ 130.00
FOR Agriculture AGM 383 Agriculture Machinery Design and Structure $ $ 50.00
FOR EVSC ENV 209 Forest Ecology $ 21.00 35.00
FOR EVSC ENV 450 Air Quality Assessment $ $ 20.00
FOR EVSC ENV 503 Remediation & Reclamation of Disturbed Land $ 20.00
FOR EVSC ENV 505 Environmental Communication/ Interpretation 5.00
FOR EVSC ENV 512 Environmental Hydrology 10.00
FOR EVSC ENV 515 Environmenal Impact Statements $ 25.00
FOR EVSC ENV 521 Landscape Ecology $ 55.00
FOR EVSC ENV 550 Air Quality Assessment $ 20.00
FOR Forestry ENV 210 Environmental Measurement $ 15.00 $ 20.00
FOR Forestry ENV 349 Environmental Soil Science $ 20.00 $ 25.00
Appendix 4
Appendix 4
Appendix 5
Policies for Board Review
April 21,2009
p-l
Appendix 5
P-2
Appendix 5
P-3
Appendix 5
Academic Accommodation of Students with Disabilities
(F-33)
Original Implementation: July 14,1998
Last Revision: April 21,2001April 21, 2009
The Law:
It is the policy of Stephen F. Austin State University to comply with the fundamental
principles of nondiscrimination and accommodation in academic programs set forth in
the implementing regulations for Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the
Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990; these regulations provide that:
No qualified student with a disability shall, on the basis of disability, be excluded from
participation in, be denied the benefits of, or otherwise be subjected to discrimination
under any... postsecondary education program or activity... [Federal Rehabilitation Act
of 1973, Section 504, 84.43]
and
An institution shall make such modifications to its academic requirements as are
necessary to ensure that such requirements do not discriminate or have the effect of
discrimination on the basis of handicap, against a qualified handicapped applicant or
student... Modifications may include changes in the length of time permitted for the
completion of degree requirements, substitution of specific courses required for the
completion of degree requirements, and adaptation of the manner in which specific
courses are conducted. [Federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Section 504, 84.44]
The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 extends the provisions of the 1973
Rehabilitation Act to private institutions. It also puts in place more effective means for
enforcing the law.
Neither Section 504 nor the ADA requires universities to lower their academic standards
or substantially alter the essential elements of their courses or programs to accommodate
students with disabilities. The requirement to provide reasonable accommodations is
designed to afford an equal opportunity for students with disabilities. Achieving
reasonable accommodations for a student with a disability involves shared responsibility
among students, faculty and staff.
Should a university deny a requested accommodation it must be prepared to show very
clearly that complying with the request would constitute a fundamental alteration; the
unsubstantiated opinion of a faculty member or administrator may not be sufficient for
P-4
Appendix 5
that purpose. Moreover, the cost of the proposed modification is not usually sufficient
reason for denying a requested accommodation.
The following accommodations are very widely accepted in higher education:
■ Providing services such as readers, interpreters, and note-takers.
■ Allowing extra time for examinations, assignments and projects.
■ Permitting exams to be individually proctored, read orally, dictated, or typed.
■ Tape-Recording lectures.
Using computer software for assistance in studying and on tests.
■ Using alternative testing formats to demonstrate course mastery.
■ Changing classrooms as needed for accessibility.
Who must be accommodated?
Students who are requesting support services from SFA are required to submit
documentation through the Office of Disability Services to verify eligibility for
reasonable accommodations; the institution must review and evaluate that documentation.
Students are not required to assume the responsibility for securing a necessary
accommodation. The university is required to provide reasonable accommodations for a
student's known disability so that the student has an equal opportunity to participate in
the courses, activities or programs.
When additional expertise beyond that of the staff of the Office of Disability Services is
needed to assess a student's documentation, the Academic Assessment Committee,
consisting of feu^-members of the faculty who are knowledgeable about disabilities, and
feee-staff members, including the ADA coordinator, evaluates the documentation,
requests additional information if, in their judgment, it is required, and makes a
recommendation to the Office of Disability Services.
Documentation must validate the need for services based on the individual's current level
of functioning in an educational setting. If the documentation is found to be insufficient
the institution is not obliged to provide accommodations. If the documentation is found to
be sufficient, appropriate accommodations are recommended.
All levels of academic organization, the college, the department, and the individual
faculty member, are required to provide all qualified students with disabilities with
appropriate, reasonable accommodations.
What accommodations must be provided?
P-5
Appendix 5
Students with disabilities may be accorded two types of accommodations1: They may be
permitted to substitute particular courses for some of those required under their degree
requirements, or they may be afforded approved accommodations within the courses they
take.
If a course substitution is requested, the request must be received by the academic
department that teaches the course to be deleted from the student's requirements no later
than the semester prior to one in which the student proposes to take one or more of the
substitute courses. Ordinarily the request should arrive at the department office before the
12th day of classes of a long semester, or the 4th day of classes of a summer session.
Once received by the department, the course substitution request is considered by the
department chair, who consults with the Office of Disability Services before making a
recommendation. The chair's recommendation regarding substitution is forwarded to the
dean of that college. Employing the college's usual procedures for decisions about
curricula, and consulting with other colleges as necessary, the dean makes the final
determination about whether the requested substitution may be allowed, or does, in fact,
represent a fundamental modification of the program in question. Before a course
substitution is considered there should be evidence that even with reasonable
accommodation the student cannot succeed in the required course.
Requests for accommodation within a particular course should, when possible, be
received by the Office of Disability Services before the beginning of the semester in
which the student with a disability is to enroll in the course. Once received, the
accommodation request is considered by Disability Services and, if required, by the
Academic Assessment Committee. If the decision is to recommend against providing the
requested accommodation, the student is informed. If it is decided that accommodation is
to be provided, a record of that recommendation, together with a recommendation of the
general type of accommodation to be provided is sent to the instructor of the subject
course, with a copy to the department chair. In consultation with the chair, the instructor
then meets with the disabled student to work out precisely how the recommended
accommodations are to be implemented in the context of the particular course. To make
provision of appropriate accommodations as effective as possible, students with
disabilities are to meet with instructors from whom accommodations are requested as
early in the semester as possible.
It is expected that the student, the Office of Disability Services, the Academic
Assessment Committee, the department chair, and the course instructor will cooperate to
identify accommodations that meet the student's documented need without
fundamentally altering the course.
Who must provide approved accommodations in a particular course?
P-6
Appendix 5
Accommodations most commonly requested may include providing services such as
readers, interpreters, and note-takers; allowing extra time for examinations; using
alternate forms of examinations; tape-recording lectures; using computer software for
assistance in studying and on tests; and, on rare occasions, relocating the classroom.
It is the responsibility of the Office of Disability Services to provide readers, interpreters,
and note-takers when needed. The instructor is expected, however, to cooperate with
Disability Services in accommodating these service providers in the classroom.
It is the responsibility of the instructor to organize examinations so students with
disabilities may be accorded extra time and special testing conditions. When possible,
special testing will be done within the offices of the academic department. When testing
cannot be done in the department, however, Disability Services will provide secure
facilities and supervision.
When special materials (e.g., Braille transcripts or audio tape recordings of course
materials) are required, it is the joint responsibility of Office of Disability Services and
the instructor to arrange to make these materials available to the student. Such materials
must be made available to students with disabilities at the same time that their equivalents
are given to other students.
It is the responsibility of the department chair, in cooperation with the instructor and the
dean, to relocate courses when required.
How are disagreements to be resolved?
Disagreements will be resolved according to the provisions of Policy F-34, Appeal
Procedure Relating to the Provision of Accommodations for Students with Disabilities.
Cross Reference: Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Public Law 93-112,
Title 29 U.S.C. 794 et seq.; and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, Public Law
101-336, 42 U.S.C. 12101 et seq.; Appeal Procedure Relating to the Provision of
Accommodations for Students with Disabilities F-34; Accessibility for Persons with
Disabilities F-16, Animals on University Property D-3
Responsible for Implementation: Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs,
Vice President for University Affairs
Contact for Revision: Director of Disability Services
Forms: None
P-7
Appendix 5
Awarding Academic Credit for Noncollegiate Sponsored
Instruction for the BAAS Degree (A-52)
Original Implementation: October 26, 1999
Last Revision: July 25, 2002April 21, 2009
Role and Scope
The purpose of this policy statement is to provide an approved methodology and
procedures for students wishing to be awarded academic credit for extrainstitutional
learning experiences e&-in the Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences (BAAS) degree.
Further, t7his policy provides a rationale for the credit awarded and definitions of the
significant elements of the process-;, i^ake-establishes guidelines for developing the life-experience
portfolio, and provides a means for monitoring the policy.
Review
It is the responsibility of the Dean of Liberal and Applied Arts and Sciences to review
and implement this policy.
Rationale
The-a/lwarding of academic degree credit for noncollegiate sponsored instruction is
based on the higher education practice position that it is reasonable educational practice
to grant of granting academic credit for high quality educational attainment comparable
to the college level- programs. This means of allowing The granting o/credit is carried
out in a variety of ways including, but not limited to, credit by examination, Advanced
Placement (AP) credit, College Level Examination Program (CLEP) credit, portfolio
review, and SFASU departmental examination, sound when these programs of study and
life experiences overseen by noncollegiate organizations are determined to be at the
college level. Further, to be awarded toward the baccalaureate degree the credit must be
appropriate to an individual's degree program. The experiences of educational
institutions who engage in this practice have shown that the awarding of credit for prior
learning often motivates students to enroll and complete the full academic degree
process, thus enriching their lives and career opportunities. The credit awarded must be
appropriate to an individual's BAAS degree program.
Authority and Oversight and Jluthonty
P-8
Appendix 5
The authority granted to SFASUby the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board
(THECB) (July 16, 1974) to offer the BAAS degree contains the following
feature'.Stephen F. Austin State University was granted authority on July 16, 1974, by the
Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to offer the Bachelor of Applied Arts and
Sciences Degree. The proposal submitted to and approved by the THECB for the
Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences Degree included in Section 1.0 the following
special feature which is the focus of this policy statement:
"Semester hour credit for experience and/or exhibited competency is permissible in both
Academic Foundations (up to 12 hours) and Academic Specialization (up to 24 hours)-.
An expanded innovative program of advising and counseling will be necessary to
administer the program."
The College of Liberal and Applied Arts shall maintain oversight of the BAAS degree and
Oversight for the degree and authority to administer the life-experience credit program.
has been placed with the College of Liberal and Applied Arts. The Dean of the College 4s
charged with shall developing procedures for the to implementation of all features
aspects of the Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences BAAS°ree.
Definitions
B.A.A.S. Degree - The Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences ©degree is designed to
offer students with YeeetieasAoccupational-techmcai training and work experience ia-a
given occupational field the opportunity to obtain a baccalaureate degree without credit
given for life experiences the usual significant loss of credits that occurs in pursuing a
traditional degree. The degree is designed to provide both academic and professional
depth to individuals who possess recognized competency in occupational or technical
fields.
Extrainstitutional Learning - Documented learning experience that accrues to the
student outside the sponsorship of an accredited institution of higher education.
Noncollegiate Sponsored Instruction - A form of extrainstitutional learning sponsored
by non-accredited associations, business, industry, or military units to develop
knowledge, skills, and values.
Extrainstitutional Learning—Any Documented learning experience that accrues to the
student outside the sponsorship of an accredited institution of higher education.
P-9
Appendix 5
Occupational Portfolio -A compilation of pertinent documents and third party
verification that develops a history and basis for the levels of competency submitted for
evaluation. Documentation shall verify that skill levels and occupational competencies
are equivalent to college work.
Work/Life Experience - A form of noncollegiate sponsored learning that develops
knowledge, skills, and values as a result of sponsored experiences documented through
the occupational portfolio.
Occupational Portfolio A compilation of pertinent documents and third party
verification that develops a history and basis for the levels of competency submitted for
evaluation. Documentation should focus on establishing verify that skill levels and
occupational competence are equivalent to college work.
Oversight and Authority
Stephen F. Austin State University was granted authority on July 16,1971, by the Texas
Higher Education Coordinating Board to offer the Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences
Degree. The proposal submitted to and approved by the THECB for the Bachelor of
Applied Arts and Sciences Degree included in Section 1.0 the following special feature
which is the focus of this policy statement:
"Semester hour credit for experience and/or exhibited competency is permissible in both
Academic Foundations (up to 12 hours) and Academic Specialization (up to 21 hours).
An expanded innovative program of advising and counseling will be necessary to
administer the program."
Oversight for the degree and authority to administer the life experience credit program
has been placed with the College of Applied Arts and Sciences. The Dean of the College
is charged with developing procedures for the implementation of all features of the
Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences Degree.
Procedure for Credit Awards
Credit for documented life experience is awarded based on the principle that valid
learning experiences at the college/university level can occur outside of a direct higher
education environment. These learning experiences can be derived through various
extrainstitutional encounters such as continuing education, professional development
instruction, the process of licensure, in service training, military training, and direct
supervision.
P-10
Appendix 5
The evaluation of noncoUegiate credit is dependent upon an examination process-featis
designed to ascertain whether the life experiences have been of the nature and extent that
they are equal to college level instruction. The measure of equivalency (to college level
instruction) is determined &-by three 4eve&sfactors:
1. The Curriculum of the Learning Experience
The course of study being reviewed work/life experience meets will meet the
standard of currency and relevance of contemporary institutions of higher education.
That is, it will be equivalent to a course of study that is included in the curriculum of
a contemporary institution of higher education.
2. The Qualifications of the Instructor Work/Life Evaluator
Supervision Instruction for the course must be delivered/supervised provided by an
individual or individuals whose credentials have been reviewed and accepted by
duly-authorized peers, -e^-an appropriate sponsoring professional organization or
corporation, or an institution of higher education.
3. The-Evaluation of the-Student ProgressAchievement
Each course of study receiving an award of credit must use a means of evaluating
the learner's progress that is appropriate to the subject matter and the manner of
instruction. The evaluation validation process must use a means of evaluating the
learning process that is appropriate to the subject matter and the manner of
transmission, must be valid and documented.
All applications for credit through noncoUegiate sponsored learning experiences must be
submitted by &e-students to his/hertheir adviser at the time a degree plan is offered
submitted to the Dean of Liberal and Applied Arts, and Sciences or his/hcra -designee,
for approval. The request for credit must be submitted as an occupational portfolio
accompanied by all pertinent documentation. The Dean of Liberal and Applied Arts, or a
designee, shall review all credit recommendations and make a final determination as to
the amount of credit to be awarded. Credit awarded shall be submitted to the Office of
the Registrar. Should any cCredit he-is awarded for noncoUegiate sponsored instruction^
will be applied only to the Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences Degree.
The Dean of Liberal and Applied Arts and Sciences or his/her designce will review all
credit recommendations and make a final determination as to the amount of credit to be
awarded.
Credit awarded will be submitted to the Office of the Registrar on Form AAS Ex for
posting on the student's transcript.
Appeals
P-ll
Appendix 5
Appeals of credit awards msy-shall be made in writing to the Academic College Council
of the College of Liberal and Applied Arts and Sciences for resolution. The Council may
either affirm the decision of the 4Dean or make its own credit recommendation to the
dDean.
In all cases the decision of the Council will be final.
References
Evaluation of the application for credit will be made using the:
Directory of the National Program on Noncollegiate Sponsored Instruction
National Guide to Credit Recommendations for Noncollegiate courses
Guide to the Evaluation of Educational Experiences in the Armed Services
Aviation Education Review Organization College Credit Standards Guide,
And and other means and resource materials as appropriate and recognized.
Source of Authority: Vice President for Academic Affairs
Cross Reference: None SFA General Bulletin/Advanced Placement & Credit by
Examination
Responsible for Implementation: Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs
Contact for Revision: Dean of Liberal and Applied Arts and Sciences
Forms: AAS-Ex
P-12
Appendix 5
Building Security/Special Events (F-5)
Original Implementation: Unpublished
Last Revision: April 13, 2006April 21, 2009
It is the responsibility of the University Police Department to open university buildings at
6:00 a.m. at the beginning of each business day (Monday through Friday) and to secure
all buildings after the end of the business day. Police officers will check all buildings at
designated hours during each night shift.
When a special event is scheduled in a university building after normal business hours iit
is the responsibility of ^t-the sponsoring departments to contact the University Police
Department when a special event will be held in a University building after normal
business hours so the building can remain open. - Buildings will be left open and secured
by ^University police officers at the appropriate time. At designated hours during each
night shift police officers check all buildings.
If a special event will include visitors to campus iit is the responsibility
sponsoring departments to contact the University Police Department at least 48 hours
prior to the event within a reasonable amount of time or within 18 hours when a special
event will bo held at anytime on the University campus. This is so tha^any special
parking arraragefiments needed can be made to accommodate the visitors to the campus.
Source of Authority: Vice President for University Affairs
Cross Reference: None
Responsible for Implementation: Vice President for University Affairs
Contact for Revision: Chief of University Police
Forms: None
P-13
Appendix 5
Cellular Telephones and Wireless Communication
Devices (F-42)
Original Implementation: October 30, 2007
Last Revision: January 29, 2008April 21, 2009
OVERVIEW
The university recognizes that certain positions require the use of a cellular telephone
(cell phone) or wireless communication device (including personal digital assistants
(PDA's) or smartphones) to conduct official business. This policy provides specific
guidelines regarding the use of cell phones and/or wireless communication devices.
DEFINITIONS
Wireless Communications Device - cellular telephones, telephone/PDA combinations,
and smartphones. For purposes of this policy, laptops and personal computers are not
considered wireless communications devices.
ELIGIBILITY
Each department is responsible for establishing whether a specific employee needs a cell
phone or wireless communication device service. Criteria for establishing this need
include:
1. Requirement to travel frequently on university business.
2. Large amounts of time spent away from the office.
3. A need to contact the individual after normal business hours on a frequent basis.
4. A need for others to be in constant communication with the individual.
5. Safety considerations.
If an employee meets one or more of these criteria, a department head/director may
approve a request to provide either a university cell phone or wireless communication
device or a communication allowance through one of the following options.
1. University provided cell phones or wireless communication device:
If a department chooses this option, the entire amount of the university provided cell
phone or wireless communication device is considered as a taxable fringe benefit to
the employee. The employee is not required to document personal or business
usage. However, the department must require that an employee reimburse the
department for calls that exceed the monthly plan amount unless they provide
P-14
Appendix 5
documentation that the excess use is attributed solely to business related calls. The
Telecommunications Department will determine two preferred vendors from which
the university will contract cellular services. All university provided cellphones and
plans will be acquired from one of the preferred vendors.
Departments electing this option must submit a "Cellular Telephone Request and
Justification Form" to the assistant director of telecommunications and networking
for each employee, as required in policy F-29, Communications Services. The
assistant director of telecommunications and networking will communicate the
taxable value of the university provided cell phone and wireless communication
device to the Payroll Office.
2. Communication Allowance:
The department may elect to provide a communication allowance to reimburse the
employee for the projected cost of business related charges. The dollar amount of
the cell phone allowance should cover the estimated business-related calls and a pro-rata
portion of the monthly cost of the phone plan. Determination of the dollar
amount of the allowance is made at the departmental level, but will be within
guidelines and dollar limits established by the assistant director of
telecommunications and networking. These levels are defined on the
Communication Allowance Request Form. The communication allowance will be
paid through payroll and will be considered taxable income. The allowance does
not constitute an increase to base pay and will not be included for percentage based
pay increases or for retirement (TRS or ORP) calculations.
The communication allowance is established by submitting a completed
"Communication Allowance Request Form" to the Payroll Office. Departments
should also keep a copy of the form on file for each approved allowance.
The employee is responsible for communicating the telephone number to the
department. The employee may, at his or her own expense, add extra services or
equipment features as desired.
3. Intermittent Use of Cell Phones for Business Purposes:
Some departments may provide cell phones on an intermittent basis to their
employees. Intermittent basis is defined as more than one employee assigned use of
the phone during the month. In these instances, NO personal use is permitted.
Employees using these cell phones will be responsible for documenting all calls as
business related. Employees must submit the documentation (phone logs) to the
department. Supervisors will be responsible for reviewing the documentation and
insuring that employees reimburse the university for any personal calls made
inadvertently. Reimbursements must be based on a pro-rata share of the monthly
phone bill and made within 30 days of receipt of the telephone bills. These phone
P-15
Appendix 5
logs must be retained by the department and will be subject to audit. The
controller's office must be notified when employees do not submit proper
documentation. In these instances, the employee will be responsible for any tax
liability associated with phone usage.
4. Infrequent Use of Cell Phones for Business Purposes:
If infrequent business calls are made by an employee who does not receive a
communication allowance or university-provided phone, departmental approval can
be given to reimburse the employee for business calls that exceed personal wireless
plan minutes.
Reimbursement of these calls will be made through accounts payable through
normal procedures for reimbursement of business related expenses. Appropriate
documentation, such as a copy of the wireless plan billing statement and the stated
business purpose of the call, should be submitted to support the reimbursement. Any
reimbursement of business related calls will not be taxable to the employee.
Cross Reference: Communication Services (F-29)
Responsible for Implementation: Vice President for Finance and
AdministrationPravasf and Vice President for Academic Affairs
Contact for Revision: Controller, Assistant Director of Telecommunications and
Networking
Forms: Communications Allowance Request Form, Cellular Telephone Request and
Justification Form
P-16
Appendix 5
Dead Week (A-15)
Original Implementation: June 16, 1982
Last Revision: April 24, 2007April 21, 2009
Dead week is an established tradition in higher education to allow students the necessary
time to prepare for final examinations. During the last five class days of each long
semester, written examinations (except to cover daily assignments) and themes or
assignments beyond normal daily requirements are not to be assigned without written
notification to the students prior to the twelfth class day.
The Division of University Affairs and major student groups of the university, including
(SGA, RHA, IVCStudent Government Association (SGA), Student Activities Association
(SAA), Residence Hall Association (RHA), SFA Panhellenic Association (SFAPA),
National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), Interfraternity Counci (IFC) and Multicultural
Greek Council (MGC), shall observe dead week by refraining from sponsoring on-campus
student social activities (parties, dances, films, concerts, banquets). On-campus
advertising for any social activity sponsored off-campus by a student group during dead
week will not be approved.
Cross Reference: Faculty Handbook
Responsible for Implementation: Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs,
Vice President for University Affairs
Contact For Revision: Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, Vice President
for University Affairs
Forms: None
P-17
Appendix 5
Departmental Budgeting and Accounting Responsibilities
(C-ll)
Original Implementation: September 1,1987
Last Revision: April 13, 2006April 21, 2009
It is the responsibility of each department head to exercise budgetary control over and
account for the funds and property of his/her department. For that reason all accounts are
assigned to an account manager. It is the responsibility of each account manager to
maintain records of sales and other revenues, expenditures and encumbrances including
salaries and wages, and other charges which support and supplement the controller's
office's records.
It is the account manager's responsibility to ensure that each account under his/her control
does not exceed budget limitations. In accounts where both revenues and expenditures
are projected (i.e. Designated Fund, Restricted Fund and Plant Fund accounts), if actual
revenues do not meet budgeted revenues, it is the account manager's responsibility to
reduce expenditures accordingly. All deficits are to be thoroughly investigated and
resolved in a timely manner. Complete and accurate records of financial transactions are
to be maintained by the controller's office and made available to account managers who
are responsible for comparing their records with those of the controller's office and
reporting any differences promptly to the controller's office. The original approved
budgets and all authorized budget revisions for non Restricted restricted accounts are
maintained by the budget director of Financial Sendees. The original approved budgets
and all authorized budget revisions for restricted grants and contracts and gift accounts
are maintained by the controller's office. Budget revisions for non Restricted restricted
accounts and restricted gift accounts under the account manager's control can be initiated
with the Budget Change and Additional Appropriation Form. Budget revisions for
restricted grants and contract accounts can be initiated with the External Grant Budget
Revision Request Form.
Account access designations can be made on the Administrative Account Request form.
Each account manager may designate one or more additional individuals in the
department to approve timesheets, vouchers, requisitions, and similar documents in
his/her absence. The Purchasing DepartmentProcurement and Property Services
Department, the controller's officeOffice of the Controller, Printing Services, Post Office,
Physical Plant and Information Technology Services (Telecommunications and
Networking) and other offices initiating billing charges through interdepartmental
transfers must be informed of these designations. These designations shall be periodically
reviewed and updated.
P-18
Appendix 5
Source of Authority: Vice President for Finance and Administration
Cross Reference: University policies C-4, Budget Change and Additional Appropriation
and C-19, Interdepartmental Transfer (IDT)
Responsible for Implementation: Vice President for Finance and Administration
Contact for Revision: Vice President for Finance and Administration, Controller,
Budget Director
Forms: Budget Change and Additional Appropriation Form, External Grant Budget
Revision Request Form, Administrative Account Request.
P-19
Appendix 5
Emeritus (E-14A)
Original Implementation: Unpublished
Last Revision: July 11, 2005April 21, 2009
The ranlc title of Eemeritus professor is a position of great honor and should be conferred
only on these-retirees who have a record of distinguished service to fee-Stephen F. Austin
State University (SFASU). The ranlc title is not automatic upon retirement, and not all
retiring persons should be considered deserving of the position. The ranlc of emeritus
should be the culmination of a career of outstanding service to the university, should
©ordinarily be bestowed on an individual the applicant should have who has received at
least one of the following honors during his or her career: Regents Professor, SFASU
Alumni Distinguished Professor Award, SFASU Foundation Faculty Achievement
Award, &-SFASU Teaching Excellence Award, or comparable state-wide and-/or
national professional recognition.
A. Faculty/Librarian Eligibility
To be eligible for an appointment as emeritus, an individual shall meet the following
requirements:
1. Provide prior service to SFASU for 15 years and hold the rank of professor or
librarian IVfor the last 10 years;
2. Demonstrate professional excellence in teaching, research/scholarly/creative
accomplishments, and service to the university.
B. Procedure
A nomination for the title of emeritus professor may be submitted by any SFASU tenured
faculty member in the nominee's department following the normal promotion timetable.
The application shall be reviewed according to the procedures for full
professor/librarian TV in the candidate's department and college. The appropriate dean
shall forward a recommendation to the provost and vice president for academic affairs
(VPAA) who shall, in turn, submit a recommendation to the university's president. A
formal appointment as emeritus shall be conferred by the Board of Regents.
The Board of Regents may confer the ranlc of Emeritus upon the recommendation of the
appropriate department, college, Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs, and the
President. An individual on modified service who continues to teach on a part time basis
cannot be recommended for emeritus status while still teaching.
FACULTY/LIBRARIAN ELIGIBILITY:
To be eligible for such appointment the person must:
P-20
Appendix 5
1 .Ordinarily have served SFA University for 15 years and held the rank of professor
for the last 10 years.
2.Demonstrate excellence in teaching; evidence of active campus involvement by
citing membership on committees; grants and contracts received while at SFA;
citing publications while at SFA including performances or exhibitions in music,
theater and art; citing involvement in the graduate program at SFA; and by
detailing professional and community services. Particular attention should be
given to the last five years of the retiree's career.
C PriWfegggRIVILEGES:
An emeritus professor shall have the following privileges:
1. JfevenftName listed as an Eemeritus in the university's General Bulletin;
2. Be-fifecognizedrfow at the May commencement ceremony following the granting
of the Eemeritus ranktitle.
3. A place of honor Be encouraged to march, following the marshals, in any
academic procession held on campus, and be accorded a place of honor in the
processional.
4. Represents tfon o/-the university at community or professional meetings, upon
request.
5. Have the ri?ight to use Ethe title of emeritus title-in professional endeavors.
6. Be encouraged to serve the University by participating on cCommittees service^ at
the -as-requested by-o/the provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs VPAA.
7. Have the oOpportunity to audit courses with fees waived, subject to the
availability of space and with the consent of the instructor.
8. Be provided oOffice space, laboratory space, a telephone, and a computer, subject
to available space and approval of the ©departmental Gchair, the dean, and
provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs VPAA.
9. Have full ILibrary, parking, and health and wellness privileges.
10. Granted els-mail privileges, be issued a faculty I.D. card, and university business
cards.
D. APPLICATION FOR EMERITUS RANK:
Retiree should apply for Emeritus rank following the normal promotion time table
and for the last year of employment.
Administrative Official Eligibility^
The title "emeritusT!? may be given by the president to a retired administrative official not
holding faculty rank^ effective upon retirement, to recognize exceptional meritorious
service., upon approval of the President. Privileges and prerequisites qualifications te-that
accompany the title shall be determined by the president. The conferring of this title is
not automatic upon retirement.
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Appendix 5
Source Of Authority: Board of Regents, President, Provost and Vice President for
Academic Affairs
Cross Reference: None
Responsible for Implementation: Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs
Contact For Revision: Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs
Forms: Promotion/Tenure Application
P-22
Appendix 5
Employee Scholarship Program (E-65)
Original Implementation: January 28, 2003
Last Revision: April 13, 2006April 21, 2009
Employees of the university, their spouses and dependents are eligible to participate in
the Employee Scholarship Program provided eligibility requirements are met. The
detailed program and eligibility requirements can be found on the Human Resources Web
site. The widow or widower and dependent children of an individual who died while an
employee shall also be eligible for the Employee Scholarship Program.
Participation in the program does not supersede regular work responsibilities. See Policy
E-16, Employee Enrolling for Courses.
Benefits under the program are subject to the availability of specific funds in the
university budget. The university shall not be required to make funds available in any
given fiscal year.
Source of Authority: Vice President for Finance and Administration
Cross Reference: Policy E-16, Employee Enrolling for Courses
Responsible for Implementation: Vice President for Finance and Administration
Contact for Revision: Vice President for Finance and Administration
Forms: Employee Educational Assistance packet:
http://www.sfasu.edu/personnel/EducAssistPacket.pdf.
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Appendix 5
Employment of Persons with Criminal History (E-19)
Original Implementation: August 1, 1983
Last Revision: April 13, 2006April 21 2009
No person who has been convicted of a felony or is currently on probation for a felony or
convicted of a misdemeanor of moral turpitude shall be employed at the university in a
security sensitive position. Exceptions to this rule may be made on the basis of three
factors:
1. the immediate past employment of the applicant or employee; or
2. the job relatedness of the crime, or
3. the time elapsed since the crime.
All employees are required to disclose a felony or misdemeanor conviction involving
moral turpitude whether prior to or during employment. For purposes of this policy,
moral turpitude shall include, but is not limited to dishonesty, giving of a false statement,
fraud, and theft. Employees should disclose the conviction to their department head who
shall inform the director of human resources.
This rule is designed to assure the safety and security of the students, faculty, and staff
and property at the university.
For purposes of this rule, the term "offense that constitutes a felony" shall have the same
meaning as the term is used in the Texas Penal Code or any United States codes.
This rule becomes effective and shall apply to all persons applying for, or granted,
employment with the university on or after August 1,1983.
Souree of Authority: Board of Regents
Cross Reference: Security Sensitive Policy E-44
Responsible for Implementation: Vice President for Finance and Administration
Contact for Revision: PresidentDzrecfor of Human Resources
Forms: None
P-24
Appendix 5
Establishing Centers, Institutes, and Specialized Testing or
Service Laboratories (A-71) NEW
Original Implementation: Unpublished
Last Revision: April 21, 2009
Centers, institutes, and specialized testing or service laboratories (hereafter referred to as
"centers") at Stephen F. Austin State University (SFASU) engage in educational,
research, scholarly, service, outreach, and/or faculty development activities. Centers at
SFASU are subject to all policies and procedures of the university, as well as to
applicable state and federal laws and regulations.
1. A center may be established within an academic department or division, college,
or the university and may be interdisciplinary.
2. A formal proposal shall be required for the establishment and official recognition
of a center. Procedures and guidelines for proposals must be approved by the
provost and vice president for academic affairs and shall be published by the
Office of Research and Sponsored Programs (ORSP).
3. A center proposal must include, at a minimum, a description of the mission of the
center, its goals and objectives, and how the center shall be structured and funded
or otherwise supported by the university.
4. Proposals shall be reviewed by the director of research and sponsored programs
and recommended for approval by participating department chairs/directors,
academic deans and the appropriate vice president. Recommendations for formal
recognition of centers shall be forwarded to the president for approval.
5. Centers may be named by the Board of Regents for persons who have made
outstanding contributions to the university.
6. Centers existing at the time of the adoption of this policy are required to submit a
formal proposal, consistent with this policy's guidelines, to remain recognized by
the university.
7. A center may not participate in activities that do not, in their entirety, support the
mission of the university, including the use of a center's or the university's name.
8. Centers shall submit annual updates to the appropriate dean and/or vice president
(VP) in a format prescribed by the dean or VP.
9. A center shall be disbanded within five years, unless a request for review and
continuation is approved by the authorizing dean and/or VP. The review process
shall include, at a minimum, criteria that assess the effectiveness of the center in
meeting its mission, goals, and objectives.
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Appendix 5
10. ORSP shall maintain an inventory of centers and their status.
Cross Reference: Guidelines and Procedures for Establishing Centers; Policy D-22,
Naming Guidelines
Responsible for Implementation: Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs
Contact for Revision: Director, Office of Research and Sponsored Programs
Forms: Annual Report for Recognized Centers, Institutes, and Specialized Testing or
Service Laboratories; Recommendation to Establish, Continue or Dissolve a Center,
Institute, and Specialized Testing or Service Laboratory
P-26
Appendix 5
Ethics (E-56)
Original Implementation: August 8, 1995
Last Revision: April 13, 2006April 21, 2009
General Policy Statement
It is the policy of Stephen F. Austin State University that all officers and employees
maintain high ethical standards in the performance of their official duties. The following
guidelines regarding state ethics laws for state employees are applicable to the Board of
Regents, the administration, faculty and staff of the university. Other university policies
that affect ethical standards include but are not limited to: Policy E-46 Discrimination
Complaints/Sexual Harassment; Policy E-12 Dual Employment; Policy E-33 Nepotism;
Policy C-33 Purchasing Ethics and Confidentiality; Policy C-46 Fraud; Policy E-l 1
Discipline and Discharge; Policy C-2 7 Purchases from Employees; Policy D-53
Financial Aid Code of Conduct.
Ethics Laws for State Officers and Employees
State officers and employees owe a responsibility to the people of Texas in the
performance of their official duties. See Government Code §572.001. High institutional
standards and high personal standards are critical to fulfilling that responsibility. There
are a variety of both civil and criminal statutes that set out the ethical responsibilities of
state officers and employees. The Texas Ethics Commission is charged with interpreting,
issuing advisory opinions, and enforcing certain ethics laws including Chapter 572 of the
Government Code and Chapters 36 and 39 of the Penal Code. Those statutes contain
provisions relating to conflicts of interest, bribery, gifts, official misconduct, and misuse
of state property, among other things. Additionally, §556.004 of the Government Code
contains a list of prohibited acts of agencies and individuals with regard to political
activity. A variety of other Texas statutes contain specific ethics provisions applicable to
state employees and officers. All employees and officers are required to abide by
applicable state and federal laws and regulations regardless of whether they are
specifically stated in this policy. Contact the general counsel for questions and advice.
1. Conflicts of Interest, Bribery and Gifts
While the law regarding conflicts of interest may be legally complex, §572.051 of
the Government Code outlines standards for state officers and employees, which
if followed, should prevent most conflicts of interest from occurring. §572.051
does not provide any penalties or sanctions at law for failure to comply with the
standards it sets, though in cases of egregious noncompliance a person's behavior
could constitute a crime under one of the Penal Code provisions governing the
conduct of state officers and employees.
The acceptance of gifts by state officers and employees is addressed in
§572.051(1), which provides that a state officer or employee should not accept or
P-27
Appendix 5
solicit any gift, favor, or service that might reasonably tend to influence the
officer or employee in the discharge of official duties or that the officer or
employee knows or should know is being offered with the intent to influence the
officer's or employee's official conduct.
This simply means that a state officer or employee should never accept anything
if it might makes him do his job differently, or if he thinks the person giving it has
the hope he will do his job differently. Section 572.051(5) provides, in effect, a
"no tipping" rule for state officers and employees. It states that a state officer or
employee should not intentionally or knowingly solicit, accept, or agree to accept
any benefit for having exercised the officer's or employee's official powers or
performed the officer's or employee's official duties in favor of another.
For most state employees, compliance with §S1±5 72.051(1) and (5) eliminates
worry about compliance with either the Penal Code or the lobby law with respect
to the acceptance of gifts.
Section 5724-.051(2), (3), and (4) states that state officers and employees should
not engage in economic activities even on their own time that might affect
decisions at their state job, or that might lead them to disclose confidential
information learned on the job. Simply put, state officers and employees should
not engage in business or investments that might make them want to do their state
job differently.
Section 572±.051(2), (3) and (4) of the Government Code specifically reads as
follows:
(2) No state officer or state employee should accept employment or engage in any
business or professional activity which might reasonably be expected to require or
induce a disclosure of confidential information acquired by reason of the official
position.
(3) No state officer or state employee should accept other employment or
compensation that could reasonably be expected to impair independent judgment
in the performance of official duties.
(4) No state officer or state employee should make personal investments that
could reasonably be expected to create a substantial conflict between the officer's
or employee's private interest and the public interest.
572.051. STANDARDS OF CONDUCT; STATE AGENCY ETHICS POLICY,
(a) A state officer or employee should not:
(2) accept other employment or engage in a business or professional
activity that the officer or employee might reasonably expect would
P-28
Appendix 5
require or induce the officer or employee to disclose confidential
information acquired by reason of the official position;
(3) accept other employment or compensation that could reasonably be
expected to impair the officer's or employee's independence ofj udgment
in the performance of the officer }s or employee's official duties;
(4) make personal investments that could reasonably be expected to create
a substantial conflict between the officer's or employee fs private interest
and the public interest.
Added by Acts 1993m 73rd Leg., ch. 268, Sec. 1, eff Sept. 1, 1993.
Amended by: Acts 2007, 80th Leg. R.S., Ch. 629, Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2007
The Texas Penal Code also includes provisions regarding conflicts of interest,
bribery and gifts. A state employee commits the offense of bribery if he solicits,
offers, or accepts a "benefit" in exchange for his decision, opinion,
recommendation, vote, or other exercise of discretion as a state employee. Penal
Code §36.02.
Most state employees are subject to a prohibition on the acceptance of "benefits."
Penal Code §36.08. For example, an employee of a regulatory agency may not
accept a benefit from a person the employee "knows to be subject to regulation,
inspection, or investigation by the public servant or his agency." Id. §36.08(a).
Also, an employee of a state agency who exercises discretion in connection with
contracts, purchases, payments, claims, or other pecuniary transactions may not
accept a benefit from a person the employee knows is "interested in or likely to
become interested in any contract, purchase, payment, claim, or transaction
involving the exercise of his discretion." Id. §36.08-(d). These prohibitions apply
regardless of whether the donor is asking for something in return.
The statutory definition of "benefit" is "anything reasonably regarded as
pecuniary gain or pecuniary advantage." Penal Code §36.01(53). In advisory
opinions, the Ethics Commission has stated that the following gifts may be
benefits: a $50 clock, a hotel room, a hunting trip, football tickets, a $160 rifle,
and a $60 restaurant meal. Ethics Advisory Opinions Nos. 97, 94, 90, 69, 60
(1992). Benefits such as food, lodging, transportation, football tickets, etc., may
however be permissible if accepted as a "guest." Penal Code §36.10(b). To accept
something as a guest, the donor must be present.
Other advisory opinions have concluded that certain items are not benefits. A cup
of coffee is not a benefit. Ethics Advisory Opinion No.l 18 (1993). Small amounts
of perishable food delivered to government offices are generally not benefits.
Ethics Advisory Opinion No. 62 (1992). Trinkets of minimal value such as coffee
P-29
Appendix 5
mugs, key chains, and "gimme" caps are generally not benefits. Ethics Advisory
Opinion No. 61 (1992). A plaque is not a benefit. Ethics Advisory Opinion No. 36
(1992). Of course, a state officer or employee may accept a gift from a person
such as a friend, relative, or business associate with whom he has a relationship
independent of that official status if the gift is given on account of that
relationship rather than the officer's or employee's official status. Penal Code
§36.10(ab)(2;.
Honoraria may also be considered as gifts or benefits under the Penal Code. A
state officer or employee may not solicit, agree to accept, or accept an honorarium
in consideration for services he would not have been asked to provide but for his
official position. Penal Code §36.07. Thus, for example, the officer or employee
may not take a speakers fee for speaking in his official capacity. Although
questions about honoraria come up most frequently in regard to speeches, the
prohibition applies to fees or gifts for any service that the officer or employee
would not have been asked to provide but for his official position. It is
permissible to accept food, transportation, and lodging in connection with a
speech or other service performed in an official capacity.
2. Official Misconduct and Misuse of State Property
A state employee would commit an offense if, with intent to obtain a benefit or
harm another, he intentionally or knowingly violated a law relating to his office or
employment. Penal Code §39.©W2(a)(l). This catchall prohibition applies to any
violation of a law relating to the employee's state employment. This means, for
example, that a violation of a rider to the Appropriations Act, done with intent to
obtain a benefit or harm another, could be the basis of a criminal prosecution.
Also, an officer or employee would commit an offense if, with intent to obtain a
benefit or harm another, he misapplied any-thing of value belonging to the
government that has come into his custody or possession by virtue of his state
employment. Penal Code §39.©t02(a)(2). This provision is the basis for criminal
prosecutions regarding the misuse of state property for personal use or otherwise.
Under Government Code §552.352, misuse or improper distribution of
confidential information is also considered a specific type of crime involving
official misconduct.
In addition to criminal liability, employees may be responsible for the negligent
loss, damage or destruction to university property under the Property Liability
Policy B-34.
3. Financial Disclosure Statements
Regents and the president must file financial disclosure statements with the Texas
P-30
Appendix 5
Ethics Commission by April 30 of each year, or as otherwise required under the
Government Code Chapter 572.
■EW. Prohibited Acts of Agencies and Individuals Regarding Political
Activity
The university, its officers and employees may not use state money, equipment or
official authority to influence an election as prohibited by §556.004 of the Texas
Government Code. Sections 556.004, 556.005, 556.0055, 556.006, 556.007,
556.008, and 556.009 of the Government Code specifically read as follows:
556.004. PROHIBITED ACTS OF AGENCIES AND INDIVIDUALS.
a. A state agency may not use any money under its control, including
appropriated money, to finance or otherwise support the candidacy of a
person for an office in the legislative, executive, or judicial branch of state
government or of the government of the United States. This prohibition
extends to the direct or indirect employment of a person to perform an
action described by this subsection.
b. A state officer or employee may not use a state-owned or state-leased
motor vehicle for a purpose described by Subsection
c. A state officer or employee may not use official authority or influence or
permit the use of a program administered by the state agency of which the
person is an officer or employee to interfere with or affect the result of an
election or nomination of a candidate or to achieve any other political
purpose.
d. A state employee may not coerce, attempt to coerce, command, restrict,
attempt to restrict, or prevent the payment, loan, or contribution of any
thing of value to a person or political organization for a political purpose.
e. For purposes of Subsection (c), a state officer or employee does not
interfere with or affect the results of an election or nomination if the
individual's conduct is permitted by a law relating to the individuals
office or employment and is not otherwise unlawful.
Added by Acts 1993, 73rd Leg., ch. 268, 1, effi Sept. 1, 1993.
Amended by Acts 1999, 76th Leg, ch. 1498, 1, effi Sept. 1, 1999
556.005. EMPLOYMENT OF LOBBYIST.
I G-a. A state agency may not use appropriated money to employ, as a
regular full-time or part-time or contract employee, a person who is
required by Chapter 305 to register as a lobbyist. Except for an institution
of higher education as defined by Section 61.003, Education Code, a state
agency may not use any money under its control to employ or contract
with an individual who is required by Chapter 305 to register as a
lobbyist.
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Appendix 5
•Bfe. A state agency may not use appropriated money to payf on behalf
of the agency or an officer or employee of the agency, membership dues to
an organization that pays part or all of the salary of a person who is
required by Chapter 305 to register as a lobbyist. This subsection does not
apply to the payment by a state agency of membership fees under Chapter
81.
Gc.A state agency that violates Subsection (a) is subject to a reduction of
amounts appropriated for administration by the General Appropriations
Act for the biennium following the biennium in which the violation occurs
in an amount not to exceed $100,000 for each violation.
■Ek/. A state agency administering a statewide retirement plan may
enter into a contract to receive assistance or advice regarding the
qualified tax status of the plan or on other federal matters affecting the
administration of the state agency or its programs if the contractor is not
required by Chapter 305 to register as a lobbyist.
Added by Acts 1993, 73rd Leg., ch. 268, 1, effi Sept. 1, 1993.
Amended by Acts 1999, 76th Leg, ch. 1498, 1, effi Sept. 1, 1999; Acts 2003, 78th
Leg, ch. 249, 4.11, eff. Sept. 1,2003.
556.0055. RESTRICTIONS ON LOBBYING EXPENDITURES.
•Eta. A political subdivision or private entity that receives state funds
may not use the funds to pay:
-H-7. lobbying expenses incurred by the recipient of the funds;
-B2. a person or entity that is required to register with the Texas
Ethics Commission under Chapter 305;
S3. any partner, employee, employer, relative, contractor,
consultant, or related entity of a person or entity described by
Subdivision (2); or
■EW. a person or entity that has been hired to represent
associations or other entities for the purpose of affecting the
outcome of legislation, agency rules, ordinances, or other
government policies.
G-b. A political subdivision or private entity that violates Subsection (a)
is not eligible to receive additional state funds.
Added by Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch, 1498, 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
556.006. LEGISLATIVE LOBBYING
■Eta. A state agency may not use appropriated money to attempt to
influence the passage or defeat of a legislative measure.
Q-b. This section does not prohibit a state officer or employee from using state
resources to provide public information or to provide information
responsive to a request.
P-32
Appendix 5
Added by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 1035, 86, eff. June 19, 1997.
Amended by Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 1498, 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
556.007. TERMINATION OF EMPLOYMENT
A state employee who causes an employee to be discharged, demoted, or
otherwise discriminated against for providing information under Section
556.006 (b) or who violates Section 556.004 (c) or (d) is subject to
immediate termination of employment.
Added by Acts 1999, 76th Leg, ch. 1498, 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
556.008. COMPENSATION PROHIBITION.
A state agency may not use appropriated money to compensate a state
officer or employee who violates Section 556.004(a), (b), or (c) or Section
556.005 or 556.006(a), or who is subject to termination under Section
556.007.
Added by Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 1498, 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
556.009. NOTICE OF PROHIBITIONS.
■ha. A state agency shall provide each officer and employee of the agency a
copy of Sections 556.004, 556.005, 556.006, 556.007, and 556.008 and
require a signed receipt on delivery. A new copy and receipt are required
if one of those provisions is changed.
2rb.A state agency shall maintain receipts collected from current officers and
employees under this section in a manner accessible for public inspection.
Added by Acts 1999, 76th Leg, ch 1498, 1, eff Sept 1, 1999. "
As required by these statutory provisions, all employees shall receive and sign for
(or electronically acknowledge receipt) of a copy of this policy as administered by
the university's Department of Human Resources.
5. Disclosure Statement for Employees Involved in Purchasing, Contracting,
and Investments
As required by §2262.004 of the Government Code, university personnel who
make decisions or recommendations regarding the preparation of a solicitation,
evaluation of a bid or proposal, who should be awarded the contract, or contract
terms or conditions of a major contract award must disclose in writing to the
P-33
Appendix 5
president on a form prescribed by the state auditor direct or indirect pecuniary
interests (10% interest or $25,000 threshold) or family relationships (nepotism)
which that employee may have in the major contract award. A major contract
award involves a contract of at least $1 million in value. Use the referenced
disclosure form developed by the Office of the State Auditor.
Additionally, Section 2254.032 of the Texas Government Code requires officers
and employees who have any financial interest in an offer to provide consulting
services to the university to report that interest to the president n