|
|
Note: As students prepare for finals, go through December commencement and head home for winter break, E-News will not be distributed. The next issue will be Jan. 10. Have a safe and happy holiday.
Dec. 13, 2001
1. Twin Cities athletics face financial challenges
2. Yudof focuses on impact of state budget shortfall
3. U to testify on Gopher-Vikings stadium proposal
4. Big changes for U of M Extension
5. UMD prevails in court
6. 'Great Conversations' going on at the U
7. U to lead $36 million military research project
8. U of M happenings
9. Links
U IN THE NEWS
TWIN CITIES ATHLETICS FACE FINANCIAL CHALLENGES
In a report to the Board of Regents on Friday (Dec. 14) Vice President and Chief of Staff Tonya Moten Brown will describe a significant budget challenge as expenses for intercollegiate athletics on the Twin Cities campus are projected to exceed revenues by $31 million over the next five years.
"Our goal is to have a competitive, financially healthy athletics program," said Moten Brown. "This report suggests that we have a ways to go before getting there, but I am confident that with guidance from the Board of Regents, alumni, donors, and other internal and external stakeholders, we'll reach it."
The report does not offer recommendations for increasing revenue or reducing expenses. The Board of Regents is expected to discuss a process for developing such recommendations. Moten Brown stresses that the University is open to all solutions and has not predetermined a course of action.
"At this time, all options are on the table," said Moten Brown. "It's clear that there are no simple answers or quick fixes--we need a long-term solution and we'll carefully evaluate everything from streamlining athletics operations, to increasing management effectiveness and private fund-raising."
The projected deficit in athletics is attributed to administrative costs that are higher than those at comparable institutions, a high level of debt service for athletics facilities, growth in expenses in the football program without a comparable growth in its revenues, and insufficient fund-raising. However, Moten Brown stresses that no one of these factors is solely responsible.
"For example, it's a fallacy to look at this as a men's versus women's issue," she explained. "We only have three sports that make money--men's hockey, football, and men's basketball. That means 20 other men's and women's sports, are not revenue-generating."
Moten Brown notes that the University has been unequivocal in its support of, and commitment to, five principles:
-- Striving for the highest levels of academic and competitive excellence in all athletics programs;
-- Meeting the requirements of Title IX while aspiring to higher levels of gender equity;
-- Developing and maintaining competitive excellence in Division 1A revenue sports;
-- Maintaining existing levels of competition; and
-- Preserving separate athletic departments for men's athletics and women's athletics.
However, the report concludes that the financial costs associated with collectively maintaining these ideals are outpacing resources available and necessary to uphold them. Over the next couple of months, the Board of Regents is expected to discuss these principles and determine what the University wants intercollegiate athletics to become.
Regarding speculation about specific options, such as merging the women's and men's athletics departments, Moten Brown returns to the notion that everything is on the table and that there's no simple solution, but stresses that the University remains committed to Title IX and to providing all of its student athletes with a rewarding experience.
In developing recommendations to either cut expenses or generate revenues to reduce the projected deficit, Moten Brown urges a creative and broad approach. "We need to break out of our comfort zones and think about what's best for intercollegiate athletics and what's best for the University," she said.
Moten Brown says there is a sense of urgency. "We're projecting a $3 million shortfall next fiscal year, which begins July 1. To keep the books balanced, we must take action relatively quickly."
The report is part of an ongoing, systemwide analysis of collegiate and unit finances in the face of increasing institutional financial pressures, public scrutiny, and accountability.
Return to top
YUDOF FOCUSES ON IMPACT OF STATE BUDGET SHORTFALL
With the projected state budget shortfall nearing $2 billion, the University of Minnesota, like all state agencies, is studying options for trimming its operating budget.
While pledging cooperation with the governor and legislature to help the state balance its books, this week University president Mark Yudof cautioned reporters and editors around the state that significant budget reductions could mean a serious setback for the University.
"By virtually any indicator, the University has a great deal of momentum," said Yudof. "We've made strategic investments and are beginning to see a payoff. Over the long run, it will be much more costly to lose the momentum we have today and have to rebuild in the future, as we did in the early 1990s, than it will be to maintain our forward progress."
Specifically, Yudof pointed to the physical renaissance on all campuses, strong private support and improvements in the undergraduate experience, such as writing-intensive freshman seminars, more residence halls, and improved graduation rates.
At Friday's Board of Regents meeting, Yudof will lay out steps the University will take to reduce and defer expenses over the next few months; however, he says, significant cutbacks could not only stall the momentum, but actually reverse progress in many areas.
"We're managing our resources well, seeing a huge return on the state's investment as our faculty researchers bring in record levels of funding and our generous donors give at record levels," he explained. "It would be a shame to stall out now."
Yudof noted that it's difficult for the University to make specific budget plans because it's unknown how the state will balance its books, and the University has not been asked to trim any specific amount. In addition to cutting agency budgets, the state may draw from the rainy day fund or other accounts, enhance revenues, or a use a combination of approaches.
"I'll present a prudent, thoughtful approach that gives the University some flexibility to meet state needs, but that also allows us to continue moving forward," Yudof said.
The governor and legislative leaders say they want to address the budget issue quickly. With the next budget forecast coming out in early March, and the legislature convening in January, the University expects this issue to be on the agenda for the months to come.
Return to top
U TO TESTIFY ON GOPHER-VIKINGS STADIUM PROPOSAL
University leaders will testify today (Dec. 13) to the task force on stadium issues. The task force is looking at facility and financing issues affecting the Twins, Vikings, and Gophers.
Sandra Gardebring, vice president for University Relations, will outline the University's position which has not changed since it was first articulated during the last legislative session.
"While the University is highly supportive of men's and women's athletics, we've consistently said that we will not support a new football stadium at the expense of our academic priorities," said Gardebring. "In addition, the financial reality is that the University is simply in no position to take on additional costs for constructing and operating a combined Vikings-Gopher stadium."
Gardebring will be joined at the hearing by Men's Athletics Director Tom Moe, the University's Chief Financial Officer Richard Pfutzenreuter, University Services Vice President Eric Kruse.
The University has identified several issues that it would like included in any discussion about a joint stadium project with the Vikings.
First, the facility must provide an on-campus home with a collegiate feeling for Gopher football, therefore, the location of any proposed new facility is critical. Second, because of the financial challenges facing the athletics program and the University as a whole, the University's contribution would have to be limited to a land lease for the site and its operating expenses could not exceed its current contribution to Metrodome operations. Third, the project must not detract from current or future investment by the state in academic or capital projects and the University cannot be responsible for any capital project costs. Finally, the governance structure of the facility will also be critical. The University would want to have a significant role in the management and oversight of both the initial construction and on-going operations of the facility.
While some suggest that an on-campus stadium would generate additional revenue for the football program (through ticket sales, club seating, or concessions, for example), it is not clear whether that new revenue would be sufficient to cover the new additional costs.
The 18-member task force, appointed by Governor Ventura, Senate majority leader Roger Moe, and House speaker Steve Sviggum, is likely to issue a report by the start of the legislative session on Jan. 29.
Return to top
BIG CHANGES FOR U OF M EXTENSION
The University of Minnesota Extension Service generated a great deal of interest statewide this past week, after introducing its 2002-05 plan for change. Extension is responding to needs and issues of the 21st century, which include changing Minnesota demographics and flat funding. Extension's three-year plan for change commits to maintaining county-based programming, creating a specific program plan for the unique needs of the seven-county metro area, diversifying its programs, streamlining its workforce, and increasing its ability to quickly respond to changing needs.
President Mark Yudof and the Board of Regents outreach committee have expressed support for the plan. More than 100 county commissioners gathered at a standing room only presentation to the Association of Minnesota Counties annual meeting to hear about the changes and how they will affect them. Counties will continue to be important partners as extension moves to a more regional staffing model that will be able to provided greater expertise and stronger connections to University research.
"Extension is a vital part of the University and of the State of Minnesota," said president Yudof. "Although extension may provide services differently in the future, we do not expect its role to be any less important. The changes that extension is embarking upon will ensure it is financially sound and can continue to serve the people of Minnesota and their communities."
The three-year plan continues the University of Minnesota’s strong links to agriculture, says Dr. Charles Casey, extension dean and director. "The plan also positions us to better address the larger array of problems faced by children, youth and families, as well as natural resource and environmental concerns and economic and community development issues," he says. "The new extension offers an outreach portfolio that more fully engages the total University with the people of the state."
All extension programs will be under three arenas: community development and vitality; land, food, and environment; and youth development and family living.
"The plan calls for focused, high-quality programs that tie directly to the University of Minnesota’s research base," Casey says. "As a result, some programs and activities will be discontinued. Our current financial model is not sustainable. Declining public support is a budget reality that must be addressed."
Minnesota’s population is more urban and diverse than ever. "All publicly funded activities are under increasing scrutiny to demonstrate relevance, and extension cannot expect increased support from traditional federal and state sources," Casey says.
Extension plans to create a $5 million investment pool by 2004 to invest in critical issues programming, staff development and technology and to leverage other resources. To reach financial targets, there will be some reduction in workforce. Some reductions will come from attrition while others will be based on program priorities and fiscal targets.
The plan also calls for 20 percent of extension programs to be accessible through information technology by 2005. "The idea is to build on Web-based successes such as our nationally recognized Master Gardener training program," Casey says.
Return to top
UMD PREVAILS IN COURT
A federal appellate court has ruled in favor of the University of Minnesota, Duluth (UMD) in an appeal of cases that charged UMD with violating Title IX in connection with its athletic programs. The federal Title IX statute requires that colleges and universities provide equal opportunities for men and women to participate in sports and varsity teams.
In Feb. 1999, the trial court hearing the dismissed the lawsuit on all counts. The plaintiffs, former UMD students Julie Grandson, Jennifer Thompson, Renata Lindal, and Ginger Jeffrey, then appealed the decision in the U. S. Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals. In an opinion filed earlier this month, the appellate court agreed that the trial judge’s decision to dismiss the cases should stand.
The appellate court ruled that UMD took corrective action to provide equal athletic opportunities for women and was not indifferent to complying with federal law. The court credited UMD’s work at increasing and improving opportunities for women in its athletic programs. It further held that, "The efforts UMD made in fulfilling its commitments under the compliance agreement with the Office of Civil Rights preclude a finding that UMD has been deliberately indifferent to its overall compliance obligations under Title IX."
UMD chancellor Kathryn Martin said, "We are very pleased, but not surprised by the decision. It is clear the court recognizes UMD’s steadfast resolve to build a strong women’s athletic program. UMD is committed to providing a quality athletic program for all students, both men and women."
Return to top
'GREAT CONVERSATIONS' GOING ON AT THE U
The University of Minnesota's College of Continuing Education announces Great Conversations, a first-of-its-kind series that teams prominent members of the University's faculty with world-renowned experts who will join with a Minnesota audience for five evenings of discussions that grapple with some of the most pressing issues of our time.
The series is designed to help Minnesotans connect with the major players on many of the world's stages--politics, architecture, stem cell research, media ethics, and black intellectual history. It is hoped that all involved will leave with first-hand insight, counter viewpoints, and critical analysis -- so important in a time when every citizen's actions, advocacy, and wisdom can influence the course of current events.
"It's often hard to see through the bustle of daily life, but Minnesotans, including the extraordinary faculty at the University of Minnesota, are reshaping the story of our times," said University president Mark Yudof. "We felt it was critical to give every Minnesotan a chance to be immersed in the world's most exciting issues. The best way to do that is by including them in actual conversations with the foremost authorities."
"The U has a tremendous resource in its faculty," added Mary Nichols, dean of the College of Continuing Education (CCE). "And CCE programs draw on the wide variety of resources that the entire University has to offer, putting the college in a unique and exciting position to offer Great Conversations to the community."
Great Conversations will begin in January and run through the beginning of May. Here is a list of the topics.
Jan. 15: Yudof and his former law student Paul Begala, a political strategist, national commentator, and political adviser to former President Bill Clinton, pair up for a match of wits on all things political.
Feb. 19: Thomas Fisher, dean of the College of Architecture and Landscape Architecture, and Steven Holl, TIME magazine's architect of the year, discuss progressive and visionary movements in architecture. Aside from his wealth of architectural achievements, including the new addition to the University of Minnesota Architecture building, Holl has written extensively on architecture.
Mar. 26: Catherine Verfaillie, researcher and director of the University of Minnesota's Stem Cell Institute, will be joined by Austin Smith, director of the Centre of Genome Research at the University of Edinburgh, Scotland. The two will explain how their discoveries in stem cell research and technology have the potential to affect medical advances worldwide.
Apr. 2: Jane Kirtley, director of the University of Minnesota School of Journalism and Mass Communication's Silha Center for the Study of Media Ethics and Law, and Brian Lamb, CEO and creator and of C-SPAN, will discuss the ethical responsibilities and legal rights of the mass media in a democratic society.
May 7: John Wright, University of Minnesota professor of Afro American Studies and English, and Cornel West, Wright's former colleague at the W.E.B. Dubois Institute and Harvard professor of philosophy of religion, will share their work in black intellectual history.
All lectures will be held at 7:30 p.m. in the Ted Mann Concert Hall. Call 612-624-2345 for tickets. Series tickets: $100. Individual conversation tickets: $25.
Discounts will be available for faculty, staff, students, and alumni association members.
Return to top
U TO LEAD $36 MILLION MILITARY RESEARCH PROJECT
U.S. Rep. Martin Sabo, a member of the House Appropriations Committee, recently informed the University of Minnesota's Army High Performance Computing Research Center (AHPCRC) that it has been named the prime contractor among six universities recently awarded a federal government cooperative agreement to conduct computing research.
The five-year, $36 million award will provide University researchers and students access to the Army's state-of-the-art super computers such as the CRAY T3E-1200 and IBM RS6000s. The researchers will work with Army defense researchers in critical areas of computational science research including biological and chemical defense; enabling technologies; nanotechnology; fluid and structural dynamics; signature modeling; and virtual computing environments for future combat systems.
According to Vipin Kumar, a professor of computer science and engineering who will serve as the program's director, the contract is due, in part, to the positive momentum the AHPCRC has created towards being a national leader in high performance computing research. "This is a clear recognition of the leadership role played by the AHPCRC over the past 12 years," he said. "We are excited about the opportunity to continue our leading edge research."
Sabo believes the research will benefit the entire country. "Investments in basic research are investments in our country's future and are of fundamental importance to the technological leadership and economic growth of the United States," he said. "In particular, the Army's investment, through the AHPCRC, in research into the application of high performance computing is important to our economy and our national security. I congratulate the Army and the six participating universities."
The other universities participating in the program are Clark Atlanta University, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, Howard University, Jackson State University, and the University of North Dakota.
Return to top
U of M HAPPENINGS
Get your snapshot with Santa Claus at Glensheen in Duluth on Tuesday, Dec. 18, from 3-7 p.m. Families, led by Santa's elves, can enjoy a walk through parts of the UMD-owned historic mansion. Kids can sit on Santa's lap and get a color photo plus a gift from Glensheen. Each family will also receive one free pass to Glensheen. Admission is $5 per family. For more information, call 218-726-8921 or 1-888-454-GLEN.
The Bell Museum Winter Day Camp offers children in grades 1-5 a way to spend their vacation days engaged in fun projects and interesting activities that explore science and natural history. Session 1 is Dec. 26-28 and Session 2 is Jan. 2-4. The all-day camps start at 8:30 a.m. and run until 5 p.m. Registration per session: $80 for members; $95 for non-members. Space is limited. For more information, please call 612-624-9050 or e-mail: bellreg@umn.edu.
Tune in to WCCO 830 on Tuesday, Jan. 8, at 1 p.m. for "Beyond the U," a monthly radio show hosted by University of Minnesota president Mark Yudof and his wife, Judy. The first program of the New Year features guest Paul Begala, a political strategist, national commentator, and political adviser to former President Bill Clinton. This monthly, hour-long, call-in show focuses on wide-ranging topics -- the University, current issues, legal affairs, politics, and the implications of new technologies.
Paul Begala will be back on campus Jan. 15 for the first installment of the five-part Great Conversations series. President Yudof and his former law student will begin the conversation discussing politics at 7:30 p.m. in the Ted Mann Concert Hall. Series ticket: $100. Individual conversation tickets: $25. Discounts will be available for faculty, staff, students, and alumni association members. For tickets, call 612-624-2345.
The University Press is holding its book sale from now until Jan. 30. Many of the books in their catalog are up to 90 percent off. Literary and Cultural Studies, Drama and Performing Arts, and Film and Media Studies are just a few of the categories available. Check out the catalog online at www.upress.umn.edu/salecatalog/Contents.html.
Return to top
LINKS
Hey, Sports Fans! Check out sports news and schedules of the U's teams:
Gophers
Duluth Bulldogs
Morris Cougars
Crookston Golden Eagles
Campaign Minnesota: Learn more about this fund-raising effort to build excellence in every corner of the U.
University of Minnesota Alumni Association: Your membership makes a difference.
U of M Legislative Network: Read about the University's legislative request and how you can help.
University of Minnesota Systemwide Home Page
U of M E-News is a biweekly e-mail newsletter for alumni and friends of the University of Minnesota. The newsletter, a free information source prepared by University Relations, is designed to help alumni and friends stay connected to the University of Minnesota campuses in Minneapolis, St. Paul, Crookston, Morris and Duluth.
To unsubscribe from the Unversity of Minnesota E-News, reply to your e-mail, or click on enews.umn.edu
© 2001 by the Regents of the University of Minnesota
The University of Minnesota is an equal opportunity educator and employer.
|
|
