Ohio University President Roderick McDavis will give a joint presentation with the provost to Faculty Senate tonight, his first visit to the senate since January.
The president's presentation will focus on the 10-year capital campaign and the university budget, while the provost will address program reviews, academic restructuring and shared governance.
At his last meeting, the senate criticized McDavis for how the provost search committee was comprised, which they argued did not comply with the Faculty Handbook. The disagreement led some senators to attempt to censure McDavis, but the resolution's sponsor withdrew it last month.
The search committee discussions and the end of the censure resolution had nothing to do with the timing of the president's return to senate, said Becky Watts, McDavis' chief of staff.
It is not my understanding that (the censure resolution) was any kind of catalyst
she said, adding the president has had scheduling conflicts with many of the senate meetings, and likely will have to miss some meetings in the future.
Senate Chairman Joe McLaughlin said he understands the president has conflicts sometimes, but that he should prioritize the senate.
I think it's important for the president to come and talk to senate every month and field questions McLaughlin said. I'm sorry that he has not been able to do that since January but I feel good about the fact that he's coming in (tonight)
and I hope that continues.
Today's meeting will also be the first time in recent history that the president and provost have presented to senate together.
Watts said Executive Vice President and Provost Pam Benoit invited McDavis to present with her.
I think he and she are developing a real strong partnership
Watts said. That doesn't mean that she doesn't push him. That doesn't mean that he doesn't push her ... But they have developed a real strong collaborative communication.
McLaughlin and Watts said the dual presentation will facilitate a better discussion because senators tend to ask the provost questions more appropriate for the president and vice versa.
There are also two resolutions up for first reading at senate tonight, one that would give formal senate approval to the graduate credit hour requirements in a semesters system, and the other a Sense of the Senate resolution on the group's priorities this year.
eg349206@ohiou.edu
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Emily Grannis
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