Faculty Senate Meeting 9-28-09
Funding shortage for new College Center, request for representatives for Facilities Master Plan and the ad hoc committee of the Intercollegiate Athletic Committee (IAC)
John Sowell reported to the committee that only $3,500,000 out of an original commitment of about $9,000,000 from donors has been secured. The college has had to scramble to secure more loans to complete the College Center to avoid mothballing the structure. The total price-tag of the facility is close to $28,000,000. Much of the total cost will be paid through a previous commitment by the student body to have a special usage fee assessed at the beginning of each semester. The original 15 year mortgage has been converted to a 30 year mortgage to keep loan repayments at a level that the college will be able to absorb. The Alumni Association has committed to raising the full amount of funding that it originally promised, but that, due to the recession, some donors must delay fulfillment of their pledges. Most unfortunately, the principle donor, after whom the College Center was to have been named, has been unable to meet the pledge. A new principal donor is being sought. John assured the Senate that no funds will be taken out of academic programs or academic support services, such as the library.
The current Facilities Master Plan is about 30 years old. Some revisions have been made to it, the last being 5 years ago. Without a new plan, WSC will not qualify for grants. Also, initiatives such as sustainability are not addressed in the old plan. Four faculty volunteers are being sought to serve on the new Facilities Master Plan committee.
Some individuals will be asked to serve on an Intercollegiate Athletic Committee ad hoc committee. This committee will take a close look at WSC's athletic program and funding and will recommend possible changes to bring the program into line with the college's strategic plan and mission.
