Academic Centers of Distinction

Members

Betsy Yanik - Chair Angela Blaufuss - Student Beth Dains
Heidi Hamilton Teresa Davidson - Community Roy Mann
Kurt Parker - Student Brice Obermeyer Ann O'Neill
Nancy Smith Amy Sage Webb  

 

ROLE AND PURPOSE

We recognize that we must identify programs that are “programs of distinction.” These programs exhibit the institutional strengths and distinctiveness that set us apart from other colleges and universities. In order to identify these programs, we must develop a process and measurable criteria for identifying these programs.

The purpose of the work group is to:

  • Recommend a process to be used to identify “programs of distinction.” The process should include measurable criteria which sets each program apart from competitors. Include, as appropriate, definitions, conceptual frameworks and classification systems that should be used to guide our analysis and decision-making with regard to the identification and development of centers of distinction.
    • The process should include a mechanism for recommending changes or improvements for programs which seek the designation but are not at the point of inclusion.
  • Determine the mechanisms and criteria to monitor assess or validate our progress with regard to centers of distinctiveness and distinction.
  • Using the supplied format, recommend to the Strategic Planning Task Force one statement of “strategic direction” (i.e., one goal) and three to five strategic initiatives and action steps (for each initiative) that should be pursued in order to make progress toward the recommended strategic direction. 

PROCESS GUIDELINES

The work group should identify and invite additional members of the University Community to participate as work group members as needed.

The work group should collect data from a variety of sources including available documents and should invite expert witnesses to present relevant information.

The work group should sponsor open forums and/or focus groups as a means of collecting additional data and advice regarding their charge.

The work group should communicate and coordinate its deliberations with other work groups so as to promote constructive “cross fertilization” of ideas and recommendations.

The work group will maintain appropriate records of its proceedings.

OUTCOMES

  • Progress reports delivered at bi-weekly Steering Committee Meetings
  • Preliminary Report due February 1, 2008
  • Revised Report due March 3, 2008