The University of Toledo

Date: July 6, 2010

To: UT Main Campus Deans

From: William McMillen, Provost

After about six weeks on the job and after a restful three day holiday weekend, I wanted to update you on some issues. However, first of all I wanted to thank all of you for your patience and for your help as I have worked to orient myself to the job. Your suggestions and insights are much appreciated.

1. An academic issue that has come to my attention involves the reporting of grades. With the Regents going to a course completion system for SSI payment this fall, it is imperative that faculty report grades promptly and before the deadline. We cannot leave any dollars on the table. Plus, this is not just a financial issue, but also a student centeredness issue concerning getting timely and correct grade reports to students. Any suggestions about how we can improve faculty making the grading deadline?
2. Amajor effort from now until faculty arrive on August 16 will be to complete the workload reports for each faculty member. I know that this work is on-going and we will make every effort to be supportive in the Provost’s Office.
3. Dr. Gold and I are working out responsibilities based on his new title and duties. One decision that has been made is that the Provost will have primary responsibilities for contact with the Ohio Board of Regents. I will send out a wider e-mail in July explaining this more fully. Our relationship with the Regents is increasingly important especially as we enter a budget year.
4. Tomorrow, Wednesday morning, July 7th, at 9 a.m. in Room 3300 UH, I have called a meeting of everyone who reports to the Provost who is involved in International affairs. I feel a need to get a better handle on this topic in the Provost’s Office. This will be an “information-only” meeting, but I wanted to let you know about the meeting. You and/or your representative are invited to attend.
5. On Thursday, July 22, Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, Chief Executive Officer of the Abu Dhabi Future Energy Co., will speak on Alternative Energy Innovation and will receive an honorary degree from UT. The event will take place in Doermann Theater in University Hall at 10 a.m. It is extremely important to have a full-house. I urge all of you to encourage faculty, staff, and students to attend.

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