At the Academic Senate meeting Sept. 18, members discussed various topics ranging from the presence of Secret Service on campus during the Republican National Committee Convention to input on the university’s strategic plan. Here are the three main takeaways from the Academic Senate Meeting:
Republican National Committee Convention Planning Update
The campus will look different upon the arrival of the RNC week, which happens every four years. The RNC week will impact traffic and Milwaukee as it will resemble hosting “Four Super Bowls in four days.”
“The goal of the RNC week will be to maximize student scholarship revenue and ensure campus is a safe place for the event,” Mary Czech-Mrochinski, senior director for public affairs, said.
To secure safety on campus for the event, Czech-Mrochinski said the Secret Service will be present throughout campus during the week.
“During the RNC all buildings except the Alumni Memorial Union will be locked with MUID swipe access open for the buildings,” Lynn Griffith, university spokesperson, said.
In addition, Griffith said to secure safety, Marquette University Police Department officers will be stationed at every residence hall.
Higher Learning Commission Reaffirmation Update
The institutional accreditation will consist of peer university members’ reviews and visits. The criteria HLC reviews are ethical and responsible conduct, quality, resource and support for teaching and learning, evaluation and improvement of teaching and learning, institutional effectiveness, resources and planning.
“The peer reviewers will visit Marquette from Oct. 2 to Oct. 3, to assess the university and how it can be improved,” Gary Meyer, senior vice provost for faculty affairs, said.
The peer reviewers are comprised of other Jesuit universities and schools that share similar values to Marquette. Meyer said the reviewers come from DePaul, St. Louis University, Creighton, Valparaiso and Dayton.
After the visit, a preliminary report will be shared with University President Michael Lovell.
Strategic Plan Engagement Process
Marquette is developing a new strategic planning effort for the 2024-2031 academic years, aligning with the university’s 150th anniversary.
The new strategic plan will include three themes: healthy students, healthy campus and healthy world. Each of these themes will include four initiatives.
“This plan serves as a strategic blueprint of where we are heading,” Kimo Ah Yun, provost for academic affairs, said.
Healthy students will focus on student wellness, transformation and success. The initiatives in healthy students include innovative teaching, interdisciplinary programs grounded in Jesuit principles, programs infused with experiential learning and integrated support services.
Healthy campus aims to care for all and ensure the health of the institution. The initiatives in healthy campus comprise of inclusive and supportive campus structure, culture of philanthropy and alumni engagement, enrollment, academic planning, and efficient and sustainable operations.
Healthy world will address global challenges through research and faith. The initiative in healthy world includes strategic partnerships to increase impact on the world, research community networks, transdisciplinary research partnerships, enhanced research infrastructure, and service of faith and promotion of justice.
Students, faculty and staff can provide their opinions and feedback on the strategic plan as it continues to evolve during one of two open forums being held Oct. 5 at 8:30 a.m. or Oct. 9 at 3 p.m. in the Alumni Memorial Union ballrooms.
This story was written by Gabe Mannion. He can be reached at [email protected]
