Strategic Planning Committee Minutes, September 12, 2002

Strategic Planning Committee Minutes
September 12, 2002

MEMBERS PRESENT: : Bruce Morton, Kay Chafey, Jon Wraith, Mark Sheehan, Jaynee Groseth, Mary Noll.

MEMBERS ABSENT: Bill Brown, Greg Johnson, Betsy Centa, ASMSU rep.

OTHERS PRESENT: Jim Rimpau, Kathy Attebury, Ben Sharp.

The meeting, chaired by Bruce Morton, convened was 1:30 PM.

The "Capacity for Growth" draft document was the main topic of discussion.

Strategic growth and measured growth are mentioned in the draft. What is the desired student number to be reached and maintained through increased recruitment and increased retention? After discussion, there appeared to be agreement that a specific student enrollment number was not as important as quality and retention.

What is the purpose of growth in enrollment, if the supposition is that it's not possible to use this kind of growth to solve financial problems? The assumption is made that state support will continue to decrease, so the issue of other revenue streams must be addressed. The university should strive for a stable resource base.

Targeted growth is desirable. Areas of growth should be where there's capacity and where there is strategic demand. Growth within the institution is important, but it doesn't necessarily mean net population growth.

Does the ability to grow address maintaining the quality of the faculty and the infrastructure?

The growth statement should begin with an assertive, positive statement.

Another draft of the "Capacity for Growth" document will be distributed on the listserv.

During brief discussion of "weaknesses" (part of the SWOT analysis), it was suggested wording be added to the infrastructure section, making it clear that other institutions within the state look to MSU for administrative computing and networking, an added responsibility for the Bozeman campus with no additional resources allocated.

There appeared to be agreement that MSU salaries are the highest priority in funding, over the long run. The ability to redirect raises selectively is important.

The meeting adjourned at 3 PM.