President MeadorsAs the holiday season approaches, we have much to be thankful for at UCA and I want to share some updates.
Fiscal year 2009, we were only able to do slightly less than $3 million in campus renovations and repairs. This fiscal year, thanks to conservative spending, federal stimulus funds and some one-time bond funds, we will most likely be able to do in excess of $12 million in renovations and repairs.
Most of stimulus and bond funds must be spent this fiscal year. We apologize for all of the activities but we have a short window in which to accomplish this work.
Because most of these are one-time funds, it is unlikely that we will have this amount again, so we are trying to utilize the funds in numerous venues.
A vast majority — more than 80 percent — is going toward updating many of our facilities, especially as it pertains to environmental issues. We will also be spending well over $2 million on new computers and related computer equipment and software.
We will also be upgrading other areas as well as replacing recycling and trash containers, and improving sidewalks, road crossings, classrooms, flooring, security, and transportation.
In academic affairs, approval has been given to conduct 35 faculty searches to fill vacancies and to add a few new positions.
We have hired a vice president for financial services. Ms. Diane Newton is an Arkansas native and has been the vice president for business and administration at Lander University in South Carolina for the past six years. Ms. Newton will assume her new position in January 2010.
As you know, our faculty and non-classified staff have not been given a raise in over two years. Our classified staff did receive a permanent 2% COLA in fiscal year 2008 and a permanent increase in fiscal year 2009.
One of the federal stimulus allocations allows for a one-time (not permanent) supplement for full-time faculty and non-classified staff. With the support of the Board of Trustees, we are allocating a one-time supplement of $300 to all eligible faculty and staff. Our goal is to have this one-time supplement in the Dec. 15th payroll.
The Executive Staff has voted not to take this supplement so that their portion may be used towards other university enhancements.
I realize this is not much but we wanted, even if in a small fashion, to express our appreciation for your efforts and dedication during this period of no raises. It is, of course, our goal to provide permanent raises as soon as possible.
As the semester comes to a close, I hope you know how much we appreciate each of you. UCA is a tremendous institution that allows us to contribute each day to the future of not only Arkansas, but the nation and world. Thank you for all you do.