April 15, 2008

A few initiatives were brought to the attention of the committee from the faculty that were addressed. The following issues raised and discussed:

1. Equity vs Merit Pay: One committee member expressed an interest in better understanding the administration’s method of determining merit and equity pay.  Dr. Covey set up a meeting for members of the Salary and Fringe Benefits Committee to have this presented.  A thorough presentation was provided and members of the Salary and Fringe Benefits Committee were all satisfied with the current process and felt there was not need to pursue things any further.
2. The Executive Committee of the FS proposed an increase in the raise for rank advancement to assistant and associate professor.  This was approved by Administration.
3. Based on feedback from Faculty Senate Town Hall Meetings, two issues were presented to Administration: 1) Tiered rates for health insurance premiums to add an additional tier for employee plus one dependent and 2) addition of some form of coverage for assistive reproductive technology.  Both of these issues have been brought forth to the University Fringe Benefits Committee and are currently still being investigated and discussed and are on the agenda for the May 2008 meeting.
4. The health and dental financial statement for the 2007 calendar year was discussd at the January University Fringe Benefits Committee Meeting.  Expenditures exceeded revenue into the plan.  The University Consultant recommended to offset this shortfall by taking credit against the general fund with no increase in premiums to faculty and staff.
5. Further development of the University’s Wellness initiative has not occurred this year.. The subcommittee that was formed last year and chaired by Wayne Davis has not met this academic year.   Jean Irion, as chair of this committee will continue to push this effort so that a definite initiative is set in place during the next academic year.