The Board of Visitors Educational Policy Committee met yesterday to discuss various aspects of the University's academic future, including the augmentation of fine arts and science research, as well as problems with a lack of undergraduate advising.
University President John T. Casteen, III opened the meeting with recognition of University Provost Gene Block and College Dean Edward Ayers, who both announced this year they would be leaving the University to take on other academic positions.
"Provost Block and Dean Ayers are going off to great opportunities," Casteen said. "It is a testament to them and to the University."
Casteen then provided the committee with a review of the University's 10-year academic plan. While highlighting the importance of the search for a new provost and a new College dean, Casteen also cited the importance of increasing the prominence of fine arts and scientific research at the school. Additionally, he cited the possible creation of a school of public health.
After Casteen concluded his remarks, Architecture Prof. Kenneth Schwartz, chair of the Faculty Senate, updated the board on the activities of the Faculty Senate. Schwartz highlighted a survey conducted of the faculty on recruitment, retention and welfare of University professors.
Ayers also addressed the Committee on the status of undergraduate advising programs. Ayers pointed out that the University has one of the top 20 graduation rates in the country.
"U.Va. is the only public school on that list," Ayers said.
Ayers reported that despite the University's high graduation rate, however, some community members feel advising could be improved.
Ayers said among the schools in the top 20, the University has one of the largest student bodies and the highest faculty-to-student ratio, making academic advising very important.
According to Ayers, the College has explored two programs in an effort to increase the effectiveness of academic advising.
The first program would pay advisors to take on more advisees. Additionally, students would be assigned advisors in their general area of academic study. The second program, titled "College of Liberal Arts Seminars," would combine advising and seminars. First-year students would be advised by a professor while simultaneously taking a small seminar-style class by the same professor. Both programs are funded by donors.
The Committee also discussed degree name changes in the Medical School and the Engineering School.
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