At last Wednesday's regular monthly meeting, the Board of Trustees reviewed a draft of an operational mission statement, approved a statement on shared governance and agreed to save the college $45,000 by using the Colorado Commission on Higher Education lobbyist. To read more go to: XXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Interim President Ray Kieft introduced a draft of an operational mission statement, designed to guide trustees in establishing policies. "This is not meant to replace the statutory mission, but it translates it into an every day mission statement that guides the board in its decision making," Kieft explained.

Feedback on the draft, which defines Metro State as a "teaching institution where excellence in teaching and learning is accorded highest priority," was favorable. Maureen Lancaster from the Center for Individualized Learning, praised the document and made several wording suggestions to strengthen the document. Kim Clark, president of the Administrator's Council, suggested more references to the broader campus community.

Kieft plans to follow up with Lancaster and Clark and then provide a revised draft for the board to consider at its December meeting.

The trustees unanimously approved a statement on shared governance. The statement spells out the college's commitment to include faculty, students, staff and other stakeholders in decision-making.

"I'm a firm believer that better decisions flow from many minds," Kieft said. "The best decisions come when those who have a stake are involved in the decision process."

The statement was met with strong support from alumni and faculty representatives. "I approve of this and support it fully," said Faculty Trustee Gene Saxe. "It recognizes an important fact in higher education."

"You're really helping all of the constituents get together and help the college, added Courtney Cowgill, president of the Alumni Association.

Looking ahead to a quieter legislative year than last year, trustees agreed to rely on the CCHE lobbyist to monitor legislation for the college, resulting in a $45,000 savings for the year. Last year's contract with Corporate Advocates was $50,000. The CCHE contract will cost $5,000. The lobbyist will monitor activity rather than try to influence the legislature on Metro's behalf. "If an issue comes up we can hire someone to lobby for us," said Trustee Ann Rice.