Chairman’s Report: Mr. Mertz welcomed Jane Oates, the Commission’s
new executive director. He also indicated that the Senior Public
Operating Aid and Capital Planning Task Forces have been reconstituted
and will begin
meeting soon.
Executive Director’s Report: Ms. Oates expressed appreciation for
the warm welcome she has received and praised the professionalism of Commission
staff and the collaborative spirit of the Presidents’ Council.
Federal Financial Aid Update: Ms. Oates discussed various proposed changes
in federal student assistance programs and the primarily harmful impacts
on New Jersey. The Commission adopted a resolution to convey to New Jersey’s
Congressional delegation the Commission’s concerns.
Long-Range Plan Update: Dr. Oswald commented on work underway that advances
economic development and public awareness goals. A video from the national “Solutions
for Our Future” campaign was shown.
Governor’s Proposed Fiscal 2007 Budget: Executive Director
Oates commented on the proposed reductions in institutional support,
level funding
for EOF, and increased funding for TAG. Commissioners Samuels and
Pruitt commented on the impact of proposed cuts and next steps.
Potential Bond Issue Update: Mr. Mertz commented on recent and ongoing
discussions between the Presidents’ Council and the Commission
regarding the proposed bond referendum and stressed the need to intensify
collaboration
and to broaden discussions with the Governor and Legislature.
Yeshivas Be’er Yitzchok Petition: The Commission licensed Yeshivas
Be’er Yitzchok for an initial period of three years to offer
a bachelor of Talmudic studies degree.
Institutional Profiles – Form and Content: The Commission adopted
the proposed form and content with the addition of faculty rank as
a new indicator.
Education of Language Minority Students Program Allocations: The Commission
approved fiscal 2007 allocations to seven institutions, pending fiscal
2007 state appropriations.
EOF and HESAA Updates: Commissioner Collins noted the upcoming annual
EOF awards event on March 27. Commissioner Smith said HESAA is assessing the
impacts of the proposed fiscal 2007 budget.
Presidents’ Council Report: Dr. Pruitt said his earlier comments
on the proposed fiscal 2007 budget for higher education constituted
his report.
Resolution Honoring Dr. Oswald: The Commission adopted a resolution commending
Dr. Oswald for her outstanding service as executive director for
the two previous years.
Interim Replacements: Chairman Mertz announced his intention to resign
from the Commission effective April 28. The Commission elected Commissioner
Collins as chairman and Commissioner Graham as vice chairman; they
will serve for May and June, when the regular biennial elections for officers
will be held.
Comments from the Public: Dr. John Pace, president, Association of New
Jersey County College Faculties – proposed fiscal 2007 budget; Professor
Henry Frank – history of New Jersey higher education agencies
