A motion discussed at Faculty Senate Tuesday could limit faculty’s use of a variety of equipment and software on campus. The senate discussed a motion to standardize faculty and staff software and computer equipment across campus, in several previous meetings. This would set an expectation of using the same technology brands for all computers. The senate largely opposed the report, hoping they would be able to keep their personal computers for work.
The discussion slowed and complaints continued to rise. In a previous meeting, Jerry Fairly, a professor in the Department of Geological Sciences, motioned for President Scott Green to “roll back the July 1, 2022 update… until such time as a new update can be developed, with input from the faculty, that recognizes the right of faculty to choose the computing equipment most appropriate for their work.”
Other senators were concerned about the standardization during Tuesday’s discussion. Several members did not know what the new software and hardware would mean for their research. Others believed the standardization may not fall under the Department of Energy allotments, as several faculty work for DOE.
“Personally, I feel burned by (the motion),” Robert Rinker, a professor in the computer science department, said.
Other faculty shared their positive experiences with computer standardization working for other institutions.
The discussion will result in the formation of an ad hoc committee this week to further investigate compromises. The senate hopes the committee conversations will move forward to some solution, whether it passes the senate or not.
The senate also passed degree changes for multiple majors and minors.
The addition of a minor in cyber security seeks to compliment majors such as political science or criminology.
The senate secured a B.S. in natural resource enterprise management. Kansas State and Auburn are the only two other universities in the country that currently offer that major.
A minor in agricultural commodity risk management was created. The senate also changed the name of the major crop management to crop sciences and management. The major changes in name only, not in requirements.
The senate also voted to allow two new members to be added to the University Assessment and Accreditation Committee.
Joanna Hayes can be reached at [email protected]