Executive Council met at 9 a.m. in 611 Allen Hall. Present were Dr. Donald Zacharias, presiding, Dr. Derek Hodgson, Dr. Melvin Ray, Dr. Rodney Foil, Dr. Roy Ruby, Larry Templeton, Dr. Debbie Baker, Dr. Marion Couvillion, Charles Guest, Dr. R.D. Ikenberry and Joe Farris.

Mr. Templeton presented a summary of the 1997 Gender Equity Plan for athletics. The university is on the verge of full compliance with NCAA gender equity guidelines, and will likely achieve that status during the coming year.

Mr. Templeton reported on a request by Starkville High School to use university facilities for basketball games next year due to construction at the high school gymnasium. Mr. Templeton will work further with the school to attempt to accommodate the need.

Dr. Ray reported on the Research Environment Survey being conducted among faculty and research scientists at the four Mississippi Research Consortium member institutions. Survey results will help improve research support services and programs.

Dr. Ray reported that the Oktibbeha County Development Council has been contacted by a developer interested in locating a conference center hotel in the Research and Technology Park. The Council recommended further explorations of the proposal.

Dr. Ward presented an update on the Memorial Gardens and Arboretum project, recommending that a request be made to the Mississippi State Foundation for funds to complete the design plans and conduct a preliminary sales effort as a final test of the viability of the project. The Council recommended approval of the proposed plan of action.

Dr. Zacharias commented on his recent hospitalization and health status and reviewed his plans to announce his retirement by Jan. 1, 1998.

The meeting adjourned at approximately 10 a.m.