Executive Council met at 9 a.m. at 611 Allen Hall. Present were Dr. Donald Zacharias, presiding, Dr. Melvin Ray, Dr. Billy Ward, Dr. Roy Ruby, Dr. Rodney Foil, Leah Norman, Dr. Debbie Baker, Larry Templeton, Dr. Mike Couvillion, Dr. Derek Hodgson, Greg Threatt, Mike Richardson, Charles Guest, Joe Farris and Dr. R.D. Ikenberry.

Greg Threatt introduced newly elected Student Association President Mike Richardson.

Dr. Foil recommended approval of the proposed Forest and Wildlife Research Center policy on publications. The Council recommended approval.

Dr. Ward reported that the Campus Planning and Development Committee will make a presentation at a future meeting to recommend location of the "Keep the Flame Burning" campaign monument in front of Allen Hall.

Dr. Ray presented a Policy and Procedure Statement on Conflict of Interest in Sponsored Programs which would require researchers and members of their immediate family to disclose any significant financial interest in a company sponsoring the researcher's work. The policy would define procedures for identifying and resolving apparent conflicts. Action was deferred to allow further review. The policy will be considered at the April 14 council meeting.

Dr. Baker presented for review a proposed revision of the constitution of the Professional and Support Staff Advisory Council. The proposed changes will be considered at the April 14 meeting of the council.

Dr. Ward presented the fund-raising report for the first eight months of the fiscal year. Total funds raised to date amount to $16.6 million. A campaign update will be announced during Super Bulldog Weekend.

Dr. Ruby distributed a report on international student enrollment for spring 1997. The university enrolls 764 students from 73 other countries.

Ms. Norman presented the quarterly report of the Division of Business Affairs.

Ms. Norman commented on the capital improvements bond bill awaiting final approval in the legislature. The bill includes $12.75 million for major renovations of Hilbun and Montgomery halls and an expansion of the chilled water cooling system on the main campus, and additional funds for Research and Extension Center construction at the Central Mississippi and Gulf Coast locations.

Dr. Zacharias noted the need for a study of future uses of the renovated Montgomery Hall. The matter will be considered by the Budget Committee at its April 4 meeting.

Dr. Zacharias distributed excerpts from the 1997 IHL Statistical Abstract.

Dr. Zacharias announced that members of the IHL staff will visit the campus for discussions with the vice presidents on April 22.

Dr. Zacharias noted that no decisions have been made concerning a possible fall break for students, although the Presidents Council has agreed to discuss the topic at its April meeting. Student Affairs and Student Association representatives are to make a recommendation to the president concerning the possible additional class break.

The meeting adjourned at approximately 10:20 a.m.