Executive Council met at 9 a.m. in 611 Allen Hall. Present were Dr. Donald Zacharias, presiding, Dr. Rodney Foil, Ms. Leah Norman, Ms. Patsy Douglas, Dr. Roy Ruby, Mike Richardson, Dr. Leslie Bauman, Dr. Derek Hodgson, Dr. Billy Ward, Larry Templeton, Dr. Melvin Ray, Joe Farris, Charles Guest and Dr. R. D. Ikenberry.

Dr. Ikenberry presented preliminary fall semester enrollment figures, indicating a significant increase from the previous year.

Mr. Templeton presented for concept approval plans for an expansion of Humphrey Coliseum to increase seating capacity by about 1,000, add restrooms, and improve lighting and accessibility. The council approved the proposal. The coliseum will be closed from March to October 1998 for renovation. Several scheduled activities will be relocated.

Mr. Templeton presented for concept approval plans for an expansion of the parking lot between Humphrey Coliseum and Bryan Athletic Administration Building. Plans call for an eventual increase of 279 parking spaces. The council approved the proposal with the stipulation that the proposed provision for up to 30 recreational vehicle connections be reviewed with the aesthetics of the site in mind.

Ms. Norman presented for concept approval a proposal to add an awning to the Information Systems and User Support building at 46 Magruder Street for rain protection. The council approved.

Dr. Foil recommended approval for replacement of the awnings on at the University Florist shop. The council approved.

Dr. Ray presented a summary of grants and contracts received during July. Awards totaled about $20.2 million.

Dr. Ikenberry reported on IHL performance measures and systemwide goals for 1997-98.

Dr. Ward presented the university fund-raising report for 1996-97 and for the first month of 1997-98. A record $44.2 million in total funds raised was recorded in 1996-97. The total for July 1997 was $489,232.

Dr. Ruby distributed the updated campus crime statistics and brochure on campus crime prevention.

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