The Executive Council met at 9 a.m. in 611 Allen Hall. Present were Dr. Donald Zacharias, presiding, Dr. Melvin Ray, Dr. Billy Ward, Dr. Leslie Bauman, Mike Richardson, Dr. Rodney Foil, Ms. Patsy Douglas, Larry Templeton, Dr. Gene Tice, Gaddis Hunt, Charles Guest, Dr. R. D. Ikenberry, and Joe Farris.

Dr. Zacharias noted that some statements that could be used in support of the legislative budget request have been received from council members. He solicited additional comments.

Mr. Templeton reported that a consultant on Title IX issues will be spending the week on campus.

Dr. Foil recommended approval of a memorandum of understanding with Universidade Federal de Pelotas in Brazil concerning collaborative efforts between the universities. One potential area of interaction is Mississippi State involvement in a seed technologist training program currently offered via distance learning by Universidade Federal de Pelotas. The council recommended approval.

Dr. Zacharias noted that the university's Division of Agriculture, Forestry and Veterinary Medicine is providing information on agricultural exports to the Commission on the Future of the South.

A proposed university Statement of Values recommended by Dr. Ruby was reviewed and discussed. Several editorial changes were proposed. The statement is to be considered further at the Oct. 27 council meeting.

Dr. Tice presented the results of the spring 1997 Withdrawing Student Survey.

Dr. Ray presented a revised report on contracts and grants awarded during September. Awards for the month were $9.3 million; the total for the first quarter of 1996-97 was $19.3 million.

Dr. Zacharias reported on two pending gifts to the university.

The meeting adjourned at approximately 10:05 a.m.