Executive Council met at 11 a.m. at 611 Allen Hall. Present were Dr. Malcolm Portera, presiding, Dr. Euel Coats, Brad Sweet, Dr. Rodney Foil, Dr. Roy Ruby, Ms. Leah Norman, Dr. George Rent, Dr. Mel Ray, Bill Broyles, Dr. Jonathan Pote, Joe Farris, Larry Templeton, Dr. R. D. Ikenberry, Charles Guest, Mike Rackley, and Danny Kemp.

Ms. Norman reported that a new, large-dimension aerial photo of the campus is available for ordering at a cost of $200, unframed.

Dr. Ruby recommended approval of a proposed policy on the definition of a student, originally presented for review in September. The council recommended approval.

Mr. Kemp presented an update on progress in implementing the Banner administrative computing system. Portions of the system have been place since 1994 and the baseline elements of finance, human resources, student accounts receivable, student financial aid, and student information are now in place, with few exceptions. Numerous enhancements are planned for 1999. Difficulties experienced this fall with student financial aid awards apparently have been resolved for the future, as have problems associated with daily reporting of enrollment totals during registration.

Dr. Rent recommended approval of the site and design of a long-jump sand pit for use of Air Force ROTC adjacent to Middleton Hall. The council recommended approval.

Dr. Cole presented a resolution of the Student Association calling for a two-day break in classes during the fall semester. The proposal was referred for review to the Faculty Senate, the Deans Council, and the Division of Student Affairs.

Dr. Pote presented for review a revised policy on Conflict of Interest in Federally Sponsored Programs.

Dr. Ruby reported that state appropriations for Mississippi Tuition Assistance Grant and the Mississippi Eminent Scholars Grant are insufficient to meet demand for the spring semester. There is a possibility that the legislature will provide a deficit appropriation in January to cover the shortfall, in which case the university would advance the funds due to eligible students. In the absence of additional appropriations, the amount available will be pro-rated among qualifying students, who would receive approximately three-fourths of the full amount of the awards.

The meeting adjourned at approximately 11:55 a.m.