Executive Council met at 11 a.m. at 611 Allen Hall. Present were Dr. Malcolm Portera, presiding, Dr. David Cole, Jan Bryant, Gaddis Hunt, Dr. Bob Altenkirch, Dennis Prescott, Larry Templeton, Jenny Reeves, Dr. Brad Carter, Daniel Bryant, Dr. Roy Ruby, Dr. Dan Embree, Charles Guest, Joe Farris, Danny Cheatham, John Tomlinson, Dr. George Rent, and Sebron Harrison.

Ms. Reeves introduced Sebron Harrison, president-elect of the Student Association.

Mr. Tomlinson provided a legislative update.

Dr. Cole recommended approval of a revised version of Academic Operating Policy 11.05, Shortened Format Courses and Contact Hours. The policy provides that courses using a shortened format of five or 10 weeks must generally maintain the same amount of instructional time that would be delivered through a traditional format three-semester-hour course. The Council recommended approval.

Dr. Cole recommended approval of a revised version of Academic Operating Policy 12.07, Academic Misconduct. The revised policy updates and clarifies existing procedures. The Council recommended approval.

Dr. Altenkirch presented for information and review a newly revised version of a Policy and Procedure Statement on Intellectual Property at Mississippi State. The revised version incorporates suggestions of the general counsel and will be reviewed by the Faculty Senate prior to further consideration by Executive Council.

Dr. Portera reported that the Faculty Roundtable held during the previous weekend was successful. Discussion focused on standards.

Dr. Altenkirch reported that research awards for FY 2001 through February total $68.5 million, an increase of 11.6 percent from the same period last year.

Mr. Hunt reported that damage to university property from the Feb. 16 windstorm approached $6 million. The university is working with the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Legislature to seek repair

funds.

Mr. Hunt presented an update on construction projects.

Ms. Reeves reported that the Freshman Forum class sponsored by the Student Association has 18 participants.

Ms. Bryant reported on plans for a staff networking session and noted that nominations for staff awards are due.

Dr. Embree reported that the Senate has sent a proposed grade appeal proposal to the provost.