Executive Council met at 11 a.m. at 611 Allen Hall. Present were Dr. Charles Lee, presiding, Dr. Peter Rabideau, Dr. Melissa Mixon, Dr. Mark Goodman, Ray Hayes, Adam Telle, Julie Berry, Dennis Prescott, Larry Templeton, Dr. William Kibler, Dr. Colin Scanes, Dr. Melvin Ray, Dr. Gary Pike, Joe Farris, Charles Guest, Bob Luke, Mike White, Ann Bailey, Cameron Mann, Fred Mock, and Tim Muzzi.

Professor Mann present the Phase I landscaping plan for the new Landscape Architecture Building, which includes the main entrance area. The landscaping will use donated materials to be installed by the university's Campus Landscape department. The council recommended approval of the plan. Funding is still being sought for the second phase landscaping of the entire site.

Architect Bob Luke presented proposed color schemes and courtyard designs for Roy Ruby Residence Hall now under construction. The building would utilize brown bricks and black/brown/gray roof shingles, and have white building accents. The central courtyard would include a raised berm, trees, seating areas, a water feature, and diffused lighting. Plans for a west side parking lot to accommodate 307 vehicles also were presented. The council recommended approval of the designs.

General Counsel Guest recommended approval of revised and updated Operating Policy 01.14, Political Activities. The council recommended approval.

President Lee commented on the progress of the Legislative session and the funding outlook for FY 2006.

Provost Rabideau announced that a Request for Proposals to establish learning communities has been issued to the faculty. He also noted that the Promotion and Tenure policy is being reviewed with the Faculty Senate, and that the process for applications for sabbatical leave is being reviewed.

Staff Council President Berry announced that Staff Appreciation Day is scheduled for May 12, the week following commencement. Vice President Hayes noted that plans are being made to offer staff development opportunities in conjunction with Staff Appreciation Day.

Student Association President Telle reported that the night shuttle route is operational and was heavily used during its first weekend. He also announced that the Old Main Music Festival is scheduled for April 23, and is being supported by the Starkville Convention and Visitors Bureau and MSU Music Maker Productions.

Vice President Kibler reported that applications and admissions are up significantly, compared with the same time last year. Dr. Lee requested a report on the impact on MSU students of planned changes in the Pell Grant program.

Vice President Scanes reported that awards of grants and contracts are up from the same time last year.

Vice President Prescott reported that a search firm is assisting in identifying candidates for executive director of the Alumni Association. He also announced that alumnus Hunter Henry is receiving the Volunteer of the Year award from the Council for Advancement and Support of Education.

The meeting adjourned at 11:55 a.m.