Executive Council met at 1:30 p.m. at Lee Hall. Present were Dr. Mark E. Keenum, presiding, Mr. Zac Ashmore, Dr. Wes Burger, Ms. Ann Carr, Dr. Timothy Chamblee, Dr. Darrell Easley, Dr. Randy Follett, Ms. RaSheda Forbes, Dr. Regina Hyatt, Mr. Brandon Jolly, Mr. Jim Martin, Mr. Jack McCarty, Mr. Gene Merkl, Mr. Steve Parrott, Dr. David Shaw, Ms. Amy Tuck, Dr. Bob Williams, Ms. Leslie Woolington, Mr. Don Zant, and Mr. Jim Laird.

Dr. Burger presented a proposal for the University to seek status as a Bee Campus USA, which is an “initiative of The Xerces Society (an invertebrate conservation nonprofit organization) to foster ongoing dialogue and action for pollinators.” The program raises awareness about the importance of pollinators, encourages action to protect them, and enhances overall sustainability efforts. Additionally, the University already meets all of the requirements for certification. Dr. Keenum endorsed seeking certification, while emphasizing the importance of how the program is communicated with the campus community.

Mr. Parrott presented an update of OP 01.12, Use of Technology Resources. This update reflects advances in technology that have been made since the policy was last reviewed. The Council recommended approval.

Dr. Shaw presented an update of AOP 12.12, Credit and Grades. This updates includes minor changes, and also adds a provision to accept credit from non-U.S. institutions after review by the appropriate academic department. The Council recommended approval.

Dr. Shaw requested that an update of AOP 13.23, Faculty Workload, be tabled.

Dr. Shaw presented a rescission of AOP 12.25, Pass-Fail Option. The policy is no longer relevant or needed. The Council recommended approval.

Dr. Williams presented a revision of OP 56.07, The Safe Shipping, Storage, and Handling of Pesticides and Other Toxic Chemicals. This update reflects the current regulatory environment to ensure compliance with all state and federal regulations. The Council recommended approval.

Mr. Martin presented OP 79.06, Controlled Substances Used in Research. The purpose of this new policy is to ensure that controlled substances in research activities are purchased, stored, used, and disposed of in a manner consistent with Drug Enforcement Administration requirements. The Council recommended approval.