The information below is a summary of questions and answers from SGA's Town Hall meeting with University Cabinet members on 10-31-23
New Academic Programs
Q: Can you provide more details on the new majors and graduate programs?
A: The university has expanded its offerings to include undergraduate majors in Business, Computer Science, Digital Design and added/enhanced a degree completion degree named Adult and Professional Studies. These are in addition to the graduate programs such as a Master of Biomedicine, Master in Data Science, catering to the growing demand in these fields. Furthermore, a new Master in Education is available for individuals who have an undergraduate degree in something lighter than teaching and who lack a teaching license. A MSED Reading Specialist degree in Dyslexia was also added in Spring of 2023. The MBA program was completed re-tooled to provide a highly personalized and stackable educational experience. Finally, Newman has also transitioned its Master of Social Work program to an online format to cater to a broader range of students.
Program Prioritization
Q: Why is the university discontinuing certain majors, and what is the strategy behind these changes?
A: Discontinuation is part of a strategic prioritization to focus on areas with higher student interest and job market demands. This approach allows the institution to reallocate resources towards programs that are more aligned with the evolving educational landscape and current student needs.
A: Undergraduate majors to be discontinued starting from the 2024-25 Academic year include: English, math, history, marketing, finance, social work, theatre and general philosophy (Does NOT include Philosophy for Theological Studies)
Institutional Focus and Liberal Arts
Q: How does the university balance its liberal arts tradition with the new focus on technology and vocational programs?
A: The institution remains rooted in its liberal arts tradition by maintaining foundational courses in disciplines like history, English, and philosophy. However, it recognizes the importance of evolving to address contemporary global challenges. Therefore, while some majors may be discontinued due to a lack of student interest, the university will still provide foundational courses in history, English, and philosophy, but some upper-division courses with less interest will be phased out in favor of interdisciplinary approaches that integrate liberal arts into broader societal issues.
By re-envisioning the delivery of liberal arts education, the university plans to evolve the curriculum to maintain relevancy, align with student interests, and address real-world problems. This vision underscores the college's pursuit of innovative approaches to delivering a liberal arts education in a modern context. The faculty will be working on curricular revisions to ensure the education remains relevant and innovative.
Curriculum Changes
Q: What specific changes are expected in the NSP curriculum, and how will they impact current students?
A: While a comprehensive curricular revision is planned for 2025, the NSP curriculum will be retained with possible minor adjustments until then. The revisions aim to make the curriculum more relevant and innovative, focusing on what students are keen to learn. The core curriculum is being redesigned to be more aligned with the students' interests and the changing landscape of higher education.
Q: What provisions are being made for students affected by the discontinuation of the Social Work bachelor's program?
A: Students currently enrolled in the Social Work bachelor's program will be able to complete their degree as planned. Although the direct bachelor's to master's track in Social Work is being restructured, the university is ensuring that the transition does not impact students' ability to graduate on time or pursue a Master’s in Social Work if they choose to.
Q: Secondary Education Majors - How will they get content for specific areas that won’t have majors
A: It will be delivered through a few variety of ways. We are keeping faculty in some of those discipline areas. For example, if you're talking about history, we still a History professor. We will also do it by collaborating with partners. Our partnership with Friends University is an example - they have a similar issue so we work together to provide content and specialization for students of each campus. Additionally courses may be delivered through high quality adjuncts.
Faculty and Teaching Quality
Q: With the introduction of adjunct faculty, how will the university guarantee the same level of education as provided by full-time faculty?
A: The university plans to engage industry experts and utilize partnerships to maintain high-quality education. While the instructors may change, the commitment to providing education that equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge remains steadfast.
Q: Why are some teachers being replaced?
A: We are evolving to meet the emerging needs of both the industry and our students. Sometimes, this necessitates bringing in new expertise to ensure that we continue to deliver cutting-edge education. However, our core goal remains to maintain a high standard of education that thoroughly prepares students for success post-graduation.
Q: Will the replacement of some teachers with adjuncts affect the quality of my education?
A: Adjunct professors, particularly those sourced from local industries, bring a wealth of practical knowledge and up-to-date industry insights. They enrich the learning environment by blending theoretical knowledge with current industry practices. We believe this approach will maintain, if not enhance, the quality of education provided. In addition, increased oversight will be implemented to further assure high instructional standards are maintained by adjuncts.
We are fortunate to have strong ties with industry experts in Wichita, especially in fields relevant to our master's programs like MBA and Data Science. These professionals bring real-world, up-to-date knowledge into the classroom. Our comprehensive selection process is geared towards maintaining a high standard of education.
Q: I liked my previous teachers. Why can't they continue teaching?
A: We value the contributions of all our faculty members. Not renewing contracts for some faculty is difficult for all involved and it was done with careful consideration. However, as we adapt to the evolving educational landscape and employment demands, some adjustments are necessary to ensure that we continue to offer relevant and updated programs. Our decision-making process concerning faculty adjustments is thorough and always aimed at preserving the quality of education. We also value our faculty family and try to do all we can to support those impacted through this process.
Q: Will the changes in faculty affect the completion of my degree program?
A: No. We are fully committed to ensuring that all students are able to complete their degree programs as planned. Despite the changes in faculty, the institution will continue to offer the necessary courses required for the completion of all degree programs. Students in the majors have been contacted by their deans through email and the work of creating detailed personalized plans are underway through the academic affairs office.
Q:. How are the changes in faculty aligned with the future goals of the institution?
A: The adjustments in faculty are a part of our broader strategy to keep our institution and our educational offerings as relevant and updated as possible. This includes aligning our resources with emerging fields of study and employment opportunities, to better prepare our students for the future.
Trust and Assurance in Education Quality
Q: What reassurances can the university offer to ensure the reprioritization will not compromise educational quality?
A: Ensuring the quality of education remains a top priority, especially as we navigate through the prioritization process. While we acknowledge the value of having full-time faculty members, we also have a roster of highly qualified and passionate adjunct instructors who contribute to delivering excellent education. Increased oversight will be implemented to maintain high instructional standards. The prioritization allows for a reallocation of resources, thereby potentially enhancing certain areas of education. For instance, we are in the process of launching a search for two biology positions to support both undergraduate and graduate courses, signifying an investment in quality education in this area. Additionally, this realignment will enable investments in new programs and professional development opportunities for faculty, all aimed at preserving, if not enhancing, the educational experience.
Financial Management and Deficit
Q: How is the university addressing its financial challenges, and what measures are in place to prevent future deficits?
A: The deficit, originally perceived as $4 million but clarified to be around $2 million, is being managed by adjusting the budget and focusing on areas of growth to become more efficient. The university is taking a proactive approach by adapting to shifts in student enrollment and the economy to ensure financial stability.
Q: What is the current budget status of the university?
A: The university is financially stable but must continuously adapt to market conditions. A formal program prioritization is underway to enhance effectiveness and efficiency, focusing on academics (completed), athletics, and administration.
Q: What steps are being taken to address the university's budget constraints?
A: Departments have submitted activity questionnaires to a committee to identify redundancies and explore more efficient use of resources, with the intent to both enhance the student experience and our financial stability.
Athletic Program Budgets
Q: What changes are being made to the athletic department's efficiency?
A: The focus is on adjusting the discount rates (scholarships) for incoming students to align with the budget without affecting the competitiveness of the teams. team budgets with the university's overall financial strategy. The changes will likely affect incoming students rather than current ones.
Q: Will there be any program cuts or changes in scholarships for sports teams?
A: Current efforts are on adjusting discount rates rather than cutting programs. The triathlon program was discontinued due to low enrollment and interest.
eSports and Other Initiatives
Q: Why was eSports added, and triathlon cut?
A: eSports was added due to its growing popularity and the potential to attract new students. Triathlon was cut due to sustained low enrollment and lack of high school feeder programs.
Comparing Old and New Program Enrollment
Q: How does the current enrollment in new programs compare to the discontinued ones, particularly for popular majors like marketing?
A: While specific numbers were not provided for each new program, the total enrollment for the discontinued majors is 57 students, with the majority in finance and marketing. The university has decided to retain the essential elements of these programs as concentrations within the broader Business major. This allows the university to continue offering vital skills while reducing the resources required for separate majors.
Coffee Shop Operations
Q: What are the planned hours of operation for the coffee shop?
A: The coffee shop will operate in the time slots between meals: from 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM, and 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday. This is to ensure students have access to food over a 12-hour period throughout the day.
Q: Will there be job opportunities for students at the new coffee shop?
A: Yes, students are encouraged to apply for jobs both at the coffee shop and the cafeteria.
Q: Can meal plans be used at the coffee shop?
A: Starting in January, $60 will be provided to students which can be used at both the cafeteria and the coffee shop, but there will be no meal exchange. This amount is loaded once per semester.
Q: Will the coffee shop have extended hours during finals week like the library?
A: The cabinet is open to the idea and may use this period as a trial for extended hours to gauge interest and traffic.
Menu Offerings
Q: What will be on the menu at the coffee shop?
A: The coffee shop will start with around 10 custom pizzas and flatbreads, pre-made sub sandwiches, salad parfaits, grab-and-go items, and breakfast burritos and sandwiches. There's also a push toward using the new “Savior” app for order-ahead service.
Meal Plans and Athletic Schedules
Q: If a student athlete misses a meal due to their schedule, what are their options?
A: No student, including athletes, should miss any meals. The food services team is ready to prepare box lunches or allow roommates to pick up meals for those with conflicting schedules. The administration urges students to communicate their needs so appropriate arrangements can be made.
Student Government Association (SGA) Allocations
Q: How are SGA allocations generated and when are they available each semester?
A: SGA funding is based on the student headcount and is typically determined after the 20th day of the academic year. The funds are transferred once the calculations are completed. SGA treasurers can inquire about the status of these funds at the business office.
Facilities and Campus Improvements
Q: Are there plans to improve campus lighting?
A: While campus lighting improvements are not on the current update plan, they are being considered. A comprehensive list of maintenance and improvement needs is being developed, with input from the university board and student feedback. Other planned facility improvements include renovations to the Sacred Art Hall and athletic fields, with more information to be disclosed in the upcoming year.
Q: What facility improvements are expected?
A: The university is planning to revitalize and renovate Sacred Art Hall and athletic fields, with more detailed plans to be shared in the next year.
Athletics and Facilities
Q: What are the plans for upgrading the sports fields, specifically the soccer field?
A: The university aims to turf and light all three outdoor fields as part of a $3 million fundraising initiative. The start of the project depends on the success of this fundraising effort.
Q: What was the goal of remodeling the weight room?
A: The remodel, funded through fundraising efforts, aimed to accommodate larger teams, reflecting the growth in team sizes over the past eight years.
Feedback and Communication
Q: How can students effectively provide feedback on campus issues?
A: Students can provide feedback through various channels: directly to the Dean of Students, by emailing cabinet members, through the SGA, by participating in the president’s student cabinet and making appointments with President or VP of Academic Affairs or attending their weekly office hours. The cabinet is actively seeking and encourages student feedback to better understand and address campus needs.
Q: How can students learn who is on the president’s student cabinet?
A: On the President’s page of the website: https://newmanu.edu/administration/presidents-office/pres-student-cab Membership is open, and the Cabinet includes a range of students, some of whom are present at the town hall. Invitations for new members are typically extended in the fall and early spring
Q: How can communication between the SGA and the administration be improved?
A: The SGA president and vice president could apply to be part of the president's student cabinet, and regular meetings can be arranged for open communication.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Q: Why do athletes get full scholarships when academic achievers can't?
A: Athletic scholarships are governed by NCAA rules, allowing certain amounts based on the sport. All financial aid packages are individualized, private and tailored for each individual student. A few athletes and a few non-athletes receive full scholarships, based on merit and performance.
Q: Can scholarship application deadlines be moved to later in the year?
A: Current deadlines align with the industry standard but the university is open to discussing changes in the admissions process to accommodate students who apply later in the academic year.
Q: What happens to scholarships if a student leaves the university?
A: Scholarships are individually assigned and all financial aid offers are based on the individual students merits and financial need. The awards are individually designed and non-transferable.
Q: Why was the ACT requirement removed for scholarship eligibility?
A: The university has become test-optional, following a trend due to biases found in standardized tests. This is to ensure all students have equal opportunities to showcase their academic abilities.
Q: How does loan repayment affect university revenue?
A: Loan repayments do not affect university revenue as the institution does not benefit from loan interest payments. The university only facilitates the loan process.
Q: Are academic scholarships increasing?
A: Yes, the university is offering more substantial academic scholarships than in previous years, like the McNeil awards, to balance the scholarship allocation for academics.
Scholarship Application Deadlines
Q: Can the scholarship application deadline be moved to summer?
A: This is something the university can discuss with the admissions team. However, some scholarships are timed as recruiting tools and align with industry standards.
ACT/SAT Requirements for Scholarships
Q: Why is an ACT score no longer required for scholarships?
A: The university has adopted a test-optional policy because standardized tests like the SAT and ACT have shown biases. The university is looking for better ways to evaluate students' academic prowess.
Catholic Identity
Q: How is the Catholic identity of the university being prioritized?
A: Catholic identity is addressed in many ways beyond religious practices, including through the Catholic intellectual tradition, social teachings, course offerings, and campus ministry. The university is continuously exploring ways to enhance and express its Catholic identity, including through spiritual companions, campus initiatives and Catholic leaders' camp are part of this emphasis.
Q: Are there considerations for making major religious observances, like All Saints Day, university holidays?
A: The university separates Catholic identity from religious practice but ensures that Catholic teachings are incorporated in various aspects of university life. The suggestion for observing certain holidays is noted for consideration.
Q: What is the role of spiritual companions in student organizations?
A: Spiritual companions are integrated into student organizations and teams to provide spiritual guidance. The university acknowledges some challenges in this area and is working to ensure that all groups have access to a spiritual companion.
Additional Concerns
Q: What is being done to bring the university out of debt?
A: It is important to clarify a key point regarding the university's financial status. We are on solid ground with long-term financial sustainability, bolstered by a strong endowment. Growth in the student body and increased fundraising are key strategies for the university as we look to the future.
Q: Are there plans for new memorials and visual updates in the sports facilities?
A: Discussions include memorials and updates to the gym's visuals. There's an intention to improve the appearance of storage containers and other facilities at the soccer field once construction is completed.
Student Loan Interest and University Revenue
Q: Does the university benefit financially from the interest on student loans?
A: No, the university does not benefit from loan repayments or the interest accrued on student loans.
MISC
Q: Will these changes make it so we don’t have to do this again?
A: The necessity for prioritization at the university stems from a changing landscape in higher education, marked by evolving student interests and enrollment trends over decades. To ensure quality education in highly-enrolled majors, resources need to be adjusted accordingly. While there's no immediate crisis, to prevent such financial discrepancies in future, it's crucial to make informed decisions, realigning programs to meet current student needs and manage resources more efficiently based on demand and economic shifts.