COSSAC Meeting Minutes 2002-2003

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COSSAC Meeting Minutes: July 9, 2002

Chairman Mary Carter called the meeting to order at 9:35am.

In attendance: Laura Hammond (Steward Obs), Christina Siqueiros (Steward Obs), Cindy Neal (Biochemistry), Mary Carter (Chemistry), Shanley Yates (Chemistry), Emy Serazio (Chemistry), Nadine Gruhn (Chemistry), Marcella Slatin (Computer Sciences), Mark Brewer (Ecology & Evolutionary Biology), Kathy Snyder (Flandrau), Wolfgang Golser (Speech & Hearing), Sherry Jacobs (Speech & Hearing), Virginia Smith (LPL).

Departments not represented: Atmospheric Sciences, Dean's Office, and Laboratory of Tree-Ring Research, Mathematics, Molecular & Cellular Biology, Physics.

Guests: Karen Mattull (Human Resources), Liz Russo-Clyde (Human Resources), Timothy Jull (Geoscience), Michael Bruck (Chemistry).

Introduction of new members: Marcella Slatin (Computer Science) replaces Cara Wallace and Sue Drexal, Christina Siqueiros (Steward Observatory) replaces Doris Tucker.

New Committee Chairs for 02/03

Nominations were presented and accepted. The new chairs are as follows:
Staff Recognition Committee: Shanley Yates
Mentoring & Advocacy Committee: Emy Serazio
Communications Committee: Marcella Slatin

Members were encouraged to contact the Council and/or Committee if they cannot attend a scheduled meeting.

Update Website Information

Council Members were asked to choose a committee for the 02/03 year and to write it next to their name on the sign-in sheet. Last year's chairs gave a brief explanation of the functions of each committee to help the new members in their decision. Laura Hammond will send this information to the executive board and the new committee chairs.

UA Fire Aid Drive

Mary Carter thanked everyone for their efforts. Yolanda Becerra, chair for the SBS SAC, was acknowledged for all of her help in the drive. This will be the final week that donations will be accepted as the fire is now 100% contained and will be fully out within a few weeks. Deadline for donations is Wednesday, July 10, 5:00pm. On Thursday, July 11, the items will be placed on pallets and trucked to the Phoenix location of the Salvation Army. Mary expressed disappointment in the volume of items collected, however, felt the drive was an overall success. A network with the other organizations on campus was established and will be useful to the Council in the future.

Staff Recognition Committee

Shanley Yates requested ideas for the next Recognition Luncheon. She suggested an idea of a Hawaiian/Navy theme to honor the USS Arizona Memorial as the event will be held at the new Student Union.

Mentoring & Advocacy Committee

Laura Hammond has not heard from the Arizona Department of Administration concerning the Health Letter the Council sent in April. Laura felt that the letter provided a vehicle for employees to let their voices be heard and that always makes people feel better.

Other Business

Our guest, Liz Russo-Clyde, from Human Resources was given the floor. She conducted a brainstorming session in setting goals and priorities for the 02/03 year. Each Council member was asked to write down a list of their own ideas for CoS SAC goals and priorities. Liz then divided everyone into groups to discuss their individual lists with each other and to form a group list. Each group then presented this new list to the entire Council. The Council list included:

	Visibility and name recognition
	Enhance and promote communication with the staff, the Dean, Human Resources, and within CoS SAC.
	Complete representation from all departments
	Create an Outreach Committee that would concentrate on community events, such as food and blood drives
	Continue Recognition of Staff Awards
	Develop teamwork between staff and appointed personnel
	Improve morale in the College of Science
	Take a proactive stance
	Be a resource for accurate information
	Personal development of Council members
	Have fun

Liz helped the Council refine this list, suggesting that several of the items were similar in nature and could be compiled. Also, many of the items were not "goals" but action items or by-products of accomplishing goals. She then directed the council in a voting process to determine the top priorities for the 02/03 year. The results were:

	Enhance and promote communication
	Increase visibility and name recognition
	Continue staff awards and luncheon
	Establish complete representation

The Council now has the charge of developing and implementing programs to accomplish these goals and priorities.

The meeting was adjourned at 11:00am.

The next meeting of the College of Science Staff Advisory Council will be held on Tuesday, August 13, 2002, 9:45-11:00am, in Gould-Simpson 1027 unless indicated otherwise on the CoS SAC web page and notification sent by listserve.

Respectfully submitted,
Laura Hammond, Secretary

COSSAC Meeting Minutes: August 20, 2002

In attendance: Cindy Neal (Biochemistry), Ron Richards (Biochemistry), Michael Bruck (Chemistry), Mary Carter (Chemistry), Emy Serazio (Chemistry), Shanley Yates (Chemistry), Marcella Slatin (Computer Science), Mark Brewer (EEB), Kathy Snyder (Flandrau), Sarah Duffy (Geosciences), Gary Funkhouser (Tree-Ring), Jerene Stremick (Physics), Virginia Smith (LPL), Wolfgang Golser (Speech & Hearing), Laura Hammond (Steward Obs), Christina Siqueiros (Steward Obs).

Departments not represented: Atmospheric Sciences, Dean's Office, Mathematics, Molecular & Cellular Biology.

Guests: Karen Mattull (Human Resources), Liz Russo-Clyde (Human Resources).

Introduction of new members: Ron Richards (Biochemistry), Jerene Stremick (Physics).

Approval of July Minutes

Benefits Survey

Update of Comp Time for the Holiday Closure

UA Star Awards

Committee Updates

Development Session

Council Member Expectations

	Creative ideas that lead to focused thought
	Follow through with assignments
	Cooperation - helping each other out, giving and taking, input
	Respect for different opinions
	Share information with staff in department
	Promptness
	Genuine commitment
	Willingness to be helpful to council members, but not pushy
	Enthusiasm and interest for work of council
	Positive attitude
	Be nonjudgmental about ideas
	Define problems specifically
	Make notes to show progress
	Lean forward and take a piece without being asked (a.k.a. taking initiative)
	Step down graceful and communicate that you are no longer able to participate
	Creating an environment where everyone can participate

Meeting Expectations

	Be prepared prior to meetings, do your "homework"
	Reach resolution at meetings
	Allow feedback and discussion from everyone
	Follow through on assignments
	Professionalism
	Have outputs/ "deliverables"
	Be involved in the meetings/ participate
	If unable to attend meeting, inform appropriate person/representative and send proxy in your place
	Be courteous
	Stay on task
	Creative ideas
	Address issues that we can be influence effectively and successful
	Gain focus
	All members are equal

Karen then divided the council into groups of four and using our expectation discussion as a guide we then focused on setting specific goals on the four priorities that were established last month.

Priority #1: Enhance and Promote Communications

	Listserv messages (Only vehicle? Explore other vehicles?)
	Allow all opinions to be heard
	Visual promotions
	Solicit opinions/ideas from "quiet corner"
	Explore variety of mediums of communication: phone, personal visit, flier, quick reference card, pocket calendar
	Logo/icon - develop CoSSAC motto and post it
	Respond to group; acknowledge
	No "but" sandwiches - being aware of language and how you speak to others, be sensitive, try not to use the word "but"
	In difficult situations, it's acceptable to get anonymous feedback
	Other websites linked to our website
	Council members should have communications with department heads and key department people
	Council members lead department meetings - schedule staff meetings to discuss council issues
	Encourage Dean to communicate with departments about council issues
	Encourage Dean to bring dept. head on board.

Priority #2: Increase Visibility

	Make email progress report after each meeting (either by each council member or overview from council)
	Suggestions box in each department and also a suggestions form on website. Purpose - to deal with individual issues to be discussed
	T-shirts, hats, pins (CoSSAC)
	Brown bag/picnic/holiday party/ice cream social/potluck
	Table on the mall/Spring Fling
	Sponsor CoSSAC night at a restaurant as a fundraiser (i.e. Sweet Tomatoes)
	Participate in outreach opportunities
	Baseball night/50:50 raffle
	Contact media, leak the story when appropriate
	Involvement with other groups on campus (all types)
	Look to department for help, which creates a "test drive" situation
	Mouse pad
	Visibility
	Council members are approachable
	Goal - council members should have verbal conversations with fellow staff members about CoSSAC events
	Contact with other college councils
	CoSSAC softball team
	CoSSAC involvement in community volunteer programs

Priority #3: Complete Representation

	Define which departments were not represented today
	Take into consideration the size and composition of department
	Market benefits of CoSSAC - why should a department want representation. Provide information to smaller departments. Advertise.
	Use Dean as influence to encourage participation
	Department "buddy" system
	No limit for number of department representatives
	Communicate with department head the need to encourage participation via email/memo. Communication comes from both Council Chair and Dean
	Encourage participation from AP staff
	Incentives to be on council
	Letters written to unrepresented department's department head. CoSSAC can assist in recruitment by sending invitations.
	Encourage volunteering to make a difference
	Advantage - provides networking tool
	Record "capturing success"
	Measurable progress - positive environment changes, we have made an impact on the workplace

Priority #4: Recognition of Staff

	Have a downloadable "online" nomination form for Star Award
	Continue and improve luncheon
	Promote departmental level recognition
	Introduce new staff members (or have list) at luncheon - Dean had volunteered to hold receptions. Determine who is considered "new"
	List or read nominees names for UA Star Awards (and Award for Excellence nominees also) Location? Already done in meetings. Medals, trophies, cake
	"Dean Time" - A meeting with the Dean, use a lottery by EID to invite participants. 1/2 lunch.
	More participation in UA star presentations (council and departmental)
	brown bag/picnic/holiday party/ice cream social
	Gift certificates (i.e. bookstore SU/ mall)
	Baseball tickets (all sports)/UA presents
	WOW awards - amazing effort- way far out!
	Goal - say something positive

The meeting was adjourned at 11:25am.

The next meeting of the College of Science Staff Advisory Council will be held on Tuesday, September 10, 2002, 9:30-11:00am, in Gould-Simpson 1027 unless indicated otherwise on the CoSSAC web page and notification sent by listserv.

Respectfully submitted,
Laura Hammond, Secretary

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In attendance: Cindy Neal (Biochemistry), Ron Richards (Biochemistry), Mary Carter (Chemistry), Nadine Gruhn (Chemistry), Emy Serazio (Chemistry), Shanley Yates (Chemistry), Kathy Snyder (Flandrau), Sarah Duffy (Geosciences), Gary Funkhouser (Tree-Ring), Denise Slay (Molecular & Cellular Biology), Virginia Smith (LPL), Wolfgang Golser (Speech & Hearing), Sherry Jacobs (Speech & Hearing), Laura Hammond (Steward Obs), Christina Siqueiros (Steward Obs).

Departments not represented: Atmospheric Sciences, Computer Science, Dean's Office, Ecology, Mathematics, Physics.

Introduction of new members: Denise Slay (MCB)

Representation

Approval of August Minutes

Proposed CoSSAC Slogan

Communications

Wolfgang Golser updated the council on the website improvements. The committee is currently working on getting the "bugs" out of the online UA Star nomination form.

It was suggested that all council members search websites similar to ours for ideas and suggestions on improving our own site. The council was encouraged to make arrangements with their individual home department's webmasters to create a link from their home departments website to the CoSSAC site.

A "buddy system" was suggested to contact those departments with no council representatives with information and news from the council. It is important that employees receive timely information, while there is no current council member serving in their departments. The communications committee will take this action item.

Mary Carter took the assignment to contact other UA Colleges with similar councils and to create a network.

Mentoring and Advocacy

Virginia Smith explained the new AZ state health "self-insurance", which the state legislature approved for the 03 - 04 year. It was suggested that the committee contact the appropriate people to arrange a forum between officials and employees to discuss the new program. It was noted that the Human Resources web page explanation of the program was inadequate and that the committee will do more research.

The committee is also working on gathering information on the University Child Care program that was cancelled.

A new program "Something To Talk About" was presented to the council. This program addresses the issues of negativity in the workplace. The idea of a poster or bulletin board to be placed in a high traffic area within the departments was suggested. The employees would use this board as a place to post positive comments about each other. The council liked the idea and the committee will put the program together.

Staff Recognition

The UA Star Recognition Award has eleven nominees this month. The committee will pick six to award in September as there were no presentations in July. Committee members were asked to stay after this meeting to discuss the current nominees. Council members were encouraged to attend the presentations.

The Staff Recognition Luncheon will have a "western" theme this year. Picnic style food will be served. The decorations will be old west, with checkered cloths, hay bales, etc. The committee is contacting various local groups such as "Old Tucson", square dancers, etc, to provide entertainment. The location is still not decided as the new Student Union is not taking reservations.

Several different fund raising activities were discussed:

	Merchandising dinner at a local restaurant, "Sweet Tomatoes".
	Pie in the Face booth at Spring Fling.
	Letter to staff retirees requesting donations.
	Payroll deduction donation to the council in connection with the United Way Campaign.
	The Sidewinders games allow organizations to sell 50/50 raffle tickets at their games.
	Work the concession stands at UA games.

Mary Carter thanked everyone for all of their great efforts. She requested committee chairs to send her goals for the year and to work on committee definitions for our website.

The meeting was adjourned at 10:50 am.
The next meeting of the College of Science Staff Advisory Council will be held Tuesday, October 8, 2002, 9:30 - 11:00 am, in Gould-Simpson 1027 unless indicated otherwise on the CoSSAC web page and notification sent by listserv.

Respectfully Submitted,
Laura Hammond, Secretary

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In attendance: Cindy Neal (Biochemistry), Ron Richards (Biochemistry), Mary Carter (Chemistry), Nadine Gruhn (Chemistry), Shanley Yates (Chemistry), Marcella Slatin (Computer Science), Mark Brewer (EEB), Kathy Snyder (Flandrau), Sarah Duffy (Geosciences), Virginia Smith (LPL), Wolfgang Golser (Speech & Hearing), Sherry Jacobs (Speech & Hearing), Laura Hammond (Steward Obs), Christina Siqueiros (Steward Obs).

Departments not represented: Atmospheric Sciences, Dean's Office, Laboratory of Tree Ring Research, Mathematics, Molecular & Cellular Biology, Physics.

Approval of September Minutes

Representation

Communications

The council discussed the graphic on our slogan of an open head with letters emerging from the top. It was suggested that this logo is a common graphic from the Word program and should the council have an original graphic designed. The council voted to keep the graphic for now with the possibility of an original artwork being incorporated at a later date.

Wolfgang Golser has updated the links page on the Council's website. It was decided that the Appointed Personnel website should be an additional link. Wolfgang will contact other local webmasters to create more links.

The UA Star form has been updated. The form can now be edited and emailed online.

Fundraising

Pie in the Face booth at Spring Fling is still an option. It was suggested that the targets should be someone that the students know, perhaps a faculty member. Someone from the SRC committee will attend the Spring Fling meeting in December for details.

Payroll Deduction Donation has many regulations that may make this fundraiser difficult. Bob Logan has to look over the proposal.

Sidewinders 50/50 raffles were found not to be profitable. It was suggested that a departmental raffle may work instead. This project was tabled until we can find out the rules and regulations for raffles on campus.

The Council is on the list for UA game concessions.

Mentoring and Advocacy

Dean Time has been approved by the dean and will go forward. The first session will be held on October 16, 2002 in room 1027 of the Gould-Simpson Building. The entire Council is invited to attend. Other invitees are the winners of the Staff Recognition Awards and the recipients of the UA Star Award. The next Dean Time invitees will be randomly selected from the College of Science.

The Council approved the Something To Talk About Recognition Boards to be ready for distribution by December 1, 2002. Supplies for the packettes will come from donations from the departments and the Campus Recycling Center.

Staff Recognition

Shanely Yates updated the luncheon plans for the Council. The theme will be Wildwest Wildcat Luncheon. The student union is now taking reservations for big events. Shanley will make the necessary arrangements and inform the Council via the listserv.

The Council decided to not sponsor a holiday project. Instead we will share information on what our individual departments are doing to help those in need in our community. This information should be sent to the Communications Committee, who will notify the college of the various projects on the CoSSAC website.

Misc. Council Business

The meeting was adjourned at 10:40 am.
The next meeting of the College of Science Staff Advisory Council will be held Tuesday, November 12, 2002, 9:30 - 11:00 am, in Gould-Simpson 1027 unless indicated otherwise on the CoSSAC web page and notification sent by listserv.

Respectfully Submitted,
Laura Hammond, Secretary

Top of Page | Home

In attendance: Cindy Neal (Biochemistry), Ron Richards (Biochemistry), Mary Carter (Chemistry), Nadine Gruhn (Chemistry), Shanley Yates (Chemistry), Marcella Slatin (Computer Science), Kathy Snyder (Flandrau), Sarah Duffy (Geosciences), Denise Slay (MCB), Jerene Stremick (Physics), Virginia Smith (LPL), Wolfgang Golser (Speech & Hearing), Sherry Jacobs (Speech & Hearing), Laura Hammond (Steward Obs), Christina Siqueiros (Steward Obs).

Departments not represented: Atmospheric Sciences, Dean's Office, Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, Laboratory of Tree Ring Research, Mathematics.

Approval of October Minutes

Representation

A suggestion for a Staff Advisory Council mixer across the campus was presented. More information will be gathered by Mary Carter.

Appointed Personnel participation on the Council has been disappointing. The Council is encouraged to talk to AP about becoming more involved.

Chairman's Updates

Dean Ruiz is still working on a new statement for our web site. We should have it have by the first of the year.

Mentoring and Advocacy

Dean Time was a success. Many people attended and positive statements were made. Two suggestions for the Council came from this event:

	Many would like to see a College of Science Dean's Listserv. This listserv would address the needs and concerns for staff. Many suggestions on how the listserv would operate were discussed and Mary Carter will speak to the Dean and let the Council know how the Dean would like for us to proceed.
	A CoSSAC Children's Halloween Party was suggested. Physics and Flandrau have children's activities already in place that could serve as entertainment. A February goal was set for a skeleton plan to be developed.

Due to time restrains the Something to Talk About Recognition Boards deadline has been moved to January.

The Committee suggested that the Council invite someone from the Tri University Work Group to speak about the new state self-insurance health plan that is going to be in effect next October. Mary Carter will contact Jacqueline Sharkey and let the Council know via email.

Communications

The new listserv for the Dean will be the responsibility of the Communications Committee.

Wolfgang Golser has contacted the other colleges about having links to our website. The response is very positive and many links are now on our website.

New Council members have been updated on the website.

Committees are encouraged to complete their mission statements and submit them to Wolfgang for posting on the Council website.

Fundraising

Spring Fling application is due next week. The cost to participate is $150. As a Pie in the Face booth is a new activity for the event, so we would have to design our booth. Spring Fling is on April 10, 11, 12, 13. Some concerns would be manning the booth for all four days, how to fund the pies, will it be profitable, and is the Council ready to sponsor this big of an activity. It was suggested that maybe we could be a part of the College of Science tent.

The Council will need to appoint a Treasurer to monitor the funds we earn.

Cindy Neal contacted Bob Logan about fundraising ideas. He reminded the Council that we need to seek professional type of activities and not juvenile fundraisers such as bake sales and car washes. Bob thought that we should start small and think outside the box. Look around us to find a niche we can fill, serve the community, and still earn funds. Find something that creates recognition for the Council. He suggested that we look at seasonal ideas, such as selling carved pumpkins at Halloween or poinsettias at Christmas.

Staff Recognition

Opportunities for departmental holiday service projects are to be emailed to Shanley Yates for posting on the listserv. Get these to her as soon as possible.

Nominations for the SAC awards are due soon. If any member would like to suggest someone that our Council could nominate they are to contact Mary Carter.

The Recognition Luncheon will be held on March 5, 2003. Council Members are to make sure that date is reserved on their individual departmental calendars.

The meeting was adjourned at 10:55 am.
The next meeting of the College of Science Staff Advisory Council will be held Tuesday, December 10, 2002, 9:30 - 11:00 am, in Gould-Simpson 1027, unless indicated otherwise on the CoSSAC web page and notification sent by listserv.

Respectfully Submitted,
Laura Hammond, Secretary

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In attendance: Cindy Neal (Biochemistry), Ron Richards (Biochemistry), Mary Carter (Chemistry), Nadine Gruhn (Chemistry), Emy Serazio (Chemistry), Kathy Snyder (Flandrau), Sarah Duffy (Geosciences), Denise Slay (Molecular & Cellular Biology), Virginia Smith (LPL), Wolfgang Golser (Speech & Hearing), Christina Siqueiros (Steward Obs), Cynthia Chresto Poulos (Guest, Geosciences), Wesley Bilodeau (Guest, Geosciences), Suzanne Collier (Guest, Computer Sciences), Sandra Miller (Computer Sciences), Marcella Slatin (Computer Sciences), Brooke Zang (Mathematics), Lesa Langan-DuBerry (Guest, Geosciences), Larry Simpson (Geosciences).

Unable to attend: Mark Brewer (EEB), Laura Hammond (Steward Obs.), Sherry Jacobs (Speech & Hearing), Jerene Stremick (Physics)

Departments not represented: Atmospheric Sciences, Dean's Office, Ecology, Physics.

Introduction of new members: Brooke Zang (Math).

Guest Speaker: Jacqueline Sharkey Discussion on Self-Insurance Program for the State of Arizona

How did we get here?

Last May a few Republican legislators slipped a line into a bill that requires the state to be self insured by Oct. 1, 2003. This was done, because they thought it would save the state money. Because this deadline is now written into law, it will take the passage of a second law (i.e. legislative action) to make any changes.

To become a self-insured state, the process to gather proposals must be completed. These vendors must be able to provide comparable benefits packages (inclusive of rural employees) for the employees of the state of Arizona. Vendors are asked to submit a bid to the Department of Administration. An evaluation committee then reviews each bid.

In the most recent bid process, Cigna was the only vendor that could legally provide health care in rural areas. If costs to provide coverage are higher than the revenue generated by premiums, Cigna absorbs the overage expense. With the increase in medical coverage, the Republicans believed there would be a savings in the self-insurance option. However, the supports of the move to self-insurance did not weigh all the intrinsic cost associated with the self-insurance option. #1, the state assumes all the risk. If the costs are excessive, the state would now absorb the costs.

It was assumed that contracting out the Administrative paperwork facet of the program would save money. This is a miscalculation on the behalf of the supporters of the bill. U of A Human Resources was totally unaware the mandate to move to self-insurance had been passed.

How does self-insurance compare to what we currently have?

Now, our health benefits coverage is a fully insured plan. This means that the state Dept. of Administration (DOA) wrote a Request for Proposal (RFP) outlining the requirements for a health plan. Insurance companies bid on this, their responses were evaluated, and a contract is awarded to a company that assumes the risk. If the premium costs that the company estimated cover the actual cost of providing health care, they make a profit. It they don't, they lose money.

In self-insurance, the state will assume all risk for covering the cost of health benefits. DOA will contract companies to administrate paperwork, rent a physicians network, and hire administrators for the program. Contracts will again be awards through RFP's.

There are currently 38 states that are self-insured. Some (such as New York) have chosen to not self-insure after studying the benefits/costs. Wyoming was self-insured but has switched back.

Additional requirements are a reserve fund out of which claims can be paid (JS estimates $50-85 million). Most entities that are self-insured have "stop loss" coverage to insure against major losses due to unexpected large claims.

Our current health plan:

Is contracted through Cigna. The last time the state health insurance provider was selected (two years ago) there were four bids to the DOA RFP. One was an illegal bid, and two did not adequately cover state employees in rural areas. The parameters left Cigna as the only option. Cigna has a year-to-year contract that is renegotiable yearly and can be renewed up to 8 years. The Cigna contract was renewed this year with increases in premiums (actually much less than what Cigna wanted). Premium costs increasedeserve fund will be required up front to pay claims. This will have to be protected from raiding by the legislature, and be $50-85 million. (Neither the legislature or DOA had taken this into consideration.) There has been no analysis of data to prove that self insurance will work or actually save money in the long term for Arizona. JS does not know if DOA has collected data from the other states with self-insurance to compare to Arizona. Some decisions and actions are being made quickly to try to meet the Oct. 2003 deadline. For example, RFPs were sent out last week. There was not adequate time to work on these, and therefore there are six separate RFPs with no changes from the current benefit plan. Administrating a program with potentially six different contracted companies would be "worse than I (JS) can possibly describe." The state will actually lose income, because they will not be able to tax an insurance company's premiums. If the state carries "stop loss" insurance, premiums will have to be paid on the coverage. Given the best scenario the state would not actually save any money for at least 10 years. Delay Oct. 2003 Deadline?

Greg Fahey (legislative lobbyist for the three universities) is lobbying the legislature to at least delay the deadline to switch to self-insurance to allow more time for study and decision making. Members of the tri-university self insurance committee are talking to legislators to get a one year delay and withdraw the current six RFP's.

NOTE: Withdrawing the RFP's will further damage the states credibility in health care issues.

RFP's were delayed until after the November election.

A one year delay was written into the large bill on health concerns that went before the special session of the legislature a few weeks ago, but this bill that got hung up in discussion of payment of dialysis for non residents.

51% of the new legislature that will take office in January is new and will have to be educated quickly about this subject.

Fourth Track:

ABOR committee has hired their own consultants to come up with a recommendation on the best strategy. Consultants (Watson Wyatt) have work on self-insurance plan designs in the past, and have modeling software that will help a lot (DOA consultants don't have such software). One problem is that Cigna and DOA are not being forthcoming with data needed for modeling.

Fifth Track:

ABOR committee is also looking into modeling to see if it would be most beneficial for the Universities to pull out of DOA insurance plans. DOA is general is against this as it would decrease the DOA pool and probably increase costs for all other state employees.

NAU does currently have a separate PPO plan provided by Blue Cross/Blue Shield. They are allowed to do so because of a special law passed years ago, because Flagstaff doesn't have HMO's. The cost for employees in this plan is $8.88/month. UA and ASU cannot join this plan.

Current Status

Working towards getting deadline delayed.

Betsy Bayless is the new head of DOA. She has an HR background and understands insurance issues, and has also worked well with the universities in the past.

Janet Napolitano has been briefed on this subject, but probably won't get involved.

Questions

Q: Out of state/out of country coverage.
A: This is being considered. Due to the large amount of travel with university employees, this might be one reason why it would make sense for the universities to have separate coverage.

Advice for those considering retirement from JS: Do not join the ASRS plan! ASRS looks good on the surface, but comprises an "older, sicker" population that has higher premiums than the active employee plan. You only have one chance to chose at retirement, so stay with the active employee plan.

Q: What is the model for the RFP's?
A: They are using the same benefits package Cigna currently provides.

Q: If NAU is separate, why can we not expand their plan to cover the other 2 Universities?
A: The legislature passed a bill for NAU and U of A & ASU cannot be added.

Q: Are there any states who have a successful Self-Insurance program?
A: Yes. Nevada, New York, Wyoming plans have been explored by JS but not thoroughly. The analysis is time consuming.

Q: Consulting firms being employed by the various parties.
A: Mercer - Hired by the DOA. No experience! No credentials indicating expertise in the self insurance field. Sharkey is unclear of their qualifications.
Watson Wyatt - Hired by Tri-University Committee. Has worked on plan design and has exclusive software available for modeling and analysis. Hired by University of California, and a Texas University. Sharkey believes they have the qualifications and experience to appropriately design a functional plan.

Q: What can do to help? A: Write a letter to: Betsy Bayless, head of DOA. CC to the House and Senate leadership, and every member of the appropriations, education, and health committees. The addresses and names of the new members will be available at http://www.azleg.state.az.us.

The council members were reminded that University email resources and or letterhead are not to be used to lobby for this effort. Personal time and resources must be employed to express individual opinion to the members of the legislature.

Jacqueline Sharkey encouraged the members of the council to contact her if they have questions or comments about the self-insurance program. Her email is sharkey@u.arizona.edu and her office phone number is 621-5040. She will be traveling over the holiday closure and unable to respond to email immediately. Please allow for a few days response time to your inquiries.

General Council Business

Dean's Statement: Another request has been forwarded via email to Dean Ruiz. We hope to start the new year with Dean Ruiz's version on the web.

Communications

The listserv proposed by the Dean was discussed and the details for creating the list are being worked out. The list will be created by January 31st. It is hoped that we can populate the list and have the list active by February. How to populate the list was a concern. Some people do not appreciate being added to a listserv at random. It is suggested to send a list to all staff in each department notifying staff members that they are going to be added to the CoSNews listserv. They will be offered the option to decline being added. Each department will need to keep track of who wishes to be left off the list. An individual must indicate they do not wish to participate in order to avoid being automatically added to the list. Mary Carter will draft a memo each department can modify to communicate the message and circulate it to the council. It was suggested to include faculty in the CoS New listserv. At this time, the council will launch the CoSNews listerv and once it is successful we can elect to expand the list to include faculty.

The Communications Committee has drafted a mission statement for their committee and will vote on adopting the statement at their next meeting. Once approved, they will share the statement with the entire council.

Mentoring & Advocacy

The same format for invitations will be used for the Dean Time event scheduled for February 12th. Each member of the M & A committee will invite 6 persons. There will be a focus to include more AP staff in the event to encourage AP interest in the council. RSVP's are due by Feb. 10th. The target number of people is 30.

Sarah Duffy circulated the Holiday Closure guidelines via email. The benefit to earn and accrue comp time is not honored equally as an option to offset the holiday closure across all departments in the CoS. Math is a department where the option to accrue comp time is not offered to non-exempt employees to offset the holiday closure. This may be a topic to address with our Dean to set up a process or assist all departments in making this a standard practice.

Letters for new employees were passed around to give to the new hires in each department.

Staff Recognition/Fundraising

The SRC is considering planning two events per year. Details on a Mother's day fundraiser are being worked out as well as a Fall for All event that would host grade school kids on campus in the Fall of 2003. The SRC is working with Bob Logan to create events that the CoS SAC will be known for organizing. They will become our traditional events in the long term of the council. As information is available the SRC will update the council.

It was decided that the manpower and financial commitment required to participate in Spring Fling made the event less attractive. Council Spring Fling participation is cancelled.

As a reminder, UA Star Awards will be due January 10th. The new form is available on the website. The number of nominations has continued to grow in the recent months. The number of nominees indicates the program is a real success.

The various events in each department were circulated in a listerv message. Shanley Yates will be asked to send the message again to remind people of the Holiday Charity Events for each department.

The meeting was adjourned at 11:00am.
The next meeting of the College of Science Staff Advisory Council will be held Tuesday, January 10, 2002, 9:30 - 11:00 am, in Gould-Simpson 1027, unless indicated otherwise on the CoSSAC web page and notification sent by listserv.

Respectfully Submitted,
Mary Carter, Chairman

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In attendance: Mary Carter (Chemistry), Nadine Gruhn (Chemistry), Sherry Jacobs (Speech & Hearing), Sarah Duffy (Geosciences), Denise Slay (Molecular & Cellular Biology), Wolfgang Golser (Speech & Hearing), Marcella Slatin (Computer Sciences), Brooke Zang (Mathematics), Shanley Yates (Chemistry)

Unable to attend: Mark Brewer (EEB), Laura Hammond (Steward Obs.), Jerene Stremick (Physics), Kathy Snyder (Flandrau), Emy Serazio (Chemistry), Virginia Smith (LPL), Christina Siqueiros (Steward Obs), Cindy Neal (Biochemistry), Ron Richards (Biochemistry)

Introduction of guest: Robin Rarrick (Chemistry)

Council Business

Council elections will be in May 2003. Members should be looking within their department for those who wish to participate and consider if the personally wish to continue their service on the council.

The Dean's request to the council to establish an event on behalf of the College in memorial to the Nursing Shootings is underway. The Nursing Memorial Dedication ceremony is scheduled for February 20, 2003 at 2PM. Three Colleges are combining resources: The College of Science, Agriculture and Engineering and Mines. Three trees and a plaque will be placed on the West side of the building in memorial of the three faculty that lost their lives in the terrible tragedy. Refreshments will be served and the Student Ambassadors in the College of Agriculture will distribute bags of citrus.

Communications

CoS News listserv is established and approximately 50% of the department names are loaded. Wolfgang Golser, Marcella Slatin and Mary Carter are working to share the workload to add names from each of the 15 departments in the CoS. Council members are requested to forward their lists asap so the initial message can be sent out in the first week of February.

An initial message to inform all members they are signed on to CoS News and a message on how to sign off will be sent as a first action of the listserv.

Dean Ruiz confirmed with MAC that he wants to send his initial message to the staff of the CoS when the listserv is activated.

The website has been updated and a new Dean's statement has been requested again.

Due to the number of projects the adoption of a mission statement by the communications committee has been tabled for a future meeting.

Mentoring & Advocacy

The same format for invitations will be used for the Dean Time event. The date was rescheduled for February 19th. Each member of the M & A committee will invite several persons and the invitees will be asked to bring a co-worker. If council members feel they have a person in their department, who should be asked or who would benefit from attending, a name and contact information should be forwarded to a member of the M & A committee.

Once a list of invitees is confirmed, the council has asked to receive a email with the name of those planning to attend. Members of the council can encourage and recognize those individuals in their respective departments who plan to attend Dean Time. This provides an opportunity to recognize the person for their participation.

AP participation is troublesome. Nadine Gruhn has made a list of potential barriers that prevent AP from joining the council. It is believed that the CoS SAC name is partly the reason. The College of Education has their College Council that includes all staff and faculty. It is suggested that the College of Science Council consider a name change so that the association of "SAC" does not hinder AP staff from joining the ranks. The CoS has one of the only councils that include AP staff and the change in name would help celebrate this difference. Several names will be identified and circulated to the council for consideration at the March meeting.

Mary Carter has been asked to email Dr. Jackie Sharkey to inquire if there are any recent health insurance updates.

Letters for new employees are available to anyone who needs them. Emy Serazio has the standard letter on her computer if anyone needs a copy.

Staff Recognition/Fundraising

Pizza Hut has different types of fund raising events that are easier to participate in for each customer. All the customer must say is the name of their sponsored group. There is not a requirement for a flyer. The SRC will explore this as a possible alternative fundraiser for the future.

The planning the Wild West Wildcat Luncheon is taking shape. The western themed event will be held in the South Ballroom of the new student union on March 5th at 11:30am-1:30pm. The SRC is arranging for a variety of performers to be onsite to add to the energy of the event. Old Tucson Studios, Pinnacle Peak have been contacted to see if they can donate performers for the event. Props will be borrowed from the Western Warehouse store that will add to the ambience of the event. The SRC will need help from any one who can donate their time on March 5th starting at 9am!

There is a search for all types of items that have a western theme. If council members can loan their western items for the event, they may drop items (boots hats, ropes, hay bales etc) off in chemistry for storage until March 5th. Marcella Slatin has several cacti she believes can be used for centerpieces. She will confirm at a later date if they are available for loan.

Each Department is asked to begin their nomination process to determine a winner for the excellence awards. The timeline to get the names and information to Shanley for printing of event materials is critical. Council members are asked to make this a priority.

We have received 9 UA Star nominations. Selection is currently in the works. Delivery of the awards in planned for the last week of January.

The meeting was adjourned at 10:35am.
The next meeting of the College of Science Staff Advisory Council will be held Tuesday, February 18, 2003 @ 9:00-11:00 AM, in Gould-Simpson 1027, unless indicated otherwise on the CoSSAC web page and notification sent by listserv.

Respectfully Submitted,
Mary Carter, Chairman

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In attendance: Cindy Neal (Biochemistry), Ron Richards (Biochemistry), Mary Carter (Chemistry), Nadine Gruhn (Chemistry), Emy Serazio (Chemistry), Shanley Yates (Chemistry), Kathy Snyder (Flandrau), Sarah Duffy (Geosciences), Brooke Zang (Math), Wolfgang Golser (Speech & Hearing), Sherry Jacobs (Speech & Hearing), Laura Hammond (Steward Obs), Christina Siqueiros (Steward Obs).

Guests: Robin Rarick (Chemistry), Liz Russo-Clyde (Human Resources), Karen Muttul (Human Resources)

Departments not represented: Atmospheric Sciences, Computer Science, Dean's Office, Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, Laboratory of Tree Ring Research, Molecular & Cellular Biology, Physics, Planetary Sciences.

Approval of January Minutes

Representation

Chairman's Updates

Mentoring and Advocacy

Communications

Staff Recognition

Human Resources Presentation by Liz Russo-Clyde and Karen Mattul

02/03 Accomplishments

	Created Dean Time
	UA Star Awards
	Fundraiser at Sweet Tomatoes
	Opened Foundation Account
	Established Listserv
	More Community participation, with media coverage twice
	UA Fire Aid
	More efficient communication of information to the College
	Received Dean appreciation, as well as from Dept Heads and Staff
	Nursing Memorial Event
	Self Insurance Education
	Council is operating well
	AP Round Table
	Better Department participation
	Funded the 2003 Luncheon

Remaining Priorities Suggested

	Utilize the Listserv and ensure information is flowing on a regular basis
	More effective fundraisers
	Increase membership participation on the Council
	Maintain momentum after elections
	More new employee letters with a 6 month follow-up
	Increase mentoring with new employees
	Cultivate the advisory part of our mission, ie address the relevant issues of employee satisfaction vs social participation
	Find ways to keep morale up during budget cuts
	More visibility of the Council
	Mother's Day Event for military families in the College of Science
	Explore and plan a SAC mixer with other College Committees

Council Top Priorities and ways to accomplish them

	Utilize the Listserv Arrange for the first Dean's letter to be posted Prepare a written purpose and procedure for using the Listserv
	More Fundraisers The SRC will search for appropriate ways and inform the Council
	Maintain momentum after elections Establish/Continue Council Traditions Luncheons with a theme UA Star Program Dean Support Fund Raising Cos Calendar Listserv AP Participation Spring/Fall Community Outreach Event New Employee letters and follow-up Guest Speakers and Educational Opportunities Develop by committee the constitution or "how-to's" to achieve each tradition
	Cultivate the advisory part of our mission The Listserv should provide this Continue to invite guest speakers to Council meetings to be better informed

The Council has accomplished much this year with much yet to do in the next six months. The Council agreed that we are on a good footing with a bright future.

The meeting was adjourned at 11:00am.
The next meeting of the College of Science Staff Advisory Council will be held Tuesday, March 11, 2003, 9:30 - 11:00 am, in Gould-Simpson 1027, unless indicated otherwise on the CoSSAC web page and notification sent by listserv.

Respectfully Submitted,
Laura Hammond, Secretary

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In attendance: Cindy Neal (Biochemistry), Ron Richards (Biochemistry), Nadine Gruhn (Chemistry), Emy Serazio (Chemistry), Shanley Yates (Chemistry), Susan Hautala (Dean's Office), Mark Brewer (Ecology), Kathy Snyder (Flandrau), Sarah Duffy (Geosciences), Tim Jull (Geosciences), Phyllis Norton-Gress (Tree-Ring), Bonnie Anspach (Physics), Wolfgang Golser (Speech & Hearing), Sherry Jacobs (Speech & Hearing), Laura Hammond (Steward Obs), Christina Siqueiros (Steward Obs).

Departments not represented: Atmospheric Sciences, Computer Science, Mathematics, Molecular & Cellular Biology, Planetary Sciences.

Approval of February Minutes

Council Updates

Nadine Gruhn outlined a change to the format and execution of our Council meetings. The proposal suggests holding the Council meeting at a different locations within the College of Science each month, with a guest speaker or activity held to encourage participation from the Staff. After the presentation, the Council would discuss the Council business. This would be a way to provide education to the Staff and increase visibility of the Council. The Council agreed that the idea is a good one and deserves further discussion.

Staff Recognition

UA Star awards are being moved up to accommodate an individual, who is receiving an award, but is leaving the University. The presentation will be this Friday, March 14, 2:00pm, at EEB.

Fundraising was tabled until after the luncheon. Several ideas are being considered, the SRC will have more next month.

Communications

The new listserv is up and running. The committee is waiting for the first Dean's letter to be written. The committee will post it as soon as it is ready.

Photos from the luncheon will be posted as soon as they are available.

Mentoring & Advocacy

Dean Ruiz would like Dean Time to continue through the summer months. The Council approved the proposal that July would be a good month.

University health benefits were renewed with Cigna. There will be an increase of the cost to the employees.

Steward Observatory had 11 personnel laid-off. One employee was an AP. A discussion was held on if AP is eligible for unemployment benefits if their contract is not renewed. Tim Jull will contact the appropriate HR person and let the Council know via the listserv.

The meeting was adjourned at 10:30am.
The next meeting of the College of Science Staff Advisory Council will be held Tuesday, April 8, 2003, 9:30 - 11:00 am, in Gould-Simpson 1027 unless indicated otherwise on the CoSSAC web page and notification sent by listserv.

Respectfully Submitted,
Laura Hammond, Secretary

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In attendance: Cindy Neal (Biochemistry), Mary Carter (Chemistry), Nadine Gruhn (Chemistry), Robin Rarick (Chemistry), Emy Serazio (Chemistry), Shanley Yates (Chemistry), Susan Hautala (Dean's Office), Kathy Snyder (Flandrau), Sarah Duffy (Geosciences), Brooke Zang (Math), Bonnie Wood (Physics), Wolfgang Golser (Speech & Hearing), Sherry Jacobs (Speech & Hearing), Laura Hammond (Steward Obs).

Departments not represented: Atmospheric Sciences, Computer Science, Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, Laboratory of Tree-Ring Research, Cellular Biology, Planetary Sciences.

Approval of March Minutes

Council Updates

The Dean has not had time to provide the Council with an official statement from his office, or the first Listserve message. Susan Hautala will remind him. A discussion was held to find a way to help the Dean in this matter. It was decided that Mary should write up a draft statement for both issues and e-mail them to the Dean.

The new Meeting Calendar presented last month was discussed. Not all the departments have a room large enough to accommodate the Council. Also, some months would not be practical to hold the Council Meeting elsewhere. Overall the Calendar was accepted and the new year Council will be encouraged to adopt the Calendar.

Council Elections for the new year will be held at the next meeting on May 13th. Nominations are to be sent via e-mail to Laura Hammond by May 1st. She will contact the nominee for acceptance. The list will be send to Council Members after the May 1st deadline.

Council members not returning for the next year need to find replacements for their departments.

Staff Recognition

Fundraiser ideas have been postponed until the new year. It was suggested that a Family Fundraiser at Pizza Hut in the fall would draw student participation. The Council still needs to find a fundraiser that could become a CoSSAC tradition.

Christmas in April is coming up on April 26th. Shanley Yates has already sent an e-mail to Council members. Everyone should pass this e-mail on to their departments.

Communications

The two Dean's statements will be posted when ready.

Wolfgang would like some help posting the photos from the luncheon. Anyone with experience and would be willing to spend some time updating the web site is to contact him.

Mentoring & Advocacy

A new "Welcome Letter" is needed for the coming year. Perhaps, designed more like a pamphlet.

The Committee would like to hold a summer Dean Time. Susan Hautala will verify this with the Dean Ruiz.

The meeting was adjourned at 10:20am.
The next meeting of the College of Science Staff Advisory Council will be held Tuesday, May 13, 2003, 9:30 - 11:00 am, in Gould-Simpson 1027, unless indicated otherwise on the CoSSAC web page and notification sent by listserv.

Respectfully Submitted,
Laura Hammond, Secretary

In attendance: Cindy Neal (Biochemistry), Ron Richards (Biochemistry), Mary Carter (Chemistry), Robin Rarick (Chemistry), Emy Serazio (Chemistry), Shanley Yates (Chemistry), Susan Hautala (Dean's Office), Lilian Schwartz (Ecology), Denise Slay (MCB), Bonnie Wood (Physics), Wolfgang Golser (Speech & Hearing), Sherry Jacobs (Speech & Hearing), Laura Hammond (Steward Obs), Christina Siqueiros (Steward Obs.).

Departments not represented: Atmospheric Sciences, Computer Science, Flandrau Science Center, Geosciences, Lab.Of Tree-Ring Research, Mathematics, Planetary Sciences.

Approval of March Minutes

Council Updates

Elections were held for the upcoming year 2003/2004. The new board is as follows:

	Mary Carter - Chair
	Nadine Gruhn - Co-Chair
	Sherry Jacobs - Secretary

Nominations were held for Committee Chairs. Nominations are as follows:

	Communications - Robin Rarick
	Staff Recognition - Cindy Neal
	Mentoring & Advocacy - Sarah Duffy

Nominees are to contact Mary Carter to accept.

Council members were encouraged to decide what Committee they would like to serve on for the new year. Tentative decisions were made verbally, final decisions to be made by start of new year in August.

The Council will not meet during June and July.

Dean Time is confirmed with Dean Ruiz for the month of July. The Mentoring & Advocacy Committee will post details and information via the listserv.

Mary Carter suggested the Annual Diabetes Walk held in the fall could be a possible community activity for the Council to support. Response from the Council was favorable.

The meeting was adjourned at 10:15am.

The next meeting of the College of Science Staff Advisory Council will be held Tuesday, August 12, 9:30 - 11:00 am, in Gould-Simpson 1027, unless indicated otherwise on the CoSSAC web page and notification sent by listserv.

Respectfully Submitted,
Laura Hammond, Secretary

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