Provost Communication, Monday, March 6, 2023

Hello everyone and happy last Monday before spring break. I know our students are looking forward to a well-deserved week off. While I know many of us are still working during spring break (including me) it’s nice to have a little less structured time to reflect, plan, and reset for the remainder of the semester. 

Commencement is Coming: Every Faculty Please select a Fall or Spring Commencement to Participate in Each Year

I know you can hardly imagine I am bringing up commencement now, but here goes. The pandemic really impacted nearly every aspect of our lives and we’re still adjusting to what our new normal is. As I understand, faculty (and staff) participation in commencement was robust pre-pandemic. It seems participation has dropped off a bit post-pandemic. Therefore, I am asking that each faculty member commits to participating in at least one commencement per year. Some departmental guidelines are explicit about this being a required activity and some are a bit more vague but what is crystal clear is the value to our students when they can celebrate their success in earning their degrees with you. I also strongly encourage our staff members to participate as well and express gratitude to each of you who have continued to contribute to our successful commencements. 

More information about signing up for commencement is forthcoming following spring break so stay tuned but as a reminder Spring Commencement is scheduled for Saturday, May 13, 2023. Additionally, we will be piloting a second Spring Commencement tentatively set for Monday, May 15, 2023, in Los Angeles, CA approximately 10-15 minutes from LAX. This is in response to a student survey that indicated a Southern California-located commencement was desirable and would offer increased accessibility for some Humboldt graduates and their families to celebrate. Additional information about how to rent regalia free of charge for participation in either commencement ceremony is also forthcoming as well as the opportunity to access travel funds for a limited number of faculty to participate in the LAX Commencement.

URPC Open Forum Reminder: Tomorrow March 7th at 12-1:30 pm in the Library Fishbowl 

The University Resources and Planning Committee (URPC) of the University Senate will be holding an Open Forum on Tuesday, March 7, 2023, from 12:00-1:30 pm in the Library Fishbowl. Boxed lunches will be available for the first 60 attendees. The purpose of the Open Forum is to update the campus community on budget planning,  priorities, and the overall state of the budget inclusive of polytechnic funding. At least 30 minutes will be set aside for campus community members to offer feedback and suggestions, and ask questions. The session will be offered in person only but will be recorded and the recording will be released to the campus community following the forum. 

CEEGE Dean Open Forums Continue

All open forums are taking place from 2:00-3:00 pm in SAC 131 (SAC Banquet Room). They are also being recorded and shared for later viewing. Please provide feedback about the candidates using this form.

Tuesday, February 28, 2023 (past) - Thomas Tyner (view recording here)

Friday, March 3, 2023 (past) - Cindy Bumgarner (view recording here)

Today, Monday, March 6, 2023 - Roger Adkins

Tomorrow, Tuesday, March 7, 2023 - Sheila Rocker Heppe

Thanks and have a wonderful day.

Jenn Capps

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Jenn Capps, Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs