UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH ALABAMA
BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING
December 11, 2008
10:00 a.m.
A meeting of the University of South Alabama Board of Trustees was duly convened by
Dr. Steven H. Stokes, Chair Pro Tempore, on Thursday, December 11, 2008, at 10:00 a.m. in the
Board Room of the Frederick P. Whiddon Administration Building.
Members Present:
Trustees Scott Charlton, Steven Furr, Cecil Gardner, Samuel Jones,
Donald Langham, Bettye Maye, Christie Miree, Arlene Mitchell,
Bryant Mixon, James Nix, John Peek, Steven Stokes, Larry Striplin, and
James Yance.
Members Absent:
Trustees Joseph Morton, and Bob Riley.
Administration
and Others:
President Gordon Moulton; Drs. Michael Boyd, Tom Montgomery
(COM Alumni Assn.), Ron Franks, David Johnson, Russ Lea, Carl Moore,
Dean Naritoku, Robert Shearer, John Smith, David Stearns, and
Sam Strada; Messrs. Ken Davis, Wayne Davis, Stan Hammack,
Abe Mitchell, Michael Smith, and Tommy Zoghby (USA National
Alumni Assn.); and Ms. Jean Tucker.
Press:
Ms. Renee Busby (Press-Register).
Upon the call to order, Chairman Stokes called for adoption of the revised agenda. On motion by
Ms. Maye, seconded by Mayor Nix, the revised agenda was unanimously approved.
Chairman Stokes called for consideration of ITEM 1, the minutes of the September 11, 2008,
meeting of the Board of Trustees, as well as the minutes of the September 10, 2008, meeting of the
Committee of the Whole. On motion by Mr. Striplin, seconded by Ms. Maye, the minutes were
unanimously adopted.
As part of ITEM 2, the President’s Report, President Moulton called for a moment of silence in
honor of former Trustee J. L. Chestnut, Jr., who passed away on September 30. He read ITEM 13
as follows. On motion by Mr. Langham, seconded by Mr. Striplin, the resolution was unanimously
approved. President Moulton remembered Mr. Chestnut as a person of great intellect, national
influence for changing the face of civil liberties in our nation, and as a valuable confidant.
RESOLUTION
TRIBUTE TO TRUSTEE J. L. CHESTNUT, JR.
WHEREAS, Mr. J. L. Chestnut, Jr., served as a member of the Board of Trustees of the University of South
Alabama from the time of his appointment in 2001 until his death on September 30, 2008, and
WHEREAS, Mr. Chestnut, at the time of his death, was a member of the Academic and Student Affairs and Health
Affairs Committees, and
WHEREAS, Mr. Chestnut, a successful attorney in Selma, Alabama, brought to his position as a USA Trustee a
background rich in cultural diversity and humanitarian causes, and
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December 11, 2008
WHEREAS, Mr. Chestnut, through his national stature and prominent role as an advocate for civil rights in the
United States for more than four decades, was widely admired and respected, and
WHEREAS, Mr. Chestnut inspired countless numbers of young people to enter the legal profession to champion
the causes for which he fought, and
WHEREAS, in addition to his role as an exemplary and progressive leader in his local community, the state, and
nation, Mr. Chestnut was a devoted family man, and
WHEREAS, Mr. Chestnut’s keen insight, sparkling wit, and friendship will be missed by a multitude of friends and
colleagues,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees of the University of South Alabama acknowledges
the legacy of Mr. J. L. Chestnut, Jr., and pays tribute to his memory for his many humanitarian contributions and his service
to the Board, to the University community, and to the people of the state of Alabama and the nation, all of whom have
benefitted from his wisdom, dedication, service, and generosity, and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board extends heartfelt sympathy to Mrs. Vivian Chestnut and to all
members of the Chestnut family.
President Moulton reported on the public grand opening ceremony for the Mitchell Cancer Institute
(MCI) held on November 3. Photos of the event were shown. President Moulton noted that
attendance was good and he expressed appreciation to the Board, the Mitchell family,
Governor Riley, Senators Shelby and Sessions, Congressman Bonner, and many others representing
local government and the community for their generous support of the Institute, and encouraged
continued interest and momentum as the MCI matures.
President Moulton noted that 1,591 degrees were conferred during Fall Commencement on
December 6, bringing the historic total of degrees awarded by the University of South Alabama to
63,740. He reported that the Campaign USA goal to raise $75 million was surpassed in October.
Contributions currently total $76.8 million. Mr. Yance predicted that by the end of the campaign,
between $80 and $85 million could be realized. President Moulton thanked Mr. Yance for his
leadership as campaign chair and the development staff for their tireless efforts. A celebration event
is being planned for April 23 to close USA’s inaugural capital campaign.
President Moulton reported that a student community service project is being coordinated by faculty
members Mss. Karen Peterson and Dawn McKinney in conjunction with the observation of Martin
Luther King day on January 19, 2009. Under the program, students will visit low income
communities in Mobile and offer assistance in a variety of applications including lawn care,
painting, tutoring, and minor construction. Thus far, more than 300 students have registered.
President Moulton announced the results of the search to fill the position of Senior Vice President
for Academic Affairs, and reminded Trustees that Dr. Carl Moore had served in this position in an
interim capacity since Dr. Covey’s retirement in June 2008. He said that a national search had been
conducted using an outside firm, with Dr. Ron Franks serving as the chair of the University’s search
committee. He noted that many good applicants had been considered. President Moulton
announced the appointment of Dr. G. David Johnson as Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs
effective January 1, 2009. Dr. Johnson, currently the Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences,
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December 11, 2008
addressed the Board and conveyed appreciation for the opportunity. President Moulton thanked
Dr. Moore for his service during the search process.
President Moulton discussed a proposal to change the March 5, 2009, Board meeting to Friday,
March 6, to coincide with the Annual Distinguished Alumni and Service Awards Program (DAAP)
on Thursday evening, March 5. He said that DAAP would substitute as the Trustee dinner event for
the convenience of Trustees in attending. The Governor will provide written notification of the
meeting date in the near future.
Chairman Stokes called for a report of health affairs items. Dr. Furr, Chair of the Health Affairs
Committee, presented ITEM 3 as follows. On motion by Dr. Charlton, seconded by Mr. Peek, the
resolution was unanimously approved.
RESOLUTION
USA HOSPITALS MEDICAL STAFF APPOINTMENTS AND REAPPOINTMENTS
FOR AUGUST, SEPTEMBER, OCTOBER, AND NOVEMBER 14, 2008
WHEREAS, the Medical Staff appointments and reappointments for August, September, October, and
November 14, 2008, for the University of South Alabama Hospitals are recommended for approval by the Medical Executive
Committees of the University of South Alabama Hospitals,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees of the University of South Alabama approves the
appointments and reappointments as submitted.
Dr. Furr presented ITEM 4 as follows. On motion by Dr. Charlton, seconded by Mr. Peek, the
resolution was unanimously approved.
RESOLUTION
PROFESSORS EMERITI
WHEREAS, the following faculty have retired from the University of South Alabama:
and
Wanda K. Kirkpatrick, M.D., Associate Professor, Internal Medicine
Michael B. Kirkpatrick, M.D., Professor, Internal Medicine
Robert L. Lausch, Ph.D., Professor, Microbiology/Immunology
Randall W. Powell, M.D., Professor, Pediatric Surgery
Richard Wesenberg, M.D., Professor, Radiology
WHEREAS, in recognition of their contributions to the University through extraordinary accomplishments in
teaching and in the generation of new knowledge through research and scholarship, and for serving as a consistently
inspiring influence to students for a period of time, and
WHEREAS, the faculty and chairpersons from their departments, the Dean of the College of Medicine, the Vice
President for Health Sciences, and the President have duly recommended the aforementioned retirees from the University
faculty,
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Trustees of the University of South Alabama hereby
appoints the aforenamed individuals to the rank of Associate or Professor Emeritus, as appropriate, with the rights and
privileges thereunto appertaining, and
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December 11, 2008
FURTHER, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Trustees of the University of South Alabama, in recognition of their
noteworthy accomplishments and dedicated service, wishes to convey its deep appreciation additional these individuals.
Dr. Franks and Mr. Hammack addressed ITEM 5, a report on the activities of the Division of Health
Sciences and the USA Health System. Mr. Hammack reported that the Student Health Center,
located in Building III of the Technology and Research Park complex, will serve a dual role as a
walk-in clinic for urgent care. He said since inception two weeks prior, patient utilization has been
positive. He announced that the USA Medical Center had received a grant from the Robert Wood
Johnson Foundation to improve bedside patient care. The funding will defray costs associated with
providing additional bedside care. Dr. Franks called upon Dr. Sam Strada to report on a new
appointment. Dr. Strada introduced Dr. Dean Naritoku, Chair of the Department of Neurology, and
discussed his credentials.
Dr. Boyd presented ITEM 6, a report on the USA Mitchell Cancer Institute (MCI). He introduced
Dr. Laurie Beth Owen, Professor of Oncologic Sciences and Associate Director of Basic
Translational Sciences, and discussed her credentials. Dr. Owen addressed the Board and conveyed
elation for the opportunity to return to Mobile and join the Mitchell Cancer Institute.
Chairman Stokes called for a report of academic and student affairs items. Ms. Miree, Academic
and Student Affairs Committee Chair, called upon Dr. Franks to address ITEM 6.A as follows. He
reported that, over the last several years, enrollment had dropped and the cost of instruction is
unacceptable. Salaries earned for this profession are one-third less than that for comparable allied
health positions. Dr. Franks assured that none of the remaining students would be disadvantaged
by the phasing out of the program. Alternatives for the faculty were discussed. On motion by
Ms. Miree, seconded by Mayor Nix, the resolution was unanimously approved.
RESOLUTION
DISCONTINUATION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF CLINICAL LABORATORY SCIENCES OF THE COLLEGE OF ALLIED HEALTH
WHEREAS, through its Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences (“CLS”), the College of Allied Health
Professions (“College”) of University of South Alabama (“University”) has for many years offered a bachelors Clinical
Laboratory Sciences, and
WHEREAS, despite strong recruitment efforts as well as reconfigurations of the program, there has been a
consistent lack of adequate student enrollment in CLS for the past several years, with the number of graduates in the
program for the past five years averaging eight (8) per year, making its viability a major concern, and
WHEREAS, all ten students currently admitted to the program are scheduled to complete the program by the
end of Summer 2009; thus, no enrolled student in the program will be adversely affected by a discontinuation of the CLS
program of study, and those in the pre-professional CLS program will be counseled with regard to other health related
majors as well as other CLS programs in the state and region, and
WHEREAS, there currently are five non-tenured faculty lines in the department, one of which has resigned and
will not be filled, one of which will be moved to another department to continue the courses necessary for the other
department, as well as other colleges, and three of which will be ending at the conclusion of the Fall 2009 semester, and
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December 11, 2008
WHEREAS, the current economic conditions in the State of Alabama have resulted in significant cutbacks in the
State support for higher education and in turn for the University of South Alabama, thereby necessitating a reduction in
the budgets allocated to the colleges in both the Academic Affairs and Health Sciences divisions of the University, and
WHEREAS, although discontinuing any academic program is a matter of great import, in light of the historic and
current circumstances of CLS and the projected state appropriation shortfalls, closing the program would be in the best
interests of the remaining eight (8) departments in the College.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees of the University of South Alabama hereby authorizes
the President of the University to proceed with closure of the Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences after the
completion of the Fall semester 2009.
Concerning ITEM 7, a report of student affairs, Dr. Smith reported on a market assessment of dining
services recently conducted; the report was distributed. Dr. Smith detailed the survey results while
Trustees and guests viewed corresponding visual slides. He said that students are interested in more
meal options, service locations closer to residence halls, and later hours of service. He discussed
proposed locations around campus for expanded operations.
Dr. Moore presented ITEM 8, a report of academic affairs. He said that much attention is being
directed to limiting the impact of severe budget cuts on academic programs. He discussed
recruitment for critical positions in the face of the budget crisis. He congratulated Dr. Johnson on
his appointment as Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs.
Chairman Stokes called for consideration of budget and finance items. Mayor Nix, Budget and
Finance Committee Chair, moved approval of ITEM 9, RESOLUTION 1, as follows. Sheriff Mixon
seconded.
RESOLUTION
SELECTION OF ARCHITECT FOR DINING FACILITY
WHEREAS, the University of South Alabama is a growing institution of higher learning, and
WHEREAS, the current Student Center dining area is insufficient to handle the growing residential student
population, and
WHEREAS, a high-quality residential dining facility is a key component to recruiting and retaining the highest
quality students, and
WHEREAS, a new dining facility located with the residential housing will yield a marked improvement in campus
life, and
WHEREAS, the selection of an architect with the proper background and experience is essential to the successful
completion of this project, and
WHEREAS, the University Administration interviewed the following five outstanding architectural firms for this
project:
- Walcott Adams Verneuille Architects, Fairhope, AL
- WHLC Architecture, Fairhope, AL
- Goodwyn, Mills and Cawood, Inc., Mobile, AL
- The Garrison Barrett Group, Birmingham, AL
- Williams Blackstock, Birmingham, AL,
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December 11, 2008
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees of the University of South Alabama hereby authorizes
the President to engage one of the five firms for this project.
President Moulton and Mr. Wayne Davis introduced ITEM 9, RESOLUTION 2, as follows, noting that
authorization provides only to assess the feasibility of a hotel, a wellness center, and a conference
center complex on the University campus. Mr. Wayne Davis said that the wellness component
would include physical therapy along with fitness. An interested fitness company has conducted
a market study which indicates great potential for the area; the company would sell fitness
memberships. Mr. Davis discussed visits to other such facilities. He provided an overview of the
due diligence process and facility components. He said that the complex would be located in front
of Building III of the Technology and Research Park, across the street from the Health Sciences
Building, and added that the occupational and physical therapy programs would utilize the wellness
center as a clinic. It was noted that the availability of a hotel in this location would be advantageous
relative to sporting facilities in close proximity, including the Mobile Tennis Center.
President Moulton said the University would provide the opportunity, the land, and the lease to
attract a hotel to build at the site. On motion by Mayor Nix, seconded by Ms. Maye, the resolution
was unanimously approved.
RESOLUTION
SELECTION OF ARCHITECT FOR PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT OF A CAMPUS WELLNESS CENTER AND CONFERENCE CENTER COMPLEX
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees of the University of South Alabama hereby authorizes
the President to engage the firm of Enwright Associates, Inc., to complete due diligence for the development of a campus
wellness center and conference center complex, and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the President will report the results to the Board of Trustees and make a final
recommendation for the project.
Mr. Ken Davis presented ITEM 10 resolutions as follows. Copies of the plan documents were made
available for review by Trustees. Mr. Davis explained that government regulations were revised
recently to require organizations to exhibit plans in a written form. He assured that the plan
provisions themselves had not been changed. On motion by Ms. Miree, seconded by Mr. Peek, both
resolutions were unanimously approved.
RESOLUTION
RESTATEMENT OF UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH ALABAMA MATCHING PLAN
WHEREAS, the University of South Alabama, in 1964, authorized the participation of certain employees in the
Teachers’ Insurance and Annuity Association/College Retirement Equity Fund (TIAA/CREF) pursuant to an elective salary
reduction arrangement under which matching funds are available, and
WHEREAS, on November 30, 1967; on October 24, 1980; on January 1, 1986; on January 1, 1987; on
October 1, 1989; on June 27, 1991; and on June 8, 2006 the program was changed, and
WHEREAS, the United States Treasury Department issued final regulations under Section 403(b) of the Internal
Revenue Code on July 26, 2007, that become effective January 1, 2009, and
WHEREAS, the final regulations include a new requirement that all Section 403(b) plans must be set forth in
a written document, and
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December 11, 2008
WHEREAS, no changes to the Matching Plan other than its provisions being set forth in a written document are
being made,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees approves the attached plan document for the
University of South Alabama Matching Plan and authorizes the President to sign the plan document.
RESOLUTION
RESTATEMENT OF UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH ALABAMA TAX DEFERRED ANNUITY PLAN
WHEREAS, the University of South Alabama, in 1964, authorized the participation of all employees in the
Teachers’ Insurance and Annuity Association/College Retirement Equity Fund (TIAA/CREF) pursuant to an elective salary
reduction arrangement under which matching funds are not available, and
WHEREAS, on November 30, 1967; on October 24, 1980; on January 1, 1986; on January 1, 1987; on
October 1, 1989; and on June 27, 1991, the program was changed, and
WHEREAS, the United States Treasury Department issued final regulations under Section 403(b) of the Internal
Revenue Code on July 26, 2007, that become effective January 1, 2009, and
WHEREAS, the final regulations include a new requirement that all Section 403(b) plans must be set forth in
a written document, and
WHEREAS, no changes to the Tax Deferred Annuity Plan other than its provisions being set forth in a written
document are being made,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees approves the attached plan document for the
University of South Alabama Tax Deferred Annuity Plan and authorizes the President to sign the plan document.
Mr. Wayne Davis presented ITEM 10.A as follows, explaining that the resolution would authorize
the administration to perform the necessary due diligence analysis for a possible “swaption”
transaction to take place relative to the recent 2008 bond issue. A recommendation will be made
at the March 2009 Board meeting if the analysis indicates the transaction would be in the best
interest of the University. Mr. Davis noted this action being recommended is similar to the swaption
executed on the 2004 and 2006 issues that closed one year prior. He said that, under current market
conditions, the swaption may profit the University approximately $15 million, although the amount
will fluctuate through the analysis period. He assured Board members that the swap instrument
under consideration is sound as opposed to the failed instrument used by Jefferson County.
President Moulton said analysis of the transaction is likely to take three months to complete, and a
recommendation would be made at the March 2009 Board meeting. On motion by Mr. Yance,
seconded by Mr. Peek, the resolution was unanimously approved.
RESOLUTION
OPTION TO ENTER FINANCIAL TRANSACTION RESPECTING CERTAIN OUTSTANDING BONDS OF THE UNIVERSITY
WHEREAS, the University of South Alabama here heretofore issued its
$112,885,000
UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH ALABAMA
University Facilities Revenue Capital Improvement Bonds
Series 2008
the “Series 2008 Bonds,” and
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December 11, 2008
WHEREAS, those of the Series 2008 Bonds having a stated maturity on August 1, 2019, and thereafter will be
subject to redemption prior to their respective maturities, at the option of the University, as a whole or in part, on August 1,
2018, and on any date thereafter (and if in part, in such maturities as the University shall select, and if less than all of a
single maturity is to be redeemed those to be redeemed to be selected by the Trustee by lot) at and for a redemption price
with respect to each Series 2008 Bond (or principal portion thereof redeemed) equal to the par or face amount of each
Series 2008 Bond redeemed plus accrued interest to the date fixed for redemption, and
WHEREAS, Porter, White & Company (“Porter White”) has proposed that the University consider entering into
a transaction, sometimes referred to as a Swaption for a Forward Synthetic Refunding (a “Swaption”), to allow the
University to achieve a present realization of certain amounts in connection with the possible future redemption of the
outstanding Series 2008 Bonds, and
WHEREAS, on January 2, 2008 the University entered into a Swaption for a Forward Synthetic Refunding (the
“Existing Swaptions”) with Wachovia Bank, National Association respecting the University’s $51,080,000 University Tuition
Revenue Refunding and Capital Improvement Bonds, Series 2004, dated March 15, 2004 (the “Series 2004 Bonds”) and
$100,000,000 University Tuition Revenue Refunding and Capital Improvement Bonds, Series 2006, dated December 1,
2006 (the “Series 2006 Bonds”), and Porter White has advised the University that due to current market conditions the
University could realize substantial amounts by entering into a Swaption respecting the Series 2008 Bonds in form and
substance similar to the Existing Swaptions, and
WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees has determined that it is wise, prudent and in the best interest of the University
to explore the feasibility of the University entering into a Swaption respecting the Series 2008 Bonds, and
WHEREAS, the University administration recommends the engagement of Porter White and/or any other
consultants to serve as independent advisors to the University for purposes of evaluating the feasibility of the University
entering into a Swaption respecting the Series 2008 Bonds, negotiating with qualified potential counterparties the terms
of appropriate documentation to effectuate said Swaption, and identifying a qualified institution to be the counterparty for
said Swaption or qualified institutions to participate in a bidding process for the University to select a qualified counterparty
of said Swaption, all subject to final approval by the Board of Trustees, and
WHEREAS, any transaction or transactions submitted for approval by the Board of Trustees shall be governed
by the University of South Alabama Derivatives Policy,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees authorizes Porter White and/or any other consultants
to evaluate the feasibility of the University entering into a Swaption respecting the Series 2008 Bonds, negotiate with
qualified counterparties the terms of appropriate documentation to effectuate said Swaption, and identify and recommend
for approval a qualified counterparty to provide said Swaption or develop a public bidding process for the University to
implement in order to select a qualified counterparty, all subject to final approval by the Board of Trustees.
Mr. Wayne Davis presented ITEM 10.B as follows. He provided an assessment of the Gulf Pines
Golf Course, noting that a diminishing financial condition warrants the examination of other means
to better manage the facility and improve its bottom line. He proposed that outsourcing the
management of Gulf Pines could provide financial stability, and said that the resolution authorizes
the University to solicit proposals for the lease and management of the facility. Mr. Yance inquired
about action should the University not receive any successful bids. Mr. Davis said options would
remain open with regard to continuing the operation. On motion by Mayor Nix, seconded by
Dr. Charlton, the resolution was unanimously approved.
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December 11, 2008
RESOLUTION
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR LEASE AND MANAGEMENT OF GULF PINES GOLF COURSE
WHEREAS, the University of South Alabama (“University”) owns certain real property on its Brookley complex
which it utilizes for a golf course known as Gulf Pines Golf Course (“Golf Course”) open to the public and used for
instruction by the University, and
WHEREAS, the Golf Course is in need of major renovation but over the years has not been able to sustain itself
on monies it generates, causing greater and greater financial burden on the University, and
WHEREAS, due to the current economic climate, the University is in the middle of substantial budget cutbacks,
and
WHEREAS, the future use of the Brookley complex is uncertain given business opportunities which from time
to time present themselves, which, combined with the financial cutbacks being made by the University, preclude the
University from making a long-term investment of funds in renovation and maintenance of the Golf Course, and
WHEREAS, pursuant to the “Policy and Procedure by Which the University of South Alabama Would Sell or Lease
Real Property or Interest Owned by the University of South Alabama,” “the President [of the University] or his/her designee
may negotiate sale or lease of University property, if same is in the best interest of the University of South Alabama and
economically justifiable, after publicly announced requests for proposals to sell or lease the property are made,” and
WHEREAS, given the issues noted above, it has been determined that it is in the best interest of the University
and the State of Alabama to preserve the Golf Course and its public recreational and instructional value to the University,
and economically justified for the University to publicly issue a request for proposals for and the President negotiate with
responders a short-term (maximum of five years with one year notice of cancellation) lease of the Golf Course, as well as
the equipment and facilities of the Golf Course, by a business which is capable of golf course renovation, maintenance, and
management.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees of the University of South Alabama hereby authorizes
the President of the University to proceed with publicly announcing a request for proposals for and negotiate the shortterm lease of the Gulf Pines Golf Course and its attendant equipment and facilities to a responsible business capable of
renovation, maintenance, and management of same.
Concerning ITEM 11, the University’s Monthly Fund Financial Reports for July, August, and
September 2008, Mayor Nix noted receipt of the documents.
Chairman Stokes called for a report of audit items. Mr. Wayne Davis discussed ITEM 12, the
KPMG Audit Reports and Letter for the year ended September 30, 2008. He said that
Mr. Mark Peach, KPMG partner, was unable to attend the meeting due to inclement weather.
Mr. Peach will present the required communications to the Board at the March 2009 Board meeting.
Mr. Davis summarized the audit findings, indicating that the University received a clean opinion and
that no unusual items were recorded. He noted that, for the first time, no management letter was
received for an audit. Mr. Davis provided an overview of the growth in net assets over the past
seven years.
Dr. Stokes inquired about the status of Medicaid funding. Mr. Hammack responded that the
Governor recognizes the problems. He expressed hope that the next couple of months may yield
a resolution. He said that until a different payment model is established, current payments will
stand.
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December 11, 2008
President Moulton briefly addressed the University’s financial position. He encouraged a positive
outlook and said the University should remain progressive in the face of less than positive economic
indicators. He assured that the University would be persistent in securing what funding it is entitled
to receive, and recognized a need for the state of Alabama to examine its tax structure for the
support of education. Mayor Jones added that many of the city’s capital projects are being
consolidated to safeguard jobs. President Moulton and Major Jones briefly addressed construction
and bond sales.
Mr. Ken Davis presented ITEM 12.A, a report of the Alabama Department of Examiners of Public
Accounts Compliance Examination for the period October 1, 2005 through September 30, 2007.
Mr. Davis summarized the Examiners’ report and said that nothing came to the attention of the
Examiners that indicated the University had not complied with applicable Alabama laws and
regulations.
President Moulton welcomed the Coveys and presented ITEM 14 as follows. He shared that
Dr. Covey’s absence could be felt on campus and asserted that her selfless commitment to USA over
the years is what makes an institution great. He read aloud the resolution. On motion by Ms. Miree,
seconded by Ms. Maye, the resolution was unanimously approved. Dr. Covey expressed
appreciation for the Board’s support of the University and, on a personal level, for the many acts of
friendship and guidance during her tenure. She made note of the extraordinary accomplishments
achieved in the short decade since the Board’s appointment of President Moulton, and conveyed her
thanks for the opportunity to serve.
RESOLUTION
COMMENDATION OF DR. PATSY C. COVEY
WHEREAS, the University of South Alabama seeks to honor exceptional administrators and faculty who have
devoted a substantial part of their careers to serving and teaching others, and who have distinguished themselves
throughout their professional careers, and
WHEREAS, Dr. Patsy C. Covey joined the USA staff in June 1975 as Chair of the Department of Medical
Technology, and soon was appointed as Director of Allied Health Professions on September 1, 1976, while maintaining
successive positions as Assistant and Associate Professor of Medical Technology, and
WHEREAS, on October 1, 1980, Dr. Covey was named Dean of the College of Allied Health Professions, and,
in September 1983, was promoted to full professor in the Department of Medical Technology, which became the
Department of Biomedical Sciences for which she served as Acting Chair effective February 1, 1987, in addition to fulfilling
her roles as Dean and Professor, and
WHEREAS, Dr. Covey assumed the role of Interim Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs on October 1, 1997,
while also maintaining her responsibilities as Dean and Professor, and
WHEREAS, on March 15, 2000, Dr. Covey was permanently appointed to the position of Senior Vice President
for Academic Affairs, the duties of which she executed with unsurpassed professionalism, and
WHEREAS, during her tenure, Dr. Covey worked diligently to advance many University initiatives, including a
succession of institutional self-study processes for accreditation renewal by the Southern Association of Colleges and
Schools; creation of the USA Honors Program; development of guidelines for increased student recruitment and retention;
and development of the University of South Alabama Strategic Plan for Racial and Ethnic Diversity, and
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December 11, 2008
WHEREAS, Dr. Covey has served on numerous University councils and committees, such as the President’s
Administrative Council, and
WHEREAS, Dr. Covey selflessly dedicated 33 years of service to the University of South Alabama and is known
within the University community as a committed associate, a mentor, and caring friend,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees expresses its appreciation to Dr. Patsy C. Covey for
her many contributions to the University of South Alabama, and offers its best wishes upon her retirement.
President Moulton made brief comments on the status of the EADS/Northrop Grumman contract,
and the USA football and marching band programs. He announced that the first football game
would be held September 12, and noted that the basketball team is doing well.
President Moulton presented ITEM 15 as follows. He talked of Dr. Adams’ dedication to the
University of South Alabama, and his love and support of the students. He shared that Dr. Adams
had, for many years, been a close friend and colleague. He read aloud the resolution and, on motion
by Ms. Miree, seconded by Mr. Yance, the Board cast its unanimous approval. Dr. Adams
addressed the Board and expressed pleasure for his long association with the University. He
credited his wife, Ms. Jane Adams, for her steadfast support and involvement.
RESOLUTION
COMMENDATION OF DR. DALE T. ADAMS
WHEREAS, the University of South Alabama seeks to honor exceptional administrators and faculty who have
devoted a substantial part of their careers to serving others, and who have distinguished themselves throughout their
professional careers, and
WHEREAS, Dr. Dale T. Adams joined the University of South Alabama staff on September 20, 1989, as Dean of
Student Services, with a concurrent appointment as Assistant Professor in the College of Education’s Department of
Behavioral Studies and Educational Technology, and
WHEREAS, Dr. Adams was granted tenure on September 1, 1995, and
WHEREAS, on January 1, 1996, he was named Vice President for Student Affairs, while simultaneously serving
as Dean of Students until January 2003, and
WHEREAS, Dr. Adams served for many years as faculty advisor to the USA Athletics Department and as USA’s
faculty representative to the National Collegiate Athletic Association, and
WHEREAS, during his tenure, Dr. Adams served on numerous councils and committees of the University,
including the President’s Administrative Council, and
WHEREAS, Dr. Adams’ involvement was essential to the success of major University endeavors, including
construction of a new state-of-the-art student recreation center; construction of student apartments on campus; and
creation of the football and marching band programs at USA, and
WHEREAS, Dr. Adams has been a valued advisor, mentor, and friend to untold numbers of students and
colleagues at USA, and a constant source of support, enthusiasm, good humor, and inspiration,