Faculty Senate held its first meeting of 2015–2016 last Wednesday. Highlights from the reports to Senate included:

• President Martin provided an update on his efforts to get to know groups and individuals within the Drake and Des Moines communities.
• Interim Provost Lenz announced 22 faculty searches are underway for 2016–2017.
• Student Senate Vice President Zach Blevins indicated the students are setting their goals and committee memberships.
• Craig Owens and Kevin Saunders discussed the status of the HLC accreditation process and the next steps in the process.

Under New Business, a case was put forth for Faculty Senate to lead efforts in promoting diversity and inclusion on campus.

Additionally, senators had a conversation regarding Senate priorities including the Drake Curriculum.

The meeting concluded with a discussion encouraging the 2015–2016 Faculty Senate membership to be proactively engaged in the Senate processes, issues, and conversations.

More information on Faculty Senate meetings and committee work can be found on the Faculty Senate website.

—Submitted by Nancy Geiger, Student Information Analyst