Past Issues

January 2007

A Message from the Chancellor

Beginning a new year is for many of us a time to reflect on our many accomplishments as a University in this very difficult post-Katrina environment.  It is also a time to consider the future and our mission of educating students.  Our graduates will play a significant role in the rebuilding of our city and state.  The University of New Orleans proudly conferred degrees on 870 candidates during fall commencement, held on December 15 and 16, 2006.  Our graduates and their parents and friends were very pleased with the new graduation format where each academic college held individual commencement ceremonies for the students receiving diplomas from that college.  Receptions, following each commencement ceremony, saw parents and students enjoying the informal gatherings and the chance to talk with individual professors, instructors and university administrators.

Spring semester began this week with 10,916 students enrolled.  Though enrollment is reduced from the fall semester of 11,650 students, spring enrollment meets our projections which were based on historical performance over the past six years. 

A new image-building/recruitment marketing initiative has begun with advertising on Broadcast TV, Cable TV, Radio, Print, Online and Billboards, and more will be rolling out over the next few weeks.   This particular campaign will run throughout the metro area and in selected areas throughout the state.   Additionally, students expressing interest in attending UNO have been added to an on-line marketing initiative already in place.  Each potential student who has applied to UNO will participate in an interactive on-line experience designed to encourage exploration of academic programs and one-on-one interaction with current students, faculty and admissions personnel. 

The Strategic Planning Committee has been meeting regularly during the fall semester to update the Strategic Plan for the University.  Members of the committee have been selected from the student body, the faculty, and university administration.  Additionally, two members of the alumni association and two members from the business community have been appointed to participate in the planning process and to bring a community-wide perspective to the planning process.  Subcommittees have been meeting to address such issues as community relations, student life, facilities, academic programs, faculty enhancement and technology.  The Strategic Planning Committee is chaired by Associate Vice Chancellor Scott Whittenburg.    I will keep you updated on the planning process regularly.

Two Endowed Chairs and Five Endowed Professorships have been submitted to the Board of Regents for matching in this current fiscal year.  Both Endowed Chairs are super chairs and are each funded with an initial gift of $1.2M.  Two of the five endowed professorships were initially funded with $120,000 gifts.  All of these gifts from these generous donors are significant, and when matched by the Board of Regents, will provide funding for significant faculty enhancement and development.  

For the first time in the history of The University of New Orleans, I am pleased and excited to announce there is now an “Official UNO Ring.”  This important symbol will be unveiled at the Homecoming Game on February 1, 2007.  Students may order rings on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, February 5, 6, and 7 in the UC.  Alumni may exchange their current rings for the new “Official UNO Ring” at no additional cost.

2007 will be a significant year in the success of our University.  I look forward to working with each of you as we strive together “For a Higher Standard in Higher Learning.”

Sincerely,

Chancellor