Chair's Statement of Purpose

Welcome to the College Council of Columbia College Chicago.

First, I should acknowledge that any success that the Council achieves, it does so because of the dedication and effort of past leadership and the members.

As an institution of higher education, Columbia is a dynamic campus that faces both common and unique challenges.  Many of these challenges are entrenched; others short term.  As a community of creative individuals, we also sieze and capitalize on the opportunities to make Columbia even more vibrant.

Many of those challenges and opportunities impact multiple stakeholders across campus, and often, multiple authorities to address them.

College Council is one the venues where the concerns of Columbia are voiced and investigated. With a membership of approximately 50 individuals drawn from the full-time and adjunct faculty; academic department representatives; students; administrators; and, staff, the College Council is the principle advisory organization representing the college community. These stakeholders come together monthly to discuss and decide issues on the principles of effective representation, openness and transparency, mutual trust, and efficiency.

In addition to the Executive Committee and a voting membership that forwards policy recommendations to the President and Board of Trustees, eleven standing committees study issues and report to the Council.  These groups are listed in the Council's Bylaws and include among other committees, Academic Affairs; Excellence in Teaching; Strategic Planning; Student Affairs; and Teaching and Learning. I encourage you to become involved with these committees.

Issues that the Council may address this year include new academic programs; the impact of the current economy on College programs; scholarships and financial aid; and the possibility of an Honors Program. But there are sure to be other issues, too.

But my main point in writing this statement is to encourage you to become involved and aware. Our meetings are open to the College community and we are your College Council. Talk to your representatives, attend our meetings, and make your voice heard. As an organization, we are only as good as our membership, your contributions and your feedback.

Kevin Fuller, Associate Professor

Chair, College Council

Department of Science & Math