INITIATIVE FOR HIGHER EDUCATION ADVISORY COUNCIL SET TO COMMENCE THIS YEAR
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Posted By: Catalina Deossa on July 17, 2024 State officials in Maryland are currently drafting bylaws for a new advisory council tasked with overseeing the approval process for new academic programs at state universities, under the jurisdiction of the Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC). This initiative follows a recent decision by MHEC to permit Towson University to introduce a new business analytics degree, a decision challenged by Morgan State University due to concerns about program duplication. The Program Review Process Advisory Council, established under recently enacted state legislation, aims to enhance the transparency and fairness of program approval procedures, particularly concerning historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). The council is expected to include university presidents, provosts, and other campus administrators, with a mandate to review and refine the processes governing the introduction of new academic offerings. Emily Dow, Assistant Secretary for Academic Affairs at MHEC, highlighted that one of the council's primary responsibilities will be to streamline the approval process for online academic programs, especially those targeting out-of-state students. Dow emphasized the council's role in guiding MHEC on critical decisions, such as defining rules, necessary information, and timelines for program approvals. Proposed bylaws outlining the council's structure and responsibilities are scheduled for review by MHEC on July 24. Following approval, MHEC plans to issue a call for nominations to fill council positions, aiming to convene its inaugural meeting by the end of September. Dow underscored the importance of community representation and transparency throughout the council's operations, ensuring that stakeholders have a voice in shaping higher education policy. The establishment of the advisory council reflects broader efforts under Governor Wes Moore's administration to revitalize MHEC's leadership and prioritize the interests of students across Maryland's higher education landscape. These changes follow Governor Moore's appointment of Sanjay Rai as MHEC Secretary and a significant overhaul of the MHEC board of commissioners in July 2023, marking a renewed commitment to fostering equity and excellence in higher education. Dow highlighted these reforms as indicative of a fresh approach to governance, driven by a shared commitment to serving the needs of Maryland's diverse student population. If you enjoyed this article, Join HBCU CONNECT today for similar content and opportunities via email! |
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Catalina Deossa
Archaeologist, CHRONOS SAS Florida Int`l Univ class of 2011 Member Since April 2024 |
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