USM Board of Regents to Consider Textbook Affordability Policy at February 13 Meeting
ADELPHI, Md. (February 10, 2009)-The University System of Maryland (USM) Board of Regents at its next meeting will consider a proposed policy on textbook affordability. The public meeting is scheduled to begin at 8:30 am Friday, February 13, in Chesapeake Room I of Towson University's University Union. An executive session of the board will follow after the conclusion of the public session.
The proposed textbook policy is in response to growing concerns about the rising cost of textbooks. It was developed based on input from faculty, students, USM administrators, state leaders, bookstore operators, and textbook publishers. The policy proposal is part of the university system's ongoing efforts to maintain quality, access, and affordability for students.
Other action items before the board Friday include proposals for the renovation of Somerset Hall for the School of Pharmacy at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, a bachelor of science degree in earth science at Salisbury University, and a bachelor of fine arts degree in visual arts at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County.
Information items on Friday's agenda include:
- USM Report on Transfer Students: Patterns of Enrollment and Success;
- USM Report on FY 2008 Extramural Funding;
- An Update on Towson University's Trimester Pilot Program;
- A Review of USM Capital Improvement Projects;
- USM Aggregated Renewable Energy Contract.
At the beginning of the meeting, Diana Oblinger, president and CEO of EDUCAUSE, will lead a discussion forum titled "Educating the Net Generation." The board also will receive reports from USM Chancellor William E. Kirwan and from the councils of university system presidents, faculty, staff, and students.
To access the full agenda, visit: http://www.usmd.edu/regents/agendas/. Background information and agendas will be available at the meeting. Sign language interpreters and/or appropriate accommodations for eligible individuals with disabilities will be provided upon request. Please call 301.445.1901 (voice) or 301.314.7683 (TTY/ITT) to make special arrangements.
For driving directions to Towson University and a campus map, visit: http://www.towson.edu/main/abouttu/visitor/dircampus.asp
Contact: Anne Moultrie
Phone: 301.445.2732
Email: amoultrie@usmd.edu