This August brings some changes like no other. One of those changes is in the structure of shared governance at the University of Houston (see the first item). The other change is the rapid preparation for the upcoming Centennial Celebration (see the last item). We faculty, as the dedicated and passionate backbone of this University, have opportunity before us. Let’s step boldly into Fall 2025 and beyond. Let’s shine.

August 21 – The University of Houston Board of Regents unanimously approved creation of a Faculty Council at their August 21st meeting, which puts the University of Houston System far ahead of other systems across the state that have decided to go without any formal faculty participation in shared governance in the near term.  The policy that establishes the Council (BOR - 2B - Summary Table of Proposed Board Policy Bylaw Revisions 8.20.25.V3) and the new Council’s interim Bylaws (BOR - 8B Draft UH_Faculty-Council_Bylaws_AY26-revision-clean) are the result of work throughout the summer and represent a good faith attempt to maintain faculty voice. A recording of the meeting is available and relevant portions can be found at 1:01:30, 5:47:54, 5:56:26, and 6:11:03. As you are able, take time to review this information to better understand how you are represented on campus.

August 22 through August 29 – With the creation of the new Faculty Council, there will be a call for nominations sent out today; it comes from a Qualtrics account, so be sure to keep an eye on your junk folder if you don’t find it in your inbox by 5pm on the 22nd.  Per the Bylaws and Board Policy, “an eligible member of the Faculty Council is a full-time faculty member at the University of Houston. Faculty members who have appointments as assistant, associate, or vice deans, and higher are ineligible to be appointed or elected to the Faculty Council.”  Regular elections will be held each Spring for 2-yr terms, but this first iteration will have a mix of 1- and 2-yr terms to be able to achieve staggering as required by SB37. This is your opportunity to serve.

August 28 5-8pm – We extend our gratitude to Faculty Senators, many of whom have devoted years of service and engagement in shared governance far beyond professional expectations. Their unwavering commitment to their colleagues, students, communities, and to the University of Houston should be deeply respected and appreciated.  We will host a celebration in the Elizabeth D Rockwell Pavillion of the MD Anderson Library from 5-8pm with beer and wine to wash down hors d'œuvre while we gather to reminisce and to prepare.  An RSVP was sent out, but feel free to stop by even if you didn’t formally confirm your attendance!  And if you have any photos you’d like to share, please send them to fsenate@central.uh.edu--we’ll have a slideshow running in the background!

August 25 from 1-3pm and August 29 from 9am – 12pm – Navigating academic accommodations for students can be challenging--particularly when the facilities and equipment referenced are unfamiliar.  Take this opportunity to meet with Dart Accessibility Center staff and tour their building to understand more about the resources available and the people who make it all work. They will also host Breakfast & Brain Food, which promotes the Dart Center & the resources available to students; that event will be held on Friday 8/29 from 9am – 12pm in the Multipurpose Room of the Student Center South. There will be free breakfast tacos (while supplies last).  When questions or concerns about academic