Strategic Plan
A draft of the Buffalo State College Strategic Plan is available in portable document
format (PDF, 94 KB) at www.buffalostate.edu/president/strategy in the documents section.
Faculty and staff are encouraged to review the draft and send comments to Claire Jones,
director of college relations, at jonescs@buffalostate.edu by Wednesday, October 2.
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Middle States Evaluation Team Visit
The Middle States Commission on Higher Education Evaluation Team will visit Buffalo State
September 29 through October 2. The team will examine ways the college meets accreditation
expectations and standards, review the draft strategic plan, and respond to the six self-study topic
reports: (1) Programs and Services for First-Year Students, (2) Programs and
Services for Commuter Students, (3) Distinctive and Pivotal Undergraduate Educational
Experiences, (4) Creating an Intellectually Vital Environment for Graduate Students, (5) Course
Scheduling and Availability, and (6) Recognizing Student and Faculty Success in the Teaching and
Learning Process.
Frank G. Pogue, president of Edinboro University of Pennsylvania, will chair the Middle States
Evaluation Team.
Team members are:
- Ingrid M. Blood, associate vice provost and associate dean for undergraduate studies, the
Pennsylvania State University
- Kenneth W. Borland, associate provost, East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania
- Richard P. Bradberry, dean, Thurgood Marshall Library, Bowie State University
- Marie E. Cornelia, associate dean for graduate studies, Rutgers, the State University of
New Jersey Campus at Camden
- Julia A. Ericksen, professor, Sociology Department, Temple University
- James A. Fitzsimmons, associate vice president for student affairs, Temple University
- Henry A. Mauermeyer, senior vice president for administration/treasurer, New Jersey
Institute of Technology
- Michael A. Mogavero, vice president for Planning, Institutional Research, and Continuous
Improvement, Edinboro University of Pennsylvania
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Jennifer Clarke, SUNY associate provost and campus liaison for comprehensive colleges, will
represent the State University of New York on campus during the visit.
Members of the Middle States Evaluation Team will request meetings with individuals, groups,
and committees after initial team meetings; most sessions will be scheduled during the following times:
Monday, September 30
10:00 a.m.–noon and 2:00–5:00 p.m.
Tuesday, October 1
8:00–11:00 a.m. and 2:00–4:00 p.m.
Many members of the campus community will be invited to meet with the Middle States
Evaluation Team. We appreciate your participation.
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Campus House Grand Opening
The Hospitality and Tourism Department cordially invites all faculty and staff to the grand
opening of Campus House, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, September 25. Department
faculty, staff, and students will provide tours of the state-of-the-art hospitality lab.
Refreshments will be provided at a tent reception on the Campus House lawn. R.S.V.P.
to ext. 3300 by Monday, September 23.
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Policy on the Use of Electronic Resources
Introduction
Buffalo State College electronic resources (servers, computers, printers, e-mail accounts, and Internet service) are made available to employees to facilitate the official work of the college. Electronic resources are provided for employees and others legitimately affiliated with the college for the efficient exchange of information and the completion of assigned responsibilities consistent with the mission of the college.
Use of campus electronic resources by any college employee or other authorized person must be consistent with this and other applicable policies.
Principles of Acceptable Use
Users of campus electronic resources are required to:
- Respect the privacy of other users. Users shall not intentionally seek information about, obtain copies of, or modify files or data without explicit permission.
- Respect the legal protection provided to programs and data by copyright laws and license agreements.
- Protect data from unauthorized use or disclosure as required by state and federal laws, and SUNY and college regulations.
- Respect the integrity of computing systems. Users shall not use or develop programs that harass other users, infiltrate a computer or computing system, or damage or alter the software components of a computer or computing system.
- Safeguard their accounts and passwords. Accounts and passwords are normally assigned to single users and are not to be shared with any other person. Users are expected to report any observations of attempted security violations.
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Unacceptable Use
It is not acceptable to use Buffalo State electronic resources:
- For activities unrelated to the college mission.
- For activities unrelated to official assignments or job responsibilities.
- For any illegal purpose.
- To transmit threatening, obscene, or harassing material or correspondence.
- For unauthorized distribution of New York State data or information.
- To interfere with or disrupt network users, services, or equipment.
- For private purposes such as marketing or business transactions.
- For solicitation of religious or political causes.
- For unauthorized not-for-profit business activities.
- For private advertising of products or services.
- For any activity meant to foster personal gain.
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E-mail Privacy and Access
E-mail messages are neither personal nor private. Although system administrators will not routinely monitor individual staff members' e-mail accounts and will take reasonable precautions to protect users' privacy, program managers and technical staff may access employees' e-mail accounts:
- For legitimate business purposes (e.g., the need to access information if an employee is absent for an extended period of time).
- To diagnose and resolve technical problems involving system hardware, software, or communications.
- To investigate possible misuse of e-mail when a reasonable suspicion of abuse exists, or in conjunction with an approved investigation.
Employees are prohibited from accessing other users' e-mail accounts without their permission.
E-mail messages sent or received in conjunction with college business may:
- Be releasable to the public under the Freedom of Information Act.
- Require special measures to comply with the Personal Privacy Protection Law.
All e-mail messages, including personal communication, may be subject to discovery proceedings in legal actions.
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Management and Retention of E-mail Communications
Applicable to all e-mail messages and attachments:
E-mail is a communication system, not a filing system. Messages that must be retained for an extended period should be transferred from the e-mail system to an electronic (e.g., computer hard drive) or paper filing system. Messages should be deleted after copies have been filed in an outside system.
Applicable to records communicated via e-mail:
E-mail messages created in the normal course of official business and retained as evidence of official policies, actions, decisions, or transactions are considered records and are subject to records-management requirements under the New York State Consolidated Laws, Arts and Cultural Affairs Law (Article 57-A) and specific program requirements.
The college has developed electronic letterhead to be used for the electronic distribution of official college documents (records). The letterhead, available on the Web at www.buffalostate.edu/offices/collegerelations/eletterhead, should be used only with Word or e-mail documents that are to be distributed in electronic format. Questions regarding electronic letterhead usage should be directed to the College Relations Office.
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Examples of e-mail messages that are typically considered records include:
- Policies and directives.
- Correspondence or memoranda related to official business.
- Work schedules and assignments.
- Agendas and minutes of meetings.
- Drafts of documents that are circulated for comment or approval.
- Documents that initiate, authorize, or complete business transactions.
- Final reports or recommendations.
Examples of messages that typically do not constitute records include:
- Personal messages and announcements.
- Copies or extracts of documents distributed for convenience or reference.
- Phone message slips.
- Announcements of social events.
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Records Retention
E-mail records must be identified, managed, protected, and retained as long as necessary to meet operational, legal, audit, research, or other requirements. Records needed to support program functions should be retained, managed, and accessed in a filing system outside the e-mail system in accordance with each program unit's standard practices.
Users should:
- Delete e-mail records after copies have been filed in an outside system.
- Delete records of transitory or little value that are not normally retained in record-keeping systems as evidence of college activity.
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Agency Rights
Pursuant to the Electronic Communications Privacy Act of 1986 (18 USC 2510 et seq.), notice is hereby given that the Buffalo State College system provides no facilities for sending or receiving private or confidential electronic communication.
The college reserves the right to log network use and monitor users' file-server space. The college assumes no responsibility or liability for files lost because of server-space overload.
The college reserves the right to remove a user account or device from the network.
The college assumes no responsibility or liability for damages that result from the use of campus electronic resources, including data loss resulting from delays, nondeliveries, or service interruptions caused by negligence, errors, or omissions. Use of obtained information is at the user's risk.
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Enforcement and Violations
This policy outlines in general terms acceptable and unacceptable uses of electronic resources and is not necessarily exhaustive. Questions about specific uses related to security issues not enumerated in this policy statement, and reports of specific unacceptable uses, should be directed to the associate vice president for computing and technology services. Other questions about appropriate use should be directed to office or department supervisors.
The college will review alleged violations of the Policy on the Use of Electronic Resources on a case-by-case basis. Clear violations of the policy that are not promptly remedied may result in termination of network access for the person(s) at fault and referral for disciplinary actions as appropriate.
Policy date: September 2002
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Political Activities Involving State Employees
Federal Election Law and New York State Law regarding political activities provides:
- No employee is to conduct political activities on paid state time.
- A state employee may participate in an election as a candidate and, if elected, serve in the
office, provided such service will not interfere with state duties or create a conflict of
interest.
- A state employee may engage in political activities in support of, or in opposition to, a
candidate for elected office or a political issue, provided such activities do not interfere with
state duties and provided the employee does not associate political activities with his or her
official position or state affiliation.
- State equipment, vehicles, and office space are to be used only for official state business.
- State employees may not use their official positions to procure either campaign contributions
or volunteer assistance.
- No appointments, promotions, demotions, or salary increases are to be made on the basis of
political affiliation.
The above provisions also pertain to individuals employed by the state whose salary is financed
in whole or in part by any federal loan or grant.
Questions on the above may be referred to Dorcas Colvin, associate vice president for Human Resource Management, at ext. 3042.
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Alcohol- and Drug-Free Workplace Policy
In compliance with the federal Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988 and the New York State Policy
on Alcohol and Controlled Substances in the Workplace, Buffalo State College employees are
subject to criminal, civil, and disciplinary penalties for any violation of the policy below:
The unlawful use, possession, manufacture, dispensation, or distribution of a controlled
substance (as defined in Schedules I through V of Section 202 of the Controlled
Substance Act—21USC812) in all Buffalo State College work locations is prohibited.
Employees must notify the Human Resource Management Office of any criminal
conviction for a drug-statute violation occurring in the workplace or at a work site no later
than five working days after such conviction. An employee so convicted shall be required
to satisfactorily participate in a state-approved drug abuse assistance or rehabilitation
program as a condition of continuing employment.
Employees also are prohibited from alcohol use and are subject to penalties for
alcohol-related impairment on the job.
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Such illegal acts, even if engaged in while off duty, may result in disciplinary action. In those
locations where it is permitted, an employee may possess and use a controlled substance that is
legally prescribed for the employee by a physician. If a supervisor has a reasonable suspicion
that an employee is unable to perform job duties because of a disability that may be caused by
use of a controlled substance or alcohol, the employee may be required to undergo medical
testing. If the cause of the disability is found to be drug or alcohol related, the personnel or
employee relations officer, in conjunction with the employee's supervisor, may refer the employee
to voluntary and confidential participation in the Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Other
available options include pursuing disability leave procedures or disciplinary measures.
EAP is a free and confidential information and referral service available to all employees on
campus. In addition to alcohol- and substance-abuse problems, EAP provides information and
assistance with a variety of other concerns, such as child and elder care, financial matters, and
nutrition and health. Call one of the following EAP coordinators for more information:
| David Cummings |
ext. 5233 |
| Robert Delprino |
ext. 6669 |
Questions regarding the Alcohol- and Drug-Free Workplace Policy should be referred to
Emmanuel J. Hillery, employee relations manager, at ext. 4822.
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Internal Control Standards
The Internal Control Act of the State of New York requires Buffalo State College to communicate the following information on agency responsibilities and standards:
The internal control standards define the minimum level of quality acceptable for internal control systems in operation and constitute the criteria against which systems are to be evaluated. These internal control standards apply to all operations and administrative functions (both manual and automated), but are not intended to limit or interfere with duly granted authority related to development of legislation, rule making, or other discretionary policy making in an agency.
General Standards
- Reasonable Assurance. Internal control systems are to provide reasonable assurance that the objectives of the systems will be accomplished.
- Supportive Attitude. Managers and employees are to maintain and demonstrate a positive and supportive attitude toward internal controls at all times.
- Competent Personnel. Managers and employees are to have personal and professional integrity and are to maintain a level of competence that allows them to accomplish their assigned duties, as well as understand the importance of developing and implementing good internal controls.
- Control Objectives. Internal control objectives are to be identified or developed for each agency activity and are to be logical, applicable, and reasonably complete.
- Control Technique. Internal control techniques are to be effective and efficient in accomplishing their internal control objectives.
- Continuous Monitoring. Agency heads are to establish and maintain a program of internal review designed to identify internal control weaknesses and implement changes needed to correct the weaknesses.
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Specific Standards
- Documentation. Internal control systems and all transactions and other significant events are to be clearly documented, and the documentation is to be readily available for examination.
- Recording of Transactions and Events. Transactions and other significant events are to be promptly recorded and properly classified.
- Execution of Transactions and Events. Transactions and other significant events are to be authorized and executed only by persons acting within the scope of their authority.
- Separation of Duties. Key duties and responsibilities in authorizing, processing, recording, and reviewing transactions should be separated among individuals.
- Supervision. Qualified and continuous supervision is to be provided to ensure that internal control objectives are achieved.
- Access to and Accountability for Resources. Access to resources and records is to be limited to authorized individuals, and accountability for the custody and use of resources is to be assigned and maintained. Periodic comparison shall be made of the resources to the recorded accountability to determine whether the two agree. The frequency of the comparison shall be a function of the vulnerability of the asset.
Audit Resolution Standard
Prompt Resolution of Audit Findings. Managers are to (1) promptly evaluate findings and recommendations reported by auditors, (2) determine proper actions in response to audit findings and recommendations, and (3) complete, within reasonable time frames, all actions that correct or otherwise resolve matters brought to management's attention.
Contact Gary Phillips, associate vice president and comptroller, at ext. 4312 with questions about the Internal Control Act.
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Young Alumnus Achievement Awards
The Buffalo State College Alumni Association is pleased to announce its inaugural Young
Alumnus Achievement Awards reception, to be held during Homecoming Weekend festivities, at
7:00 p.m. Friday, September 27 in the Campbell Student Union Fireside Lounge. The following
alumni will be honored for their professional advancement, dedication to the
community, and commitment to the college and its mission:
Byron Brown, '83
New York State Senator
57th District
Francisco Guzmán, '90
Supervisor of Building Construction
City of Buffalo
Department of Public Works
Mylous Hairston, '86
News Anchor and Reporter
WIVB-TV, Channel 4
(Master of Ceremonies)
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Gregory Hoffman, '86
Vice President, Metro Banking Group
Fleet Bank
Kirsten Moysich, '92
Cancer Epidemiologist
Roswell Park Cancer Institute
Light hors d'oeuvres and desserts will be served, followed by a champagne toast to recognize the
achievements of the recipients. The cost for this event, catered by Golden Parachute, is $10 per
person. Join us as we celebrate "Cheer Factor: Homecoming 2002" and offer our "cheers" for
these deserving alumni.
For reservations or more information, contact the Alumni Affairs Office at ext. 6001 or
alumni@buffalostate.edu.
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Videoconference: "Diversity Strategies for Today's Complex Environment"
The President's Council on Equity and Campus Diversity invites all faculty and staff to a
nationally broadcast satellite videoconference, "Diversity Strategies for Today's Complex
Environment," from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. Wednesday, September 25 in E. H. Butler Library
210.
With unprecedented demographic changes, severe budget woes, and landmark
affirmative action cases making their way to the Supreme Court, colleges and universities
are facing daunting challenges. This videoconference promises a solution-oriented
strategy session. Refreshments will be served; R.S.V.P. to Deborah Daly at ext. 6210 or
dalydf@buffalostate.edu. This event is sponsored by the Washington Regional Task
Force against Campus Prejudice.
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Equity and Campus Diversity Minigrants
Applications for the 2002–2003 Equity and Campus Diversity Minigrants are available in
Cleveland Hall 415 or online at www.buffalostate.edu/offices/equity/minigrant.doc.
Minigrants are intended to provide financial assistance for projects, workshops,
and other activities related to the college mission, goals, and strategic directions. Awards
should average $800, with up to $1,500 awarded for projects of exceptional merit.
Applications will be reviewed by the President's Council on Equity and Campus
Diversity and submitted to the president for final approval. Proposed projects must:
- Have a sound conceptual framework that can strengthen the campus
commitment to diversity.
- Be related to issues of equity and campus diversity, including all groups that
have been historically underrepresented in higher education, such as women, people of
color, people with disabilities, people of minority religious beliefs
and practices, and people with alternative sexual orientations or transgendered
lifestyles.
- Have clearly defined goals and measurable and/or observable outcomes.
- Have the potential for a direct impact on a significant portion of the campus
community. All projects must include a statement that addresses how the
impact will be evaluated.
- Have a reasonable budget and be completed with available resources. Because
funds must be used according to SUNY accounting policies, no food or
beverages can be purchased with minigrant funds.
Projects must be completed by June 1, 2003. Applications must be received by Friday, October 4,
2002, for fall or early spring semester programs. Depending on available funds,
applications for late spring programs may be accepted until Friday, February 1, 2003.
For more information, contact Michelle Douglas, assistant director of Equity and Campus
Diversity, Cleveland Hall 415, ext. 6235, or douglamb@buffalostate.edu.
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Project Success: First Friday Dialogs for Disabilities
Learning about Learning Disabilities
The October session of First Friday Dialogs for Disabilities, focusing on
learning disabilities, will be held from noon to 2:00 p.m. October 4 in E. H. Butler Library 210.
Of the nearly 15,000 students with disabilities in SUNY institutions, almost half have some form
of learning disability. As a hidden disability, it is among the most perplexing disabilities
for college faculty and staff. The dialog will include an overview of learning
disabilities and ways faculty and staff can assist learning-disabled students in
curricular and extracurricular activities. Lunch will be served; R.S.V.P. to Peggy Bristol,
Project Success coordinator, at ext. 3515 or bristopa@buffalostate.edu.
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Policy on Nondiscrimination against Persons with Disabilities
It is the policy of Buffalo State College that no otherwise qualified person with a disability shall, solely by reason of the disability, be excluded from participation in employment or access to programs of the college. The following statement appears in the Directory of Policy Statements:
- The State University College at Buffalo will not discriminate against any employee, applicant for employment, or student because of a physical or mental handicap with regard to any position or program for which that person is qualified. This commitment is applicable in all employment practices, including, but not limited to, employment upgrading, demotion or transfer, recruitment, layoff or termination, rates of pay or other forms of compensation, and selection for training. (Policy VI:01:03 1985)
- Although the statement pre-dates the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, it does express the college policy with regard to persons with handicapping conditions, which can be related to persons with disabilities as in the more recent federal legislation. In carrying out this policy, the college shall make a good-faith effort to reasonably accommodate the physical and/or mental limitations of an employee, applicant for employment, or student unless such accommodations would impose undue hardship on the operation of the college.
- The college will not deny an employment opportunity to an individual because the individual has a relationship or association with an individual who has a disability.
- The college will not knowingly participate in a contractual or other arrangement that subjects an applicant for employment, employee, or student with a disability to unlawful discrimination.
- The college will not discriminate or retaliate against any individual, whether or not the individual has a disability, as a result of an individual opposing a discriminatory practice, filing a discrimination complaint, or participating in any way in enforcing the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Students who need special services and/or academic adjustments related to disabilities should contact Marianne Savino, coordinator of special services, South Wing 130, ext. 4500. Faculty and staff needs should be expressed to the Human Resource Management Office, Cleveland Hall 403, ext. 3042.
Complaints and Grievances Related to Allegations of Discrimination Based on Disabilities
The college will follow the Buffalo State College Grievance Procedures for the Review of Allegations of Discrimination to resolve complaints of unlawful discrimination based on disabilities.
Complaints are filed in the Equity and Campus Diversity Office, Cleveland Hall 415, 1300 Elmwood Avenue, Buffalo, New York 14222.
Complaints should be addressed to Dolores E. Battle, Ph.D., senior adviser to the president for equity and campus diversity, who has been designated by the college president to coordinate ADA compliance efforts.
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