February 10, 2026 – University Committee

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Time: 1:00 p.m.
Location: Lubar N456 and Microsoft Teams

Attendance

Present: Professors M. Kavanaugh, R. Leson, L. McHenry, W. Otieno, G. Rodger, M. Schwartz
Excused:  Professor K. Kirshtner
Guests: T. Gibson

Call to Order

The meeting was called to order by M. Kavanaugh at 1:03 p.m.

Persons Who Wish to be Heard

None

Approval of Minutes

The minutes of the February 3, 2026 meeting were approved.

Special Guests

Chancellor Thomas Gibson

  1. There was discussion with Chancellor Gibson on ICE activities and the accessibility of non-residents to areas in the residence halls.
  2. There was discussion at the February Board of Regents meeting on AI.  At the meeting, some interest was expressed in the creation of a System-wide policy on AI use by students.  The UC expressed concerns with the shortcomings on AI and how it can often hurt education.  R. Leson questioned the path being put forward by campus administration on the use of AI and the environmental impacts of AI.  Chancellor Gibson is learning about the various AI activities at UWM and pushing for collaboration between the many efforts towards working toward common campus goals.   
  3. This week is Employee Appreciation Week.  The Length of Service Awards ceremony was held this morning.
  4. There is still some feedback being received from students regarding the Identity and Cultural Centers. 
  5. UWM’s efforts on AI were well-received by the Regents at the Board of Regents meeting.
  6. Chancellor Gibson highlighted UWM’s activity in community engagement during his WUWM broadcast. 

Chairperson’s Report and Announcements

  1. M. Kavanaugh reported on discussions regarding the Faculty Senate meetings and participation by students and non-senators.    

Members’ Reports

  1. G. Rodger reported that the Rules Committee met to set the agenda for the February 19 Faculty Senate meeting.  Additionally, the APBC met on January 15 and discussed the decline in graduate student enrollment.  There is concern in the APBC that the faculty and staff don’t understand the magnitude of the budget situation.
  2. On behalf K. Kirshtner, J. Reisel reported that the PAC approved changes to SAAPs 0-1, 1-14 ,10-1, and a new SAAP on digital accessibility.
  3. L. McHenry reported that the realignment workgroup will be holding listening sessions with stakeholders. 

New Business

Old Business

None

Personnel Matters

Per Wis. Stats 19.85(1)(f), it was moved and seconded to go into closed session to discuss personnel matters. Upon voice vote, closed session began at 2:21 p.m. The committee reconvened in open session at 2:36 p.m.

Future Agenda Items

The next scheduled UC meeting is February 24 at 1:00 pm.  ASC Chair Jennifer Herriges is expected to attend.

Adjournment

Meeting adjourned at 2:37 p.m.