October 2, 2025 – Policy Advisory Committee – Minutes

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Time: Wednesday at 3:30 p.m.
Location: Lubar N456 and Microsoft Teams

Present: E. Bechly-Schubert, D. Clark, A. Meddaugh, C. Parks, J. Reisel, M. Schmit, J. Urdan, M. Wendel, C. Vang
Guests: Melody Harries, Director, Research Compliance

  1. Meeting called to order at 2:01 p.m.
  2. Automatic Consent
    Minutes of September 3, 2025 meeting approved as distributed. 
  3. Business
    1. Treatment of Human Anatomical Specimens Policy
      M. Harries presented the proposed policy developed in response to a UW System audit that found mishandled human remains and poor lab conditions. A UWM survey identified human specimens held by several departments, leading to a broader policy establishing oversight and ethical management. M. Harries consulted with campus experts, Legal Affairs, and colleagues at MCW and UW–Madison to align with best practices.

      During discussion, members asked about qualifications for the specimen custodian and how ethical donor programs are verified. M. Harries noted that qualifications will be determined case by case, with guidance provided, and that only non-profit, ethically sourced programs are acceptable. A wording change was suggested to replace “manager” with “custodian” in the definition.

      MOTION: to recommend approval of SAAP. The motion was seconded and approved by voice vote. The policy will proceed to the Academic Staff, Faculty, and University Staff Senate as automatic consent.
  4. Other Business as needed
    The SecU office announced that a federal digital accessibility mandate taking effect in June 2026 may require SAAPs to be reformatted.
  5. Meeting adjourned at 2:18 p.m.