Regents mull ways to increase bachelor degrees

PHOENIX – The Arizona Board of Regents discussed the creation of a state strategic plan for 2020 and were briefed on a recent workshop in which they discussed the plan.

One of the regents’ main goals is to double the number of bachelor’s degrees given out in Arizona by 2020, echoing Gov. Janet Napolitano’s stated goal at the beginning of the year.

“”Most of the people that are going to be in our system by 2020 are already here,”” said Regent Robert Bulla.

In the workshop, the board discovered that they needed to clarify the role of community colleges, study Arizona’s growth and review the need to expand quality while expanding enrollments.

Diversity among corporation’s directors questioned

Regents were asked to review the bylaws and directors for the non-profit Research Park Development Corporation, established in March 2006.

The corporation assists the regents for UA matters regarding the operation of campus, research and related properties, including the 1,345 acres of land for the Arizona Bioscience Park and portions of the 1,345 acres of land for the UA Science and Technology Park.

Regents expressed concern with the lack of diversity among the proposed directors. They approved the bylaws and are slated to approve the board of directors with 11 voters, rather than the seven present yesterday, at the regent’s April meeting.

DuVal seeks awareness boost

The regents received a positive update on the state’s Solutions Through Higher Education campaign, an educational campaign designed to make Arizona aware of the critical role universities play in the state’s economic prosperity.

Regent Fred DuVal said everything is going well for the program, and that all the systems are in place.

The next step is to involve more of Arizona, he said.

“”Obviously, engaging the legislature becomes a key component,”” he said.