USCGA Parents Association Executive Council Meeting October 4, 2012 Hamilton Hall Minutes

Members present: Duncan Pitcairn (President), Wally Campbell (Vice-President), Charlane Gathy (recording secretary), Mary Jane Hall (corresponding secretary), Amanda Constant (Secretary), Brad Kidwell (Chesapeake), Ian Cresswell (New England), Ed Bugyis (Great Lakes), Sherri Bugyis (Great Lakes), Michelle Lesniak (VADM Nelson), Holly O’Neil Turley (2016), Carolyn Hohenberger (Georgia), Charlotte Bellum (2015), Keith Benson (2014), Jason Oswald (Lone Star), Ron Marks (Del-Val), Lee Dawkins (2015), Suzanne Smiley (2015), John Lamphere (Upstate NY), Eric Moan (NW), Carolyn Knaup (2013), Maria Montoya (2016), JoAnn Lane (2013), Elena Salinas (past president), Jon Kline (Florida), Debbie Kline (Florida), Lauren Leffler (Florida), Megan Grills (CT), Jim Davis (CA), Wendy Davis (CA), Amy McNeil (2014), Jeanne Knudsen (Greater NY), Scott Sutschek (Great Lakes), Susan Emmons (2106 listmaster), Julie Diddel (via telephone).

Academy Staff- Tamara McKenna (Admissions Division) Dr. Kurt Collela (Dean) , Captain McCauley (Commandant of Cadets), Mr. Tim Fitzpatrick (AD)

Alumni Association- Jim Sylvester

President Duncan Pitcairn called the meeting to order and welcomed all those in attendance.

Welcome & Introductions: Ms. Pitcairn introduced the officers present:

Immediate Past President: Elena Salinas President: Duncan Pitcairn Vice President: Wally Campbell Treasurer: Amanda Constant Recording Secretary: Charlane Gathy Corresponding Secretary: Mary Jane Hall

Update from Academy Staff: Mr. Pitcairn welcomed the Academy staff and thanked them for coming prepared to answer questions that the Parent’s Association had collected.

Commandant of Cadets: Captain McCauley thanked the Executive Council for their leadership and support of the Cadets. He noted that what the Parent’s Association does, including the Liberty Van, morale activities, and club sports, allows the cadets to sustain their pace of rigorous academics and the disciplined life in Chase Hall. He commented on the christening of the 6th L-44 last week, and stated they were anxious to have all 8 in commission next summer, thereby allowing all 2015 cadets to participate in the Coastal Training Program. He noted that the Habitat for Humanity project was under way at 9 Jefferson Avenue, downtown New London.

He answered the following questions:

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With the recent change in the Cadet’s pay structure (specifically the removal of the White Account), it seems that Cadets have and increase demand on their “take home pay” to purchase mandatory items such as text books. Before the change in pay structure, these items may have been charged against their individual White Accounts. The concern is that the Cadet’s may not have sufficient resources from their take home pay to meet these obligations. Is there a remedy if their mandatory financial obligations exceed their resources? Captain McCauley reported that the White Card was no longer allowed per the Budget Office, as the USCGA cannot manage cadet’s money. It is anticipated that the current resources will be sufficient to meet the obligations. 4th class cadets will receive a loan to be paid off by their 2nd class year. A spreadsheet has been developed and given to each class to outline anticipated expenses (budget book).

When a cadet is leaving the Academy the outplacement process can be very difficult for the parents. We have heard stories from parent that relate a rather harsh process. Could we have the outplacement process described to see if there could be a way to reduce pain for families. Captain McCauley explained that the outplacement process varies depending on the year of the cadet and the reason. Often times cadets who are disenrolled are given the opportunity to appeal the process. He encouraged any specific concerns to be addressed to him as Commandant of Cadets.

From cadets there are complaints about the food quality, especially breakfast. Apparently breakfast was changed to family style and the cadets do not feel they get enough to eat. The family style breakfast requirement is also interfering with the availability of a late rack as an earned privilege. Are family style breakfasts necessary when family style lunches are the norm? Additionally, food quality, variety, and quantity for the football team measl has been brought up. Golf company is currently working with the vendor, Airmark on this issue. Quantitities will definitely be addressed. This semester Airmark has experienced growing pains. The change in regulations this semester requiring a family style breakfast was instituted to increase the interaction between cadets within the division. Starting the day with the division is designed to ensure that upper class know all the cadets in their company and solidifies the chain of command. It is critical to leadership development and an important part of the military culture. Additionally, it has resulted in less food in the classroom. While family style lunches still occur, there are often many excusals at lunch, therefore, the family style breakfast is essential to overall development.

Cadets have been advised that they must purchase new specific gray Tupperware containers with specific dimensions for storage in the attic of Chase Hall. What is the purpose of this added expense for something that is in the attic? This has been frustrating for the cadets as well as many parents as it was stated, “Administrative action will be taken for those without the appropriate Tupperware containers. Could you please explain the policy? Each cadet has two trunks issued for storage. The Tupperware are 2 additional options tubs. The tubs are standardized to ensure they can stack and fit in what is a limited space.

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Mr. Tim Fitzpatrick addressed the group by answering the following questions:

With the Athletic Director now on board for a year, what changes in the programs can be shared? Mr. Fitzpatrick reported that the major change was the re-outfitting of varsity teams in partnership with Adidas. All varsity teams, and many club sports, now have the newly branded logo for uniforms and travel warm ups. All cadets have also been given the 12th man, spirit tee-shirts. The Athletic web site has been re-launched. The new bear logo was unveiled 9/5/12 in an effort to refresh and refine our brand. An on-line store with merchandise should be available after the first of the year. Video- streaming of games (including soccer) is being expanded. This is cash dependant and an area the PA could assist with. He reported that 9 former USCGA football players watched the stream from B’hrain. To aid in post workout recovery players are being supplied chocolate milk by Guida’s Dairy. Recruitment efforts have expanded. All decisions being made affect the welfare of the cadet athletes. He reported that Athletics was looking to increase participation in tournaments for all teams. The soccer team participated in a tournament at St. Mary’s in Maryland in September. Volleyball will be traveling to Chicago. Plans for the football team are underway for Catholic University in 2015 and Chicago in 2015. Mr. Fitzpatrick announced that Mike and Mike from ESPN2 would broadcast live from the Ward Room on 11/8/12. He commented that competitive success was a priority as winning on the field translates to wining in the fleet.

Could chapters be allowed to sell items at sports and other functions? These may be considered on a case by case basis through Lt. Thomas.

What capital improvements are planned for campus to enhance campus living. For example, in the gym and workout areas, Dry Dock, etc. Mr. Fitzpatrick reported that the new strength coach was very positive about the physical space, but that there were plans to add new things annually to ensure up- to-date equipment.

Can athletes be seen by a chiropractor? Mr. Fitzpatrick recommended the individual athlete discuss with the clinic staff.

How are the PFE scores this year? Mr. Fitzpatrick reported that the Academy was pleased with the current scores.

As it relates to the Parents Weekend football game’s required cadet attendance, I know that we are to live by , however, in the case of some families, ours included, we had made plans for a family function that we could only make by leaving at the time previously published. Why the last minute change when these dates and the travel plans by families are made so far in advance? The announcement was not made soon enough. That will be rectified in the future. The decision was made to require attendance at 3 games (Maritime, Homecoming and Parent’s weekend). A negative image is created when the corp leaves after the march on. The presence of the corp is essential to create the environment for visitors. Company officers have the ability to approve dismissal. For Homecoming the cadets could chose to attend any sporting event.

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Dean of Academics: Dr. Kurt Colella thanked the parents for giving the USCGA their sons and daughters as it was his inspiration for getting up each morning. He reported that the Academy was currently half way through with the review of the core curriculum with anticipated completion in July of 2013 and that the changes will be fully implemented over the next four years. One change is that a Coast Guard history class replaced the 4th class experience course. Regarding accreditation the USCGA has an ingrained culture of assessment. All four Engineering programs will be assessed separately during the fall of 2013. The management major is performing the required annual maintenance. Institutional accreditation will occur in January of 2013; a report in the mission change of the Leadership Development reporting structure will be reported. Dr. Colella discussed the Cadet Academic Assistance program that is available in the evenings. This is mandatory for any 4th class cadet who is doing poorly in core curriculum courses such as Calculus, Statistics, and Chemistry. There are also study sessions for special classes. The Reading and Writing Center is currently logging 1400 visits per semester. The Peer Tutor program is being integrated into the help sessions. Priorities for this academic year are improving academic advising and ensuring teachers have an open door policy.

Dean Colella answered the following question: 4/c through 2/c cadets are required to purchase their text books in theCGA bookstore. The prices there can be much higher than purchasing the text books online. With the change to the cadet payment methods, the cadets are much more money aware and would like to purchase text books where the pricing is best. Could the policy be changed. This issue is currently being worked on. The bookstore can only be viable if all students use the bookstore. The USCGA bookstore has an 18% mark up compared to 23% at most university/college bookstores. Additionally, the bookstore gives back over $90,000 each year to the corp. Dr. Colella noted that the bookstore would match prices if the cadets make them aware of the price available online. He also noted that the average price for books per cadet ranged from $400-500 per semester, with STEM majors having a higher cost. The Academy is currently working on ways to align this variance so as to not be a disincentive to be a STEM major.

Admissions: Tamara McKenna reported for Captain Finton. She answered the following questions:

Could we have an update on the admissions partner program? At the February meeting the admissions office reported they were working on the admissions partner program and were going to raise the issues to a higher priority. At this point new applications have not been processed for a year due to issues with vendor that performs the background checks. The current vendor contract has been discontinued. The policy is currently being reviewed and a new vendor is being sought. The goal is to have this resolved by Thanksgiving break.

As a state coordinator admissions partner I find the information for the portal is not entirely usable. For instance, I cannot get up-to-date workable email list of all state partners. I have to cut and paste each email address to get a workable distribution list. There was talk a couple of years ago of a new third party website administrator and therefore nothing was done with the existing website. Hs this been completed? Several different programs have been reviewed. A new vendor has been obtained and a more seamless system is being developed and will be phased in.

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Alumni Association: Jim Sylvester (1971 graduate of the Academy) was in attendance for the Alumni Association. He reported that there were currently 6 Leadership 44s on site. He also reported that the Class of 1961 had donated a new marine science boat. The Alumni Association is working with the Parent’s Association and the Corp of Cadets on the Habitat for Humanity project, which is just another way the USCGA gains national prominence. He clarified that the dues are currently $300 dollars for 4 years for the Alumni Association and the Parent’s Association. This compares favorably to prices at other service academies. He also commented on the Medallion ceremony for the 50 year class and the sense of camaraderie.

President’s Report : Mr. Pitcairn started by thanking both the and Captain McCauley for reaching out and involving the Parent’s Association in activities at the Academy. In July, Vice President Wally Campbell attended a scholar program. Mr. Pitcairn attended Convocation. He also sailed on the Eagle. Ms. Grills attended the Medallion Ceremony. This represents increased involvement of parents at Academy functions. The Parent’s Association is also represented with an article in each publication of the Bulletin. Mr. Pitcairn discussed the need for additional financial support for the Academy due to the smaller class sizes. He voiced the need to challenge parents to participate in the Parent’s Giving Program. He encouraged 100% participation from the Executive Council. Mr. Pitcairn shared a 1 page summary of Parent’s Association Activities (attached at end of minutes).

Vice-President’s Report – Mr. Campbell reported on the nominations to the Executive Council. The following were nominated for a second two-year term for the class of 2014: Keith Benson (South Carolina), Wally and Bert Campbell (Maryland), Charlane Gathy (Kentucky), Mary Jane Hall (Virginia), and Amy and Craig McNeil (Colorado). The following representatives from the Class of 2016 were nominated for a two year term: Patty Carosotto (Rhode Island), Jeff Greene (New Jersey), Maria Montoya (New York), Dan Toomey (Texas), Holly Turley (Massachusetts). Susan Emmons (Georgia) was nominated as the Listmaster for the Class of 2016. Nominations will be voted on at the meeting tomorrow morning.

Mr. Campbell also presented the following update regarding Leadership 44: The committee had not met since the February 2011 Executive Council meeting. The program is nearly complete with six L-44 sailboats at the academy and a seventh planned for delivery on October 8, 2012. The final boat is to be delivered in the spring of 2013. It is anticipated that the Parents Association obligation to the L-44 campaign will be paid in full by the first half of 2014. See full report at the end of the minutes.

Recording Secretary – Ms. Gathy presented the minutes for the June meeting. She noted that she had not received the sign-in sheet so the attendance was incomplete. She asked for anyone in attendance to notify her to add to the list she had created from memory. The following members reported being in attendance: Carlene Smith, Laura Leffler, Michele Lesniak, Mary Jane Hall, Jo Ann Lane, John Lamphere, Jeannie Knudsen, Keith Benson, Harold Gracey, Bruce Talbott, Peg Talbott, Suzanne Smiley, Ron Marks, Charlotte Bellam, Scott and Michelle Sutschek, and Ian Cresswell.

Corresponding Secretary – no report.

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Facebook/Messagelist Special Committee Report- Jo Ann Lane reported that the decision had been made to change the policy regarding Message List access. Previously this was limited to only those families that joined the association by Parent’s Weekend of the 4th Class year. It will now remain open. We will continue to reach out to members that have not joined and encourage them to join. The Parents’ Facebook site currently has 325 members. The Committee felt that both the Message List and Facebook had a place as part of the Parents Association.

Treasurer’s Report – Ms. Constant provided the Treasurer’s report (included at the end of the minutes). She moved passage of the final 2012-2013 budget received from the Commandant of Cadets. The budget was seconded and approved. She also presented two new requests:

1) $10,000 to support Club Sports Uniforms. The motion was made and approved. 2) Request to increase by $18,000 funds for the Corp of Cadets to support increased transportation costs as well as additional morale events/trips for each company. The motion was made and approved for total funding for $83,400.

There was also discussion regarding the philosophy of maintaining a fund balance to have 1 year of funding in reserve for the Commandant of Cadets. The group discussed the need to grow endowments as the number of cadets will decrease as the class sizes decrease. Ms. Constant reported that 82% of the class of 2013 (220 of 268), 79% of the class of 2014 (183 of 230), 68% of the class of 2015 (185 of 272) and 58% of the class of 2016 (135 of 231) were members of the association. The question arose as to what was included in the numerator and denominator. This will be confirmed.

New Business:

1) Cadet morale and related topic discussion- The possibility of increasing Parents Association events for the Corp was discussed. The decision to form and Ad Hoc Committee to work with Hotel Company (Morale Company) was made. 2) Parent to Parent concept discussion- table until February 3) A question arose as to the possibility of Eagle being in for the America’s Cup. The West Coast chapters requested to talk to other chapters that have supported port calls. A Chapter President Teleconference to be organized by Wally Campbell in December or January will assist with issues such as this. 4) Ms. Salinas reported that she is still working to arrange Eric Wienmayer to speak to the Corp.

Chapter Reports:

Greater Los Angeles- Bob Burns reported the following: Information about the All Academy Ball was shared at the September meeting. This meeting was held at the Air Station LA. The group meet with 3 swab families as well as 5 existing cadet families. Several possibilities for fundraising are being explored as the current budget is 0. This will be an area of priority.

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Greater New York- no report submitted.

Upstate New York- John Lanphere submitted the following report: Chapter Facebook page launched as a closed group to augment chapter communications. Membership has been opened to alumni families and graduates from the area. Hosting 4th annual Meet and Greet for high school seniors applying ot the Academy. The group worked with Paul Duddy to offer photo cards as a fundraiser. The chapter is donating $500 to the Cadet Activity fund.

Capt. Foye- Megan Grills submitted the following report: Bi-annual Stars Dessert planned for November. A cookie exchange, co-sponsored with NE Chapter will supply over 10,000 cookies for the Cadets in December. First Annual pasta dinner to be held October 4, 2012 with proceeds going to the Corp of Cadets.

New England- Ian Cresswell submitted the following report: The chapter will be offering the packed lunch on Friday of Parents Weekend. Allowing parents to purchase lunch for their cadets this year has helped avoid some confusion. The group is purchasing key chains for the class of 2013. The chapter has worked with Lt. Thomas to identify needs of the cadets. The group has assisted with refurbishing the unofficial Chase Hall gym to be complete over the next 3 months.

Delaware Valley- Submitted by Ron Marks. Highlights include: All Academy Ball in Philadelphia on December 26, 2012. Also working with other academies to launch the first ever New Jersey All Academy Ball. Delaware Valley has opened a Facebook page with 222 members and is looking to move communication to this forum for efficiency. Offering a 3” memory foam mattress topper as a new fundraiser.

Florida- no report.

Georgia- no report.

Chesapeake and Potomac- Brad Kidwell submitted the following report: Co-hosting with the US Air Force the All Academy Ball on December 29th. The Chapter co-sponsored the Dessert Social Sunday with the Delaware Valley Chapter. The semi-annual organizational meeting will be held in November. The group is working on details to sell model replicas of USCG ships and patrol boats. The chapter will be supporting the Glee Club on their visit to Washington DC. They also supported the USCGA Morals and Ethics Award.

Carolina Icarus- no report.

Rocky Mountain- Jackie Anna submitted the following report: The chapter will be co-hosting the All Academy Ball with the Merchant Marine Academy on December 29, 2012. The keynote speaker will be Martha LaGuaria-Kotite, a USCGA graduate and author of 3 books. The chapter is planning a fall finals goody bag. The chapter will have an unattended but informative table at Leamy for parents weekend.

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Golden Gate: Jim and Wendy Davis submitted the following: Concurrent with Parents weekend, GA families were invited to join USNA Parents Association for a lunch as part of San Francisco Fleet week. Events included the air show. Interested in sponsoring a port call if Eagle is in San Francisco in July of 2013 as rumored.

Robert T. Nelson – Michelle Lesniak submitted the following: Nautical themed bookends were offered as an R-day fundraiser. The chapter will provide mid-term goody bags and will offer graduation banners as a fundraiser.

San Diego- no report.

Lone Star- Jason Oswald reported. Plans are underway for three holiday balls. The group has also been working at area college fairs and Academy nights.

Great Lakes- no report.

Motion to adjourn made, seconded, and approved.

Next meeting: February 2013

Recorded by:

Charlane Gathy

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