Table of Contents General Interpretation of Institutional Philosophy.............................................................. Section A Administrative Organization.................................................................................................. Section B Board of Trustees Policy Manual........................................................................................... Section C General Business Affairs......................................................................................................... Section D Beginning and Ending Employment...................................................................................... Section E Benefits...................................................................................................................................... Section F General Institutional Policies & Procedures......................................................................... Section G Faculty...................................................................................................................................... Section H Professional Staff....................................................................................................................... Section I Support Staff............................................................................................................................. Section J Index......................................................................................................................................... Section K Section A General Interpretation of Institutional Philosophy Contents of Section General Interpretation of Institutional Philosophy.................................................................................A 1 Philosophy of Administration and Operation....................................................................................A 2 Administration..............................................................................................................................A 2 Operations.....................................................................................................................................A 2 Institutional Vision and Mission ......................................................................................................A 4 Vision Statement...........................................................................................................................A 4 Mission Statement........................................................................................................................A 4 Institutional Functions and Objectives..............................................................................................A 5 A1 Date: Philosophy of Administration and Operation Administration The Administration has the responsibility for developing policies, procedures, and practices and for inviting employee input when appropriate. However, certain decisions are the prerogative of the Administration and the Board of Trustees. The administrative approach is intended to be cooperative in spirit and democratic in operation, allowing all University employees participation at various levels in the decision-making processes of the institution. Such an approach requires individual responsibility. Employees are obligated to consider the total welfare of the institution, while at the same time representing their teaching and service needs. The administration not only invites but also seeks constructive suggestions and discussions. Operations The basic philosophy and objectives of the University are described in the Vincennes University Catalog. All employees should familiarize themselves with the philosophy and objectives and utilize them in their work. The University is an “open door” institution in the tradition of all comprehensive public two-year or community colleges. Being an open door institution means that any student who has a diploma from an accredited high school, has successfully completed the General Education Development test (GED), or is in good standing from an accredited college may enroll at Vincennes University and receive the benefit of University services. Vincennes University also welcomes students graduating from schools which are not yet accredited or from home schooling programs under specific conditions. (See the Catalog, “Requirements for Admission” for complete details.) Students without high school diplomas may sometimes be helped to overcome deficiencies through special tests, correspondence and special courses, and/or the Adult Basic Education (ABE) program. Such students may be probationally admitted to certain programs when they can demonstrate satisfactory evidence of their ability to carry the work and have completed ABE requirements. Vincennes University’s philosophy is that all properly motivated and dedicated high school graduates should have the opportunity to attempt a college education. College success involves a variety of factors including motivation, readiness to work, personal adjustment, ability, and past educational development, some of which are not easily measured by standardized tests. While a correlation exists between success in high school and success in college, sincere students, regardless of educational backgrounds, should have the right to attempt a college education. Furthermore, the University offers a “comprehensive program,” which means that a variety of educational programs is available to meet the needs, talents, interests, and present developments of the students and the community. Such a variety of programs is necessary and crucial in an open door A2 institution. A3 Date:9-05 Institutional Vision and Mission Vision Statement Vincennes University is a premier learning institution, widely recognized for leadership in innovation and delivery of successful educational experiences. A broad range of program offerings and a commitment to superior service ensure the University's role as an important link in Indiana's economic and cultural vitality. VU is a diverse community whose members all share responsibility for supporting the University's mission and are respected for their contributions. Mission Statement Vincennes University, Indiana's first college, is the State's premier transfer institution and leader in innovative career programming. The VU community ensures educational access, delivers proven associate and baccalaureate programs, and offers cultural opportunities and community services in a diverse, student-centered, collegiate environment. Approved by the VU Board of Trustees at its September 28, 2005 meeting. A4 Date:9-05 Institutional Functions and Objectives For a complete listing of the institutional functions and objectives, refer to the University Catalog. A5 Section B Administrative Organization Contents of Section Administrative Organization...................................................................................................................B1 The Board of Trustees........................................................................................................................B4 Governance.........................................................................................................................................B5 Presidential Services...........................................................................................................................B6 President.........................................................................................................................................B6 External Relations..........................................................................................................................B6 Admissions ...............................................................................................................................B6 Marketing..................................................................................................................................B6 Parent Services..........................................................................................................................B6 Conferences and Workshops.....................................................................................................B6 Vincennes University Foundation.................................................................................................B6 Alumni Office...........................................................................................................................B7 Instructional Services.........................................................................................................................B8 Provost and Vice President for Instructional Services and Dean of Faculty.................................B8 Assistant Provost for Academic Affairs........................................................................................B8 Assessment...........................................................................................................................B8 Curriculum Specialist...........................................................................................................B8 Accreditation........................................................................................................................B8 Advising Center....................................................................................................................B9 Office of Institutional Research................................................................................................B9