The George Washington University Faculty Senate on Friday adopted a resolution of appreciation for President Thomas LeBlanc’s service.
Among Dr. LeBlanc’s accomplishments, senators cited his leadership during the pandemic, including prioritizing the health and safety of the GW and broader communities and transitioning the university to virtual and hybrid learning and back to campus.
The senate also noted enhancements to the student experience, such as the ability for students to double major in STEM and non-STEM fields, adding an 18th credit hour to existing tuition, promoting sustainability and the renovation of Thurston Hall.
Also highlighted in the resolution were: Dr. LeBlanc’s commitment to alumni engagement and philanthropy targeting student financial aid, leadership during the bicentennial and the initiative to enhance the medical enterprise through the relationship with the Medical Faculty Associates and GW Hospital as well as through staffing at the new hospital on the St. Elizabeth’s campus.
“The Faculty Senate of the George Washington University expresses its appreciation to President Thomas J. LeBlanc for his more than four years of distinguished service and commends him for his leadership and many contributions to the university,” the resolution read.
Also Friday, the senate heard a report on faculty technology issues, including concerns with current staffing levels, organizational structure and leadership turnover within GW Information Technology. Faculty also commended the hard work of the staff in GWIT.
The senate also heard a report on fiscal planning, including the update that there was an increase in the university’s net worth in fiscal 2021 due in large part to strong performance of investments.
Pam Norris, GW’s new vice provost for research, also was introduced at the meeting.
“GW should take pride in its status as a comprehensive research-intensive university. That status speaks not just to how much research it conducts but also to the high-quality education and training made possible by the research-active faculty,” Dr. Norris said, noting she looks forward to working with faculty.
The senate also adopted a resolution addressing the Strategic Campus and Facilities Master Plan, emphasizing the importance of faculty input and discussion about the proposals and costs.
Leadership previously noted the proposals in the plan are not stated commitments, but only provide a conceptual framework for future decision making.