Findings

1. Each campus needs centers of excellence, or programs of distinction
   1. To attract resources
   2. Reflect needs of the community and region
   3. To develop our economy/communities
   4. Optimize use of U of A resources
2. U of A is deficient in a service function to Alaska -- i.e. moving the economy and general population forward
3. Alaska lacks the private investment needed to grow the economy and improve the quality of life. The university needs to contribute to this role.
4. Currently, does U of A value teaching as highly as research? We need facts.
5. U of A is not contributing sufficiently as a catalyst for dialogue on Alaska issues
6. Much discussion about the balance between research and teaching:
   1. Definition -- many forms of research
      1. Sponsored vs. unsponsored (paid vs. not paid)
      2. Cutting edge
      3. Basic contribution to a discipline
   2. What should the balance point be?
   3. Should the balance point be adjusted?
   4. Not either/or
   5. Question of emphasis
   6. Start with teaching
   7. UAA has incentivized strong teaching
   8. In general, the university culture emphasizes research
   9. Accountability aspect of research -- peer review assures relevancy
   10. Does lack of research create a glass ceiling?
   11. Does all faculty need some research to stay fresh?
   12. Most higher education teachers have not had training in teaching (the art of pedagogy)
       1. Outcomes based measurement
       2. Progress at UAA -- still needs work
       3. Research still a key factor in promotion
   13. Teacher’s evaluation and promotion should mirror the balance of priorities that have been assigned to that teacher
   14. Basic/remedial teachers need less research
   15. Question: would an emphasis on teaching cause U of A to "lost the game"
   16. Signs of increased cooperation and synergies in research. How much more can be done?
   17. Synergy needs consistency -- i.e. transferable credits between campuses
   18. Types of service -- need engagement at mission level
       1. To the university
       2. Own professional discipline
       3. Community/public
   19. U of A is “an experiment in a new American university”

Recommendations

1. Emphasis on teaching?
2. Research should be more focused on Alaska
3. U of A needs to communicate more with the state to reconnect with its research, teaching and service missions.
   1. Develop key indicators in teaching, research and service
   2. Leading vs. key indicators
4. Increased flexibility to support lifelong learning
5. Be a catalyst for change in Alaska
6. Should there be increased synergy between campuses?
7. Possible research/teaching balance adjustments
8. Liberal arts/vocational balance recommendations
9. Goal: reverse the brain drain
10. Goal: partnerships with business -- e.g. hospitals and nursing
11. Should UAA ramp up research?