REMARKS BY BOARD CHAIR, FRED WALL
JUNE 25, 2004 - Marcum Center Conference Room
Dr. Garland, thank you for your report.
I want to speak to President Garland’s decision to
implement domestic partner benefits. President
Garland and I have had numerous conversations about this
issue during my years on the board. In addition, I
discussed this topic in individual conversations many times
with my fellow trustees. I have also spoken to the
chairs of some of the other Ohio universities on the
subject.
As President Garland noted, domestic partner benefits have
been debated for many years at Miami, in the University and
Student senates, and in many academic departments and
committees. Trustees have received numerous
correspondences from individuals and departments on both
sides of the issue. In fact, at our February meeting,
the Trustees were addressed by two faculty members urging
us to offer this benefit. My point is that over a
long period of time, the Trustees have received information
and advice from many sources concerning virtually all
aspects of this issue.
Having given this issue much thought and deliberation, I
have come to the conclusion that, in the current difficult
hiring environment, extending domestic partner benefits is
necessary to recruit and retain the very best faculty and
staff possible. I therefore support President
Garland’s decision, and I would like the Trustees to
have an opportunity to show their support, as well.
I will entertain a motion that the Board of Trustees
affirms the administrative decision to extend benefits to
domestic partners for the purposes of strengthening the
university and thereby enhancing its ability to recruit and
retain members of the faculty and staff. Is there
such a motion?
Is there a second to the motion? Is there any
discussion?
All those in favor, say aye.
Those opposed, say no.
The motion is adopted.