The University of Tennessee - Martin

Fall literally blew in bringing a record enrollment of 7,578 for a 5.6% increase over 2007. UT Martin reported the largest percentage increase in enrollment among public four-year institutions in Tennessee. We were equally pleased to report a record of 1,342 first-time freshmen, up 5.1% from the previous year, representing the most academically capable entering class based on record high school grade-point average and composite ACT score. Our ACT average of 22.4 was above both state and national averages.

A majority of the enrollment increase was in our extended-campus centers in Jackson, Parsons, Ripley, and Selmer in addition to a double-digit increase in dual/concurrent and online enrollments. We anticipate moving into the new campus location in Parsons this winter and recently broke ground for an expansion of the McNairy County/Selmer Center.

This fall, UT Martin began the year with a 5.8% cut in state allocations followed by a 3.5% mid-year rescission announced in October. We have also been instructed to plan for a possible additional 3-7% reduction in our 2009-2010 appropriations budget. We began this process by reviewing and maximizing energy and conservation steps, including adjusting temperature, lighting, space utilization, and improving recycling. These cuts have also affected capacity involving technology, equipment, staffing, travel, outreach and research. Unless sales tax revenue increases in the coming months, it may be necessary to reduce program and course offerings.

We are taking a campus-wide view concerning our approach to gathering data and input as we begin to make strategic decisions about potential changes involving our organizational structure, providing programs and services and maximizing resources for on- and off-campus operations. Individual division and special task force groups are involved, as well as employee and student groups, and are being asked to provide suggestions. We are currently considering a number of recommendations.

On a positive note, in July, faculty and staff moved back into a newly renovated building for the College of Business and Public Affairs. In August, more than 400 students moved into phase two of University Village apartment-style housing. Construction is under way for the Brehm Hall expansion, and a groundbreaking ceremony marking the construction of a new Student Recreation Center was held as part of our homecoming activities.

I am pleased to report that UT Martin leads the UT system in percentage of dollars raised toward its campaign goal in the Campaign for Tennessee. To date, $36,368.031 (91%) has been raised toward the $40,000,000 goal. These gifts include support for academic and athletic programs, scholarships, student life and campus enhancement and enrichment. Private support will be an increasingly important avenue to address campus needs during tight budget times.

From Skyhawk fans to visiting college and high-school groups, we have been receiving rave reviews about the new playing surface and overall look of Hardy Graham Stadium. As of this writing, attendance at home football games is up substantially, and student athletes in a number of our sports are having competitive seasons.

We are doing our best to make strategic decisions that will enable us to preserve our mission-linked, successful programs and services during a challenging budget interval. By providing abundant opportunities for comment and by using a strategic, data-driven approach, we can make decisions that enable UT Martin to move forward on a number of fronts. Your input and understanding during the next several months, and perhaps years, will go a long way toward ensuring we maintain our momentum. Thank you for your participation and continuing support of a viable, value-rich experience for our students.