Council says farewell to President Patton
University President Carl Patton, who is retiring in early summer, was honored at the April 16 Staff Council meeting for his support of the organization and Georgia State staff during his 16 years of service to the university.
Council members thanked Dr. Patton for his willingness to meet regularly with the group to answer questions and discuss current issues at the university. "Dr. Patton has been very generous with his time," said council chair John Medlock. "We hope that the next university president will follow his lead and use Staff Council as a resource for information about staff concerns and ideas."
Long-time Staff Council officer Debbie Rupp presented Dr. Patton with a large card signed by many council members and staff, as well as with a check to the university Staff Scholarship Fund for more than $2,100. The funds will be given to the Georgia State University Foundation in Dr. Patton's honor.
Each semester the Staff Scholarship Fund provides four to six scholarship awards to staff members working at Georgia State (depending on the availability of funds) who are enrolled in degree programs. The scholarship award can be used to cover the costs of books and other educational materials for staff members. The Georgia State University Foundation has regularly provided generous support for the program. Additional funds come from donations made directly to the Foundation or via the Campus Campaign by staff, faculty and other donors to the university.
"I'm very appreciative for this gift for student scholarships," said Dr. Patton. "And for all the work that staff and Staff Council do for this university."
Dr. Patton indicated that he and his wife Gretchen plan to stay in the Atlanta area after his retirement, and that they plan to stay involved with the university.
Staff Council Retreat Announced
The Staff Council’s annual retreat will be held on June 12, 2008 at the Indian Creek Lodge beginning at 8:30 a.m. The all-day retreat will offer council members an opportunity to set goals for the year and participate in team-building exercises.
Committee Roundup
The executive committee recently voted to continue the ad hoc Green Issues Committee for another year. The group began work last year to investigate environmental issues on campus, including campus smoking regulations.
The executive committee also voted to establish an ad hoc committee to focus on the Staff Council organizational structure.
May Meeting
The next Staff Council Meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, May 21, 2008 in room 480 University Center. As always, meetings are open to any staff member to attend. Emergency Management director Mike Raderstorf will join the meeting to talk about the university's emergency management plan.
