INSIDE BINGHAMTON UNIVERSITY
Faculty Senate approves evolutionary studies program
By : Sarah Lifshin
The evolutionary studies program, headed by Professor David Sloan Wilson, will require students to complete 20 credits to obtain a certificate and a notation on their transcript. The first students are expected to complete the program in 2005.
The integrated curriculum is designed for undergraduates from all majors who wish to develop an understanding of evolution and its implications for human relationships and life on earth.
The curriculum is part of a large evolutionary studies program that includes more than 30 faculty from 14 departments and other academics units. The program offers a graduate certificate and a seminar series open to the entire campus.
The Senate took the action immediately following President Lois B. DeFleur’s biannual report to the faculty, where she provided an update on campus initiatives and the effect of continuing tight budgets. During her remarks, DeFleur said that the University, along with SUNY, will continue to lobby for additional state support during the upcoming SUNY and Advocacy days as Binghamton’s undergraduate, graduate and international enrollment increases.
In an effort to shave costs during the current economic slump, the University has taken several cost cutting measures from instituting new recycling practices to decreasing hiring levels, DeFleur said.
However, DeFleur said, the University will remain committed to its recruitment of top faculty. Approximately 37 new faculty members joined the campus this fall.
