John Powell was elected as the new chairperson of the Executive Committee of Academic Council, or ECAC, during a special ECAC meeting on Tuesday.
Powell, an at-large ECAC member and former University Committee on Faculty Affairs chairman, has served as chairperson of a task force on health care benefits and health affairs. He also has worked with the Academic Governance bylaws.
Powell could not be reached for comment Tuesday.
Harold Hughes, the outgoing ECAC chairperson, said he had confidence in Powell’s capabilities as chairperson.
“John is a very good choice,” Hughes said.
“He’s been very involved with issues that are of importance to the faculty in particular, but the university as a whole. … John is an eloquent speaker very good presenters. He’s a physician he has an excellent background and I think he’ll do really well.”
Powell was nominated by an ECAC member to replace Hughes.
Hughes was not nominated and did not nominate himself to remain chairperson.
Hughes said during Powell’s term as chairperson, he can expect to deal with issues such as repeating classes, budgetary questions, the faculty insurance health care program and the number of courses required.
Robert Maleczka, who served as the vice chairperson during the 2009-10 school year was re-elected to his post during the meeting.
Hughes’ term will end Aug. 15. Powell’s term as chairperson will last one calendar year.
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