Market Update: Faculty Senate discusses Iowa’s economy and academic business – Iowa State Daily – Full Analysis

The Iowa State University Faculty Senate had a short meeting Tuesday, lasting only 50 minutes, discussing the current national and Iowa economic environments, along with name changes and new graduate certifications for academic business.

Jason Henderson, vice president of extension and outreach, explained the national and Iowa economic uncertainty.

“This slowdown in economic activity is placing a strain on the state of Iowa’s finances,” Henderson said. “We are seeing a consistent pattern in revenues going down, and they are projected to be even lower moving into 2026.”

Henderson also explained how Iowa’s economy is experiencing long-term structural challenges, not just a short-term slowdown.

“Unfortunately, this is not just a short-term slowdown,” Henderson said. “It is reflecting long-term structural challenges for the Iowa economy. Those challenges are tough for a state that relies so heavily on agriculture and manufacturing.” 

Following Henderson’s special order, the Senate resumed discussion of old business. 

Carly Manz, department representative of genetics development and cell biology, described faculty handbook changes. 

“The first item is a proposed change to the faculty handbook that includes more reference to open educational resources, scholarship and scholarly teaching,” Manz said. “The proposal adds language in Section 5.2 on promotion and tenure to recognize open educational resources and additional ways faculty can demonstrate the impact of that work.”

Manz also explained the resolution’s support for the use of open educational resources to enhance student success and access to course materials. 

“The second item is a resolution in support of the use of open educational resources to support student success and access to course materials,” Manz said. “This resolution shows that we as a faculty support the use of open educational resources and encourage faculty to consider using them in their courses.”

With both proposals passing, the Senate moved forward to new business. 

Jennifer Schieltz, academic affairs chair, discussed academic business proposals for new graduate certifications. 

“The new certification requirements will give teachers more specialized tools to support student learning,” Schieltz said. “They reflect the growing needs in our classrooms and the evolving standards in education. By adopting these certifications, we are helping educators stay prepared and students stay engaged.”

Schieltz later explained various name changes for Earth Science Education and Studies, Theatre and Urban and Regional Planning. 

“The updated name changes make it clear which programs and roles are included, reducing confusion for both staff and students,” Schieltz said. “It also helps align our records with current practices. Overall, this ensures everyone is on the same page and can focus on their work effectively.”

The next Senate meeting is slated for March 10 in the Memorial Union.