Advances in instructional applications of technology remain a priority at George Mason. In response to questions, Mr. O'Connor indicated the NCC would not expect Senate representation for a couple of years. A problem in attracting faculty is that part-time faculty normally must replace them in their LAUs. Mr. Boileau and Mr. Sanford discussed the importance of attempting to ensure that faculty not lag too much behind increases in cost of living expenses. Lower paid faculty are especially vulnerable to such increases.
Merit increases in lower ranks draw less money from the available pool.
Mr. Spikell indicated that the Graduate School of Education had generally opposed the resolution because of its post hoc nature and its potential deleterious effect on salaries of senior faculty near retirement. Mr. Tabak suggested that merit is important if the increase were to exceed the cost of living, but under present circumstances we must be sure that all faculty are supported. Mr. Torzilli emphasized the importance of supporting faculty in lower ranks. Mr. Gantz pointed out that cost of living is reported on a percentage basis, but purchasing power is more appropriately measured in actual dollars. D. Ms. Taylor briefly discussed establishing a university-wide grievance committee.