In the Commencement Committee's report, co-chair Aimee Fifarek noted that the resolution was limited to the reinstatement of August graduation, which all the committee members supported and which would eliminate problems of recognizing students such as university medallists. The committee felt other changes to commencement, such as ways to allow students only attend part of the ceremony, need to involve other bodies such as Student Government and the Graduate School. Freshman Residency Requirements. Provost Fogel presented a proposal to require all unmarried freshman under the age of 21 to live on campus for their first academic year beginning in the fall of 2003. Goals of freshman residency are to enhance intellectual climate, strengthen the collegiate experience, and engage students in the university community.
Research indicates higher academic performance and retention rates for students living on campus.
A residency requirement may also increase graduation rates. Completion of a new apartment complex, acquisition of Broussard Hall from the Athletic Department, and reconfiguration of existing residence hall space will increase capacity. Funds for these changes are available within Residential Life. Provost Fogel seeks endorsement of the broad concept of freshman residency by the Faculty Senate and Student Government Association when he presents the proposal to the Board of Supervisors. In response to questions, the Provost stated that peer institutions with required freshman residency include the Univ. of Tennessee, Virginia Tech., Univ. of Virginia, Texas Tech., Univ. of Mississippi, Univ. of Colorado, and Univ. of Arkansas.