Gives Distance Learning a Boost The Board of Control gave Vice Provost for Instruction Stephen Bowen an additional title December 15, naming him dean of distance learning. The change is part of the University's effort to set up an administrative and advisory structure that addresses the mushrooming enrollment in MTU's distance learning courses. The greatest growth has been in two programs commissioned by General Motors, the designing engineer certification and Technician 2000. Both programs involve upgrading the skills of its employees. Provost Kent Wray said that the corporate clients were paying a premium for their distance education.
Revenues pay for the program, with the small surplus going toward program development.
Executive Director of Corporate Services Peter Radecki reported on the latest SmartZone developments. The Michigan Economic Development Corporation will announce its first group of SmartZones in late January or early February. In March, the Board of Control would be asked to approve bylaws for the park, which is designed to encourage high-tech businesses and the commercialization of MTU research, as well as to provide educational and employment opportunities for students and alumni. Board of Control Vice Chair Bronce Henderson asked if the University would be asked to provide financial support. A few staff have been working on the project, Radecki said, so a part of their salaries was supporting the MTEP proposal.