Governance

Governance at Wilkes is a shared process. Wilkes University believes that it is important for students to share in the decision-making process as well as participate in groups that have input into the governance of the University. This section of the Handbook identifies governing bodies and discusses their specific roles. Students are to utilize the in-house lines of communication to the appropriate committees or councils to express any concerns or grievances.

Board of Trustees external website

The Board of Trustees has the ultimate legal responsibility for the University. The Board has responsibility for overseeing and evaluating the operation of Wilkes and is especially responsible for the fiscal affairs, the quality of academic programs, and the physical plant. So that the Board of Trustees might have a closer involvement with the functioning of the University and, specifically student life, a committee of the Board (Academic and Student Environment Committee) meets quarterly with students and administrative officials. At such meetings, students have a voice, but no vote.

Organization of the University external website

The Chief Executive Officer of Wilkes University is the President. Reporting to the President are the Provost, Vice President for Advancement, Vice President for Finance and General Counsel, Associate Vice President of Student Life and Success, Vice President for Strategic Initiatives, Vice President of Enrollment Management and members of his senior staff. Deans head the College of Arts and Sciences; College of Business and Engineering; College of Health and Education and the Office of Student Life and Success.

Student Affairs Cabinet external website

Contact: Philip Ruthkosky, PhD, Dean of Students

The Student Affairs Cabinet is appointed and chaired by the Dean of Students. The Cabinet is made up of selected administrators and student leaders and meets in the Office of Student Affairs. Typically, the following areas are considered:

  1. interpretation of existing policies relating to student affairs;
  2. the discussion of on-going student affairs problems and situations as they affect both academic and non-academic issues and policies;
  3. issues that emanate from student organizations;
  4. student events and all-University programs;
  5. the consideration of policy and policy changes in areas affecting students that might be recommended to the President, the President's Cabinet, or other appropriate officials.

Faculty Committees external website

In 1974, the Board of Trustees formally adopted the policy that gives appointed students full membership on the following faculty committees: Academic Standards, Admissions and Financial Aid, Student Life, Athletics and Media, Curriculum, Library, Teacher Recognition and Effectiveness, and selected program advisory committees.

Student Life, Athletics and Media Committee external website

Contact: Dr. Anthony Kapolka, Committee Chair

The Student Life, Athletics and Media Committee is responsible for the discussion of issues that affect campus and student life. In this capacity it is advisory to the Dean of Students. It may recommend policies to the Student Affairs Cabinet.