Faculty Senate

Bureau of Business and Economic Research Review: 2008

Center Review Recommendation (Academic Policy 103)

A. Written Report Summary: see attached

B. Review and Approval Process
 
2.  The Faculty Senate through its Chair, who in turn shall distribute it to ECOS and other committees, and approve or disapprove the proposal by a vote of the Senate.

Review in terms of Scope as stated in academic policy 100.0
To provide instruction, scholarship, or service to the University, state or world by:  (1) focusing attention on an area of strength and/or addressing a critical issue, or (2) facilitating collaborative, multi-disciplinary endeavors to combine resources from several programs or institutions to address issues of common interest.

Review in terms of the University's mission.

• Comments: The Bureau of Business and Economic Research (BBER) provides basic and applied research that continues to be a significant service to local communities, the state, region, and nation.  
• Does ECOS/Faculty Senate consider this center controversial? No
• Is the relationship with academic units beneficial?  The School of Business Administration reports specific benefits from its association with the BBER. 
• Is the program revenue neutral or does it consume more resources than it generates? If so, is the use of University resources justified?  The BBER reports receiving 30% of its 2006-7 funding from state appropriation, administered by the UM vice president for research.  This use of University resources is justified, given the BBER's contribution toward economic development in the state. 
• Is the entity making progress toward objectives? Yes

Recommendation: Continue
Justification: In its 60^th year of operation, the Bureau of Business and Economic Research continues to achieve its purpose and objectives.