Page 14 - August Report

GONZAGA UNIVERSITY MBA-AIE MEETING REPORT (2)
The next question: Is GU as invested in this program today as 10 years ago? Ken said he believes the University is as committed as ever. However, costs have gone up across the board. For instance, adjuncts are paid more to teach in the program because of the amount of care that is expected of them. Becky estimated that probably about a third of her time is spent on this program, which has earned a high profile within the university. She said full professors are competing to get in front of these students.
Another question involved the out-of-pocket expenses for recent cohorts participating in study-abroad trips. Becky said students are reimbursed for their expenditures. Last year, several MBA-AIE students participated in a trip to Italy with peers from the overall MBA program. She added that the school will be reevaluating the expense of an upcoming New Zealand trip. Though costly, it is a trip that seems that it will add more value to the students than the Italy trip. There are also tribes in the Pacific Northwest that could be visited.
Asked about the alumni advisory board that was recently formed, Becky said the group has just created its bylaws. Their main purpose is to offer suggestions for the program, including speakers. Angelique Albert is set to become the new Chair and Brandon Haugen will be Vice Chair.
Sherry then gave an update on JSF’s upcoming Indigenous Convening in Spokane in October, which will be held in conjunction with the AISES conference. JSF plans to bring in a small number of MBA-AIE alumni for the Convening. JSF also plans to host a reception for MBA-AIE students and alumni. Sherry hopes to send a survey to the alumni from all cohorts. Becky offered to work with Sherry to coordinate the reception. If possible, a site visit by JSF to Gonzaga will be scheduled during that time frame. Another possibility is a visit to take place next summer so that JSF representatives can see the cohort in action.
Becky then asked a question: What is JSF excited for? Bobby noted that staying relevant is something JSF is excited about. Also, it is important to JSF that its partner organizations demonstrate a commitment to the original intent of the program. Sherry said there is much to learn from this group of alumni, such as what are they seeing out in the world and the impact they’re having in their communities. There is also potential for looking to the future in terms of how many students have sought their Ph.Ds. Ken, Becky and Joanne then left the call.
During a brief post-meeting discussion, it was agreed there is still not much clarity about the increasing size of the cohorts. Also, there are lingering questions about why there hasn’t been any outside fundraising for the program. It was JSF’s understanding that once the endowment was set up, there would be opportunities to seek funds from tribes and businesses to support the program. Discussions with the Convening and reception participants could provide additional insights. The meeting concluded with a brief planning discussion about those 2 events.
Page 12 August Report