Annual Report 2008-2009 - Sistema Universitario Ana G. Méndez

Transcription

Annual Report 2008-2009 - Sistema Universitario Ana G. Méndez
Annual Report 2008-2009
Ana G. Méndez University System
,EARNING
Learning
ATTHESPEEDOFLIGHT
at the speed of light
CONTENTS
Our Guiding Principles
2
Vision 2015
3
Message from the Board Chair
4
2008-2009 Board of Directors
6
Message from the President
8
Development and Alumni Affairs
12
Public Policy Institute
14
Economic Development and Commercialization
16
Leading our System
18
U.S. Presidential Advisory Board
20
Executive Vice Presidency
21
Vice Presidency of Planning and Academic Affairs
23
Vice Presidency of Marketing and Student Affairs
26
Vice Presidency of Administrative Affairs
30
Vice Presidency of Human Resources
32
Vice Presidency of United States and Latin American Affairs
34
Vice Presidency of Financial Affairs
35
Our Institutions
36
Universidad del Turabo
38
Universidad Metropolitana
40
Universidad del Este
42
Distance Education Initiative
44
SiTV Ana G. Méndez University Channel
45
Projections 2009-2010
46
Organizational Chart
47
General Information
48
ANA G. MÉNDEZ UNIVERSITY SYSTEM • ANNUAL REPORT 2008-2009
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AGMUS ANNUAL REPORT 2008-2009
In a democratic society, every human being has the
right to an education, regardless of race, sex, color,
Our
Guiding
Principles
national origin, social status, physical or mental
condition, religious, political or social belief.
The development of human potential requires an
open-door policy that allows students to benefit from
All educational institutions should aspire to achieve
academic excellence and should commit themselves
approaches to education.
(AGMUS) was founded 60 years ago on
Academic institutions are integral components of the
seven basic principles. These principles
communities they serve.
have served the institution well and are
alive in the system’s mission which to this
Faculty members must innovate for the benefit of their
students and for their own professional growth.
day guides our work serving our students
and Puerto Rico.
Focus on growth and excellence
academic programs to the full extent of their ability.
to fostering such excellence through enlightened
The Ana G. Méndez University System
Vision 2015
s part of the University System’s goal to be-
A
lopment, physical and technological infrastructure, fiscal
come one of the principal initiators of ideas on
strength, and institutional quality and effectiveness.With
the island, Vision 2015 focuses on the strategies
Vision 2015, Ana G. Méndez University System’s goal is to
that will help generate feasible solutions to meet Puerto
be recognized not only as an institution of higher learn-
Rico’s economic and social development needs over the
ing, but one of excellence in the areas of research and ser-
next decade.Vision 2015 not only embraces the strate-
vices, contributing significantly to Puerto Rico’s economic
gies implemented over the past decade in Vision 2005,
growth and to the overall community. In the next years,
it takes them to greater heights by emphasizing on new
the University System seeks to be recognized as an entity
and expanded vectors or strategic priorities. These vec-
of transformation, constant innovation, and financial sta-
tors are focused on seven key areas that include academics affairs, student services and development, public
The real needs of Puerto Rico must be understood
so that its human resources can be enriched and
graduates can make a positive contribution to the
progress of society in the work force.
The educational development of the students should
emphasizeacademicskillandgrowththatisproductive
in both daily living and employment.
bility, centered on individuals as their main
nal Quality and Effect
utio
ive
t
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r vectors
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7I
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engagement, management
and organizational deve-
1
Academic
Affairs
Services and
Student
Development
University System promotes a better quality of life for
our students, employees and the community at large.
ANA
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fective use of its technological,
physical, and management
resources to support its
mission.
Public
Engagement
654
Client
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Fiscal
Strengthening
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The fundamental commitment of the Ana G. Méndez
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and principal focus, while making ef-
4
Management and
Organizational
Development
Technological
and Physical
Infrastructure
Support vectors
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Message from
the Board Chair
Rapid growth
and high credibility
T
The economic
development consortiums
have proven themselves
to play a critical role in
the advancement of
technology and
scientific research.
he strategic vision of AGMUS is set by the Board of
In the area of education, we experienced this
a critical role in the advancement of technology and
Directors, which is comprised by twelve individuals of
year a significant growth of investments for the teaching
scientific research, not only within AGMUS, but in all of
great professional proficiency and human quality. The
of the Sciences. At the undergraduate level, the sciences
Puerto Rico. INTENOR in Barceloneta established this year
Board has demonstrated its commitment not only to AGMUS,
are dominating the teaching curriculum, in response
a Scientific Board, composed of researchers and business
but also to Puerto Rico.
to the ever increasing demand of careers in the health
leaders, to continue to develop the Center for Excellence
During my tenure as Board Chair, we have given
field. The UMET experience, with the development of its
in Technology Advancement (CETA). This center is already
special attention to such values as solidarity, trust and respect.
Mathematics Center with a National Science Foundation
producing prototypes of medicine, as well as undertaking
By following and strengthening these principles, the Board
$1.5M grant, led the way for other institutions to establish
critical scientific research that will create new opportunities
has enhanced its performance as rector of the System, as well
their respective centers, focusing in the strengthening of
for the pharmaceutical industry in Puerto Rico.
as it has ensured that the decisions made are consistent, and
science and math skills.
Exchanges with universities in Europe and Latin
has been a rewarding experience and it makes me proud
to optimize the utilization of resources toward the System’s
AmericahavegainedAGMUSthepublicacknowledgement
of its accomplishments. I can foresee that the sciences and,
constant growth.
and credibility as an institution where growth and
in particular the health related sciences, will continue to
Financially speaking, in particular for this past year, the
transformation take place. In a few short years, we have
become an ever growing important factor of our society;
Board distinguished itself for having successfully mitigated the
transformed from a simple System to a complex one
so too, will the demand for competent health professionals
impact of the effects of the financial crisis experienced in the
with an expanded and varied academic offerings, greater
and critical research. I can thus envision that the creation of
investment world. The Board spearheaded initiatives to control
scientific research projects and increased international
a medical school would be an important achievement for
the budget, bring about changes in investment policies, and
exchanges that provide the System with alternative
AGMUS in the future, a goal which I look forward with great
introduce measures that will bring stability and success in the
academic perspectives. This enriches the experience of
enthusiasm.
long term. Thanks to the effective team work formed by the
everyone in the System, including its Board.
strong institution.
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Leading AGMUS Board through this academic year
in consensus. With this base, the Board provides guidance
Board and the administration, AGMUS remains a financially
4
The teaching of the Sciences
is being strengthened in the System. At the undergraduate level the
sciences are dominating the teaching curriculum responding to the
increasing demand of careers in the health field.
It is my belief that the economic development
consortiums have already proven themselves to play
Florabel G. Mullick, MD
Board Chair
ANA G. MÉNDEZ UNIVERSITY SYSTEM • ANNUAL REPORT 2008-2009
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Board of Directors
Committeess
2008-2009
AGMUS Board of Directors
EXECUTIVE CO
C
COMMITEE
MMIT
TEE
EXECUTIVE
COMMITTEE
FIDUCIARY
FIDUCIAR
AR
ARY
RY CO
COMM
COMMITEE
MMIT
MM
ITEE
IT
EE
E
BYLAWS
COMMITTEE
José Domingo
Pérez,Chair
Chair
Chai
Ch
ar
Florabel
G. Mullick,
Juan
R. Melecio,
Juan R.
Melecio,
ChairChair
Néstor
Jesús Pou
Félix
R.de
Schmidt
José
F. Méndez
José F.
Méndez
José F.F.Méndez
José
Méndez
Zoraida
Fonalledas
Juan M.
García
Passalacqua
Ivar A. Pietri
Antonio
J. Colorado
Victoria
de Jesús, Vice President
Florabel
G. Mullick
Víctor Herná
Hernández
ándezz
Víctor
Hernández
Florabel G. Mullick, MD, Chair
Félix R. Schmidt, MD, Vice Chair
José F. Méndez, Dr.h.c., AGMUS President
Juan M. García Passalacqua, Esq.
Ivar Pietri, CE
Juan R.
Mele
Melecio
ecio Pérez
José
Domingo
of Human Resources
Antonio
A. Figueroa Alvarado, Vice President
AUDIT
COMMITTEE
Financial Aff
airs
Víctorof
Hernández,
Chair
FINANCE CO
COMMITEE
OMM
MITEE
FINANCE
COMMITTEE
José
. de la Cruz Skerrett, Esq.
Antonio
J. EColorado
Ivar A. Pietri,
, Cha
Chair
air Chair
Antonio
J. Colorado,
Legal
Counselor
Zoraida
Fonalledas
AgnesR.B.Schmidt
Suá
Suárez
árez
Félix
Juan R. Melecio
Juan R. Melecio
STATUTES COMMITEE
José Domingo Pérez, CE
Audit
Au
Audi
ud t Co
Commitee
oFernández
m itee
mm
Daneris
David Rivé Power, Chair
Antonio J. Colorado, Esq.
Juan
n R. M
Melecio,
elecio, Chair
José F. Méndez
Zoraida Fonalledas, Esq.
Daneriss Fernández
Da
ACADEMIC
AND STUDENT AFFAIRS
Juan M. García Passalacqua
COMMITTEE
Juan R. Melecio
Juan R. Melecio, Esq.
David Rivé, Esq
ACADEMIC
ANDPérez,
STUDENT
José
Domingo
ChairAFFAIRS COMMITEE
Víctor Hernández, DMD
Víctor Hernández,
Víctor
Hernández Chair
Daneris Fernández, ChE
Juan M.Rivé
García Passalacqua
David
Antonio Fonalledas
J. Colorado
Zoraida
José E. de la Cruz Skerrett, Esq.
Legal Counselor
David Rivé Power
Florabel G. Mullick
Félix R. Schmidt
ANA G. MÉNDEZ UNIVERSITY SYSTEM • ANNUAL REPORT 2008-2009
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ANA G. MÉNDEZ UNIVERSITY SYSTEM • ANNUAL REPORT 2008-2009
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Message from
The President
Raising the Bar
to Meet Challenges
aising the bar to meet today’s social, economic and
During the 2008-2009 academic year, we met
global challenges is a constant quest of the Ana G.
several objectives and goals based on our strategic vision.
Méndez University System. Since its inception in 1949,
With the support of our US Presidential Advisory Board and
AGMUS has become a pillar of our society. We have worked
the leadership of our institutions, a new strategic plan was
tirelessly to lay a solid educational foundation and as we
put in place to guide the strengthening of teaching and
celebrate our 60th anniversary, we can proudly say that AGMUS
research in the areas of science, technology, engineering,
has become one of the finest academic institutions of our time.
mathematics, and health allied fields. This new “STEM+H”
Our society and the world face unprecedented
plan will provide the guidelines to expand and enhance
challenges that require prompt responses from academia.
our programs and initiatives in these critical areas toward
Rapid environmental degradation, rising unemployment
the year 2020. These plans focus on the health and health-
and plunging financial markets, health epidemics, and
related professions, fields of increasing importance,
the need to develop alternative energy sources, are
taking bold steps to expand the Health Sciences program
factors that make our society vulnerable. At the same
at the three institutions, particularly at the Universidad
time, we must continue to compete and excel on a
Metropolitana (UMET). Plans for developing a community
global scale. Therefore, we must harness science and
health center at UMET’s campus in the municipality of
important center will provide ample exhibition and
technology to resolve these problems and aspire to an
Bayamón were finalized. We completed the transfer of
meeting spaces for both national and international artists.
ideal in order to enhance the quality of life for our society.
several health programs from our main campus in Cupey to
We continue to create alliances with local
AGMUS has adopted a dual approach to meet these
Bayamón to better accommodate the physical and market
governments and the private sector. An agreement was
challenges. First, by developing an exemplary education
needs of our newly developed nursing degree programs.
reached between UMET, the Department of Education,
with curriculums tailored to current economic, social and
At the Universidad del Turabo (UT), our efforts led to
and the Municipality of Comerío to offer short-term
global trends. But that is not enough. We have proactively
obtaining accreditation for its Nursing School.
technical programs establish a UMET technical school in
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We have proactively expanded the scope of our mission,
participating actively with other sectors of society in
search of powerful solutions.
Dr. Méndez receiving a lifetime achievement award
from Kimberly and Manuel A. Casiano, awarded by
Casiano Communications, editors of the leading
business newspaper on the Island.
expanded the scope of our mission, participating actively
Important goals in infrastructure were attained.
the facilities of the newly constructed local vocational
with other sectors of society in search of powerful solutions.
We purchased 15 acres in the Municipality of Gurabo
school. These facilities are used to offer training for nursing
Undoubtedly, we have become a leader in both the educational
for expanding the Universidad del Turabo campus.
technicians, medical record administrators and computer
arena and in promoting and implementing ideas that foster
Architectural plans were finished for the expansion
technicians. Over 150 students have benefited form this
social change and social responsibility in Puerto Rico. of the Museum and Center for Humanistic Studies
program. Plans are underway to replicate this initiative
at Universidad del Turabo. The new facilities of this
in other vocational schools throughout the island.
ANA G. MÉNDEZ UNIVERSITY SYSTEM • ANNUAL REPORT 2008-2009
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addressed the need for a governmental fiscal reform
system’s Channel 40 brought the new SíTV-Canal
strategy as well as increasing technological alternatives
Universitario to the screen. The station will continue as a
available to dispose and reduce solid waste and its impact
PBS affiliate but will expand its offering to include topics
on the economy and the environment. Our Institute’s
ranging from current affairs to university life. New news
forums have generated much interest from the Island’s
policymakers, business and opinion leaders, making the
Institute a key player in the public discussion of issues in
Puerto Rico. This year, a total of four policy reports were
published and distributed to policy makers and the public.
Building upon the internationalization strategy
INTECO will develop a
and the aim to serve other Hispanic communities as
center for the study of
States where it developed two campuses, Orlando and
renewable energy and
comprehensive market study was conducted to determine
engineering such as
such as the Dominican Republic, Panama and other
the photovoltaic and
wind technologies.
stated in Vision 2015, AGMUS branched out to the United
South Florida. These now serve over 1,700 students. A
the feasibility of expanding services to emerging markets
Regis University, of Colorado, awarded Dr. Méndez a
Doctor Honoris Causa degree, his second award, for his
lifetime work in higher education.
Spearheaded by AGMUS, with the support of
locations in the state of Florida. In Tampa, for example,
Municipalities and private industries, the four regional economic
there is great demand for AGMUS’ dual-language model, a
development consortia have taken on ambitious agendas.
registered trademark. The Dominican Republic represents
anchors will bring to life talk shows, news analysis, live coverage
The consortium alliance of the northern region, INTENOR, is
an opportunity to establish a community college concept
of cultural events, and coverage of academic activities of the
completing construction plans for the Center for Research
using the Universidad del Turabo’s (UT) academic curriculum.
three universities. The first programs will feature the UMET’s
& Development and Industrial Support (CREDIS), within the
On the international scene, the university system
environmental adventures, the UT’s artists in residence at
INTENOR Science Park in the Municipality of Barceloneta. CREDIS
plans to launch Puerto Rico’s first Distance Learning
the Humanistic Museum and UNE’s Jesús Piñero Center,
will house the research projects related to the pharmaceutical
University with a full curriculum from the three institutions.
honoring the legacy of the island’s first Puerto Rican governor.
industry. On the other hand, the INTECO alliance, in eastern
The system will use state-of-the-art technology that will
As we continue writing the pages of our history,
central Puerto Rico, will have developed a center for the study
foster interactive learning through live conversations,
the Office of the President, with the aid guidance and
of renewable energy, through the Puerto Rico Energy Center
chats and seminars. This “virtual” University aims to
support of the Board of Directors, expects nothing
(PREC), to research photovoltaic, plasma and wind technologies.
attract local as well as international students seeking
less than to work with dedication and excellence in
INTENE in the eastern sector and DISUR in the south are also
an updated curriculum and learning methodologies
contributing to meet the challenges posed by today’s
developing projects geared to the specific needs of their regions.
based on professional and work experiences. Once
complex outlook. As we complete our 60th anniversary,
This year, more than ever before, our work
again, AGMUS will be in the vanguard creating the
we reaffirm our mission of service to Puerto Rico and the
transcended the university community to a greater audience. first university of this type originating in Puerto Rico.
Hispanic community, begun by Ana G. Méndez, and one
The Public Policy Institute (IPP) brought public attention
Digitalization and rebranding the university
that our entire system understands to be relevant today.
to pressing problems facing our society. The Institute held
several forums, one of which addressed issue of creating
José F. Méndez, Dr.h.c.
efficient and effective government by Ambassador Maurice
President
McTigue, from George Mason University. The Institute also
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Development
and Alumni Affairs
Development
and Alumni Affairs
Building Dreams:
nstitutional development and alumni relations are two key
I
While over 100 corporations, foundations, and firms
areas that make AGMUS standout as an educational insti-
contributed to the campaign, three gifts stand apart. The José
tution. These attest to the quality of our education and our
A. (Tony) Santana Foundation, a nonprofit organization, part
reputation among alumni. Our office’s mission is to develop
of the Empresas Santana conglomerate, donated $1 million
relationships with alumni and link potential donors with pro-
toward the academic program in hospitality management
grams, scholarships and the construction of new facilities.
and culinary arts at UNE. The school, which now bears the
During the 2008-2009 academic year, our office ef-
name José A. (Tony) Santana International School of Hospital-
fectively formed alumni groups, from the three universities.
ity and Culinary Arts, will use the funds for academic develop-
We made it a priority to involve alumni in identifying potential
ment, scholarships and the construction of new culinary arts
partners. Most developed a commitment to their alma mater
laboratories.
thing back. The Museum and Center for Humanistic Studies at
UT has been dedicated to Dr. Josefina Camacho Nuez, mother
Our Capital Campaign efforts that began in 2004
of Guillermo L. Martínez, philanthropist and arts patron, who
ended successfully in December 2008. The campaign goal
donated $1 million for the expansion of this project. New ex-
was $24.6 million, of which $20 million was raised. The funds
hibit halls and open spaces will allow for greater access to the
are destined for eight major projects: the School of Business
permanent collection.
and Entrepreneurship (Universidad del Turabo), programs
The UT School of Engineering received a donation of
and scholarships in science and technology (UMET), the Stu-
$2,295,000 from a group of engineers and engineering firms
dent and Alumni Village (UT), the new AGMUS SíTV, the José
to expand the School of Engineering. These funds were used
A. Santana International School of Hospitality and Culinary
forlaboratoriesforelectricalengineering,informationsystems
Arts (Universidad del Este), the José Domingo Pérez School of
and improvement of classrooms. The school has been named
Engineering (UT), the Permanent Scholarship Fund, and the
the José Domingo Pérez School of Engineering in honor of
Dr. Josefina Camacho de la Nuez Museum and Humanistic
engineer Pérez and his leadership in the field of engineering
Studies Center (UT). and the Capital Campaign.
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has supported tax reform laws that would increase the cur-
dergraduate students; 249 have since graduated. Under the
rent 33% deduction for donations in order to stimulate chari-
Permanent Scholarship Fund, 175 students are receiving
table giving in Puerto Rico.
scholarships in the three institutions. “Envision-Support-Transform”
while students and now as alumni, they want to give some-
Last year the scholarship fund benefited 441 un-
In retrospect, this year we fulfilled many dreams en-
Once again we led the Puerto Rico Chapter of the
visioned. Progressively we will create alliances with individu-
Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), which estab-
als and organizations that also believe in building dreams for
lishes standards of conduct for the fundraising profession. It
the future.
Our Collaborators
A & M Contractors, Inc./ Empresas Kier
A T & T Puerto Rico
Abbott Pharmaceuticals PR, Ltd.
AIREKO Construction
AMGEN
American Construction Co.
Ana G. Méndez Memorial Fund
Antonio Roig Ferré y María Dolores Roig
Ashford Presbyterian Community Hospital /
Familia Escudero
Avaya / Envision Technologies
Aventis Pharmaceuticals
BBDO / Puerto Rico
BBVA
Bacardí Corporation
Banco Popular de Puerto Rico
Banco Santander de Puerto Rico
Berlitz Languages
Bermúdez, Longo & Díaz Massó, S.E.
Cadierno Corporation
Cancio, Nadal, Rivera & Díaz
Caribbean Industrial Construction
Carolina Shopping Court / José R. Bacardí
Casiano Communications, Inc.
Centennial de PR
Centro de Imágenes del Noreste / Dr. Emilio
Torres Reyes
Coca-Cola Foundation
Coca Cola PR Bottlers
Constructora Santiago II Corp.
Cooperativa de Ahorro y Crédito Ana G.
Méndez
CT Radiology Complex / MRI Institute
Cué & López Contractors
Deloitte & Touche
Doral Financial Corporation
Dow, Lohnes, and Albertson
Dr. Jesús Joel Pérez
Dr. José Antonio Molina
Dr. Juan M. González Lamela
EcoEléctrica
El Comandante Operating Corp.
Empresas Cordero Badillo
Empresas Sadurní
Empresas VRM
Ericsson Caribbean
Estudios Técnicos, Inc. / Joaquín Villamil
Fiddler, González & Rodríguez
Fraternidad Phi Eta Mu, Corp.
Fundación Ángel Ramos
Fundación Banco Popular
Fundación Corazón Guerrero
Fundación Educativa Sprint
Fundación José A. Santana / Empresas
Santana
Fundación José Domingo Pérez
Fundación José Jaime Pierluisi
Fundación Plaza Las Américas
GAR Housing Corp. / Res A.G. Management
Corp.
Grupo Arana
Grupo Stella
Guillermo L. Martínez Camacho
Hewlett Packard
Hill Construction Corp.
Hilton International Company
Hospital Hnos. Meléndez
Industria Hotelera de Puerto Rico
IPR Pharmaceuticals
Ing. Adriel Longo
Ing. Juan J. Bermúdez
Ing. Juan J. Jiménez
Ing. Pablo del Valle / Del Valle Group
Inter-Continental San Juan Hotel
Jabiana Development
Johnson & Johnson
José E. De La Cruz Skerrett Law Office
KCS Cleaning Service, Inc.
L’BEL Paris
Lcdo. Mario F. Gaztambide, Jr.
Lehman Brothers
Lema Developers
Lilly del Caribe
Los Prados Urbanos, Inc.
MFPW J. Walter Thompson
Marxuach & Longo
Mary P. Dolciani (Halloran Foundation)
Medical Card System (MCS)
Medtronic Foundation
Merck, Sharp & Dohme
Merck, Sharp & Dohme - Carolina
Mesirow Financial
Microsoft Caribbean, Inc.
Millipore Foundation
Municipio Autónomo de Caguas
National Science Foundation
Omega Engineering S. E.
Patheon / MOVA Pharmaceutical
Peregrine Development Corp.
Phi Eta Mu
PIA of PR & the Caribbean, Inc.
PRT / Wireline Services
Procter & Gamble
QB Construction S.E.
Radiology Institute Imaging Center
Rafael y Salfa Tamayo
Ricoh
Rubén Valdés / Portales de MADECO
Sociedad Española de Auxilio Mutuo
Teléfonos Públicos de Puerto Rico
Telepro Caribe, Inc.
The Efrón Foundation, Inc.
The J. Willard & Alice S. Marriott Foundation
Triple-S Management Corp.
Wal*Mart / Sam’s Club
William Randolph Hearst Foundation
Wyeth Laboratories
Xerox Corp.
ANA G. MÉNDEZ UNIVERSITY SYSTEM • ANNUAL REPORT 2008-2009
13
Institute for
Public Policy
Institute for
Public Policy
Relevant Policies in an
Era of Rapid Change
A
t this critical juncture in global affairs, Puerto Rico
This past year the IPP addressed a number of vital
needs to develop public policy alternatives to guide
public issues. The IPP generated public discussion in support
present and future decision makers. AGMUS made a
of the not-for-profit sector, or Third Sector. The IPP advocated
strategic move to promote public policy alternatives through
the passage of Senate Bill # 2551 that would make contribu-
academic research and public discussion. As a result, the Pu-
tions to nonprofits 100% tax deductible. The proposal is still
blic Policy Institute (IPP) was created to study current public
being analyzed by the Legislature. The Institute also focused
policies and promote new or alternative policies for Puerto
on supporting legislation to raise municipal autonomy to con-
Rico. Its vision guided by its Board President, attorney César R.
stitutional status based on a keynote speech given by former
Vázquez, and its dynamic Advisory Board, is to incorporate citi-
Governor Rafael Hernández Colón in 2008. IPP efforts involved
zens in the discussion of public policies, present alternatives
meeting with various legislators to discuss the benefits of mu-
to public sector decision makers, and foster the formation of
nicipal autonomy.
public officials serving in the legislature, judiciary and executive branch of government. The IPP advocated the passage of Senate Bill # 2551 that would
make contributions to nonprofits 100% tax deductible.
Raising awareness about environmental issues
In sum, the Institute continues to be at the forefront
remains a priority. The IPP has collaborated in developing
of discussion of relevant public policies. In today’s dynamic
strategies for managing solid waste conversion to energy.
scenario, it is a vital voice for the analysis and development of
The forum “Technological Options in the Management of
sound policies for Puerto Rico.
Solid Waste” showcased proven technologies. The speakers were Dr. Nicholas J. Themelis, from Columbia University,
with panelists Carl Soderberg, Director of the Environmental
Protection Agency in Puerto Rico, and Javier Quintana, Executive Director of the Puerto Rico Solid Waste Authority. The
IPP has also promoted the importance of stimulating competitiveness for economic growth linked to environmental
issues.
This year, governmental reform and downsizing
the public sector has generated public discussion and controversy. In light of this, the Institute sponsored a forum on
“Transforming the Government” with special guest, the Honorable Maurice McTigue, Vice President and Director of the
The forums were broadcast live on SíTV for public viewers.
government accountability project of the Mercatus Center, a
think-tank of George Mason University. He proposed changes in public sector management and budgeting based on
results; and emphasized that transparency and accountability are crucial to successful governance. Local experts, participating as respondents, included William Lockwood, past
President of the Government Development Bank for Puerto
Rico; Josen Rossi, President of the Manufacturers Association
and Roberto Jiménez, Director of Vision-to-Action consulting firm.
In 2008-2009, six policy papers were published by
the IPP which addressed the topics of the forums. These papers are a significant educational contribution to policymakers, academics and the general public.
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Ambassador Maurice McTigue, George Mason University,
speaks at the forum on transforming government to a full
auditorium.
ANA G. MÉNDEZ UNIVERSITY SYSTEM • ANNUAL REPORT 2008-2009
15
Economic Development
and Commercialization
Teaming up for Science,
Technology and Economic
Development
he Office of Economic Development and Commer-
T
es and educational institutions to participate in governmental
cialization is an important arm supporting AGMUS in
action. This in turn impacts the quality of life of all citizens.
its vision to create and participate in activities that fos-
AGMUS’ foresight to take a lead in creating multi-
ter Puerto Rico’s socio-economic development as well as the
sector centers, joining science and technology to promote
transfer and commercialization of technology.
economic development and serve the needs and future
INTENE
Science and technology parks
tion of regional organizations of economic development, and
and organize four regional economic development organi-
multi-sector consortia of private, public and third-sector orga-
zations: INTENOR (Spanish acronym for the Northern Tech-
Research Centers, such as Center for Research and De-
nizations, including academia. We are committed to support-
nological Initiative), INTENE (North-Eastern Technological
velopment and Industrial Support in Barceloneta and the
ing the creation of university programs and activities which
Initiative), INTECO (Eastern-Central Technological Initiative),
Puerto Rico Energy Center in the Universidad del Turabo
stimulate innovation and an institutional entrepreneurial cul-
and DISUR (Alliance for the Integrated Development of the
Mass transportation projects
ture, linked with regional initiatives. Another objective is to
South). In 2008-2009 these four successful regional consortia,
create and support institutional processes and policies that
have become major players in promoting and implementing
achieve technology transfer. In promoting business creation,
economic development. A multi-sector board of directors
the formation of entrepreneurs, and the creation of capital,
guides the corporations; area municipalities, the private sec-
we are also promoting a dissemination of wealth at all levels
tor and leading academic institutions are represented on the
of society.
board. More than 50 municipalities jointly benefit from their
cuses on the resources, needs and profile of each region and
A myriad of other activities throughout AGMUS are
matches those characteristics to business creation, employ-
planned for the four regional consortia as they are proving to
ment generation and investment. We see regionalization as
be effective and vital motors in the socio-economic develop-
an exercise in democracy that allows communities, business-
ment of Puerto Rico.
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DISUR
gic projects:
growth of regions, has borne fruit. AGMUS has helped create
programs.
INTECO
We participate and actively foster the development of strate-
Our objectives include promoting the consolida-
Our regional, economic development model fo-
16
6
INTENOR
Business Incubator
Renewable energy projects
AGMUS
has already submitted
its first four patent
applications and is in the
The second major area of activity for the Office of
Technology Transfer and Commercialization is technology
transfer, in terms of both licensing intellectual property as
well as in the creation of university-related business “startups”. AGMUS has already submitted its first four patent applications and is in the process of implementing an aggressive
commercialization plan. Also, it has completed commercial-
process of implementing
an aggressive
commercialization
plan.
ization agreements that should evolve into joint ventures
with innovative technology entrepreneurs.
ANA G. MÉNDEZ UNIVERSITY SYSTEM • ANNUAL REPORT 2008-2009
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Vice Presidents
& Chancellors
Vice Presidents
& Chancellors
Leading our System
Alfonso L. Dávila
Executive Vice President and Acting
Vice President of Financial Affairs
Luis A. Zayas
Vice President of United States
and Latin American Affairs
Dennis R. Alicea, Ph.D.
Chancellor
Universidad del Turabo
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Jorge L. Crespo
Vice President of
Planning and Academic Affairs
Migdalia Torres, Ph.D.
Chancellor
Distance Education Initiative
Francisco Bartolomei
Vice President of
Marketing and Students Affairs
Victoria de Jesús, Ed.D.
Vice President of
Human Resources
Jesús A. Díaz
Vice President of
Administrative Affairs
Federico M. Matheu, Ph.D.
Chancellor
Universidad Metropolitana
Alberto Maldonado Ruiz, Esq.
Chancellor
Universidad del Este
Margarita Millán, Esq.
Vice President and General Manager
Sí TV – Ana G. Méndez University Channel
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OFFICE OF THE
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT
U.S. Presidential Advisory Board in
Alfonso L. Dávila
Science, Engineering and Health
Science and technology is a primary focus of the programs of
AGMUS and the U.S. Presidential Advisory Board has played a pi-
Progress at the
Speed of Technology
votal role in important advances made by our universities in the
sciences, engineering and health areas. The Board is made up of
distinguished professionals in science and technology from United
States government agencies and private institutions.
Dr. Susan Phillips Speece
Science, engineering and health related fields play
an important role at AGMUS.
Herman J. Gibb, P.h.D.
Florabel G. Mullick, MD
Dr. Michael Chartock
T
he Office of the Executive Vice President facilitates
and promotes the effective flow of communication
and implementation among the system’s academic
institutions, the Vice Presidential divisions and SíTV, as well
as oversees the telecommunications and Information Technology Department and development of AGMUS’ University
Centers.
Information, communication and decision making
Scott May
Dr. William Dawes, Jr.
Félix R. Schmidt, MD
Ronald Blackburn
are at the crux of our mission. As meeting point, we are the
hub where the academic vision meets administrative challenges and a diversity of our academic communities find a
common ground.
Dr. Mark Bradley Lyles
Dr. Melissa A. McDiarmid
is the state-of-the-art technological infrastructure that main-
Nizar N . Zein, MD
tains and nurtures all administrative and academic processes.
Dr. José A. Centeno
This year has seen an increase in biotechnology
research.
Undergraduate students have opportunities to carry
out their experiments in fully equipped state-of-theart laboratories.
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The primary facilitator of these complex processes
Health related careers are offered at the three institutions with a
consistently high enrollment rate.
Technology is the universal member of our system which enables the efficient management of our resources. This year
that students and the public have to ad campaigns has pro-
our commitment to Information Technology (IT) is evidenced
vided management with valuable data on the of the student
by our $1.5M annual investment in software, hardware and
recruitment process. We have broken down the way in which
IT services. This included an investment in the network’s in-
we collect this data to develop a computerized system which
formation “backbone” in each institution. Another major in-
includes the phases of a student’s recruitment process: an
frastructure enhancement was the replacement of the main
analysis of the potential student’s in a field of study, know-
connections to the public network by new high speed links,
ledge about the application process, did the candidate apply
increasing data traffic transport capacity by an average of
for admission and has the student registered at the institution. 1000%. This significant increase in capacity was done to ad-
This information serves as “intelligent reporting” for manage-
dress the need to support video conferencing, multimedia
ment and can be strategic in the decision making process.
content, online courses, access to external data bases, and
In order to protect the systems for all of our users,
other web based applications used in the classroom. proactive security measures have been taken. An Intrusion
Technology has facilitated the collection of informa-
Prevention System was introduced as web filters to detect
tion that many times shapes the direction of the institutions.
external threats to the system. We also installed an Internet
For example, data collected from marketing on the response
Security and Acceleration Server (ISA) which rates the content
ANA G. MÉNDEZ UNIVERSITY SYSTEM • ANNUAL REPORT 2008-2009
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VICE PRESIDENCY OF
PLANNING AND ACADEMIC AFFAIRS
CORPORATE AND
INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
Building Global Bridges
T
he mission of the Office of Corporate and International Affairs is to bridge academic and
institutional ties with international educational
institutions. This year there have been important ac-
We also installed... a system
which rates the content of web
pages to secure the student’s
safe navigation on the world
wide web.
complishments that aid in our endeavor to build global
bridges.
Our office constantly seeks out and responds
Jorge L. Crespo
Planning for
the Future
Today
effectively to local trends. In the case of southern
Puerto Rico, the Port of the Americas represents an
opportunity for economic development. This year, we
sponsored the Symposium on Port Logistics, held in
Ponce, in coordination with Universidad del Turabo
(UT). Experts in port science from Panama, Holland
and Belgium shared their expertise with the newly de-
of web pages to secure the student’s safe navigation on
veloped Port of the Americas, of which AGMUS is a
the world wide web. By complementing security mea-
collaborator. Over 160 port specialist and business
sures with our internal audit systems, we mitigate prob-
leaders attended the symposium.
lems while detecting weak links.
In order to continually strengthen profes-
In today’s fast paced society it is imperative
sional schools, this year we identified the University
that academic institutions remain at the forefront of
of Toulouse, France, as a strategic partner. Our bi-
technological developments. Our efforts this academic
lingual (English-Spanish) program and the Doctorate
year included updating our current WIFI infrastructure
program in Business Administration at UT will ben-
to the new wireless technology in two or our campuses
efit directly from this partnership. The partnership will
as well as replacing mainframe servers in our Data Cen-
lead to professor and student exchanges, as well as
ter, our hub of information, in order to optimize the use
collaborative projects that will continue to make our
of energy. learning experiences at AGMUS ones with an interna-
In the coming year, we will bring “virtual” PC’s
tional perspectives.
into our computer laboratories and classrooms which
This year we strengthen our ties with our
will centralize the use of computers and eventually re-
neighbor in the Caribbean, the Dominican Repub-
duce the use of energy. We will continue to work to-
lic and President Leonel Fernández. President Fer-
wards optimizing the use of technology to provide for
nandez’s Foundation for Globalization and Develop-
the best learning experience of our students as well as
ment is a recognized non-profit organization which
providing the best information for decision making.
promotes environmental conservation as well as the
study of issues of globalization. The alliance will allow
lectures on these topics to be held in Puerto Rico, and
in particular at the UT’s Center for Environmental Innovation.
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T
he Vice Presidency for Planning and Academic
Affairs plays a pivotal role in positioning AGMUS
performed this year. Its goal was to streamline and share
as a leading institution within Puerto Rico’s higher
assessment tools, methods, and calendars. Now, the
education system. The vice presidency has two major areas
institutions share information and resources that will support
of responsibility: the academic component and institutional
strategic decision-making as well as help shape future
planning which includes strategic planning, institutional
projects.
research, statistics, as well as coordinating the system’s
physical and infrastructure development.
Within the academic component, student retention
remains a priority. For the third consecutive year, AGMUS
Planning is a pillar of development and progress
achieved an increase in its first-year retention rate, which
in AGMUS. This academic year (2008-2009), a system-wide,
amounted to a 1.2% increase for the system (67.6%) or a
summative evaluation was developed to assess the progress
5.2% increase as compared to the 2004 figures. This rate is
of our planning process. Accordingly, as a whole the System
higher than the average benchmark for peer institutions in
achieved an average completion rate of 81% with regard
the United States. Furthermore, the Career Ladder model was
of the goals and projects set for the first two years of the
implemented at the Technical Studies School as a graduation
Strategic Guidelines (2006-07 and 2007-2008). In addition,
and retention strategy for those students with a grade
a strategic process involving the three universities was
point average (GPA) lower than 2.0. To support its retention
In the area of adult education, the AHORA program,
established in 1995, continues to a great success and has
reached a record 8,000 students.
ANA G. MÉNDEZ UNIVERSITY SYSTEM • ANNUAL REPORT 2008-2009
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UNIVERSITY CENTERS
Unique learning opportunities
close to home
strategies and improve overall student services, AGMUS must
have accurate data and information to address students’
changing needs. To this end, an investment was made for
Universidad Metropolitana and Universidad del Este in the
acquisition and implementation Student Space, a leading
provider of student information systems focusing on student
tracking, retention and early intervention solutions.
The successful adult education program AHORA,
established in 1995, reached a record of 8,000 students during
the 2008-2009 academic year. The program extends to the
three main campuses and the university centers throughout
the Island. Seven new academic programs were designed
exclusively for the adult centered accelerated program, which
includes five master’s degrees and two bachelor’s degrees.
AGMUS School for Technical Studies provides one-
As part of our goal to
improve service for our
student body, we continue
to seek accurate data that
and two-year certificates and associate degrees in highdemand fields for students not attracted by the traditional
four-year college degrees. This year enrollment met the
goal of more than 2,400 students and a significant increase
in productivity indexes was achieved. The technical studies
school also established a working alliance with the
Municipality of Comerío and the Department of Education of
Puerto Rico in order to provide technical programs in the newly
constructed vocational school at that municipality, reaching
will permit us to develop
School of Technical Programs developed other partnerships,
targeted strategies that fit
primarily with the Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation
students’ changing needs.
to provide training in vocational and administrative areas for
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an initial enrollment of 140 new students. In addition, the
Workers and the Department of Correction and Rehabilitation
inmates, security guards and administrative personnel.
Both the adult program (AHORA) and the
Technical Programs now serve over 25% of AGMUS
total enrollment, or some 10,400 students, making
a significant contribution to the strengthening and
growth of the University System.
The year 2008-09 also witnessed a
substantial increase in external funds for the three
university institutions. Overall, AGMUS received the
approval of $28.5 million in grants and contracts
from a wide variety of entities such as the National
Science Foundation (NSF), the National Institutes of
Health (NIH), the Federal Department of Education,
NASA, and other federal and local agencies. This
represented a 31% increase in approved funds from
last year, an impressive achievement considering
the particularly difficult year this was in terms of the
A
GMUS’s thirteen University Centers (UCs) continue to
play a pivotal role in educating students in remote or
peripheral communities. The Office of the Associate
Vice President of University Centers, establishes the mission
of these Centers to advance regional socio-economic development by providing quality and current academic programs
in Puerto Rico’s more remote regions.
This year the curriculum has evolved around high
demand degrees such as criminal justice, health related professions, and social work in all of the Centers. At the Cayey Center, the classrooms are equipped with cutting-edge
technology including electronic and printable blackboards
that aid student retention. This year, students and faculty
from the social work program moved quickly into action to
address the educational, health and psychological needs of
a community in the Municipality of Patillas after it was affected by a devastating flood. The non traditional combination of
academic work and community link has given this University
Center one of the highest student retention rates, 89.7%.
Metro Orlando, Florida
USA
economic environment.
South Florida
In the important area of physical planning,
the vice presidency provided critical support in the
Isabela
conceptualization and design of future strategic
Barceloneta
Aguadilla
Utuado
expansion projects, such as the Metropolitan
Utuado
Institute of Research (MIR) and the Center for
Bayamón
Jayuya
Research & Development and Industrial Support
(CREDIS) for Universidad Metropolitana; the Center
Naguabo
Cayey
Yauco
Yabucoa
Ponce
Cabo
Rojo
Ponce
Santa Isabel
of Excellence for Community Health at Universidad
del Turabo; and the Jesús T. Piñero Library and Social
Research Center at Universidad del Este.
Overall, the Vice Presidency has focused
on leading the planning process and providing the
institutions with support in an advisory capacity to
meet our goals of academic excellence.
UNE’s Barceloneta Center, as well as the Cayey
Center, also has technology build into the learning experience in the classroom. It has sophisticated science laboratories with a showcase of equipment for sonography, radiology and mammography. It admits students with above
average GPA’s which this year reached an enrollment of approximately 80 students.
The University Centers are effective in bridging the
gap between school and the workplace. Because of the size
of the learning communities, the UCs provide a comfortable
setting with unique learning opportunities close to home.
Next year our goal is to expand the state-of-the-art technological services for all Centers.
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VICE PRESIDENCY OF MARKETING
AND STUDENT AFFAIRS
Student Enrollment - First Semester
Francisco Bartolomei
39,075
40,976
37,954
36,616
Public Commitment
and Quality Service for an Engaged
Student Body
34,302
30,797
27,262
22,754
2000-01
24,497
2001-02
2002-03
2003-04
2004-05
2005-06
2006-07
2007-08
2008-09
a widely viewed television debate with the gubernatorial
relevant and responsive ways to connect, guide and bring
candidates, in which AGMUS students prepared the questions
together our internal and external communities.
through live video and internet.
The Vice Presidency registered an increase in student
We also provided support to those affected by
enrollment to an all time high of 40,976, which is a significant
massive lay-offs in the public and private sector this year.
increase of 1,901 more students than last year. AGMUS also
As a direct response, the Vice Presidency organized an
registered an increase in its share of, post secondary education
GMUS strives to be much more than a traditional university
market from 21% in 2001 to 27% in 2007. More students
system. It is deeply engaged in our students and Puerto Rico’s
where displaced workers and professionals were oriented
every year trust AGUMS with their academic and professional
well-being and development. Through social marketing
about new careers options, new fields of study, employment
in student enrollment
A
employment fair, Reinventa tu futuro, Reinvent your Future,
and public relations strategies, we promote AGMUS’ commitment
opportunities and innovative ideas for new businesses. We
to an all time high of
and involvement in relevant and critical public issues that face society.
encouraged self-analysis to venture into new career options
We advocate for the Third Sector as an effective social and economic
by taking advantage of our flexible and varied curriculum.
force. We endorse regional multi-sectorial alliances that promote
Through these initiatives, AGMUS is in constant pursuit of
The Vice Presidency
registered an increase
40,976, which is a
significant increase of
1,947 more students
than last year.
futures.
AGMUS provides an array of services to students so
that they can graduate, continue their studies or enter the
workforce. Through the use of technology, phone or e-mail,
regional socioeconomic growth and sustainability.
An important campaign this year was an educational
campaign to encourage young voters to exercise their right to vote,
knowing that a large number of young people were not registered
to vote in the 2004 elections. The campaign Vota o Quédate Callao’,
Vote or Keep Quiet, communicated to young people that they must
vote if they want their opinions counted. The campaign also included
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Throughout 2008
we carried out public
information campaigns
and personal follow-up student services, they are aware of
in order to engage
their grades, required courses for graduation, registration
students and the public
completed. This service is valuable to students, most of which
to be responsible
members of society.
ciety.
deadlines and administrative procedures that need to be
balance work and study responsibilities.
The Vice Presidency’s Contact and Customer Service
of converting calls from prospective applicants into actual
monthly visitors to our web page, an increase of 10,706 from
Center will be expand
expanding to improve the services
enrollment. In order to gauge service and student satisfaction,
the previous year.
provide to our students. The
that we p
representativesuseanewsoftwaretosurveyclientsatisfaction
Because of our efforts to engage young people and
Center will eventually have
C
via telephone and record the use of the Contact Center. The
the quality and variety of academic programs that AGMUS
16 service representatives.
1
results are published by the Vice Presidency and analyzed
provides,thisyearbroughtthesystemanunprecedentedpublic
TThis
h year the Contact Center
internally in order to continuously improve operations and
serviced 579,425 calls through
ser
ANA G. MÉNDEZ UNIVERSITY SYSTEM • ANNUAL REPORT 2008-2009
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The System received acknowledgements, awards and
public recognition. The media coverage, through news
sources, alone for this year is equivalent to $8,182,342.
services to our students.
acknowledgement.Thesystemreceivedacknowledgements,
awards and public recognition. The media coverage, through
news sources, alone for this year is equivalent to $8,182,342
1-800 telephone line. Service
tthe
he 1
A new AGMUS web site was launched this year.
representatives provide orientation
repres
The new dynamic design provides easier navigation and
academic programs, account
on aca
highlights the system’s tools and technological services. This
students and other universities. We are confident that we will
balances,
b
alances as well as inquiries about
new version includes web 2.0, multimedia and statistical
continue to play an important role in attracting and retaining
program o
offerings with the purpose
analysis of the traffic. During the summer, there were 54,793
students in the future.
Student services have become AGMUS’ competitive
advantage. The services provide a differentiation among
ANA G. MÉNDEZ UNIVERSITY SYSTEM • ANNUAL REPORT 2008-2009
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VICE PRESIDENCY OF
ADMINISTRATIVE AFFAIRS
Jesús A. Díaz
Towards a
culture of
conservation
is an important concern because of intensive night time
A
On next year’s agenda is
a water-recycling project
that will utilize recycled
water from air
conditioning systems
chieving well-designed, well-maintained, green,
use, estimated to be 58%, at the institutions. As measures
energy efficient, student-friendly campuses and
of increased security, for the first time all three institutions
facilities are the goals of the Office of the Vice
use a RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) sensors to
President of Administrative Affairs. Our office looks for the
access parking. In addition, three trolleys offer constant
uniformity in the process and services of the entire AGMUS
transportation and patrol in cases of car trouble and
physical universe: all three institutions and their grounds,
security prevention.
the thirteen university centers, the television station and
A central electronic surveillance system covering
auxiliary enterprises, such as libraries, concession stands,
all three institutions was installed. Security cameras were
cafeterias, vending machines, and printing shop. We are
increased, leading to a reduction of 16,000 hours in
also responsible for the development of new facilities
security guard services. In addition, “overtime” in security
and physical infrastructure, both the engineering and
and maintenance services decreased by 80%, a savings of
architectural processes, where we apply value engineering
approximately $10,000. Since the electronic surveillance
to increase control and better administer projects. was installed, we registered a reduction in the number of
Our campuses and facilities are used intensely.
Last academic year, the three institutions received between
resolve situations before they reach the courts.
20,000 and 250,000 visitors. We consider the physical
Another key area of savings is the use and
and rainwater as a way of
infrastructure and upkeep to be part and parcel of students’
conservation of resources. Our office established the
education. A welcoming, professional, pleasant and clean
position of “specialist in applications” in order to collect
On next year’s agenda is a water-recycling project
lowering costs.
environment is a university system’s best face. Achieving
data on energy and water consumption, contracted hours
thatwillutilizerecycledwaterfromairconditioningsystems
this is a great challenge for AGMUS because the campuses
for security and maintenance; as well as to oversee room
and rainwater as a way of lowering costs. Next year, we
are spread out and the infrastructure varies with each.
temperature and light sensors controls. Monitoring these
plan to increase Wi-Fi zones in all three institutions and
resources allows us to project services and expenses
university centers, with the expectation that student use,
related to indirect costs. currently 85%, will increase to 100%.
Theresponsibilityforsecurityandtheadministration
of parking lots has added to our scope of activity. Security
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complaints and lawsuits by 40% because the cameras help
Another area of conservation
is the use of energy. This year
we concluded, a one-year
pilot project at Universidad
Metropolitana which
saved $600,000 in energy
consumption in a space of
more than 60,000 square
feet.
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VICE PRESIDENCY OF
HUMAN RESOURCES
Victoria de Jesús, Ed.D.
Rightsizing
to Meet
Challenges
The hiring process—postings, applications, profiles and
resumes – is conducted through the AGMUS web page. Staff
evaluations, records, and contracts are in digital format. The
web page is a friendly and manageable tool for enhancing
communication at all levels.
Satisfaction surveys are also distributed through the
he Vice Presidency of Human Resources promotes
internet on issues such as strategic planning, communication,
the system’s organizational development of faculty
client services, and organizational climate. Every two years, we
and administrative personnel, among AGMUS’ most
survey our associates and faculty on their perception of the
T
valuable resources.
Continuing education is our priority. This year we
and so did satisfaction levels in all categories.
organized the Management Academy, a 12-session training
As part of our commitment to employee health and
programthatstrengthenssupervisory,communication,process
well-being,theHealth@ProgramInitiativeprovidesnutritional
analysis, interpersonal relations, and management skills. This
information and guidance on preventing illnesses. In addition,
program has helped management expand its skills, which is a
we have nutritionists who guide employees on eating right for
must in a changing environment.
a healthy lifestyle.
Supporting the professional growth of our
Another landmark achievement was the creation of
The use of technology
management team, we also introduced a Quality Program in
the Association for AGMUS Employees and Retired Employees,
which promotes exchanges and educational activities by
in Human Resources is
conjunction with the American Society for Quality. During the
2008-2009academicyear,68employeesachievedanimportant
bringing together former employees and faculty on a regular
goal by obtaining Certified Quality Improvement Certificates.
basis.
an integral component
AGMUS offers a comprehensive benefits package
TheVicePresidencyofHumanResourcesmakessocial
of our commitment to
that is constantly updated and enhanced. Yet, we were able
responsibility part of its framework. A donation of computer
to save $4 million without downsizing. Efforts were focused
hardware, which included training in the use of the equipment,
increase efficiency and
on freezing vacancies and postponing salary increases. Within
was made to an elementary school in Caguas. Other donations
the context of “rightsizing,” recruitment revolves around
went to Hogar Rafaela Ybarra, Make-A-Wish Foundation, and
reduce paper work,
improving the quality of teaching, and hiring professors with
other organizations. Lastly, we have hosted quality assurance
doctoral degrees who have had publishing success. Emphasis
trainings for municipal personnel of the municipalities that we
thereby supporting the
is on academics in the areas of business administration,
serve.
environment.
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quality of services. This year, employee participation increased
entrepreneurship, technology and science.
This year we are pleased to
report there was a $4 million
savings without the need to
downsize.
Our focus in the next year will be to continue to
The use of technology in human resources is an
“rightsize” without affecting our associates. We project that
integral component of our commitment to increase efficiency
human resources will continue to provide the best support,
and reduce paperwork, thereby supporting the environment.
information, and professional development to our system.
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VICE PRESIDENCY OF
FINANCIAL AFFAIRS
VICE PRESIDENCY OF
UNITED STATES AND
LATIN AMERICAN AFFAIRS
Alfonso L. Dávila
Luis A. Zayas
Information for
Opportunity
Beyond our
strategic
decision making
Borders
T
his Vice Presidency has as a mission to lead the
activities and expansion of the system in the United
States and Latin America, under AGMUS Ventures.
This academic year, has brought many accomplishments
that expand the opportunities beyond our borders.
The main focus of the Vice Presidency is on two
campuses outside of Puerto Rico: Orlando Campus, founded
in 2003, and South Florida Campus, founded in 2006. In total
these campuses have 1,600 students. This year we achieved
an 18% increase in enrolment from the previous year. In
Orlando and South Florida we have academic programs
of the three institutions. In 2009, 153 graduates from the
Orlando campus and 49 from South Florida.
The curriculum and methodology implemented in
these campuses is an AGMUS registered trademark called
Discipline Based Dual Language Immersion Model®. This
model builds on the development of another language
based on the first language. Classes and course work are
taught 50 per cent in Spanish and 50 per cent in English.
The program’s goal is to develop dual language proficiency
in the student’s field of study, so that he or she carries this
bilingual ability into their professional lives.
There are two programs that are an essential
component of our student’s success: the adult AHORA
program and the Bridge Program. Since 2003, 674 adults have
earned a bachelor’s and master’s degrees in the accelerated
program in Florida. This academic year it is estimated that
70% or more of the AHORA bilingual program participants
are women, of whom over 50% are heads of families.
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This academic year, the program
registered a high retention rate, 77%.
T
he Vice Presidency for Financial Affairs is committed
world. To this end, we were vigilant of increasing our
This year we have made significant strides
in our budgeting analysis and control
systems. Budget versus actual reports to
management are now available in digital
format, on a daily basis.
collections and facilitating student loans, while promoting
The year 2008-2009 also witnessed an
other sources of revenues such as external grants and
improvement in the compliance monitoring of sponsored
donations. In addition, the Budget Office was successful in
programs. A Director of Compliance position was created
evaluating and establishing historical financial tendencies
to partner with the Principal Investigators of research
and indicators that help us detect and modify areas of
projects at the institutions to monitor the financial
opportunity for savings and controls within our system.
and programmatic regulations that apply to federally
This year we have made significant strides in our
funded research. In addition, a special email address was
budgeting analysis and control systems. Budget versus
reactivated (spfm@suagm.edu) so that associates and the
actual reports to management are now available in digital
general public can communicate confidential information
format, on a daily basis. We also initiated a process to
concerning the compliance of sponsored programs.
to supporting student learning and faculty research
through a financially strong university system.
This year was particularly challenging in the control of
The Bridge Program (Programa Puente) is
designed for individuals who do not meet at least one
of the admission requirements for the adult accelerated
program and its purpose is to facilitate the skills needed
for the AHORA program. Bridge currently has 233 students
on both campuses. This academic year, the program
registered a high retention rate, 77%.
A vital part of our institution is the staff and faculty
that compose our US family. A conscious effort has been
made so that the staff and faculty reflect the composition
of our student body, representing 15 nationalities. This
academic year, the Orlando faculty totals 149 professors
and 100 in South Florida.
In the coming year, we will partner with Regis
University, to complete the design of the new on-line dual
language immersion master’s degree programs, the first
on-line programs to systematically incorporate voice and
video to develop the language arts skills - reading, writing,
speaking and listening - in English and Spanish
We will also continue to expand the AGMUS
Ventures with a focus on other Florida sites and the
northeast US. Our aim is to continue to develop the
academic,professionalandlanguageskillsofadultstudents
to improve their competitiveness in the job market and
improve their quality of life.
expenses, because of the repercussions of the investment
provide management with monthly financial statements
Also this year, AGMUS’ institutions chose to
to better communicate the short term changes in the
participate in the new TEACH Program sponsored by the
system’s financial position. In addition, reporting formats
US Department of Education. This program provides a
were redesigned to be more “user-friendly” and therefore
$4,000 yearly grant to students committed to teaching in
more useful in management’s decision making. low income schools. The financial aid office communicates
On the investment front, the institution changed
investment consultants and trustee for the endowment
the requirements, procedures and counsels students on
this excellent professional opportunity.
fund. This change will allow for a more complete reporting
This year AGMUS has enhanced student financial
system designed for better decision making at the Board of
services and accessibility to the financial aid, while at the
Directors, senior management and investment committee
same time, it has enabled the AGMUS to stay on track in
levels. the changing economic landscape.
ANA G. MÉNDEZ UNIVERSITY SYSTEM • ANNUAL REPORT 2008-2009
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Our Institutions
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A Success Story:
Diana del Carmen Obregón
Universidad del Turabo
A Comprehensive Institution
Dennis R. Alicea, Ph.D., Chancellor
A view of UT’s Casa Solaria ecological house has won
recognition for its efficient eco-design.
U
CNN en Español’s journalist Alberto Padilla addressing UT’s
School of Business and Entrepreneurship.
Students tackle experiments at an engineering laboratory
in UT’s competitive engineering school.
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niversidad del Turabo (UT) has been effective in
fostering growth at its main campus and the six
Centers located in outlying municipalities inspired
by a vision of creating a comprehensive institution. UT’s total
enrollment in 2008 reached 15,403 students, an increase of
6.7% from the previous year. UT provided scholarships to
faculty members to continue doctoral studies. Thirty nine (39)
faculty members are enrolled in doctoral studies to expand the
49% already faculty members with doctoral degree. Faculty is
comprised of vastly educated professors with scientific and
research capacities.
During academic year 2008-2009, UT developed new
programs such as: Master degrees in Public Affairs Conflict
Mediation, Quality Management and Project Management;
Undergraduate Degrees in Social Work and Computerized
Information Systems; Associate Degrees in Hotel and Tourism
Administration, Environmental Technician, Computers &
Networks;TechnicalProgramsCertificatesinPracticalNursing,
Pharmacist Technician, and Port Operations. This year UT
witnessed its first doctoral-degree graduates in Education.
Career and Employment Center increased
participating employers by 5%. During this year 151 students
participated in Internships and a total of 2,776 students
participated in job fairs.
The institution has aggressively sought external
funding. Over $8 million in external funding has been
awarded for student scholarships, academic improvements,
student services and infrastructure improvements by Federal
agencies such as National Science Foundation, NASA,
Department of Energy, and Department Education; industries
such as AMGEN and Medtronics; and local agencies such
as the Puerto Rico Legislature and Office of Youth Services.
Meanwhile, the Capital Campaign reached the goal of $7.6
millionforitsmaincomponents:PermanentScholarshipFund,
Annual Fund, School of Engineering, Museum and Center of
Humanistic Studies Dr. Josefina Camacho de la Nuez and
School of Business and Entrepreneurship.
During the last four years UT has been the only
national Hispanic-serving and Puerto Rican institution to
participate in the Samuel P. Massie Chair of Excellence
program, funded by the Federal Department of Energy to
produce groundbreaking environmental research and topnotch researchers. At UT, the Massie Chair supported research
in environmental science and energy, in coordination with
the Puerto Rico Energy Center (PREC) and the Eastern Central
Technological Initiative (INTECO, its Spanish acronym).
Providingapanoramicviewofthechangingbusiness
scenario, UT’s Business and Entrepreneurial School hosted
the Forum on New Perspectives on Economic and Business
Opportunities for Puerto Rico. Guest speaker Alberto Padilla,
business journalist for CNN en Español, spoke about the
current challenges of the business world and its impact on
Latin America and the Caribbean, to local and international
professors of business and governance.
In its vision of a comprehensive institution, the
resident writer Edgardo Rodríguez Julia provided six
conferences Heteroglosas Antillanas. Another milestone was
reached with the creation of the García Passalacqua-Acosta
Center at UT’s Library. Juan Manuel García Passalacqua, a
renowned historian, political analyst and writer, served as
advisortotwooftheIsland’sGovernors.Hiswife,IvonneAcosta,
also a renowned writer and bestselling author, entrusted UT
with their documents and manuscripts establishing a reading
room in the library which bears their name.
To foster the development of ethical and civic
values in students and the community at large, the Institute
of Applied Ethics hosted a series of forums and developed
various community projects. Also students from the Honor
Program participate actively as volunteers in social causes
targeted to the elderly, abused women and children.
In conclusion, many accomplishments were
achieved paving the direction for UT to reach its goal of being
the “comprehensive university”, for its academic community.
I
n 2003 I graduated top of my high school class with
a GPA of 4.00. In August of that year, I enrolled in
natural sciences studies at the University of Puerto
Rico, at Rio Piedras. At the time, I was interested in
studying medicine, but I quickly discovered that it
wasn’t my passion. I realized I wanted to help people
with matters not visible to the eye, such as a wound
or a fracture. This is why I changed my major and
institution. In 2004, I began my studies in Psychology
at the Honor Program at the University of Turabo.
On January 27, 2007, the year I was to
conclude my undergraduate studies, I was the victim
of car accident, in which I lost my right arm, and
almost lost my right leg. It was a difficult time in my
life. Nevertheless, there were family and friends around
me which gave me strength. There was also a group of
very special people at the Honor Program who provided
unconditional support. Their encouragement made me
understand that regardless of what had happened to
me; I could reach my goals and thus materialize my
dreams.
Today, June 7, 2009 I graduate with a bachelor’s
degree in psychology, with a 4.00 grade point average.
I never let obstacles overcome me, I never stopped
believing in myself nor did those who love me. Today,
I am reaching for my next dream; to obtain a master’s
degree in psychology, as well as a doctorate. I will be
able to serve thousands of people. I will work hard for
them and hope that they also believe in me.
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Universidad Metropolitana
Creating effective alliances for Puerto Rico’s
sustainable development
Federico M. Matheu, Ph.D., Chancellor
Communications Laboratory, with an investment of $1.2M,
is a state-of-the-art lab with video, television and radio
capabilities.
Dr. Ibrahim Saleh, a communications expert, was UMET’s
Fulbright Scholar this year from the American University in
Cairo.
UMET’s newest
publication to promote
sustainability.
P
t Rico
ur society faces unparalleled economic and
environmental problems and academia must
innovative in order to find solutions. The Universidad
Metropolitana has faced this through a twofold approach:
to excel in scientific research, mathematics and technology;
and to become an effective advocate for sustainable
development in Puerto Rico. During the 2008-2009 academic
year, the university made significant strides in achieving both
objectives.
The School of Environmental Affairs (SEA) has
become the premier center of environmental education
in Puerto Rico, and has earned UMET the title of “University
of the Environment”. This year, SEA published the book
“Hacia el desarrollo inteligente: 10 principios y 100 estrategias
para Puerto Rico” (Towards smart growth: 10 principles and
100 strategies for Puerto Rico) which recommends policies
for sustainability. SEA also published the research “LandUse Sustainability Index”, to be used my municipalities as
indicators and policies in their progress toward effective landuse.
Another award was won by UMET this year. The
2008 Environmental Award was granted to SEA’s director
of the Center for Sustainable Development, Prof. Maria
Juncos Gautier for her leadership and contribution to the
advancement of environmental causes.
Through the research efforts of Dr. Beatriz Zayas,
director of the university’s ChEMTox Laboratory, and her
collaboratorDr.OsvaldoCox,UMETsubmitteditsfirstscientific
patent to the U.S. Patent Office. Drs. Zayas and Cox designed,
developed and tested these new anti-cancer compounds,
whose fluorescent properties give them the potential as
markers to detect cancer cells. The compounds are subjected
to further studies at the SEA laboratory in Cupey.
Another important step in our quest for innovation
is the eco-business program that transforms ideas into viable
businesses that address the Island’s environmental problems. Twenty-one entrepreneurs have been advised on their
environmental business plans. Six of these will be selected
to be part of “environmental business incubator project” in
O
the municipality of Barceloneta. The School of Environmental
Affairs was awarded a grant of $600,000 from the National
Science Foundation towards this effort.
Further outreach was achieved beyond our campus;
this time, by the School of Technical Studies. Through a
strategic alliance with the municipality of Comerío, a new
technical school will provide technical degrees in highdemand occupations, such as: health plan administrators,
nurse assistants and computer technicians. The School of Business Administration and its
Entrepreneurs Students Association won the distinction
for its best practices in entrepreneurship at the Collegiate
Entrepreneurship Organization convention in Chicago. The group of students also won the First Prize among twohundred institutions of higher education for best business
plans and web page design. We were honored to host Fulbright professor
Ibrahim Saleh of the American University in Cairo, Egypt, who
gave a series of lectures on perspectives of communications.
Dr. Saleh’s visit was held to inaugurate the $1.2 million
Communications Laboratory. Its sophisticated equipment
offers digital video, radio transmission capability and media
production that will benefit all of academic community.
Last summer, over one-hundred (100) students
from the School of Science and Technology participated in
undergraduate research projects. Fifteen of these students
received scholarships from the Spanish Research Council, in
Spain. Their findings were presented at a US symposium,
where more than 150 students participated from universities
in Puerto Rico and US. Because of its innovative curriculum, particularly in
the sciences, enrollment reached a record of 12,125 students.
The freshman retention rate rose from 64% to 68%, due, in
part, to the implementation of a program developed by the
Center for Individualized Education that offers independent
mentoring and counseling services to address student’s
personal and academic needs.
UMET continues its quest for external funds. During
the academic year 2008-2009, more than $13 million were
collected for 52 different programs. In the past four years, the
institution has received approximately $46 million, mostly
for science, environmental science, students’ services and
technology programs.
We celebrated the end of the academic year with our
male student athletes’ win in Puerto Rico’s most competitive
intercollegiate track & field event. Our female athletes won
second place in their category. The Cocodrilos and Cocodrilas
were outstanding in their third year as members of the
Intercollegiate Athletic League.
A Success Story:
Harry Peña
W
hen the plastic recycling plant where I worked
closed in 1995, I enrolled in Universidad
Metropolitana’s
masters
program
in
environmental management. As a student, I was
recruited by a company that inspected for lead-based
paint and asbestos in public housing projects. I also
gained experience in air-quality monitoring in buildings
scheduled for demolition. In 2001, I resigned to work
on my own and devoted time to my thesis. The 9/11
attacks made me change course. A New York City
environmental firm recruited me to work on Ground
Zero. For three weeks, I trained people and monitored
the air quality of buildings. Thanks to the interdisciplinary training I had received at UMET, I was able
to take advantage of this opportunity.
Upon my return to Puerto Rico, I decided to set
up my own business. On one job, inspecting historic
bridges for lead-based paint, I realized there were no
guidelines on preserving the colonial structures without
affecting the bodies of water. This became my thesis
topic and in 2004, I obtained an MA in environmental
management.
Today, my company, Zimmetry Environmental
Management Corp., is a leader in environmental
inspection of buildings. The master’s program, and my
professors, helped me launch Zimmetry. They helped
me with their vision and experience and I followed every
piece of advice they gave me. Now, I offer a course at
UMET on occupational health and safety. I believe in
the school and have recruited three graduates.
I urge my students to use the tools they have
been given and put in the maximum effort, and they will
excel. Success depends on knowledge and learned
skills, and more than anything, on the attitude we bring
to everything we do.
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Universidad del Este
Pursuing a vision of research, entrepreneurship,
community service and internationalization
Alberto Maldonado Ruiz, Esq., Chancellor
U
niversidad del Este (UNE) continues to move ahead
in its steady pursuit of academic excellence. Quality
in academic programs and services, coupled with
proactive attention to student needs, remain institutional
priorities. The quest of specialized accreditations emerges at
the forefront of academic initiatives.
At the top of the list of outcomes are new academic
developments and accreditations in science and technology
UNE’s Job Placement Center successfully matched 309
people with jobs.
Radiology and health related fields are high demand
occupations being met by UNE.
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and in allied health fields with certificate programs in Practical
nursing, in Computer repair and Network installations. A
Master’s degree in Education with specialization in School
Psychology adds to the graduate portfolio. Associate degrees
in architectural drafting and in avionics technology are in the
pipeline.
Doctoral degrees in the faculty body have risen to
41%. In service trainings with an emphasis in the integration
to the teaching and learning process of constructivist
methodologies, technology and assessment permeate
academic life. In support of programs, bibliographic resources
in multiple media grow alongside programs.
Prestigious accreditations and licensing that attest
to the quality and character of its academic programs
and services have been accomplished: the Accreditation
Commission for Programs in Hospitality Administration
(ACPHA) and from the Joint Review of the Health Commission
onEducationinRadiologicTechnology(JRCERT).Additionally,
the Preschool Education Center was licensed by the Puerto
Rico General Council of Education. Specialized accreditations
at the national level include programs in business programs,
nursing, social work, teacher education and culinary arts.
Enrollment totals 12,291, an increase of 18.5% in 5
years. During the same period, graduate enrollment increased
in 569%. Retention efforts are on the rise with an overall 69%
for the fall 2008 cohort. Student services staff availability have
been extended to evenings and weekends in response to
student demands and needs. Events and activities focusing
in a positive outlook on life and wellness are serving to create
a climate of respect and non violence.
UNE’scommitmenttowardtheintegraldevelopment
of its student body has led to greater access and more
availabilityofopportunities. Theinternprogramwassuccessful
in providing educational and research opportunities for
163 students in competitive universities such as Princeton,
Rutgers, Penn State, Ohio State and Harvard.
In order to meet the needs and demands of an
emerging knowledge–based economy, UNE prioritizes
research as a key institutional goal. The institution continues
to accomplish major milestones in pursuing the process of
strengthening and building the capacity to promote research
activities among faculty members and undergraduate
students. Fiscal resources for research activities reached a
historical high of $1.3 million with significant support from
NIH/RIMI and NIH/MBRS/RISE programs funding.
As part of a commitment to promote volunteerism,
the Honors Program participants serviced 561 hours to
several local non-profit organizations equipped with a Service
Learning course and guidance. A tribute to Puerto Rico’s past
was instituted when UNE was entrusted with the legacy of
the first Puerto Rican governor. The Jesús T. Piñero Collection,
while preserving the heritage of this important statesman, is
documenting an era for a new generation of Puerto Ricans.
Next stages include the transformation of the Collection
into the Jesús T. Piñero Library and Research Center open to
scholars and the community.
Fundraising efforts have secured the commitment
ofprivateorganizationsandpartnerships.EmpresasSantana’s
$1 million donation was earmarked for the José A. (Tony)
Santana International School of Hospitality and Culinary Arts.
The J. Willard and Alice S. Marriott Foundation ($100,000) and
the Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria (BBVA) de Puerto Rico
($50,000) are supporting educational scholarships. External
funds ($7,170,828) for the current period are supporting
research, student services and infrastructure.
UNE continues to receive international recognitions
for its accomplishments. Most recently, the World
Confederation of Businesses recognized UNE with the 2008
Bizz Award.
A Success Story:
Emmanuel Vázquez-Rivera
E
mmanuel Vázquez-Rivera demonstrated his
interest in science early at UNE. Since he began
his studies at UNE he distinguished himself by
his leadership and academic commitment, joining the
honor program during his first semester of study. His
first encounter with research was as a participant in
the pre-College Research Symposium sponsored by
Universidad Metropolitana as a Model Institution for
Excellence of the National Science Foundation. This
experience opened doors taking him to the University
of Wisconsin-Madison during the summer of 2007, as
an intern. During this time he published an article in the
University’s scientific journal. That summer, Emmanuel
won a grant from the Federation of American Societies
for Experimental Biology (FASEB) to continue his
research in applied microbiology.
With these experiences under his belt, he
also found time to be a student leader on campus.
Emmanuel is the founder and President of UNE’s
Students in Biotechnology. One of his most significant
activities was serving as a research mentor for other
science students.
Since being admitted to the Department
of Molecular Biology of the Lewis-Singler Institute
for Integrative Genomics of Princeton University for
graduate studies, Emmanuel will have reached one
of his many academic goals. He is a source of pride
for the Honors Program to which he belongs and for
UNE.
ANA G. MÉNDEZ UNIVERSITY SYSTEM • ANNUAL REPORT 2008-2009
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Distance Education Initiative
2008-2009
Ana G. Méndez University System’s
Television Channel
A groundbreaking
vision of education
at a distance
SíTV: where information
and education meet
Margarita Millán, Esq.
Journalists Zugey Lamela and Ariel Rivera Vázquez are
the new news anchors for SíTV Informa.
Migdalia Torres, Ph.D.
T
he Ana G. Méndez University System (AGMUS), a
pioneer in distance learning, moved closer to its vision
of establishing the first Puerto Rican distance university.
Based on a philosophy of inclusiveness in education, the
university is envisioned to become a major alternative to
traditional education, by being the first accredited distance
university to grant graduate degrees while meeting the
highest standards of quality and academic excellence.
An important step was taken during this academic
year, when distance education was separated from its
television counterpart, the rebranded educational station
SíTV. Although the distance-learning program continues
to be offered on Channel 40 (Channel 40.1, according to
its digital ID), they are now two separate entities. AGMUS’
distance education initiative is currently being evaluated
by the Puerto Rico Council on Higher Education (CES, by its
Spanish acronym) to grant a license for full operation. Once
this license is granted, the Middle States Commission on
Higher Education will perform an evaluation to then grant the
accreditation to the distance university.
Online education has gained much popularity with
AGMUS students. Courses with low enrollment at different
campuses have been more successful online. Twenty-six
courses are being offered, with 31 active sections and a
total enrollment of 534 students from the three university
campuses. This online program plans to expand through
an agreement with AGMUS Ventures, which ratified the
design of 29 dual language online courses. UT and Regis
University assisted the distance university in developing
dual language courses. These courses will be offered at the
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Metro Orlando and South Florida campuses. In addition, the
distance education initiative is developing 14 online modules
to grant a Certificate of advanced degree in Entrepreneurship,
Capitanes del Mundo Empresarial, which would be offered
by the eastern-central economic development consortium,
INTECO.
The External University Educational System (SEDUE,
by its Spanish acronym) has brought distance-learning to
students. The SEDUE project introduced hundreds of students
via television to basic Spanish, English, Humanities and other
courses. These have now evolved into “hybrid courses,” a
combination of online and television-courses. Enrollment
during 2008-2009 academic year totaled 560 students and
generated revenue of $270,480. In addition to servicing the AGMUS community, we
have also collaborated with the public school system. The
successful LOGOS mathematics project provides teachers
with advanced problem-solving mathematics, aligned with
the standards of the Department of Education. This year, the
Department of Education renewed funding for the successful
project which will produce two new tele-courses; $558,500
was allocated for mathematics teachers to enroll in the
program. Another major accomplishment this year was the
launching of the Internet SEDUE radio programs and www.
sedueradio.com. AGMUS began one of Puerto Rico’s first formal
distance education programs in 1985. With this experience
and investment, we have been able to keep abreast of the
competition and able to see into the future of distance
education.
T
aking a giant step, AGMUS launched SíTV Canal
Universitario Ana G. Méndez, changing the name and
image of the historical TV station. The rebranded WMTJTV, Channel 40, reinvented itself as an alternative channel –
educational, informative and also entertaining, with a greater
number of high-quality, locally produced programs and
high definition (HD) broadcasts. Access is strengthened via
the island’s three cable-TV carriers: SíTV: OneLink Channel 3,
Liberty Channel 40 and Choice Cable Channel 26
Creating a new identity for the station coincided
with the switch to digital TV. By federal mandate, all television
stations were required to broadcast in digital format by
June 12, 2009. Digital transmission offers TV viewers better
picture and sound quality, and additional programming
choices through multiple broadcast streams, referred to as
multicasting. The AGMUS educational station was ready by
the original Federal Communications Commission deadline
in February 2009.
AGMUS, a pioneer in educational TV, is the only
educational institution in Puerto Rico with a non-commercial
broadcast license. In establishing a new identity, SíTV has
developed twenty-three original programs, among them,
Aventura Científica (Scientific Adventures), a series of thirteen
programs produced in collaboration with Universidad
Metropolitana ’s School of Environmental Affairs. They are
filmed on location, for example in the Cucharillas marshlands
and Jobos Bay natural reserve, and address topics such as
recycling and sustainable development. María Falcón, winner
of international awards, among them The Conservation Film
Maker of the Year Award, is the producer.
Using the talent of the system’s universities is central
to creating new programming. The station joined forces with
bo
the Universidad del Turabo
e
on Sí al Museo (Yes to the
n
Museum). The first of ten
programs starred the
permanent collection of
archeological artifacts of
the Museum and Center
of Humanistic Studies,
which is located on the
UT campus. As part of
this cultural offering,
SíTV viewers “visit”
prominent, local artists in their
workshops and learn about local customs, art trends, up and
coming artists and exhibitions at various cultural institutions.
SíTV Informa, is expected to become the station’s
hallmark.Theredesigned30-minutenewscastisairedMonday
through Friday, and includes segments on the environment,
art and culture, business, technology, among others. Experts
from the three universities give depth to these reports with
analysis that goes beyond the breaking news. Journalists
Zugey Lamela and Ariel Rivera Vázquez are news anchors.
The station’s first exclusive live transmission was
coverage of the 7th Annual Plaza Food Fest with international
chef Lidia Bastianich, of “Lidia’s Italy” television program. To
reach a larger student audience, SíTV will broadcast live the
Volleyball Final Series of the Athletic Inter Universities League
as part of a plan for sports involvement.
SíTV, a positive and affirmative brand, has become a
workshop for talented producers, technicians and reporters
to contribute to quality educational programming in Puerto
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Projections
2009-2010
Organizational Chart
Projections for next
academic year include:
BOARD
OF
DIRECTORS
A view of the architectural design for the UT’s community
health center.
• In order to continue to attract quality faculty and maintain
our standard of excellence, we will continue to acquire
national accreditations for the health programs at UNE, UMET
and UT.
• We will launch AGMUS’ Distance University with the licensing
required by the appropriate agencies thereby initiating a new
chapter in distance education in Puerto Rico.
• In an effort to expand the health sciences programs across
the system, we will finalize the details of the design of a
Community Health and Wellness Center at both UT and
UNE.
• A long awaited goal will be reached in the coming year
when we break ground to initiate construction of CREDIS
(Center for Research Development and Industrial Support) at
Barceloneta. A key project and alliance which will focus on
biotechnical pharmaceutical research which will propel the
region’s economic development.
• As a Center for Excellence in research, UT’s Puerto Rico
Energy Center will continue to expand its research agenda
through undergraduate and graduate research initiatives in
renewable energies.
• We will conclude AGMUS Ventures feasibility study to
determine the expansion of AGMUS and the opportunities
of growth, such as establishing a community college model,
under UNE’s academic program, in South Florida and the
Dominican Republic.
• We will continue to establish collaborative agreements
with the Department of Education and municipalities to
develop educational centers such as the one created with
the Municipality of Comerío, in order to bring the AGMUS’
technical programs to other remote areas of the Island.
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• Our culture of business innovation will continue to expand
through the creation of business incubators and strategic
alliancesforresearchandcommercializationwiththeregional
consortia: INTECO, INTENOR, INTENE AND DISUR.
• In light of the changing workplace and professional
landscape, we will assess and identify economic, social, and
global trends in order to develop a Career Think-Thank that
will foster new academic careers and degrees. Its mission will
be to identify new niches and unexplored opportunities in
academia.
Executive
Committee
Finance
Committee
Academic &
Student Affairs
Committee
Bylaws
Committee
Internal
Auditor
We will be consistent in carrying out its Vision 2015
in making the AGMUS a center of innovation and a versatile
institution. Our vision extends beyond classroom walls to
include the economic development, at both the regional and
municipal level, which we understand is the key in fostering a
strong and prosperous society.
PRESIDENT
Chancellor
Universidad
Metropolitana
Executive
Vice President
A view of the Center for Research Development and Industrial
Support (CREDIS) at Barceloneta which will carry out pharmaceutical
research.
Audit
Committee
VP Planning
and Academic
Affairs
Vice President
of Financial
Affairs
Chancellor
Universidad
del Este
Vice President
of Administrative
Affairs
Chancellor
Universidad
del Turabo
Vice President
of Marketing and
Student Affairs
Chancellor
Distance Education
Initiative
Vice President
for US and Latin
American Affairs
Vice
President and
General Manager
SiTV
Vice President
of
Human
Resources
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General Information
Ana G. Méndez University System
PO Box 21345
San Juan, PR 00928-1345
Phone: 787-751-0178
Fax: 787-766-1706
E-mail: ac_jmendez@suagm.edu
Website: www.suagm.edu
The Institutions
Universidad Metropolitana
PO Box 21150
San Juan, PR 00928-1150
Phone: 787-766-1717
Fax: 787-759-7663
E-mail: umet_fmatheu@suagm.edu
Universidad del Este
PO Box 2010
Carolina, PR 00984-2010
Phone: 787-257-7373
Fax: 787-752-0070
E-mail: ue_amaldonado@suagm.edu
Universidad del Turabo
PO Box 3030
Gurabo, PR 00778-3030
Phone: 787-743-7979
Fax: 787-744-5394
E-mail: ut_dalicea@suagm.edu
Distance Education Initiative
Comerío Avenue 1600, Suite 1
Bayamón, PR 00961-6376
Phone 787.288.1100 ext 8320
Fax: 787.288.1141
E-mail: ca_mtorres@suagm.edu
SíTV
PO Box 21345
San Juan, PR 00928-1345
Phone: 787-766-2600
Fax: 787-250-8546
E-mail: mamillan@suagm.edu
Metro Orlando Campus
5601 South Semoran Blvd.
Terracota Business Center Suite 55
Orlando, FL 32822
Phone: 407-207-3363
Fax: 407-207-3373
E-mail: eacosta@suagm.edu
South Florida Campus
PO Box 27-8740
Miramar, FL 33027-8740
Phone: 954-885-5595
Fax: 954-885-5861
E-mail: snazario@suagm.edu
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