If you were wondering where the entire faculty went at the end of October, here is your answer.  From October 29 until October 31, Geography faculty, along with representatives of the research faculty, staff, and graduate students, were at the fall semester retreat at Osprey Point on the Eastern Shore.  During this time, the retreat participants spent time addressing several issues:

RECOMMENDATIONS TO COMPLY WITH THE CAMPUS STRATEGIC PLAN

Undergraduate Program.  Issues included determining which classes meet the “Pathways to Knowledge” requirements; considering a revision of the graduation requirements for the Geography majors; and increasing the level of interaction between undergraduate students and faculty.

Graduate Program.  Items considered were “right-sizing” the program; improving graduate student recruitment efforts; and increasing graduate student participation in service positions and professional organizations.

Research Program. The department proposes to launch two centers: Human Dimensions of Global Change and GIScience.  In addition, it will seek to improve relations between undergraduates, graduates, and research scientists and collaborate with other departments on campus

CHANGE OF THE DEPARTMENT’S NAME

It was agreed to propose a change to our name from the “Department of Geography” to the “Department of Geographic Sciences.”  The goal is to better define ourselves on campus and to the world beyond- campus; the name change will also highlight our unique role on campus. After approval by the University, major relaunch activities and events will be planned.

THE DEPARTMENT’S VISION AND MISSION FOR THE FUTURE

In view of the changing discipline of geography and strategic planning for the future, new vision and mission statements are being prepared.