Dear Ms Smith:
I write to you to suggest two agenda items for the Academic Affairs committee: First, the possibility of having a student speak at academic graduations. And second, tighter regulation of graduating with honors (First Honor, summa, magna, and cum laude).
In regards to students speaking at graduation: UGA deviates from custom at many schools by not including any students speakers at graduation. May I suggest that your committee look into this issue? If your committee decides to pursue this matter, I would like to help in any way possible. Victor Wilson is the contact person on this issue.
In the second matter: Many students here are graduating with honors by taking their most difficult courses at community colleges. The ability to take ‘weeder’ courses at community classes.
When the University calculates honors graduations, the registrar uses ‘total UGA cumulative credit.’ This total cumulative credit includes non-UGA coursework. I suggest that honors graduation only be based upon credit earned at UGA, rather than transfer credit from other schools.
If your committee decides to pursue this issue, I suggest starting with Gary Moore (Registrar) and Dr. Winthrop (OVPAA).
My warmest regards,
Chris