Senate Concurrent Resolution 654 Summary

• Recognizes and commends Dr. Bettye Rogers Coward for her retirement as President of Blue Mountain College effective June 30, 2012, after nine years of service as the seventh president and first female president of the college.

• Documents major institutional achievements under her leadership including transitioning from an all-women's to coeducational college, increasing enrollment over 50%, establishing the first graduate program (Master of Education), and launching the first men's intercollegiate athletics program.

• Highlights operational improvements such as 48% increase in full-time faculty, operating budget growth from $5 million to $9.5 million (89% increase), and accreditation reaffirmation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Universities.

• Notes additional accomplishments in campus life and community engagement including expansion of athletic teams to eight, establishment of service learning initiatives with 62% of 2011 graduates participating in internships, and inclusion on the 2010 President's Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll.

• Directs that the resolution be presented to Dr. Coward and her family, forwarded to Blue Mountain College's Board of Trustees, and provided to the Capitol Press Corps.