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Ana G. Méndez University SystemAnnual Report 2008-2009

3ANA G. MÉNDEZ UNIVERSITY SYSTEM • ANNUAL REPORT 2008-2009

Our Guiding Principles

Vision 2015

Message from the Board Chair

2008-2009 Board of Directors

Message from the President

Development and Alumni Affairs

Public Policy Institute

Economic Development and Commercialization

Leading our System

U.S. Presidential Advisory Board

Executive Vice Presidency

Vice Presidency of Planning and Academic Affairs

Vice Presidency of Marketing and Student Affairs

Vice Presidency of Administrative Affairs

Vice Presidency of Human Resources

Vice Presidency of United States and Latin American Affairs

Vice Presidency of Financial Affairs

Our Institutions

Universidad del Turabo

Universidad Metropolitana

Universidad del Este

Distance Education Initiative

SiTV Ana G. Méndez University Channel

Projections 2009-2010

Organizational Chart

General Information

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CONTENTS

2

ANA G. MÉNDEZ UNIVERSITY SYSTEM • ANNUAL REPORT 2008-20093


5Client

AcademicAffairs

1 2Services andStudent

Development

2

6FiscalStrengthening

6

Technologicaland PhysicalInfrastructure

5 4Management andOrganizationalDevelopment

4

Medular vectors

Support vectors

7 Institutional Quality and Effectiveness

7 Institutional Quality and Effectiveness

3PublicEngagement

3

As part of the University System’s goal to be-

come one of the principal initiators of ideas on

the island, Vision 2015 focuses on the strategies

that will help generate feasible solutions to meet Puerto

Rico’s economic and social development needs over the

next decade.Vision 2015 not only embraces the strate-

gies implemented over the past decade in Vision 2005,

it takes them to greater heights by emphasizing on new

and expanded vectors or strategic priorities. These vec-

tors are focused on seven key areas that in-

clude academics aff airs, student ser-

vices and development, public

engagement, management

and organizational deve-

Focus on growth and excellenceVision 2015

lopment, physical and technological infrastructure, fi scal

strength, and institutional quality and eff ectiveness.With

Vision 2015, Ana G. Méndez University System’s goal is to

be recognized not only as an institution of higher learn-

ing, but one of excellence in the areas of research and ser-

vices, contributing signifi cantly to Puerto Rico’s economic

growth and to the overall community. In the next years,

the University System seeks to be recognized as an entity

of transformation, constant innovation, and fi nancial sta-

bility, centered on individuals as their main

and principal focus, while making ef-

fective use of its technological,

physical, and management

resources to support its

mission.

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The Ana G. Méndez University System

(AGMUS) was founded 60 years ago on

seven basic principles. These principles

have served the institution well and are

alive in the system’s mission which to this

day guides our work serving our students

and Puerto Rico.

Our Guiding

Principles

In a democratic society, every human being has the

right to an education, regardless of race, sex, color,

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 benefi t from

academic programs to the full extent of their ability.

All educational institutions should aspire to achieve

academic excellence and should commit themselves

to fostering such excellence through enlightened

approaches to education.

Academic institutions are integral components of the

communities they serve.

Faculty members must innovate for the benefi t of their

students and for their own professional growth.

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

emphasize academic skill and growth that is productive

in both daily living and employment.

The fundamental commitment of the Ana G. Méndez

University System promotes a better quality of life for

our students, employees and the community at large.

A G M U S A N N U A L R E P O R T 2 0 0 8 - 2 0 0 9


4



a critical role in the advancement of technology and

scientifi c research, not only within AGMUS, but in all of

Puerto Rico. INTENOR in Barceloneta established this year

a Scientifi c Board, composed of researchers and business

leaders, to continue to develop the Center for Excellence

in Technology Advancement (CETA). This center is already

producing prototypes of medicine, as well as undertaking

critical scientifi c research that will create new opportunities

for the pharmaceutical industry in Puerto Rico.

Leading AGMUS Board through this academic year

has been a rewarding experience and it makes me proud

of its accomplishments. I can foresee that the sciences and,

in particular the health related sciences, will continue to

become an ever growing important factor of our society;

so too, will the demand for competent health professionals

and critical research. I can thus envision that the creation of

a medical school would be an important achievement for

AGMUS in the future, a goal which I look forward with great

enthusiasm.

Florabel G. Mullick, MD

Board Chair

5

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 fi eld.

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The strategic vision of AGMUS is set by the Board of

Directors, which is comprised by twelve individuals of

great professional profi ciency and human quality. The

Board has demonstrated its commitment not only to AGMUS,

but also to Puerto Rico.

During my tenure as Board Chair, we have given

special attention to such values as solidarity, trust and respect.

By following and strengthening these principles, the Board

has enhanced its performance as rector of the System, as well

as it has ensured that the decisions made are consistent, and

in consensus. With this base, the Board provides guidance

to optimize the utilization of resources toward the System’s

constant growth.

Financially speaking, in particular for this past year, the

Board distinguished itself for having successfully mitigated the

impact of the eff ects of the fi nancial crisis experienced in the

investment world. The Board spearheaded initiatives to control

the budget, bring about changes in investment policies, and

introduce measures that will bring stability and success in the

long term. Thanks to the eff ective team work formed by the

Board and the administration, AGMUS remains a fi nancially

strong institution.

In the area of education, we experienced this

year a signifi cant growth of investments for the teaching

of the Sciences. At the undergraduate level, the sciences

are dominating the teaching curriculum, in response

to the ever increasing demand of careers in the health

fi eld. The UMET experience, with the development of its

Mathematics Center with a National Science Foundation

$1.5M grant, led the way for other institutions to establish

their respective centers, focusing in the strengthening of

science and math skills.

Exchanges with universities in Europe and Latin

America have gained AGMUS the public acknowledgement

and credibility as an institution where growth and

transformation take place. In a few short years, we have

transformed from a simple System to a complex one

with an expanded and varied academic off erings, greater

scientifi c research projects and increased international

exchanges that provide the System with alternative

academic perspectives. This enriches the experience of

everyone in the System, including its Board.

It is my belief that the economic development

consortiums have already proven themselves to play

Message fromthe Board Chair

4

Rapid growth and high credibility

ANA G. MÉNDEZ UNIVERSITY SYSTEM • ANNUAL REPORT 2008-2009ANA G. MÉNDEZ UNIVERSITY SYSTEM • ANNUAL REPORT 2008-2009

The economic

development consortiums

have proven themselves

to play a critical role in

the advancement of

technology and

scientifi c research.

6



Board of Directors

Committees

EXECUTIVE COMMITEE

José Domingo Pérez, Chair

Néstor de Jesús Pou

José F. Méndez

Ivar A. Pietri

Víctor Hernández

Juan R. Melecio

FINANCE COMMITEE

Ivar A. Pietri, Chair

Agnes B. Suárez

Audit Commitee

Juan R. Melecio, Chair

Daneris Fernández

ACADEMIC AND STUDENT AFFAIRS COMMITEE

Víctor Hernández, Chair

Juan M. García Passalacqua

Antonio J. Colorado

David Rivé Power

Florabel G. Mullick

Félix R. Schmidt

FIDUCIARY COMMITEE


José F. Méndez

Zoraida Fonalledas

Victoria de Jesús, Vice President

of Human Resources

Antonio A. Figueroa Alvarado, Vice President

of Financial Aff airs

José E . de la Cruz Skerrett, Esq.

Legal Counselor

STATUTES COMMITEE

David Rivé Power, Chair

José F. Méndez


Juan R. Melecio

76

ANA G. MÉNDEZ UNIVERSITY SYSTEM • ANNUAL REPORT 2008-2009 ANA G. MÉNDEZ UNIVERSITY SYSTEM • ANNUAL REPORT 2008-2009

Board of Directors

Committeess

EXECUTIVE COCCC MMITTTTEEEEEEEE

José Domingo Pérez, ChChChChaiaaa r

Néstor de Jesús Pou

José F. Méndez

Ivar A. Pietri

Víctor Hernáááándezzzz

Juan R. Meleecio

FINANCE COOMMMMITEE

Ivar A. Pietri,, Chaaair

Agnes B. Suáááárez

AuAuuAudiddd t Coooommmm itee

Juannnn R. MMeMM lecio, Chair

DaDaDaDaneriss ss Fernández

ACADEMIC AND STUDENT AFFAIRS COMMITEE



Antonio J. Colorado

David Rivé Power

Florabel G. Mullick

Félix R. Schmidt

FIDUCIARARRARYYYY COCOCOCOMMMMMMMMITITITITEEEEEEEEE


José F. Méndez

Zoraida Fonalledas

Victoria de Jesús, Vice President

of Human Resources

Antonio A. Figueroa Alvarado, Vice President

of Financial Aff airs

José E . de la Cruz Skerrett, Esq.

Legal Counselor

STATUTES COMMITEE

David Rivé Power, Chair

José F. Méndez


Juan R. Melecio

7

2008-2009 AGMUS Board of Directors

6

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Florabel G. Mullick, Chair

Félix R. Schmidt

José F. Méndez

Antonio J. Colorado

Víctor Hernández

José Domingo Pérez

FINANCE COMMITTEE

Antonio J. Colorado, Chair

Félix R. Schmidt

Juan R. Melecio

Daneris Fernández

ACADEMIC AND STUDENT AFFAIRS

COMMITTEE

José Domingo Pérez, Chair

Víctor Hernández

David Rivé

Zoraida Fonalledas

BYLAWS COMMITTEE


José F. Méndez


Florabel G. Mullick

AUDIT COMMITTEE


Antonio J. Colorado

Zoraida Fonalledas

Juan R. Melecio

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

José Domingo Pérez, CE

Antonio J. Colorado, Esq.

Zoraida Fonalledas, Esq.

Juan R. Melecio, Esq.

David Rivé, Esq

Víctor Hernández, DMD

Daneris Fernández, ChE

José E. de la Cruz Skerrett, Esq.Legal Counselor

7ANA G. MÉNDEZ UNIVERSITY SYSTEM • ANNUAL REPORT 2008-2009ANA G. MÉNDEZ UNIVERSITY SYSTEM • ANNUAL REPORT 2008-2009

8



During the 2008-2009 academic year, we met

several objectives and goals based on our strategic vision.

With the support of our US Presidential Advisory Board and

the leadership of our institutions, a new strategic plan was

put in place to guide the strengthening of teaching and

research in the areas of science, technology, engineering,

mathematics, and health allied fi elds. This new “STEM+H”

plan will provide the guidelines to expand and enhance

our programs and initiatives in these critical areas toward

the year 2020. These plans focus on the health and health-

related professions, fi elds of increasing importance,

taking bold steps to expand the Health Sciences program

at the three institutions, particularly at the Universidad

Metropolitana (UMET). Plans for developing a community

health center at UMET’s campus in the municipality of

Bayamón were fi nalized. We completed the transfer of

several health programs from our main campus in Cupey to

Bayamón to better accommodate the physical and market

needs of our newly developed nursing degree programs.

At the Universidad del Turabo (UT), our eff orts led to

obtaining accreditation for its Nursing School.

Important goals in infrastructure were attained.

We purchased 15 acres in the Municipality of Gurabo

for expanding the Universidad del Turabo campus.

Architectural plans were fi nished for the expansion

of the Museum and Center for Humanistic Studies

at Universidad del Turabo. The new facilities of this

important center will provide ample exhibition and

meeting spaces for both national and international artists.

We continue to create alliances with local

governments and the private sector. An agreement was

reached between UMET, the Department of Education,

and the Municipality of Comerío to off er short-term

technical programs establish a UMET technical school in

the facilities of the newly constructed local vocational

school. These facilities are used to off er training for nursing

technicians, medical record administrators and computer

technicians. Over 150 students have benefi ted form this

program. Plans are underway to replicate this initiative

in other vocational schools throughout the island.

We have proactively expanded the scope of our mission, participating actively with other sectors of society in search of powerful solutions.

Message fromThe President

Raising the Bar to Meet Challenges

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Raising the bar to meet today’s social, economic and

global challenges is a constant quest of the Ana G.

Méndez University System. Since its inception in 1949,

AGMUS has become a pillar of our society. We have worked

tirelessly to lay a solid educational foundation and as we

celebrate our 60th anniversary, we can proudly say that AGMUS

has become one of the fi nest academic institutions of our time.

Our society and the world face unprecedented

challenges that require prompt responses from academia.

Rapid environmental degradation, rising unemployment

and plunging fi nancial markets, health epidemics, and

the need to develop alternative energy sources, are

factors that make our society vulnerable. At the same

time, we must continue to compete and excel on a

global scale. Therefore, we must harness science and

technology to resolve these problems and aspire to an

ideal in order to enhance the quality of life for our society.

AGMUS has adopted a dual approach to meet these

challenges. First, by developing an exemplary education

with curriculums tailored to current economic, social and

global trends. But that is not enough. We have proactively

expanded the scope of our mission, participating actively

with other sectors of society in search of powerful solutions.

Undoubtedly, we have become a leader in both the educational

arena and in promoting and implementing ideas that foster

social change and social responsibility in Puerto Rico.


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.

10



addressed the need for a governmental fi scal reform

strategy as well as increasing technological alternatives

available to dispose and reduce solid waste and its impact

on the economy and the environment. Our Institute’s

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

and the aim to serve other Hispanic communities as

stated in Vision 2015, AGMUS branched out to the United

States where it developed two campuses, Orlando and

South Florida. These now serve over 1,700 students. A

comprehensive market study was conducted to determine

the feasibility of expanding services to emerging markets

such as the Dominican Republic, Panama and other

locations in the state of Florida. In Tampa, for example,

there is great demand for AGMUS’ dual-language model, a

registered trademark. The Dominican Republic represents

an opportunity to establish a community college concept

using the Universidad del Turabo’s (UT) academic curriculum.

On the international scene, the university system

plans to launch Puerto Rico’s fi rst Distance Learning

University with a full curriculum from the three institutions.

The system will use state-of-the-art technology that will

foster interactive learning through live conversations,

chats and seminars. This “virtual” University aims to

attract local as well as international students seeking

an updated curriculum and learning methodologies

based on professional and work experiences. Once

again, AGMUS will be in the vanguard creating the

fi rst university of this type originating in Puerto Rico.

Digitalization and rebranding the university

system’s Channel 40 brought the new SíTV-Canal

Universitario to the screen. The station will continue as a

PBS affi liate but will expand its off ering to include topics

ranging from current aff airs to university life. New news

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Spearheaded by AGMUS, with the support of

Municipalities and private industries, the four regional economic

development consortia have taken on ambitious agendas.

The consortium alliance of the northern region, INTENOR, is

completing construction plans for the Center for Research

& Development and Industrial Support (CREDIS), within the

INTENOR Science Park in the Municipality of Barceloneta. CREDIS

will house the research projects related to the pharmaceutical

industry. On the other hand, the INTECO alliance, in eastern

central Puerto Rico, will have developed a center for the study

of renewable energy, through the Puerto Rico Energy Center

(PREC), to research photovoltaic, plasma and wind technologies.

INTENE in the eastern sector and DISUR in the south are also

developing projects geared to the specifi c needs of their regions.

This year, more than ever before, our work

transcended the university community to a greater audience.

The Public Policy Institute (IPP) brought public attention

to pressing problems facing our society. The Institute held

several forums, one of which addressed issue of creating

effi cient and eff ective government by Ambassador Maurice

McTigue, from George Mason University. The Institute also


INTECO will develop a

center for the study of

renewable energy and

engineering such as

the photovoltaic and

wind technologies.

Regis University, of Colorado, awarded Dr. Méndez a Doctor Honoris Causa degree, his second award, for his lifetime work in higher education.

anchors will bring to life talk shows, news analysis, live coverage

of cultural events, and coverage of academic activities of the

three universities. The fi rst programs will feature the UMET’s

environmental adventures, the UT’s artists in residence at

the Humanistic Museum and UNE’s Jesús Piñero Center,

honoring the legacy of the island’s fi rst Puerto Rican governor.

As we continue writing the pages of our history,

the Offi ce of the President, with the aid guidance and

support of the Board of Directors, expects nothing

less than to work with dedication and excellence in

contributing to meet the challenges posed by today’s

complex outlook. As we complete our 60th anniversary,

we reaffi rm our mission of service to Puerto Rico and the

Hispanic community, begun by Ana G. Méndez, and one

that our entire system understands to be relevant today.

José F. Méndez, Dr.h.c.

President

12



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Institutional development and alumni relations are two key

areas that make AGMUS standout as an educational insti-

tution. These attest to the quality of our education and our

reputation among alumni. Our offi ce’s mission is to develop

relationships with alumni and link potential donors with pro-

grams, scholarships and the construction of new facilities.

During the 2008-2009 academic year, our offi ce ef-

fectively formed alumni groups, from the three universities.

We made it a priority to involve alumni in identifying potential

partners. Most developed a commitment to their alma mater

while students and now as alumni, they want to give some-

thing back.

Our Capital Campaign eff orts that began in 2004

ended successfully in December 2008. The campaign goal

was $24.6 million, of which $20 million was raised. The funds

are destined for eight major projects: the School of Business

and Entrepreneurship (Universidad del Turabo), programs

and scholarships in science and technology (UMET), the Stu-

dent and Alumni Village (UT), the new AGMUS SíTV, the José

A. Santana International School of Hospitality and Culinary

Arts (Universidad del Este), the José Domingo Pérez School of

Engineering (UT), the Permanent Scholarship Fund, and the

Dr. Josefi na Camacho de la Nuez Museum and Humanistic

Studies Center (UT).

While over 100 corporations, foundations, and fi rms

contributed to the campaign, three gifts stand apart. The José

A. (Tony) Santana Foundation, a nonprofi t organization, part

of the Empresas Santana conglomerate, donated $1 million

toward the academic program in hospitality management

and culinary arts at UNE. The school, which now bears the

name José A. (Tony) Santana International School of Hospital-

ity and Culinary Arts, will use the funds for academic develop-

ment, scholarships and the construction of new culinary arts

laboratories.

The Museum and Center for Humanistic Studies at

UT has been dedicated to Dr. Josefi na Camacho Nuez, mother

of Guillermo L. Martínez, philanthropist and arts patron, who

donated $1 million for the expansion of this project. New ex-

hibit halls and open spaces will allow for greater access to the

permanent collection.

The UT School of Engineering received a donation of

$2,295,000 from a group of engineers and engineering fi rms

to expand the School of Engineering. These funds were used

for laboratories for electrical engineering, information systems

and improvement of classrooms. The school has been named

the José Domingo Pérez School of Engineering in honor of

engineer Pérez and his leadership in the fi eld of engineering

and the Capital Campaign.

Building Dreams: “Envision-Support-Transform”


Last year the scholarship fund benefi ted 441 un-

dergraduate students; 249 have since graduated. Under the

Permanent Scholarship Fund, 175 students are receiving

scholarships in the three institutions.

Once again we led the Puerto Rico Chapter of the

Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), which estab-

lishes standards of conduct for the fundraising profession. It

has supported tax reform laws that would increase the cur-

rent 33% deduction for donations in order to stimulate chari-

table giving in Puerto Rico.

In retrospect, this year we fulfi lled many dreams en-

visioned. Progressively we will create alliances with individu-

als and organizations that also believe in building dreams for

the future.

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 Offi ce

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.

Our Collaborators


12 13ANA G. MÉNDEZ UNIVERSITY SYSTEM • ANNUAL REPORT 2008-2009ANA G. MÉNDEZ UNIVERSITY SYSTEM • ANNUAL REPORT 2008-2009

14



ANAANAANAANAANAANAANAANAAANAANA G.G G. G.G.GG G.G.G MÉMÉ MÉ MÉ MÉMÉMÉMMÉMM NDENDENDENDEEENDENDENDENDENDENDENDEZ UZ UZ UZ UZ UZ UZ UZ UZ UZ UZ UZZ UNIVNIVNIVNIVNIVNIVNIVNNIVVNIVERSERSERSEERSERSERSERSERER ITYITYITYITYITYITYITYITITTY SYSYSYYS SY SYSYSTEESTESTESTESTESTESTEM •M •MMM M M ANANN ANNA AN A A NUANUAAANUANUANN L RL RL RL RLL EPOEPOEPOEPORT RRT RT 200002 8-28-2009009

At this critical juncture in global aff airs, Puerto Rico

needs to develop public policy alternatives to guide

present and future decision makers. AGMUS made a

strategic move to promote public policy alternatives through

academic research and public discussion. As a result, the Pu-

blic Policy Institute (IPP) was created to study current public

policies and promote new or alternative policies for Puerto

Rico. Its vision guided by its Board President, attorney César R.

Vázquez, and its dynamic Advisory Board, is to incorporate citi-

zens in the discussion of public policies, present alternatives

to public sector decision makers, and foster the formation of

public offi cials serving in the legislature, judiciary and execu-

tive branch of government.

This past year the IPP addressed a number of vital

public issues. The IPP generated public discussion in support

of the not-for-profi t sector, or Third Sector. The IPP advocated

the passage of Senate Bill # 2551 that would make contribu-

tions to nonprofi ts 100% tax deductible. The proposal is still

being analyzed by the Legislature. The Institute also focused

on supporting legislation to raise municipal autonomy to con-

stitutional status based on a keynote speech given by former

Governor Rafael Hernández Colón in 2008. IPP eff orts involved

meeting with various legislators to discuss the benefi ts of mu-

nicipal autonomy.

Institute forPublic Policy

Institute forPublic Policy

Raising awareness about environmental issues

remains a priority. The IPP has collaborated in developing

strategies for managing solid waste conversion to energy.

The forum “Technological Options in the Management of

Solid Waste” showcased proven technologies. The speak-

ers were Dr. Nicholas J. Themelis, from Columbia University,

with panelists Carl Soderberg, Director of the Environmental

Protection Agency in Puerto Rico, and Javier Quintana, Exec-

utive Director of the Puerto Rico Solid Waste Authority. The

IPP has also promoted the importance of stimulating com-

petitiveness for economic growth linked to environmental

issues.

This year, governmental reform and downsizing

the public sector has generated public discussion and con-

troversy. In light of this, the Institute sponsored a forum on

“Transforming the Government” with special guest, the Hon-

orable Maurice McTigue, Vice President and Director of the

government accountability project of the Mercatus Center, a

think-tank of George Mason University. He proposed chang-

es in public sector management and budgeting based on

results; and emphasized that transparency and accountabil-

ity are crucial to successful governance. Local experts, par-

ticipating 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 consult-

ing fi rm.

In 2008-2009, six policy papers were published by

the IPP which addressed the topics of the forums. These pa-

pers are a signifi cant educational contribution to policymak-

ers, academics and the general public.

The forums were broadcast live on SíTV for public viewers.

Ambassador Maurice McTigue, George Mason University, speaks at the forum on transforming government to a full auditorium.

In sum, the Institute continues to be at the forefront

of discussion of relevant public policies. In today’s dynamic

scenario, it is a vital voice for the analysis and development of

sound policies for Puerto Rico.

Relevant Policies in an Era of Rapid Change

The IPP advocated the passage of Senate Bill # 2551 that would make contributions to nonprofi ts 100% tax deductible.


16




The Offi ce of Economic Development and Commer-

cialization is an important arm supporting AGMUS in

its vision to create and participate in activities that fos-

ter Puerto Rico’s socio-economic development as well as the

transfer and commercialization of technology.

Our objectives include promoting the consolida-

tion of regional organizations of economic development, and

multi-sector consortia of private, public and third-sector orga-

nizations, including academia. We are committed to support-

ing the creation of university programs and activities which

stimulate innovation and an institutional entrepreneurial cul-

ture, linked with regional initiatives. Another objective is to

create and support institutional processes and policies that

achieve technology transfer. In promoting business creation,

the formation of entrepreneurs, and the creation of capital,

we are also promoting a dissemination of wealth at all levels

of society.

Our regional, economic development model fo-

cuses on the resources, needs and profi le of each region and

matches those characteristics to business creation, employ-

ment generation and investment. We see regionalization as

an exercise in democracy that allows communities, business-

Teaming up for Science, Technology and Economic Development

Economic Development and Commercialization

es and educational institutions to participate in governmental

action. This in turn impacts the quality of life of all citizens.

AGMUS’ foresight to take a lead in creating multi-

sector centers, joining science and technology to promote

economic development and serve the needs and future

growth of regions, has borne fruit. AGMUS has helped create

and organize four regional economic development organi-

zations: INTENOR (Spanish acronym for the Northern Tech-

nological Initiative), INTENE (North-Eastern Technological

Initiative), INTECO (Eastern-Central Technological Initiative),

and DISUR (Alliance for the Integrated Development of the

South). In 2008-2009 these four successful regional consortia,

have become major players in promoting and implementing

economic development. A multi-sector board of directors

guides the corporations; area municipalities, the private sec-

tor and leading academic institutions are represented on the

board. More than 50 municipalities jointly benefi t from their

programs.

A myriad of other activities throughout AGMUS are

planned for the four regional consortia as they are proving to

be eff ective and vital motors in the socio-economic develop-

ment of Puerto Rico.

INTENOR INTENE INTECO DISUR

We participate and actively foster the development of strate-

gic projects:

Science and technology parks

Business Incubator

Research Centers, such as Center for Research and De-

velopment and Industrial Support in Barceloneta and the

Puerto Rico Energy Center in the Universidad del Turabo

Mass transportation projects

Renewable energy projects

The second major area of activity for the Offi ce 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 “start-

ups”. AGMUS has already submitted its fi rst four patent appli-

cations and is in the process of implementing an aggressive

commercialization plan. Also, it has completed commercial-

ization agreements that should evolve into joint ventures

with innovative technology entrepreneurs.

AGMUS

has already submitted

its fi rst four patent

applications and is in the

process of implementing

an aggressive

commercialization

plan.


18



Dennis R. Alicea, Ph.D.Chancellor

Universidad del Turabo

Luis A. ZayasVice President of United States

and Latin American Aff airs

Vice Presidents & Chancellors

Alfonso L. DávilaExecutive Vice President and Acting

Vice President of Financial Aff airs

Jorge L. CrespoVice President of

Planning and Academic Aff airs

Leading our System

Migdalia Torres, Ph.D. Chancellor

Distance Education Initiative

18 1919191919191991191191919199991911199999AANAANAANAAANAANAANAANA GGGG G. G.G. ÉMÉMMÉMÉMÉ MÉMÉMÉ MÉMÉMÉMÉÉNNNDNDENDENNDENDENDENDENDENDENDEDEDENDEDEEDEEZ UZ UZ UZ UZZZZ UZ UZ UZ UZ UUZ UZZ UZ UZZ UUZ UUNIVNIVNIVNIVIVVNININIVNIVNIVNNIVVNIVVIVVNIVNNIVNIVNIVVVVVERSERSRSERSERSERSERERSERSERSERSERERSEE SSEERSERSERSSERSRSE SITYITYITYITYYITYITYITYTITYITYITYITITYYITYYTTYTYITYTYYY SSYSSY SYSYSYSSSYYYYSSYSY SY SY SYSYYSYYYSYSSTESTESTETSTESTESTESTESTESTESTETESTEESTESTESTETEESSTET M •M •M •MMMM •M •MMMM •M •M •M •M •M ••MM •M •M •M AANANAN AN ANAN AN AA ANANANANANAANANANANNAA NUANUANUANUANUAUANUANUANUANUANNUANUANUANUANUAANUANNUANUAAN ANUAL RL RL RL RL RL RL RL RRRL RL RL RL RL RL RL RRL RRLLL RL REPOEPOEPOEPOEEPOEPOEPOEPOEPOEPOEPOPOEPOEPOEPOEPOEPOEPOEPOEPOPOOPEPOEPOEPOE RTRTRTRT RT RT RT RT TRTRTRTRTRTRRRTRTRRRRRTTTTTRRTRT 2002002002002002002002002002002000020002002002000202002020000200020002002000020008-28-28-28-28-28-28-28-28-8-28-28-28-28-28-28 28-28-2-28 28-28--8-28-2-8-2--28-228-28 0090090090090090090090090090090090900900909000900900990099009900900 9990090009009000900000

Margarita Millán, Esq.Vice President and General Manager

Sí TV – Ana G. Méndez University Channel

Francisco BartolomeiVice President of

Marketing and Students Aff airs

Jesús A. DíazVice President of

Administrative Aff airs


Vice Presidents & Chancellors

Federico M. Matheu, Ph.D.Chancellor

Universidad Metropolitana

Alberto Maldonado Ruiz, Esq.Chancellor

Universidad del Este

Victoria de Jesús, Ed.D.Vice President of

Human Resources


20



that students and the public have to ad campaigns has pro-

vided management with valuable data on the of the student

recruitment process. We have broken down the way in which

we collect this data to develop a computerized system which

includes the phases of a student’s recruitment process: an

analysis of the potential student’s in a fi eld of study, know-

ledge about the application process, did the candidate apply

for admission and has the student registered at the institution.

This information serves as “intelligent reporting” for manage-

ment and can be strategic in the decision making process.

In order to protect the systems for all of our users,

proactive security measures have been taken. An Intrusion

Prevention System was introduced as web fi lters to detect

external threats to the system. We also installed an Internet

Security and Acceleration Server (ISA) which rates the content

The Offi ce of the Executive Vice President facilitates

and promotes the eff ective fl ow of communication

and implementation among the system’s academic

institutions, the Vice Presidential divisions and SíTV, as well

as oversees the telecommunications and Information Tech-

nology Department and development of AGMUS’ University

Centers.

Information, communication and decision making

are at the crux of our mission. As meeting point, we are the

hub where the academic vision meets administrative chal-

lenges and a diversity of our academic communities fi nd a

common ground.

The primary facilitator of these complex processes

is the state-of-the-art technological infrastructure that main-

tains and nurtures all administrative and academic processes.

Technology is the universal member of our system which en-

ables the effi cient management of our resources. This year

our commitment to Information Technology (IT) is evidenced

by our $1.5M annual investment in software, hardware and

IT services. This included an investment in the network’s in-

formation “backbone” in each institution. Another major in-

frastructure enhancement was the replacement of the main

connections to the public network by new high speed links,

increasing data traffi c transport capacity by an average of

1000%. This signifi cant increase in capacity was done to ad-

dress the need to support video conferencing, multimedia

content, online courses, access to external data bases, and

other web based applications used in the classroom.

Technology has facilitated the collection of informa-

tion that many times shapes the direction of the institutions.

For example, data collected from marketing on the response

Progress at the Speed of Technology

OFFICE OF THE EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT

Alfonso L. Dávila


Science and technology is a primary focus of the programs of

AGMUS and the U.S. Presidential Advisory Board has played a pi-

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

Herman J. Gibb, P.h.D.

Florabel G. Mullick, MD

Dr. Michael Chartock

Scott May

Dr. William Dawes, Jr.

Félix R. Schmidt, MD

Ronald Blackburn

Dr. Mark Bradley Lyles

Dr. Melissa A. McDiarmid

Nizar N . Zein, MD

Dr. José A. Centeno

U.S. Presidential Advisory Board in

Science, Engineering and Health


Science, engineering and health related fi elds play an important role at AGMUS.

This year has seen an increase in biotechnology research.

Undergraduate students have opportunities to carry out their experiments in fully equipped state-of-the-art laboratories.

Health related careers are offered at the three institutions with a consistently high enrollment rate.

22



of web pages to secure the student’s safe navigation on

the world wide web. By complementing security mea-

sures with our internal audit systems, we mitigate prob-

lems while detecting weak links.

In today’s fast paced society it is imperative

that academic institutions remain at the forefront of

technological developments. Our eff orts this academic

year included updating our current WIFI infrastructure

to the new wireless technology in two or our campuses

as well as replacing mainframe servers in our Data Cen-

ter, our hub of information, in order to optimize the use

of energy.

In the coming year, we will bring “virtual” PC’s

into our computer laboratories and classrooms which

will centralize the use of computers and eventually re-

duce the use of energy. We will continue to work to-

wards optimizing the use of technology to provide for

the best learning experience of our students as well as

providing the best information for decision making.

We also installed... a system which rates the content of web pages to secure the student’s safe navigation on the world wide web.


23232323

VICE PRESIDENCY OF PLANNING AND ACADEMIC AFFAIRS

Jorge L. Crespo

The Vice Presidency for Planning and Academic

Aff airs plays a pivotal role in positioning AGMUS

as a leading institution within Puerto Rico’s higher

education system. The vice presidency has two major areas

of responsibility: the academic component and institutional

planning which includes strategic planning, institutional

research, statistics, as well as coordinating the system’s

physical and infrastructure development.

Planning is a pillar of development and progress

in AGMUS. This academic year (2008-2009), a system-wide,

summative evaluation was developed to assess the progress

of our planning process. Accordingly, as a whole the System

achieved an average completion rate of 81% with regard

of the goals and projects set for the fi rst two years of the

Strategic Guidelines (2006-07 and 2007-2008). In addition,

a strategic process involving the three universities was

Planning for the Future Today

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.


performed this year. Its goal was to streamline and share

assessment tools, methods, and calendars. Now, the

institutions share information and resources that will support

strategic decision-making as well as help shape future

projects.

Within the academic component, student retention

remains a priority. For the third consecutive year, AGMUS

achieved an increase in its fi rst-year retention rate, which

amounted to a 1.2% increase for the system (67.6%) or a

5.2% increase as compared to the 2004 fi gures. This rate is

higher than the average benchmark for peer institutions in

the United States. Furthermore, the Career Ladder model was

implemented at the Technical Studies School as a graduation

and retention strategy for those students with a grade

point average (GPA) lower than 2.0. To support its retention

CORPORATE AND INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS

Building Global Bridges

The mission of the Offi ce of Corporate and In-

ternational Affairs is to bridge academic and

institutional ties with international educational

institutions. This year there have been important ac-

complishments that aid in our endeavor to build global

bridges.

Our offi ce constantly seeks out and responds

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-

veloped Port of the Americas, of which AGMUS is a

collaborator. Over 160 port specialist and business

leaders attended the symposium.

In order to continually strengthen profes-

sional schools, this year we identifi ed the University

of Toulouse, France, as a strategic partner. Our bi-

lingual (English-Spanish) program and the Doctorate

program in Business Administration at UT will ben-

efi t directly from this partnership. The partnership will

lead to professor and student exchanges, as well as

collaborative projects that will continue to make our

learning experiences at AGMUS ones with an interna-

tional perspectives.

This year we strengthen our ties with our

neighbor in the Caribbean, the Dominican Repub-

lic and President Leonel Fernández. President Fer-

nandez’s Foundation for Globalization and Develop-

ment is a recognized non-profi t organization which

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 In-

novation.

24




As part of our goal to

improve service for our

student body, we continue

to seek accurate data that

will permit us to develop

targeted strategies that fi t

students’ changing needs.

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 fi ve master’s degrees and two bachelor’s degrees.

AGMUS School for Technical Studies provides one-

and two-year certifi cates and associate degrees in high-

demand fi elds 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 signifi cant 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

an initial enrollment of 140 new students. In addition, the

School of Technical Programs developed other partnerships,

primarily with the Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation

Workers and the Department of Correction and Rehabilitation

to provide training in vocational and administrative areas for

inmates, security guards and administrative personnel.


Utuado

PonceCabo Rojo

Yauco

Utuado

Barceloneta

Jayuya

Ponce

Isabela

Santa Isabel

CayeyYabucoa

Naguabo

Bayamón

Metro Orlando, Florida

South Florida

USA

Aguadilla

UNIVERSITY CENTERS

Unique learning opportunities close to home

AGMUS’s thirteen University Centers (UCs) continue to play a pivotal role in educating students in remote or peripheral communities. The Offi ce of the Associate

Vice President of University Centers, establishes the mission of these Centers to advance regional socio-economic devel-opment 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 pro-fessions, and social work in all of the Centers. At the Cay-ey 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 affect-ed by a devastating fl ood. The non traditional combination of academic work and community link has given this University Center one of the highest student retention rates, 89.7%.

UNE’s Barceloneta Center, as well as the Cayey Center, also has technology build into the learning experi-ence in the classroom. It has sophisticated science labora-tories with a showcase of equipment for sonography, radi-ology and mammography. It admits students with above average GPA’s which this year reached an enrollment of ap-proximately 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 techno-logical services for all Centers.

Both the adult program (AHORA) and the

Technical Programs now serve over 25% of AGMUS

total enrollment, or some 10,400 students, making

a signifi cant 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 diffi cult year this was in terms of the

economic environment.

In the important area of physical planning,

the vice presidency provided critical support in the

conceptualization and design of future strategic

expansion projects, such as the Metropolitan

Institute of Research (MIR) and the Center for

Research & Development and Industrial Support

(CREDIS) for Universidad Metropolitana; the Center

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.

26




AGMUS strives to be much more than a traditional university

system. It is deeply engaged in our students and Puerto Rico’s

well-being and development. Through social marketing

and public relations strategies, we promote AGMUS’ commitment

and involvement in relevant and critical public issues that face society.

We advocate for the Third Sector as an eff ective social and economic

force. We endorse regional multi-sectorial alliances that promote

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

Public Commitment and Quality Service for an EngagedStudent Body

VICE PRESIDENCY OF MARKETING AND STUDENT AFFAIRSFrancisco Bartolomei

The Vice Presidency

registered an increase

in student enrollment

to an all time high of

40,976, which is a

signifi cant increase of

1,947 more students

than last year.


a widely viewed television debate with the gubernatorial

candidates, in which AGMUS students prepared the questions

through live video and internet.

We also provided support to those aff ected by

massive lay-off s in the public and private sector this year.

As a direct response, the Vice Presidency organized an

employment fair, Reinventa tu futuro, Reinvent your Future,

where displaced workers and professionals were oriented

about new careers options, new fi elds of study, employment

opportunities and innovative ideas for new businesses. We

encouraged self-analysis to venture into new career options

by taking advantage of our fl exible and varied curriculum.

Through these initiatives, AGMUS is in constant pursuit of

relevant and responsive ways to connect, guide and bring

together our internal and external communities.

The Vice Presidency registered an increase in student

enrollment to an all time high of 40,976, which is a signifi cant

increase of 1,901 more students than last year. AGMUS also

registered an increase in its share of, post secondary education

market from 21% in 2001 to 27% in 2007. More students

every year trust AGUMS with their academic and professional

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,

27

22,754

Student Enrollment - First Semester

24,497

27,26230,797

34,30236,616

37,95439,075

40,976

2000-01 2001-02 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09


28 29282828282828282828282828288282828828288828228828288282

and personal follow-up student services, they are aware of

their grades, required courses for graduation, registration

deadlines and administrative procedures that need to be

completed. This service is valuable to students, most of which

balance work and study responsibilities.

The Vice Presidency’s Contact and Customer Service

Center will be expanding to improve the services

that we provide to our students. The

Center will eventually have

16 service representatives.

This year the Contact Center

serviced 579,425 calls through

the 1-800 telephone line. Service

representatives provide orientation

on academic programs, account

balances, as well as inquiries about

program off erings with the purpose

28

Throughout 2008

we carried out public

information campaigns

in order to engage

students and the public

to be responsible

members of society. Center will be expand

that we p

C

11

TTh

ser

tthe 1

repres

on aca

bbalances

program o

ciety.


of converting calls from prospective applicants into actual

enrollment. In order to gauge service and student satisfaction,

representatives use a new software to survey client satisfaction

via telephone and record the use of the Contact Center. The

results are published by the Vice Presidency and analyzed

internally in order to continuously improve operations and

services to our students.

A new AGMUS web site was launched this year.

The new dynamic design provides easier navigation and

highlights the system’s tools and technological services. This

new version includes web 2.0, multimedia and statistical

analysis of the traffi c. During the summer, there were 54,793

monthly visitors to our web page, an increase of 10,706 from

the previous year.

Because of our eff orts to engage young people and

the quality and variety of academic programs that AGMUS

provides, this year brought the system an unprecedented public

acknowledgement. The system received acknowledgements,

awards and public recognition. The media coverage, through

news sources, alone for this year is equivalent to $8,182,342

Student services have become AGMUS’ competitive

advantage. The services provide a diff erentiation among

students and other universities. We are confi dent that we will

continue to play an important role in attracting and retaining

students in the future.


The System received acknowledgements, awards and public recognition. The media coverage, through news sources, alone for this year is equivalent to $8,182,342.

30 313030303030330303003030

On next year’s agenda is

a water-recycling project

that will utilize recycled

water from air

conditioning systems

and rainwater as a way of

lowering costs.

Towards a culture of conservation

Achieving well-designed, well-maintained, green,

energy effi cient, student-friendly campuses and

facilities are the goals of the Offi ce of the Vice

President of Administrative Aff airs. Our offi ce looks for the

uniformity in the process and services of the entire AGMUS

physical universe: all three institutions and their grounds,

the thirteen university centers, the television station and

auxiliary enterprises, such as libraries, concession stands,

cafeterias, vending machines, and printing shop. We are

also responsible for the development of new facilities

and physical infrastructure, both the engineering and

architectural processes, where we apply value engineering

to increase control and better administer projects.

Our campuses and facilities are used intensely.

Last academic year, the three institutions received between

20,000 and 250,000 visitors. We consider the physical

infrastructure and upkeep to be part and parcel of students’

education. A welcoming, professional, pleasant and clean

environment is a university system’s best face. Achieving

this is a great challenge for AGMUS because the campuses

are spread out and the infrastructure varies with each.

The responsibility for security and the administration

of parking lots has added to our scope of activity. Security

VICE PRESIDENCY OF ADMINISTRATIVE AFFAIRSJesús A. Díaz


is an important concern because of intensive night time

use, estimated to be 58%, at the institutions. As measures

of increased security, for the fi rst time all three institutions

use a RFID (Radio Frequency Identifi cation) sensors to

access parking. In addition, three trolleys off er constant

transportation and patrol in cases of car trouble and

security prevention.

A central electronic surveillance system covering

all three institutions was installed. Security cameras were

increased, leading to a reduction of 16,000 hours in

security guard services. In addition, “overtime” in security

and maintenance services decreased by 80%, a savings of

approximately $10,000. Since the electronic surveillance

was installed, we registered a reduction in the number of

complaints and lawsuits by 40% because the cameras help

resolve situations before they reach the courts.

Another key area of savings is the use and

conservation of resources. Our offi ce established the

position of “specialist in applications” in order to collect

data on energy and water consumption, contracted hours

for security and maintenance; as well as to oversee room

temperature and light sensors controls. Monitoring these

resources allows us to project services and expenses

related to indirect costs.

On next year’s agenda is a water-recycling project

that will utilize recycled water from air conditioning systems

and rainwater as a way of lowering costs. Next year, we

plan to increase Wi-Fi zones in all three institutions and

university centers, with the expectation that student use,

currently 85%, will increase to 100%.


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.

32 333232323232323232323232323223232232323223232332232323

The Vice Presidency of Human Resources promotes

the system’s organizational development of faculty

and administrative personnel, among AGMUS’ most

valuable resources.

Continuing education is our priority. This year we

organized the Management Academy, a 12-session training

program that strengthens supervisory, communication, process

analysis, interpersonal relations, and management skills. This

program has helped management expand its skills, which is a

must in a changing environment.

Supporting the professional growth of our

management team, we also introduced a Quality Program in

conjunction with the American Society for Quality. During the

2008-2009 academic year, 68 employees achieved an important

goal by obtaining Certifi ed Quality Improvement Certifi cates.

AGMUS off ers a comprehensive benefi ts package

that is constantly updated and enhanced. Yet, we were able

to save $4 million without downsizing. Eff orts were focused

on freezing vacancies and postponing salary increases. Within

the context of “rightsizing,” recruitment revolves around

improving the quality of teaching, and hiring professors with

doctoral degrees who have had publishing success. Emphasis

is on academics in the areas of business administration,

entrepreneurship, technology and science.

The use of technology in human resources is an

integral component of our commitment to increase effi ciency

and reduce paperwork, thereby supporting the environment.

Rightsizingto MeetChallenges

The use of technology

in Human Resources is

an integral component

of our commitment to

increase effi ciency and

reduce paper work,

thereby supporting the

environment.

VICE PRESIDENCY OF HUMAN RESOURCESVictoria de Jesús, Ed.D.


The hiring process—postings, applications, profi les 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

internet on issues such as strategic planning, communication,

client services, and organizational climate. Every two years, we

survey our associates and faculty on their perception of the

quality of services. This year, employee participation increased

and so did satisfaction levels in all categories.

As part of our commitment to employee health and

well-being, the Health@Program Initiative provides nutritional

information and guidance on preventing illnesses. In addition,

we have nutritionists who guide employees on eating right for

a healthy lifestyle.

Another landmark achievement was the creation of

the Association for AGMUS Employees and Retired Employees,

which promotes exchanges and educational activities by

bringing together former employees and faculty on a regular

basis.

The Vice Presidency of Human Resources makes social

responsibility part of its framework. A donation of computer

hardware, which included training in the use of the equipment,

was made to an elementary school in Caguas. Other donations

went to Hogar Rafaela Ybarra, Make-A-Wish Foundation, and

other organizations. Lastly, we have hosted quality assurance

trainings for municipal personnel of the municipalities that we

serve.

Our focus in the next year will be to continue to

“rightsize” without aff ecting our associates. We project that

human resources will continue to provide the best support,

information, and professional development to our system.

This year we are pleased to report there was a $4 million savings without the need to downsize.


34 3534343434343434343434343434434343443434344434334434434334ANA G. MÉNDEZ UNIVERSITY SYSTEM • ANNUAL REPORT 2008-2009


VICE PRESIDENCY OF FINANCIAL AFFAIRSAlfonso L. Dávila

The Vice Presidency for Financial Aff airs is committed

to supporting student learning and faculty research

through a fi nancially strong university system.

This year was particularly challenging in the control of

expenses, because of the repercussions of the investment

world. To this end, we were vigilant of increasing our

collections and facilitating student loans, while promoting

other sources of revenues such as external grants and

donations. In addition, the Budget Offi ce was successful in

evaluating and establishing historical fi nancial tendencies

and indicators that help us detect and modify areas of

opportunity for savings and controls within our system.

This year we have made signifi cant strides in our

budgeting analysis and control systems. Budget versus

actual reports to management are now available in digital

format, on a daily basis. We also initiated a process to

provide management with monthly fi nancial statements

to better communicate the short term changes in the

system’s fi nancial position. In addition, reporting formats

were redesigned to be more “user-friendly” and therefore

more useful in management’s decision making.

On the investment front, the institution changed

investment consultants and trustee for the endowment

fund. This change will allow for a more complete reporting

system designed for better decision making at the Board of

Directors, senior management and investment committee

levels.

Information for strategic decision making

The year 2008-2009 also witnessed an

improvement in the compliance monitoring of sponsored

programs. A Director of Compliance position was created

to partner with the Principal Investigators of research

projects at the institutions to monitor the fi nancial

and programmatic regulations that apply to federally

funded research. In addition, a special email address was

reactivated ([email protected]) so that associates and the

general public can communicate confi dential information

concerning the compliance of sponsored programs.

Also this year, AGMUS’ institutions chose to

participate in the new TEACH Program sponsored by the

US Department of Education. This program provides a

$4,000 yearly grant to students committed to teaching in

low income schools. The fi nancial aid offi ce communicates

the requirements, procedures and counsels students on

this excellent professional opportunity.

This year AGMUS has enhanced student fi nancial

services and accessibility to the fi nancial aid, while at the

same time, it has enabled the AGMUS to stay on track in

the changing economic landscape.

This 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 fi rst 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 profi ciency

in the student’s fi eld 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.

VICE PRESIDENCY OF UNITED STATES AND LATIN AMERICAN AFFAIRSLuis A. Zayas

OpportunityBeyond ourBorders

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 eff ort has been

made so that the staff and faculty refl ect 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 fi rst

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, professional and language skills of adult students

to improve their competitiveness in the job market and

improve their quality of life.

This year we have made signifi cant strides in our budgeting analysis and control systems. Budget versus actual reports to management are now available in digital format, on a daily basis.

This academic year, the program registered a high retention rate, 77%.

36 373636 37

Our Institutions

37

38



A Success Story: Diana del Carmen Obregón

In 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 diffi cult 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.

383838383838338383883838

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Universidad del Turabo (UT) has been eff ective 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 scientifi c and

research capacities.

During academic year 2008-2009, UT developed new

programs such as: Master degrees in Public Aff airs Confl ict

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; Technical Programs Certifi cates in Practical Nursing,

Pharmacist Technician, and Port Operations. This year UT

witnessed its fi rst 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 Offi ce of Youth Services.

Meanwhile, the Capital Campaign reached the goal of $7.6

million for its main components: Permanent Scholarship Fund,

Annual Fund, School of Engineering, Museum and Center of

Humanistic Studies Dr. Josefi na Camacho de la Nuez and

School of Business and Entrepreneurship.

Universidad del Turabo A Comprehensive Institution


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 top-

notch 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).

Providing a panoramic view of the changing business

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

advisor to two of the Island’s Governors. His wife, Ivonne Acosta,

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.


Dennis R. Alicea, Ph.D., Chancellor

CNN en Español’s journalist Alberto Padilla addressing UT’s School of Business and Entrepreneurship.

A view of UT’s Casa Solaria ecological house has won recognition for its effi cient eco-design.

Students tackle experiments at an engineering laboratory in UT’s competitive engineering school.

40


ANA G. MÉNDEZ UNIVERSITY SYSTEM • ANNUAL REPORT 2008-2009AAAAAAAAAAAAAA 00900090090090090000000ANANANAANAANAANAANANAANAANAANAANAAANAANAANAANANAANAANAAANANANAAANAANANNAANAANANANAA G. G.G. G.GGG G.. G.GG G.GGGGGGG G. G.G.GG.G. MÉMÉMÉMÉMÉMÉMÉMMÉMÉMÉMÉM MÉ MMÉMÉMMMM MÉMÉ MMÉMÉMÉMÉMÉ MÉMÉMÉNDENDENDENDENDENDENDENDENDENDENDENDENDENDDEDEENDEENDENDENDEDNDEN EZ UZ UZ UZ UZ UUZ UZ UZ UZ UZ UUZ UZ UUZZZ UUUZZ UZ UZZ UZ UNIVNIVNIVNIVNIVNIVNIVNIVNIVNIVNIVNIVNIVIVNIVNIVNIVNIVVVNIVN RSERSERSSERSERSERSERSERSRSERSRSERSERERSERSERSERSE SEE IITYTYITYTYTYITYITYITYITYTYITYITYITYYITYITYTYYTYYT SYSYSYSYSY SYSYYYSYY SYSYYSYSYSYS SYS SYS SYYSYYSTEETESTESTESTESTESTETEESTESSTESTTEESTESTESTETETESSSTESTT MM •M •M •M •M ••M •MM ••MMM ••MMM •MM •M •M •M •MM ANANANANANNAN AN ANANANNANANANNAN ANN AANA AN A NUAANUAANUANUANUAANUANUANUANUAUANUUAUANNUNUNUANUANN L RL RL RL RRLLL RL RL RL RL RLLLL RLLL EPOPOOOEPOOEPEPOEPEPEPOEPEPOEEPEPEPOEPOEPOPOEPOE RTRTRT RT RTRTRTRTRT RTRRT 20022002002002020002200200202008 28-28-2228-28-28 200000000040

Our society faces unparalleled economic and

environmental problems and academia must

innovative in order to fi nd solutions. The Universidad

Metropolitana has faced this through a twofold approach:

to excel in scientifi c research, mathematics and technology;

and to become an eff ective advocate for sustainable

development in Puerto Rico. During the 2008-2009 academic

year, the university made signifi cant strides in achieving both

objectives.

The School of Environmental Aff airs (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 “Land-

Use Sustainability Index”, to be used my municipalities as

indicators and policies in their progress toward eff ective land-

use.

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 eff orts of Dr. Beatriz Zayas,

director of the university’s ChEMTox Laboratory, and her

collaborator Dr. Osvaldo Cox, UMET submitted its fi rst scientifi c

patent to the U.S. Patent Offi ce. Drs. Zayas and Cox designed,

developed and tested these new anti-cancer compounds,

whose fl uorescent 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

Dr. Ibrahim Saleh, a communications expert, was UMET’s Fulbright Scholar this year from the American University in Cairo.


the municipality of Barceloneta. The School of Environmental

Aff airs was awarded a grant of $600,000 from the National

Science Foundation towards this eff ort.

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 high-

demand 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 two-

hundred 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

off ers digital video, radio transmission capability and media

production that will benefi t 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 fi ndings 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 off ers 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 diff erent 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 & fi eld 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.


Universidad MetropolitanaCreating effective alliances for Puerto Rico’s sustainable developmentFederico M. Matheu, Ph.D., Chancellor

A Success Story: Harry Peña

When 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 fi rm recruited me to work on Ground Zero. For three weeks, I trained people and monitored the air quality of buildings. Thanks to the inter-disciplinary 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.

Communications Laboratory, with an investment of $1.2M, is a state-of-the-art lab with video, television and radio capabilities.

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UMET’s newest publication to promote sustainability.

42




Universidad 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


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 signifi cant 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-profi t 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 fi rst 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 eff orts have secured the commitment

of private organizations and partnerships. Empresas Santana’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

Emmanuel 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 fi rst semester of study. His fi rst 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 scientifi c 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 signifi cant 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.

Universidad del EstePursuing a vision of research, entrepreneurship, community service and internationalization

and in allied health fi elds with certifi cate 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

on Education in Radiologic Technology (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 eff orts 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’s commitment toward the integral development

of its student body has led to greater access and more

availability of opportunities. The intern program was successful

in providing educational and research opportunities for

Alberto Maldonado Ruiz, Esq., Chancellor

Radiology and health related fi elds are high demand occupations being met by UNE.

UNE’s Job Placement Center successfully matched 309 people with jobs.

44




Distance Education Initiative2008-2009

The Ana G. Méndez University System (AGMUS), a

pioneer in distance learning, moved closer to its vision

of establishing the fi rst 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 fi rst 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 off ered 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 diff erent

campuses have been more successful online. Twenty-six

courses are being off ered, 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 ratifi ed 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 off ered at the

Metro Orlando and South Florida campuses. In addition, the

distance education initiative is developing 14 online modules

to grant a Certifi cate of advanced degree in Entrepreneurship,

Capitanes del Mundo Empresarial, which would be off ered

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 fi rst 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.

A groundbreaking vision of education at a distance


Taking a giant step, AGMUS launched SíTV Canal

Universitario Ana G. Méndez, changing the name and

image of the historical TV station. The rebranded WMTJ-

TV, 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 defi nition (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 off ers 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 Científi ca (Scientifi c Adventures), a series of thirteen

programs produced in collaboration with Universidad

Metropolitana ’s School of Environmental Aff airs. They are

fi lmed 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

the Universidad del Turabo

on Sí al Museo (Yes to the

Museum). The fi rst 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 off ering,

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. The redesigned 30-minute newscast is aired Monday

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 fi rst 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 affi rmative brand, has become a

workshop for talented producers, technicians and reporters

to contribute to quality educational programming in Puerto

Rico.

Ana G. Méndez University System’s Television Channel

SíTV: where information and education meet


Margarita Millán, Esq.

bo

e

n

in their

Journalists Zugey Lamela and Ariel Rivera Vázquez are

the new news anchors for SíTV Informa.

Migdalia Torres, Ph.D.

46




Projections2009-2010

• 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 eff ort to expand the health sciences programs across

the system, we will fi nalize 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.

• Our culture of business innovation will continue to expand

through the creation of business incubators and strategic

alliances for research and commercialization with the regional

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.

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.


Organizational Chart


Projections for next academic year include:

A view of the Center for Research Development and Industrial

Support (CREDIS) at Barceloneta which will carry out pharmaceutical

research.

A view of the architectural design for the UT’s community

health center.

BOARD OF

DIRECTORS

PRESIDENT

ExecutiveCommittee

InternalAuditor

ChancellorUniversidad

Metropolitana

ExecutiveVice President

VP Planning and Academic

Affairs

Vice Presidentof Financial

Affairs

Vice Presidentof Administrative

Affairs

Vice Presidentof Marketing andStudent Affairs

Vice President for US and Latin American Affairs

Vice President and

General ManagerSiTV

Vice Presidentof

HumanResources

ChancellorUniversidad

del Este

ChancellorUniversidaddel Turabo

ChancellorDistance Education

Initiative

FinanceCommittee

Academic &Student Affairs

Committee

AuditCommittee

BylawsCommittee

48


ANANAAANAANAAA G G.G G.G MÉ MÉ MÉMÉMÉMÉÉNDENDENDEDENDEDENNDEZ UZ UZ UZ UZ UZ UUZ UNIVNIVNIVNIVNIVN ERSERSERSERSRSRSR ITITYTYITYITYITYITYYT SYSY SY SYSYSYYY SYSTESTETESTSTESTESTS ES M •M •M •MMM ANAN ANANANANNUANUANUANUANUANUAN L RRL RL RL RL EPOEPOEPOE RTRT RRT 2002008-28 00948

General Information

Ana G. Méndez University SystemPO Box 21345San Juan, PR 00928-1345Phone: 787-751-0178Fax: 787-766-1706E-mail: [email protected]: www.suagm.edu

The Institutions

Universidad MetropolitanaPO Box 21150San Juan, PR 00928-1150Phone: 787-766-1717Fax: 787-759-7663E-mail: [email protected]

Universidad del EstePO Box 2010Carolina, PR 00984-2010Phone: 787-257-7373Fax: 787-752-0070E-mail: [email protected]

Universidad del TuraboPO Box 3030Gurabo, PR 00778-3030Phone: 787-743-7979Fax: 787-744-5394E-mail: [email protected]

48

Distance Education InitiativeComerío Avenue 1600, Suite 1Bayamón, PR 00961-6376Phone 787.288.1100 ext 8320Fax: 787.288.1141E-mail: [email protected]

SíTVPO Box 21345San Juan, PR 00928-1345Phone: 787-766-2600Fax: 787-250-8546E-mail: [email protected]

Metro Orlando Campus5601 South Semoran Blvd.Terracota Business Center Suite 55Orlando, FL 32822Phone: 407-207-3363Fax: 407-207-3373E-mail: [email protected]

South Florida CampusPO Box 27-8740Miramar, FL 33027-8740Phone: 954-885-5595Fax: 954-885-5861E-mail: [email protected]

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