September 21, 2001 UNT Inhouse publication: Price encourages UNT faculty to instruct at System Center

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Price encourages UNT faculty to instruct at System Center

More than ever, the UNT System Center at Dallas needs faculty to contribute to its mission of bringing greater educational opportunities to southern Dallas and northern Ellis counties.

This semester an increasing number of students are taking courses at both the System Center and on the Denton campus, says John Price, the System Center's executive director. However, to meet the UNT System's goal to establish the University of North Texas at Dallas, the center must provide a full range of courses throughout the day.

When the ultimate goal of 2,500 full-time equivalent students is reached, the System Center can begin offering degrees and programs through UNT-Dallas. But the most pressing need is to find faculty and departments willing to offer daytime courses at the System Center.

Price says there are major incentives for faculty and their departments to make an investment in the System Center.

One of the biggest benefits is a 20 percent return to each department based on the salary of each faculty member who teaches courses at the center. That money could be used for travel, research or other areas. That figure grows with each faculty member added to the roster.

Price believes the center also represents an opportunity for departments to increase enrollment by bringing their programs to the numerous Dallas students attending the System Center. Many of these students must attend courses in both Dallas and Denton to maintain a full schedule.

"Enrollment growth can mean the difference between the end or continuation of a program," Price says. "And additional exposure can only bring a positive return for departments."

The System Center provides not only the chance to establish a presence in a population of potential students, but also the opportunity for recognition from Dallas businesses.

"Often our students are supervisors and future leaders in the local business community," Price says. "You never know who you'll meet in the classroom."

Most of all, faculty can contribute to the mission of the UNT System to educate.

Price says that it is UNT's responsibility as a state institution to bring education and enlightenment to the public. He says the System Center offers a great opportunity to meet that responsibility.