GPAC seeks to improve communication between faculty and students

In a September letter written to LBJ School faculty and staff, she states that the "lack of communication within the LBJ community is a major contributor to student frustration and inaction on important issues such as curriculum reform, faculty hiring, safety, and the concerns of joint degree students."

Working through committees, GPAC members have been meeting with other students to hear concerns and gather ideas on these issues. According to Fuller, the faculty have also provided "tremendous support and suggestions and advice."

As part of its effort to promote more open lines of communication, GPAC has started making presentations at monthly faculty meetings and is trying to reinstate the alumni/faculty/student/staff dinners that were popular in the past. The dinners, traditionally hosted by faculty or alumni in their homes, allow members of the LBJ School community to interact in an informal setting. According to Fuller, the dinners will begin during the spring semester.

This year, GPAC is also involved in the School's faculty recruitment process and in curriculum reform issues.

"We're looking at the joint program in law and public affairs," Fuller said. "Right now, those students have one LBJ elective, and we are trying to come up with a proposal that would build some flexibility into the program so that they have at least two electives at the School."

Other GPAC projects that are currently underway include the creation of a World Wide Web site for the organization. The Internet page will provide information on GPAC activities and may become a forum for discussion within the School.

In the spring, GPAC is planning a conference on the economic rejuvenation of the Texas city. Representatives from six large metropolitan areas in Texas as well as leaders from the federal, state, and local sectors will be invited to discuss such issues as health, education, crime and violence, and housing.