Present: Seth Allen, Sig Barber, Bob Grey, Nabila Mirza ’11, Vida Praitis, Jacob Sagrans ‘09, Jim Swartz, Colin Thompson ‘09, Eliza Willis
Absent: Tom Crady, Arnold Woods

The meeting started at 12:05 with each member of the committee introducing him/herself. Minutes from the previous meeting were distributed and have been posted on the Dean’s website. Minutes from all future meetings will be distributed prior to the next meeting and will also be posted online.

Allen distributed copies of the organization chart for the Offices of Admission and Financial Aid, noting several changes in the Office of Admission. Nancy Maly has been hired as the Interim Director of Admission. Pending review in the spring of 2008 and college approval, Allen will likely initiate a search for a permanent person in this position.

A discussion of the Mark Edward's branding campaign ensued. Copies of four admission brochures – senior viewbook, community (multicultural piece), athletics and the travel piece – were distributed to each member. Committee members discussed the concept and value of using a tag line to identify the College, the process by which this line was developed, and whether it accurately captures the Grinnell culture (academics, location, culture, distinctiveness, etc.) Comments of interest included:
a) does lack of student voices in the viewbook impact credibility of message?
b) emphasis on social commitment and social justice isn’t supported by list of notable alumni
c) student/faculty interaction and how it’s practiced/exemplified at Grinnell should be more evident
d) agreement that use of a unifying theme is important, but is this the right one?

It was agreed that more faculty consultation, communication and involvement is critical the next time such a marketing effort is undertaken.

The meeting was adjourned.

Respectfully submitted,
Connie Newport

Next meeting is Monday, November 12 at 12:00 p.m., JRC 203