Faculty Handbook

Center for Galactic Astronomy

The Center for Galactic Astronomy (CfGA) was established to promote instruction and research in astronomy and astrophysics at Western Connecticut State University.  The Center for Galactic Astronomy engages in a variety of professional activities, including the sponsorship of professional conferences, symposia and publishing proceedings.  It is the organizational vehicle under which grants and contributions are solicited; students and faculty engage in research activities at astronomical research institutions, including Western Connecticut State University, other universities, observatories and astronomy consortia.

Article I – Name

The name of this center shall be the Center for Galactic Astronomy (CfGA) of Western Connecticut State University.

Article II – Object Or purpose

  1. To promote instruction and research at the undergraduate and graduate levels through the Department of Physics and Astronomy.
  2. To provide students with practical training in data gathering, analysis, and presentation of results in all areas of astronomical research and to provide opportunities for students and faculty to use astronomy instruments and facilities.
  3. To provide the academic foundation for students in pursuing their graduate studies and employment in astronomy and related fields.
  4. To disseminate information in astronomy and related sciences through publications, participation at professional organizational meetings and other appropriate means.
  5. To provide public service activities in conjunction with the University Planetarium and Observatory, which may include shows and presentations, as well as daily and monthly astronomical and navigational data.

Article III – Operations

  1. The CfGA will conduct its operations in a manner consistent with the highest standards of instruction and scientific research.
  2. Faculty members associated with the CfGA are responsible for the training, instruction and supervision of astronomy students.
  3. The faculty member in charge of the CfGA, appointed by the University President or designee for a term of three years, is responsible for he management of the CfGA.
  4. The CfGA may apply for and receive grants, donations and endowments from non-state sources, in accordance with State and University procedures. It may also impose charges for services rendered to the public.

Article IV – Administration

The President of the University or his designee is responsible for the operation of the Center, its activities and regulations. The instruction and research programs shall be administered by qualified astronomers. They will be responsible to the President via the Provost/Academic Vice President and the Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences.

Article V – Evaluation

An annual report of the Center’s activities and an account of all funds it generates will be submitted to the Senate and the President of WCSU or his designee.

Article VI – Membership And Term Of Office

Any astronomical and technical professional hired by the University, employed on a full-time basis and affiliated with the CfGA with the rank of Instructor or above, will be a voting member of the Center.

Article VII – Minutes And Bylaws Amendments

Minutes of all CfGA meetings shall be distributed to the members of the CfGA, the Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences, the Provost/Vice President for Academic Affairs, the University President, and the Senate Archivist.

Bylaws may be amended by a majority vote of members present at any regularly scheduled CfGA meeting and approved by the Senate.

Senate Approval:  May 19, 1993 (R93-5-5)
Admin. Approval:  June 17, 1993

 


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