21-16-1202. Excellence in higher education endowment fund distributions to University of Wyoming.

(a) Repealed By Laws 2007, Ch. 148, § 2.

(b) The university shall use the earnings received under W.S. 21-16-1201(c)(i) to establish endowed faculty positions and to acquire instructional and resource materials, classroom equipment and other resources necessary to support the work of endowed faculty. The following shall govern the university in the use of these funds:

(i) Funds shall be used for recruitment or retention of faculty with established reputations for excellence in research or instruction and whose presence enhances the educational quality and reputation of the university. As the primary mission of the university is the provision of quality undergraduate and graduate education, faculty selected for research abilities shall also instruct classes in accordance with established university policy;

(ii) Not less than two-thirds (2/3) of the earnings received shall be used for the recruitment and retention of faculty possessing abilities necessary to expand university instruction and research in disciplines related to economic and social challenges facing Wyoming, including but not limited to energy, natural resources, wildlife, science, earth sciences, health sciences, agriculture, education and engineering. The purpose of this paragraph is to provide university assistance to the state of Wyoming and its residents to the broadest extent possible, through the diversification of its economy, preservation of its natural and human resources and the enhancement of its quality of life. Not less than four (4) faculty recruited and retained under this paragraph shall be in the college of education;

(iii) The remaining earnings received shall be used for the recruitment and retention of faculty with established reputations in teaching and research excellence in other areas of distinction as identified in the university academic plan, including disciplines important to the state and region and its history and culture such as business, arts and humanities, mathematics, cultural studies, economics and law. The purpose of this paragraph is to enhance undergraduate and graduate instruction, to prepare students to become productive and contributing members of society and to promote an appreciation of arts, humanities and other cultures and interests affecting quality of life;

(iv) Selection of areas of excellence for endowed faculty chairs shall be:

(A) Made only after the university conducts public hearings for determination of state-wide interest;

(B) Based upon a survey sampling Wyoming high school students' career interests; and

(C) Developed by the university through other appropriate means to determine sustainable, long-term programs for the benefit of current and future Wyoming generations.

(c) The university may collaborate with community colleges on the use of earnings received from the excellence in higher education endowment fund.