January 17-18, 2002

ITEM 114-118-R0102  Authorization of Institutional Name Changes from Helena College of Technology of The University of Montana to The University of Montana Helena College of Technology, and from the Montana State University College of Technology Great Falls to Montana State University Great Falls College of Technology; Montana University System

THAT: The Board of Regents of Higher Education authorizes (1) the Helena College of Technology of The University of Montana to implement the institutional name change to The University of Montana - Helena College of Technology effective July 1, 2003; and (2) the Montana State University College of Technology - Great Falls to implement the institutional name change to Montana State University Great Falls College of Technology effective immediately.

EXPLANATION: The current designations of these two Colleges reflect their affiliation with the two Universities starting in 1995 with the restructuring of the Montana University System. The new names continue the Colleges unique identities, but would more fully reflect their affiliation with their respective Universities. The changes also make parallel the names used in both Universities.

The new designations are seen as a marketing enhancement for recruiting students and for programming. The new names will also have greater appeal to prospective faculty and administrators. Educational programs and initiatives would receive greater recognition as a full participant in the university concept. Yet, the identity of the Colleges of Technology is still recognized as long time providers of vocational technical programs.

Both Colleges are looked upon by their respective communities for a broad spectrum of educational needs. The new names would enhance the marketing of the Higher Education Center programs and broader program offerings beyond the Colleges traditional mission of occupational training.

The effective dates differ for the name changes because the MSU - GFCOT name is already in common use.