NORMAN – The construction of storm shelters, infrastructure improvements to the Research Campus and departmental changes in the College of Dentistry are among topics to be discussed by the OU Board of Regents at its regular meeting Thursday, Sept. 18, in Tulsa.    

The meeting will begin at 3:30 p.m. in the Faculty/Staff Lounge at the OU-Tulsa Schusterman Center, 4502 E. 41st St. in Tulsa, with items submitted by Cameron University, followed by Rogers State University and then OU.

The board will consider a recommendation for the design and construction management services for three above-ground storm-hardened shelters for residents of the university’s student housing facility apartment complexes: Traditions Square-East, Traditions Square-West and Kraettli Apartments. Project two will include two large split-level shelters to be constructed in the area of Walker, Adams and Couch Centers.

The OU Board also will consider a proposal to authorize infrastructure improvements to the Research Campus, including new sidewalks, crosswalks and additional emergency telephones. These additions will enhance safety and provide better access for pedestrians and bicyclists.

In addition, the OU Regents will consider a recommendation to combine the departments of Fixed Prosthodontics, Removable Prosthodontics, Oral Implantology and Occlusion into one Department of Prosthodontics in the College of Dentistry to better reflect how dentistry is currently practiced. Combining the departments will increase efficiency and improve patient care and student education, and it will make more efficient use of faculty time. The board also will consider a proposal to create a new Department of Comprehensive Care within the college to provide a patient-centered approach to dental care.

The next meeting of the OU Board of Regents is currently scheduled for Oct. 29 and 30 in Lawton.