Ana G. Méndez University System
Percentage of Faculty with Ph.D. by Institution: 2000-01 to 2012-13
One important outcome measure of quality education and student success are the results obtained by our graduates in professional certifications and board exams. For three years in a row, Universidad del Este and Universidad del Turabo Education graduates outpaced the islandwide average scores in the professional part of the Teacher’s Certification Exam (PCMAS). This is an important academic achievement that certifies the work of excellence of our education students and faculty, as well as the success of the many strategies implemented by the system-wide permanent commission for the improvement of our Teachers’ Preparation programs. The 2012-13 year will also stand out for the implementation of our system-wide strategy for the expansion and diversification of our short-
2000-01 2002-03 2004-05 2006-07 2008-09
2010-11 2012-13
term, technical programs. This diversification strategy is accompanied by a significant investment of over $6.7 millions in new physical facilities, new laboratory spaces, equipment and other infrastructure to support the ongoing increased demand in the tech job market. To this end, the Vice Presidency of Planning and Academic Affairs contributed in the conceptualization and design phase of the two new facilities to be entirely dedicated to technical education at both UMET and UNE, and that we look forward to inaugurating next year. Other important achievements in the planning area this year included the conceptualization and design of several new facilities for key strategic projects, among them the new projected Arecibo and Mayagüez university centers of Universidad del Este; the design for the reforms of he Visitors Center at the Arecibo Observatory; and the plans for the future Photonics Institute laboratory, to be constructed in the Intenor Science Park. As we continue our way towards growth and enhanced academic performance, we foresee AGMUS becoming not only one of the most recognized higher learning institutions in Puerto Rico and the Caribbean, but an example to follow in terms of improved metrics, high-end facilities and quality educational programs.
EXCELLENCE
Giving continued support to AGMUS strategic priorities in the scientific and academic research endeavor, the important area of intellectual property was reinforced and strengthened, with a revision of its policies, guidelines and services. Special efforts have been made this year to provide faculty with workshops and other educational tools in this regard.As evidence of our impressive advance in research and innovation, 2012 marked the achievement of a second patent in a twoyear period for AGMUS. Dr. Jintao Xiong, from the School of Engineering of Universidad del Turabo, received the US Patent Office approval for the development of an innovative algorithm to detect viruses in computer networks.
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