Athens State University

The board reviewed and reaffirmed the university mission statement and accepted an information security program report. Additionally, they approved a new master's degree track for strategic leadership, a name change for an academic degree program, and an organizational structure change to improve efficiency. The board also authorized an enrollment marketing contract and officially renamed the Alabama Center for the Arts Performing Arts Center to the Arthur Orr Performing Arts Center. Reports were received regarding learning partnerships, foundation endowments, quarterly financials, and various administrative updates.

The committee meeting covered updates on career programming and workforce engagement, including the implementation of hybrid workshops and strategic partnerships with local government and businesses. Enrollment trends for summer and fall semesters were reviewed, alongside current outreach initiatives such as transfer days and graduate webinars. Scholarship program updates and the activities of the Dean of Students office were presented. Additionally, the committee discussed strategies to support enrollment growth and the proposed creation of a Vice President of Enrollment Management position.

The committee discussed the organizational realignment of Enrollment and Student Services, including the removal of an AVP position and the integration of Student Wellness, Title IX, ADA, and Veterans Affairs into broader departmental umbrellas. They reviewed the performance of digital marketing campaigns conducted by Echo Delta, evaluated Spring 2026 enrollment and admissions data showing growth in applications and student yield, and discussed the successful impact of new President's and Dean's scholarships. Additionally, the committee reviewed the positive performance of the call center, noted record-high retention and persistence rates, and outlined future student engagement goals for the upcoming semester.

This document outlines the vision, mission, and comprehensive goals for Athens State University. The institution aims to be a premier, affordable destination for transfer students, providing high-quality, cutting-edge education and acting as a catalyst for positive change. Its mission is to empower students through teaching, service, research, and innovative programs in a supportive and diverse environment. Key institutional goals focus on a student-centered approach, expanding educational opportunities, fostering belonging, strengthening partnerships, promoting diversity and ethical conduct, and leveraging technology. Additionally, nine learning goals emphasize global understanding, effective communication, lifelong learning, critical thinking, ethical responsibility, human diversity, digital citizenship, civic engagement, and disciplinary knowledge.

This document outlines the procedures for the Academic Program Review process, designed to evaluate the effectiveness of academic programs through a systematic 5-year assessment cycle. It covers various components including curriculum, faculty qualifications, resources, enrollment data, alumni outcomes, student feedback, advising, national trends, and culminates in a five-year action plan. The review aims to ensure the quality, viability, and productivity of teaching, learning, scholarship, and service within academic programs.