Brandon Rooths

The meeting encompassed a series of committee sessions followed by a full board session. Key agenda items included the approval of the proposed operating budget for 2026-27 and annual budgets for several direct support organizations, including the Research Corporation, Clinical Practice Organization, Foundation, and Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute Foundation. Additionally, the Board reviewed legislative budget requests for the Opportunity Engine initiative and the Center for Education Strategy and Innovation at FAU Lab Schools. Other critical topics included the adoption of the five-year capital improvement plan, educational plant survey validations, the 2026-2031 Strategic Plan, and revisions to Foundation bylaws. Academic and governance actions involved the approval of a new degree program, updates to the general education curriculum, and elections for Foundation board members.

The meeting featured a report from the university president highlighting successful fundraising through the President's Gala, recent student scholarship recognitions, rankings in the U.S. News & World Report, and strategic partnerships with local government. The board discussed a new partnership with D-Wave, including funding structures and university investment, and reviewed a university efficiency presentation focused on student success metrics, operating expenses, and state funding appropriations. Additionally, the board received a faculty update and acknowledged the service of departing members and staff.

The board meeting included a review of university achievements, such as its 65th anniversary celebration plans, hosting the National America 250 Freedom Truck Mobile Museum, and earning three prestigious Carnegie recognitions. Key initiatives discussed included the College of Business entrepreneurship ranking, a new partnership with D-Wave Quantum to house a dedicated quantum computer on site, and the expansion of the employee educational scholarship program. Additional updates were provided regarding faculty and student affairs.

The meeting encompassed several key topics across committee and full board sessions. Discussions included an update on university financial performance, the proposal of new academic programs such as a B.S. in Interdisciplinary Artificial Intelligence and a B.S. in Construction and Geomatics Engineering Technology, and the reaffirmation of specialized admission status for various programs. The board reviewed amendments to regulations regarding textbook and instructional materials affordability, discussed a student body update, an admissions report, and a voluntary retirement/resignation incentive program. Additionally, the session covered the Florida Atlantic 2026 Accountability Plan, an informational presentation on a D-Wave partnership, a university efficiency presentation, as well as faculty, strategic plan, and leadership updates.

The board meeting focused on the appointment of new directors to the Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute Foundation Board. The board reviewed and unanimously approved the nominations of Jon Harrison, Scott McCleneghen, Thomas Mersch, Samantha Stilley, and Linda Stoch to serve as directors.