Carl Burkart

The University Council meeting covered several significant reports. The University President reported on the Annual Meeting, which featured Dr. Talithia Williams speaking on data-informed decisions, and noted that approximately 1,800 students have graduated since the beginning of the year, bringing the alumni total to over 102,000. Federal advocacy efforts included signing a statement against federal government actions and advocating for the workforce Pell program. The State University financial report highlighted significant state support, totaling $15 million, which funded initiatives such as a virtual food pantry, internship funds, a new student Chromebook initiative, and an AI Fellowship program. A preliminary forecast projected a surplus of $5.7 million for Summer 2025.

The meeting included a welcome to two new Council members, Greg Connors and Edgar Santana, and a report from the Senate Chair. The University Council Overview emphasized the role of the Council in advising the president, staying informed on financial and programmatic activities, and developing recommendations for presidential appointments. A presentation detailed the transformation of Empire State College into Empire State University, highlighting current enrollment figures (over 17,500 students), its mission as New York's only online public university, increased workforce hiring, and structural reorganization. Key future initiatives discussed include building capacity for AI and constructing an event center at the 111 West Avenue location in Saratoga. The development timeline for the events center was noted to be near the bidding stage.

This document is an annual report for Empire State University's 'Elevate '28 Strategic Plan', reviewing progress at its midpoint. The plan is structured around four strategic priorities: Student Success, Academic and Inclusive Excellence, Organizational Effectiveness, and Raising Our Public Profile. It highlights achievements in areas such as enrollment growth, faculty investment, new academic programs, financial aid, and the integration of generative AI, with an overarching vision to be a national leader in high-quality, flexible, and affordable education, providing access, opportunity, and innovation for future students.

This strategic plan framework for Empire State University, spanning 2023-2028, is guided by core values of access, diversity, equity, inclusion, flexibility, and innovation. It focuses on four strategic priorities: Student Success, Academic and Inclusive Excellence, Organizational Effectiveness, and Raising Our Public Profile. The plan aims to solidify the university's position as a national leader in high-quality, flexible, and affordable education, empowering diverse learners and contributing to economic development.

This document is the 2024 Strategic Plan Report for Empire State University, detailing the progress and activities undertaken in the first year of implementing its "Elevate '28 Strategic Plan Framework 2023-2028." The plan is structured around four key strategic priorities: Student Success, Academic and Inclusive Excellence, Organizational Effectiveness, and Raising Our Public Profile. It outlines objectives and measurable goals across various university offices, aiming to enhance the student experience, promote diversity and inclusion, improve operational efficiency, and strengthen the institution's public profile.