Carla Ackley

The report covered several segments including the Miss Black and Gold Pageant hosted by Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated, where senior Sher Harper was announced as the 2023 winner and received a scholarship. The report also covered the induction of faculty member Steven Chapel into the College Media Association Hall of Fame in Atlanta, Georgia, and the Brad Leuk lecture and reception at Northwest Missouri State University. Additionally, the Segment on the Student Activity Council (SAC) meeting detailed the discussion of T-shirt designs, executive board applications, thanking participants of Grocery Bingo, and plans for future events like a game show and the spring concert. Coverage also included updates on changes to the FAFSA application timeline and standard scholarship deadlines due to new legislation, and a segment on the Agriculture Education on the Move program partnership promoting Missouri agriculture education.

The discussion centered on campus activities and societal issues. Key topics included highlighting campus organizations such as Northwest Sessions (KNWT), The Palms events featuring local bands, MMO (Men's Minority Organization), the People of That's My Boy Deon Sty, African Student Organization, MEM, and Sister. Religious organizations like the Campus Lutheran House, Newman Catholic Center, Christian Campus House, BSU, Crew, and The Navigators were also recognized. Sports team performance was celebrated, noting the football team's undefeated status and the volleyball team's strong season start. Upcoming events mentioned were the Hunter Hay concert and the homecoming celebration coinciding with Halloween. A significant portion of the dialogue involved Missouri ballot issues, specifically a proposal to increase taxes on tobacco products (cigarettes, cigars, wraps), with panelists generally supporting the tax increase to discourage tobacco use due to associated health risks. The panel also debated the correlation between tobacco use and marijuana use, as well as the role of faith versus legal considerations in marriage.

The strategic plan for Northwest Missouri State University focuses on advancing the institution through a multi-faceted approach, incorporating a five-objective strategy, a comprehensive campus master plan, and the 'Forever Green' fundraising plan. It prioritizes efficient and effective operations, investment in the future, and ensuring organizational vitality. Key areas include developing students, curriculum, space, and faculty creativity, while fostering strong partnerships with alumni, community, employers, and legislators. The plan aims to maintain a vibrant Bearcat culture characterized by learning, connecting, caring, civility, and pride.

The committee addressed several agenda items. Unfinished business included the adoption of the agenda and the approval of the July 29, 2025, committee meeting minutes. New business involved recommending the appointment of nine adjunct faculty to the full Board for consideration. Further recommendations to the full Board included the appointment of Lieutenant Marcus Holmes, Officer Jason Weir, and Officer Tanner McKinney, as well as an Intergovernmental Cooperation Agreement between the Nodaway County Emergency Services Board and Northwest Missouri State University extending through December 31, 2039. Operational updates included a summary of FY27 state appropriation requests, an annual cybersecurity update, and a resolution authorizing an application for grant funding for the Rails to Trails program. Informational items covered updates on Academic Affairs (including commencement and 2026 SOAR dates), Administration (strategic planning and Wesley property sales), Athletics (mental health promotion and ticket sales), Culture (Workday project status and staffing changes), Finance & Administration (FY25 budget closing positive and FY26/FY27 spending decrease focus), and Student Affairs (employee well-being and Greek Life updates). The open session concluded with a motion to move to a closed session regarding real estate matters.

During the meeting, the agenda was adopted. The consent agenda included the approval of the July 31, 2025, Open and Closed Board of Regents Meeting Minutes. New business featured a recognition for Ms. Molly Wolyn's work with international students. The Board unanimously approved a proclamation honoring John Moore for his service on the Board of Regents from 2016-2025. Further approvals included the appointment of Lieutenant Marcus Holmes and officers Jason Weir and Tanner McKinney, an intergovernmental cooperation agreement between the University and the Nodaway County Emergency Services Board lasting until December 31, 2039, and the appointment of nine adjunct faculty for the 2025-26 academic year. No action was taken following the review of FY27 funding requests or the annual cybersecurity update. The Board authorized an application to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources for security grant funding for the Rails to Trails program. Verbal reports were provided by the Student Senate President, Staff Council Vice President, Faculty Senate President-Elect, Foundation Board liaison, and University President. The open meeting was adjourned to consider matters related to legal actions and real estate transactions in closed session.