Cary Harwood

The committee reviewed the university's fiscal year 2026 budget status and proposed 2027 budget, noting potential future budget reductions. Key discussions included deferred maintenance projects and the expected release of state funds. The committee examined detailed budget operations for the Medical Education Center and Residence Director roles, reviewed the institution's cash position and accounts receivable status, and recommended the approval of a new tuition rate for the Master of Science in Engineering Technology program to be forwarded to the Board of Governors.

The committee reviewed the Higher Learning Commission accreditation process, noting the institution is no longer on probation. Discussions included Fall 2026 enrollment metrics, the need for enhanced student payment accountability, and proposed organizational structure changes scheduled for July 2026. Curriculum modernization updates were reviewed, alongside reports on faculty hiring and workload management. The committee received status updates on the pending Master of Science in Engineering Technology program and international student recruitment. Finally, the committee evaluated program reviews for Business Administration, Elementary Education, the MBA program, and International Studies, recommending their continuation to the Board of Governors.

The committee reviewed various campus infrastructure projects, including deferred maintenance efforts such as fire alarm system upgrades, electrical infrastructure replacement, HVAC improvements, and roofing projects. Discussions covered plumbing remediation and long-term operating strategies for the Medical Education Center, as well as operational status and utility work for cottage housing. The committee also examined plans for a library renovation project, the development of a Living Learning Center in Building I, and various campus grounds and security improvements. Finally, the committee reviewed the status of deferred maintenance funding and ongoing efforts to secure additional federal and state grants.

The committee meeting covered a report from the Faculty Athletics Representative regarding compliance, academic integrity, and institutional oversight. Academic performance data for the academic year was reviewed, highlighting student-athlete GPA achievements and graduation rates. The committee evaluated competitive success across various sports teams and discussed enrollment projections, roster management, and athletic revenue growth. Updates were provided on facility projects, including naming agreements and climate control installations. Furthermore, the committee reviewed community engagement contributions through service hours, addressed personnel departures and temporary compliance coverage, and discussed upcoming events alongside the clarification of athletic funding sources.

The committee reviewed progress on New Student Orientation, the introduction of a new electronic housing check-in and maintenance reporting system, and plans for student move-in and welcome activities. Discussions included relocating the Residence Director's office to improve student supervision, upcoming leadership changes in Career Services, and initiatives for team development within the Student Affairs Division. The enrollment report highlighted growth in new student registrations and accepted applications for the upcoming fall semester. The committee also addressed online education expansion efforts, strategies to streamline enrollment processes, improvements to tuition billing communications, and initiatives for international student recruitment and transportation.