Casey Higgins

The Nominating Committee meeting focused on administrative business and the review of committee-specific agenda items. Key discussion topics included the presentation of the slate of officers for the 2025-2026 term, an update on the expiration of terms for Board of Trustees members, and a review of the current bylaws.

The board meetings covered various administrative and committee reports. Key topics included a presentation on the LGBTQIA+ Community Center and resources, reviews of the academic and student development committee reports, and discussion regarding tenure and promotion for faculty members. The finance and facilities committee presented updates on the fiscal year 2027 budget resource planning and reviewed the federal funds supplemental audit report. Additionally, the board addressed appointments for nominating committees, honorary degree recipient approvals, and specific sabbatical leave proposals.

The committee reviewed and discussed tenure and promotion recommendations for various faculty members across multiple departments. The session included a detailed presentation on the tenure and promotion processes at the university. Additionally, the committee considered an application for a sabbatical leave proposal for the Fall 2026 semester.

The agenda for the meeting included administrative business such as the call to order and the required approval of prior committee and board minutes from November 20, 2025. Administrative updates covered the Chair's report, the Student Trustee's report, and the President's report. Key discussion points included planning for the next meeting in April 2026, updates on the campus master plan process focusing on identity, balance, modernization, and revenue generation, and advocacy efforts concerning the BRIGHT Act bond authorization, where Worcester State is seeking an increase in allocated funds. The President also highlighted positive earnings outcomes data for WSU graduates. Furthermore, the Board was asked to vote on the approval of nominees for the commencement speaker, honorary degree recipients, and community service awards pool as recommended by the President.

The meeting included presentations and discussions on inclusive excellence and belonging, featuring a TRIO Student Support Services Grant Presentation and announcement, and a sabbatical presentation on curriculum reform in Estonia. Reports were given by the Human Resources and Academic & Student Development Committees. Administrative updates included reports from the Chair, the Student Trustee, and the President, covering various topics such as the approval of nominees for speaker/awards pool, an update on the University's Master Plan, an enrollment update, and sabbatical leave proposals.