Cynthia Bates

The meeting commenced with the introduction of new members, Christopher Erikson and Howard Foote, and a recognition for Donna Luh upon her final University Council meeting. Key reports covered commencement ceremonies held on December 5th, advocacy efforts including a podcast episode on empowering adult learners, and the recognition of veteran and military students. Further discussions included the SUNY Empire Foundation's purchase of an adjacent property for donor events and new scholarship pledges received. The enrollment update noted growth in both undergraduate and graduate levels, emphasizing alignment with employment outcomes. A significant portion of the meeting focused on expanding workforce development, with SUNY Empire gaining recognition as a solutions-oriented partner, leading to accelerated program requests and the hiring of a new NYC workforce development director. Achievements included creating 25 new NYS Department of Labor-recognized apprenticeship titles, exceeding the goal of 10. A partnership with Northwell Health was highlighted, naming SUNY Empire the lead online higher education institution for several career pathways. Discussions also covered marketing strategies for workforce programs, including a new website and geofencing campaigns.

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.