Darryl Bass

This document provides a detailed analysis of changes in the UNC System's salary base, employee headcount, and average salary per employee by functional area. It covers the period from October 2021 through October 2025, presenting financial and workforce trends across its constituent universities, along with other metrics such as enrollment, gross square feet, and Consumer Price Index (CPI-U).

This Academic Strategic Plan for the University of North Carolina System outlines a comprehensive approach to optimize its academic degree program portfolio. Key strategic priorities include establishing new Bachelor's and Master's programs in high-demand fields such as Environmental Studies, Neuroscience, Security Studies, Astronomy, Cybersecurity, and Environmental Resilience, which align with institutional missions and regional workforce needs. Simultaneously, the plan involves the consolidation and discontinuation of certain doctoral programs in Consumer, Apparel, and Retail Studies, Economics, and Information Systems to enhance efficiency and resource utilization. The overarching vision is to deliver high-quality, accessible, and affordable education that prepares students for diverse careers and addresses evolving societal and economic challenges.

The meeting covered discussions related to the Committee on Educational Planning, Policies, and Programs. Key agenda items included an Academic Affairs Update and actions regarding UNC System Academic Degree Programs, specifically the proposed establishment of a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy at UNC Greensboro and a Master of Science in Engineering at Western Carolina University, as well as the discontinuation of the Master of Innovation Leadership and Entrepreneurship at Western Carolina University. Another major discussion focused on Civil Discourse Initiatives within the UNC System, including updates on free expression policies and specific programs like College Debates and Discourse.

The meeting agenda covered several key informational items for the Committee on Audit, Risk Management, and Compliance. Discussions included updates on reports issued by the North Carolina Office of State Auditor (OSA), which noted 12 UNC System institutions received the State Auditor's Award of Excellence for fiscal year 2024 financial reporting. The committee also received an update on the UNC System Office Internal Audit activities for Fiscal Year 2026, detailing the status of assurance and advisory engagements. Furthermore, there was a presentation on the University Systemwide Audit Departments, focusing on investigations conducted in 2025 and strategies for Internal Audit to transition into a strategic partner role. Finally, an overview of the Business Process Compliance Program (BPCP) was provided, detailing its history, framework which focuses on General Accounting, Contracts and Grants, Financial Aid, Student Accounts, and Capital Assets, and its monitoring structure.

The meeting agenda included an invocation, roll call, and the presentation of the 2025 Governor James E. Holshouser, Jr. Award for Excellence in Public Service. Key discussions involved the President's Report and several items under the Consent Agenda, such as the sale of Special Obligation Bonds for the University of North Carolina Asheville, Capital Improvement Projects, and amendments/adoption of policies regarding Nonresident Undergraduate Enrollment and Information Technology within the UNC Policy Manual. Reports were scheduled from the Committees on Budget and Finance, Educational Planning, Policies, and Programs, University Personnel, Audit, Risk Management, and Compliance, and External Affairs. The Budget and Finance Committee specifically presented authorizations for 2026-27 Tuition and Fees. The agenda also included reports from the UNC Faculty Assembly and UNC Staff Assembly, and discussion on Section VI of The Code (Academic Freedom and Tenure). A closed session was scheduled to discuss confidential matters, legal affairs, and personnel qualifications.