Debra M. Lawson

This document outlines the Southern University at Shreveport's (SUSLA) 2026-2027 Board of Regents Academic Plan, submitted for review and approval. The plan proposes the termination of two certificate programs, Web Development and Dialysis Technician, due to low student participation and completion. Concurrently, it recommends the development of two new programs: a Bookkeeping certificate and an Engineering Technology associate degree, to align with regional workforce needs. The strategic direction aims to expand educational opportunities, enhance workforce readiness, and promote economic development.

The Southern University System's strategic plan, titled "Fulfilling the Promise: A Pathway to Excellence," outlines seven broad goals designed to advance the institution's mission. Key focus areas include commitments to student access and affordability, academic excellence and success, institutional effectiveness and accountability, scholarly research and entrepreneurship, fundraising and philanthropic support, infrastructural development to improve campus life, and global engagement to promote the Southern University brand. The overarching vision is to serve as a premier university system that offers exceptional educational programs, fosters innovative research, and provides community engagement opportunities to develop global leaders.

The board meeting agenda covered various committee reports including Academic Affairs, Facilities and Property, Finance, Governance, Legal Affairs, and Personnel Affairs. Key action items included the approval of the Southern University Laboratory School academic calendar, faculty tenure and promotion recommendations, a student housing facility resolution, and updates to student records and web accessibility policies. Additionally, the board reviewed several personnel actions, financial reports, and contractual agreements for Southern University Baton Rouge and other system campuses.

The meeting encompassed several committee sessions including Academic Affairs, Facilities and Property, Finance, and Governance, followed by the Board of Supervisors meeting. Key discussions involved the approval of a new post-master's certificate program for Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, the addition of distance learning as a delivery mode for the College of Business, and the establishment of a Center for Applied AI and Institutional Innovation. The board received a facilities update, reviewed quarterly and interim financial reports, and requested a future financial meeting to address cumulative debt. Additionally, the board deferred action on data governance and AI policies, approved several memorial resolutions, and discussed the status of a food service RFP, with requests for further written analysis and comparative data.

The board meeting encompassed various committee sessions. Highlights included an awards ceremony for contributions to student success, the launch of the Southern University Royalty initiative for scholarships, and championship recognition for the laboratory school girls' basketball team. The Academic Affairs Committee approved emeritus status for a faculty member and a faculty handbook. Facilities updates covered construction progress on campus buildings and housing projects. The Finance Committee reviewed the interim financial report, noting budget projections and revenue. Legal Affairs addressed technology infrastructure upgrades, and the Personnel Committee approved several leadership appointments and salary adjustments. Finally, the Board of Supervisors discussed strategic branding and marketing efforts, received reports from the President and Chancellors, and reviewed the ongoing presidential search process.