Dirron Allen

The Academic Excellence Committee meeting included an update from the Provost regarding the status of faculty handbook revisions and progress on the core curriculum. A significant portion of the meeting involved a two-part report on artificial intelligence (AI) in Academic Affairs, highlighting initial findings on the gap in ethical and critical AI literacy and the consensus that AI should augment human learning. The committee also heard from a faculty and student research panel focusing on collaborative research experiences. Furthermore, a roundtable discussion was held with the Deans of the Honors College, University Studies, and the Graduate School concerning research, scholarship, and creative activity, including anticipated opportunities and key challenges. Finally, the committee reaffirmed the previously approved curriculum proposal for a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) in Dance.

This document outlines James Madison University's vision to be nationally recognized by 2040 for creating a new model of higher education as a preferred partner, innovator, and research leader. To achieve this, the institution's 2030 strategic plan focuses on four key pillars: enhancing the value and impact of a JMU education through the Madison Promise, charting a new path as a national research university, fostering partnerships to meet regional and national needs, and creating an innovative campus community. The plan aims to ensure student success, advance research, strengthen community engagement, and develop an innovative physical environment.

The Advancement and Engagement Committee meeting covered various topics, including a fundraising report showing strong progress in FY22, exceeding prior-year totals. Enrollment updates for Fall 2022 highlighted successful marketing initiatives and high applicant numbers. Reports on Corporate and Foundation Relations detailed significant increases in private organizational giving. A new partnership with the Black Alumni Chapter and Mentor Collective for a student-to-alumni mentorship program was announced. The success of the annual Giving Day was reviewed, and the Fall 2022 football schedule was discussed, focusing on opportunities for donor engagement around away games.

The Athletics Committee meeting covered various topics, including a sports update highlighting JMU's successful year with numerous wins against top-ranked teams and achievements in various sports. A Title IX participation report addressed a slight imbalance favoring men's participation, primarily due to roster management issues in track and field. An update on Name, Image, Likeness (NIL) discussed recent court rulings and upcoming legal changes in Virginia. The Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) presented updates on their initiatives and planned reorganization. Finally, a development update shared the results of Giving Day 2024 and upcoming events.

The Athletics Committee meeting covered various topics, including a sports update highlighting team performances and achievements, the 2023-2024 academic report showcasing student-athlete academic success, a student-athlete's perspective on utilizing academic resources, an update on JMU's NIL program (Honors1), a development update focusing on fundraising efforts, and a discussion of the JMU Compensation Policy for student-athletes.