Eric Backlund

The Binghamton Road Map strategic plan, initially published in 2013 and updated in 2017 and 2021, aims to make Binghamton University the premier public university of the 21st century. It uses a multi-faceted approach involving extensive community and campus input. The plan's strategic priorities include creative activities, building a learning community, fostering an inclusive campus, enhancing engagement, making strategic investments, and promoting internationalization. Winning proposals for 2024 were announced on April 18th, and the plan uses data-driven approaches to track progress in areas such as enrollment, admissions, diversity, graduation rates, and degrees granted.

President Stenger's remarks highlighted recent achievements and upcoming events, including a video message from NFL graduates, the enrollment of Jackie Robinson's grandson, the appointment of a new Vice President of Advancement, and the university's retention of R1 status and application for the Carnegie Classification for community engagement. The report also covered the success of research programs like FRI and BUPNUR, improvements in retention and graduation rates, the awarding of a Nobel Prize to a faculty member, and upcoming events such as a luncheon featuring an Olympian and a lecture by Martin Luther King III. The student report included updates on campus life, including the tragic loss of a firefighter, political news, the presidential search, the Common Read Experience, and various student activities and achievements in athletics and student government. Reports on Academic Affairs and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion were also presented.

President Stenger's remarks included welcoming new council members, recognizing a former member, and introducing the new Vice President of Advancement. He also highlighted "Statue Week," featuring the unveiling of a binturong statue and the Harriet Tubman sculpture. Other key topics included the School of Management's national recognition, the university's signing of the Okanagan Charter, faculty publications and awards, athletic achievements, and student updates covering various events, initiatives, and accomplishments. A report on facilities management and capital planning was presented.

President Stenger's remarks covered the University's response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the transition to online learning, financial aid for students, and the postponement of Commencement ceremonies. The report also addressed the planning and execution of the fall semester reopening, including student testing and move-in procedures. Enrollment numbers were presented, along with updates on construction projects for the Decker College of Nursing and Health Sciences and the School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences. The establishment of a Campus Citizen Review Board and a Title IX Council to address social issues and sexual assault concerns were also highlighted, along with financial challenges and strategies for addressing them. The student representative's report focused on student concerns related to the pandemic, including mental health, academic adjustments, and the impact on student life. Sexual assault and the need for reform were also emphasized.

President Stenger's remarks highlighted the successful conclusion of the EXCELERATOR challenge, exceeding its fundraising goal, and a significant donation for AI research. Updates were provided on the University's strategic planning process, the Fleishman Center's Career Champions Breakfast, the men's tennis team's championship win, and upcoming Commencement ceremonies. Improved graduate school rankings were also announced. The student report included the results of student government elections and the introduction of the incoming student representative. Reports were given on various student events and initiatives, including the Men of Color Summit, Women's Empowerment Luncheon, Career Champions program, Celebrating Women's Athletics Luncheon, and PULSE banquet. Information was shared about Spring Fling and a new contraceptive vending machine. The Code of Student Conduct for the next academic year was approved, and an emergency services report was presented. Finally, a planned donation for Track and Field improvements was announced.