Gwen Williams Dandridge

The committee discussed updates on institutional advancement, including annual giving growth driven by corporate and alumni support, and progress on the comprehensive campaign, including discussions on raising the campaign goal. The integration of artificial intelligence for donor engagement and the implementation of the Folio platform for digital stewardship were reviewed. A government relations update provided insights into the state budget process and potential funding for university projects. Furthermore, the committee covered the strategic priorities for resource development, received a report on Alumni Association leadership and achievements, and discussed recent appointments to affiliated foundations.

The committee reviewed the fiscal year 2026-2027 budget, including proposed tuition and fee increases, enrollment projections, and resource allocation strategies. Discussions covered the allocation of HBCU partnership funds, quarterly financial reports, cash reserve balances, and investment performance. The committee also explored the management of a significant gift, auxiliary reserve utilization for dormitory improvements, and addressed concerns regarding employee benefits for part-time staff. Additionally, the committee deliberated on the establishment of a new Endowment and Investments Committee as a subcommittee to improve investment oversight.

The committee held a closed session to discuss personnel matters, including promotion and tenure, as well as honorary degrees and special awards. Reports were provided on strategic enrollment management, including housing capacity increases and student initiatives. The committee recognized student achievements in the Colleges of Engineering, Humanities and Social Sciences, and Agriculture. Further discussions focused on the university's accreditation status and ongoing reaffirmation process, as well as the implementation of artificial intelligence initiatives in faculty development and classroom pedagogy supported by a digital transformation grant.

The board discussed and approved a resolution for tuition and fees for the 2026-2027 academic year, which includes a 2.5 percent increase in tuition and fees and a 5.0 percent increase in room and board to address inflationary pressures. The board reviewed data on institutional financial stability, discussed strategies to support student affordability through increased scholarship funding, and heard public comments from faculty and student representatives. Additionally, the board initiated the annual evaluation process for the university President and discussed potential refinements to the incentive and bonus structure.

The committee reviewed enrollment updates for the upcoming academic year, including projections and recent open house attendance. Significant discussions took place regarding VSU's accreditation status and the fifth-year report submission. The committee was informed of organizational changes, including the renaming and reorganization of various departments. Additionally, a detailed update on the university's strategic plan was presented, outlining core priorities and goals, alongside a student scholar spotlight featuring various student organizations and initiatives.