Hao Nguyen

The board meeting focused on financial and operational updates for the university, including a third-quarter budget report for the 2025-26 fiscal year and the presentation of a preliminary budget for 2026-27. Key discussion topics included the enrollment landscape for the 2026-27 academic year, updates on the 'Bridge to the Future 2.0' structural adjustment plan, and an overview of the Higher Education Revitalization Study mandated by House Bill 4124. The board reviewed enrollment recovery proposals and discussed strategies for long-term fiscal sustainability.

The committee meeting addressed the FY2025-26 Q3 budget report, enrollment landscape trends, and the Bridge to the Future 2.0 update, including recommendations for the FY2026-27 preliminary operating budget. Additionally, the committee reviewed capital projects, including the status of the Art and Design Building and the New Housing Building, and held a discussion regarding a Higher Education Coordinating Commission presentation on HB4124.

The committee meeting covered a range of academic and administrative updates. Key discussion items included an innovation highlight, standing reports from the President and Provost, and a resolution of appreciation for Provost Chabon. Participants also reviewed written reports concerning student affairs, student success, enrollment management, and institutional accreditation. Additionally, the committee received status updates on the Ad Astra course scheduling implementation and the HECC program approval process, followed by a discussion on general education reform.

The meeting included reports from the Chair and the President, along with a board assessment. The committee conducted executive sessions to discuss cybersecurity measures related to data transmission security and to engage in deliberations regarding labor negotiations.

The committee reviewed the Q2 budget performance, noting an improvement in the all-funds operating deficit and updates on enrollment trends showing a continued decline through the 2026-27 academic year. Discussions included a capital project request for the Millar Library renovation, recommendations for tuition and mandatory fee increases for the upcoming academic year, and updates on the Bridge to the Future 2.0 budget process, including E&G reserve forecasts and deficit mitigation strategies.