Harold Boutte

The Statewide Programs Committee meeting agenda included several key considerations. Under the Consent Agenda, the committee planned to address the Approval of Final Rulemaking to implement Act 457 of the 2021 Regular Session, which establishes the M.J. Foster Promise Program. Another consent item involved TOPS Exceptions related to continuous enrollment and credit hour requirements. The main consideration was a proposed Definition of Financial Aid specifically for the purpose of Last-Dollar Award Programs, seeking to exclude student loans and work-study income to align with legislative intent for programs like the M.J. Foster Promise Program and the Completers Grant.

The meeting featured a presentation by the Governor regarding the importance of higher education and its link to the state's economic future. Key discussion topics included the state's commitment to increased investment in higher education, the development of master plans, the expansion of dual enrollment opportunities for students, and the importance of workforce development. The board and various university system representatives expressed gratitude for the Governor's support and emphasized the collaborative efforts required to improve educational outcomes and career opportunities across the state.

The Board meeting included updates on student outreach initiatives, including a financial literacy tour and a upcoming video series featuring student body leaders. The Personnel Committee approved the hiring of a new Deputy Commissioner for Academic Affairs, Innovation and Student Success. Furthermore, the meeting celebrated the awarding of a National Science Foundation contract for a research vessel to be operated by a member university. Discussions also highlighted national hazing prevention efforts and initiatives aimed at improving student success, as well as a grant from the National Governors Association focused on adult education and workforce development.

The board meeting included a detailed review of the 2018 annual report for the Louisiana Education Quality Trust Fund, covering the fund's historical performance, asset allocation, and investment strategies. Additionally, the Board of Regents presented an update on the state's master plan for talent development, focusing on the goal of increasing the percentage of the population with post-secondary credentials by 2030.

The Board of Regents meeting covered several key topics. Discussion included the proposal of a feasibility study for legal education in Northwest Louisiana, the preliminary 2021 funding formula and budget requests for higher education, and the approval of capital outlay projects, including roof replacements and biology lab expansions. Additionally, the Board discussed the redevelopment of the Charity Hospital site in New Orleans. Academic agenda items included the reauthorization of the research institute on blindness at Louisiana Tech and the review of letters of intent for new Bachelor of Science programs at Southeastern and LSU.