Jennifer Chess

The meeting included discussions on various topics such as the Designated Federal Officer's remarks, Chairman's remarks, Superintendent's remarks, and Secretary of the Army Representative's remarks. The board addressed administrative announcements, roll call, and several board business items, including the swearing-in of new presidential appointees, the election of the board chair and vice-chair, and the approval of board rules. Concerns were raised regarding decisions at USMA to disband certain extracurricular clubs and cancel courses, leading to a discussion on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. The Academy update covered expectations, the USMA Strategy, recent events, and ongoing initiatives. Cadet Summer Training was reviewed, highlighting various training events and individual development programs.

The USMA Strategy 2025 focuses on developing leaders of character who live honorably, lead honorably, and demonstrate excellence. It aims to promote a professional climate, build and retain talented teams, continuously transform towards preeminence, and strengthen partnerships. The strategy prioritizes efforts to improve the professional climate, attract and retain diverse talent, modernize facilities and programs, and enhance collaboration to meet the evolving challenges of the 21st-century Army.

This document outlines the West Point Leader Development System (WPLDS) and its approach to developing commissioned leaders of character. It emphasizes the integration of character and leader development through academic, military, and physical programs, all within a culture of character growth. The plan details the mission, vision, and values of West Point, focusing on building, educating, training, and inspiring cadets to become leaders committed to the Army Values and ready for a lifetime of service. It also covers comprehensive character development, stewardship, continuous improvement, and the importance of a professional climate.

The Board of Visitors convened three times in 2024 to discuss various aspects of the United States Military Academy. Key topics included strategic planning updates, the effects of continuing resolutions on the Academy's budget, facility investment plan status, and efforts to transform and modernize the Academy. Discussions also covered college athletics, academic program innovation, character development, and the promotion of a professional climate. The board approved minutes from previous meetings and set dates for future meetings.

The 2023 Board of Visitors report highlights the Academy's excellent academic, military, physical, and character programs, emphasizing its commitment to developing leaders of character. Key areas of focus included eliminating sexual harassment and assault, strengthening character development strategies, addressing infrastructure construction and modernization efforts (USMA 2035), and maintaining adequate funding for various programs and initiatives. The report includes recommendations to maintain funding levels, support renovations, continue programs to prevent sexual assault and harassment, and fund the Character and Integration Advisory Group (CIAG).