Jennifer Sherry

The committee discussed the completion of the institutional strategic plan, focusing on ten key goals including enrollment growth, student retention, research grant submissions, international study abroad opportunities, and AI academic initiatives. Updates were provided regarding departmental realignments and the creation of a mid-career leadership academy for faculty professional development.

The committee discussed the fiscal operations and the current budget situation, highlighting that the budget is balanced for the upcoming year without utilizing reserves. Key topics included state funding outlooks, enrollment growth trends, and tuition revenue. The committee also reviewed internal financial reports, capital projects, investment updates, and internal audit activities, while addressing challenges related to structural deficits and cybersecurity-related equipment upgrade requirements.

The board meeting included a positive update regarding the state budget and its current status as a balanced budget. Key agenda items included the approval of coordinated program revisions for the business core curriculum and applied computing programs. Public comments were received from the union president regarding faculty evaluation and labor issues, and from a classified staff representative concerning the urgent need for skilled trade staffing, particularly for a campus electrician. Additionally, student representatives presented reports on the development of a new on-campus gym facility, student career service resources, and the ongoing recruitment for the upcoming student government team.

The board discussed and established institutional goals for the 2025-2026 academic year, covering strategic planning, enrollment growth, student retention, research grant submissions, international study programs, AI integration, fundraising, marketing, and the development of a medical school feasibility study and faculty retention programs. Additionally, the board approved the creation of a new Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence degree program after reviewing its curriculum, industry demand, and four-year student academic path.

The Academic Quality and Student Success Committee discussed institutional goals for the 2025-26 academic year, including progress on the new Strategic Plan and enrollment growth targets. Reports were provided on faculty hiring, academic programs, and accreditation status. Additionally, the committee reviewed student affairs activities, such as athletics performance, housing occupancy, career services, and mental health service utilization. Action items included recommendations for new certificate programs and a degree program revision.