Johanna Soong

The Board of Directors meeting addressed several key business items, including the approval of new board member nominations, the adoption of revised internal investment and special endowment policies, and a review of quarterly financial statements. Discussions also covered investment performance, development productivity and fundraising reports, a university update, and the potential creation of a fund for student-athlete achievement awards. Additionally, the Board received reports on Alumni Association activities and ASI business updates.

The committee reviewed director terms and discussed potential board member nominations for the upcoming Board of Directors meeting. Internal policy reviews were conducted, specifically regarding endowment funds, resulting in a decision to set the minimum endowment threshold at $50,000. Audit reports included a discussion on providing a loan for a faculty and staff housing project, and quarterly financial statements were reviewed. The investment committee reported on endowment performance recovery and strategic asset allocation. Additionally, development reports detailed fundraising productivity and donor stewardship communications. The university update covered the search for executive roles, athletic program initiatives, organizational restructuring, and responses to campus events, alongside the introduction of an athletics achievement scholarship program for student-athletes.

The committee reviewed the endowment valuation and investment performance, discussed upcoming board meeting agenda items, and evaluated policies regarding gift administration and public relations funds. The meeting included reports on development productivity and the status of quarterly financial statements, alongside an update on the completed annual audit. Additionally, the university president provided information on the candidate search for a leadership role, efforts to establish a university-wide office of effectiveness and efficiency, and plans for CRM implementation.

The committee reviewed and approved the audited financial statements for the fiscal years ending June 30, 2024, and 2023, discussing financial performance, net position increases, and operational efficiencies related to gift processing. Additionally, the committee reviewed and subsequently approved updates to Policy 202 regarding Public Relations Funds, which clarified resource availability and expenditure approval requirements.

The committee meeting included the recognition of the outgoing Chief Investment Officer and the introduction of their successor. The performance report for the endowment was presented, showing an increase in market value. The committee approved the process for the Foundation to apply for a license to issue Charitable Gift Annuities in California. Additionally, the committee reviewed and approved two internal policies, Gift Administration Policy 101 and Social Responsibility Concerning Investment Policy 401, to move forward for further institutional consideration. Finally, an update on University Campus Programs Funds and facilities investment activity was provided.