Josee Ward

The board meeting covered several critical items, including the impacts of legislative funding reductions and the institution's response strategy. Key actions included the approval of a 13-month lease extension for the Mallard Building, the official naming of the new health sciences facility, and approval of expenditure authority increases required for the transition of the Ford Idaho Center. The board also reviewed the FY27 budget, discussed tuition and fee adjustments, approved one-time employee retention payments, and passed an amendment to the presidential employment agreement. Additionally, a conflict of interest disclosure was formally addressed.

The meeting included a report from the Chair highlighting the effectiveness of community outreach and real-world learning opportunities presented by staff. Additionally, the Board entered into an executive session to address matters concerning the evaluation or discipline of personnel as permitted by state code.

The board meeting agenda includes the President's report, a marketing update, a quarterly financial update, and considerations regarding special course and program fees. Additionally, the Board is scheduled to conduct a self-evaluation during an executive session.

The meeting included a comprehensive President's report covering academic programs, enrollment, and student success initiatives. The board approved amendments to the governing policy regarding program fees to allow for the collection of fees for consumable instructional materials. A financial update was provided, addressing the 2026 budget outlook, state appropriation reductions, tuition revenue, and institutional reserve targets. Several naming rights for campus facilities were approved, including the Borbonus Family Foundation Greenhouse and the Micron Academic Center. Additionally, the board approved a budget increase for the Boise campus development and discussed the status of the potential acquisition of the Ford Idaho Center property.

The meeting commenced with the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance and the reading of the CWI mission statement, followed by visitor introductions. The consent agenda was approved, which included discussions regarding the Treasurer's Report and Capital Projects Budget to Actuals Report. Key discussions focused on absorbing mandated state budget cuts through salary and operating savings, confirming that foundation funds are separate and have a balance between $5.5 to $6 million. The board reviewed budget projections, noting tuition and fees are on track, but overall revenue may fall short due to state cuts. Updates were provided on grant funding, showing over $5.8 million awarded this year. The status of capital project expenditures, totaling $60 million excluding recent projects, was also reviewed. The President's Report highlighted enrollment growth, serving nearly 34,000 learners, opening two new facilities, and nearing an $24 million fundraising goal. The Campus Expansion Report detailed the successful completion of the Health and Science and Simplot Agricultural Buildings, and outlined future plans including the Student Success Center opening in Fall 2026 and a new Boise Campus opening in Fall 2027. The major topic was the proposed acquisition and conveyance of the 90-acre Ford Idaho Center, which President Jones asserted aligns with the mission by expanding academic facilities and creating new program opportunities without requiring tuition increases or tax levies. Discussions on the acquisition covered operational agreements with OVG, conveyance details, water rights, and arrangements with the Snake River Stampede and Idaho State Draft Horse Show. A risk assessment noted reliance on OVG for fund management until the current contract ends in September 2027. Board members expressed strong support for the acquisition, emphasizing community benefits and improved resource access.