Julie Baldwin

The meeting agenda included reports from various committees and division heads, such as the Personnel, Finance & Operations Committee and the University President. Key discussion points involved the FY26 Financial Report, FY27 Financial Preview, and a recommendation regarding RFP26-008 for an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and Student Information System (SIS) replacement with Workday and Cognizant. Old Business addressed the ratification of a December 2025 poll vote for a real estate contract approval. New Business led to a Closed Session to consider matters protected by statute. Division reports covered academic calendar changes, HLC Accreditation progress, workforce development partnerships, updates on the 2026-2030 Strategic Plan implementation, state legislative funding efforts, updates on Financial Aid provisions, and the solicitation of bids for the Baker Fitness Center roof replacement.

The 2026-2030 Strategic Plan for Missouri Western State University aims to build a premier regional public university by focusing on student success and regional vitality. Key priorities include enhancing student-centered transformational learning experiences, investing in people, processes, and places, cultivating meaningful community collaborations, and improving educational attainment in the region. The plan emphasizes providing an unparalleled student experience, fostering a culture of excellence among faculty and staff, and acting as a key contributor to the economic, cultural, and social development of the region.

The Board of Governors convened to discuss various committee and division reports, including academic affairs, administration, university advancement, enrollment management, and athletics. Key topics included the FY25 audit report, FY26 financial report, and updates on personnel, articulation agreements, and enrollment numbers. The board also considered old business, such as the ratification of a vote approving boiler replacement, and new business, including personnel matters. Additionally, financial information for the period ending September 30, 2025, was reviewed, and updates were provided on finance, financial aid, human resources, physical plant, university police department, technology services, and student affairs.

The meeting included discussion and approval of the agenda and minutes from the June 26, 2025, meeting. The Board reviewed the FY25 and FY26 financial reports and a utility easement proposal. Division reports were presented by Academic Affairs, the Center for Workforce Development, Administration, University Advancement & MWSU Foundation, Enrollment Management & Marketing, and Athletics. There was also a discussion on the proposed draft 2026-2030 Strategic Plan and an amendment to bylaws, along with the ratification of the August 12, 2025 poll vote regarding the Alcohol on University Grounds and at University-Sponsored Events policy.

The meeting included discussion and updates from various divisions and offices. Academic Affairs highlighted the nearing completion of the Library update, Student Success programs, and Workforce Development initiatives. The College of Business and Professional Studies announced a new Department Chair for Engineering Technology, while the College of Liberal Arts reported on faculty appointments and student research presentations. The College of Science and Health noted faculty achievements and student presentations. The Division of Finance and Administration discussed the fiscal year close out, software implementations, and a bond rating review. Enrollment Management reported on admissions changes, outreach efforts, and orientation events. Marketing discussed the rebrand to MoWest and improvements to marketing efforts. Athletics announced new head coaches and major accomplishments. The Office of General Counsel discussed a potential revision to the University's Alcohol Policy.