Katelyn Nelson

Auburn University's 10-year strategic plan, "Grounded & Groundbreaking," outlines a vision to address critical challenges and leverage strengths. The plan is guided by five signature goals: providing an exceptional student experience, driving impactful research and creative scholarship, renewing commitment to excellence and innovation, serving communities through catalytic engagement, and strengthening the distinctive Auburn identity to ensure a life-changing experience for future graduates. It aims to achieve greater heights by focusing on rigorous academic programs, increasing research impact, operational efficiency, delivering solutions to societal challenges, and fostering philanthropic support.

The board meeting focused on property and facilities projects, including the renovation of the Foy Hall Student Veterans Resource Center, various research facility leases and developments, and the expansion of the Auburn Research Park. Academic affairs agenda items included the proposed inactivation of several degree and certificate programs. Audit and compliance matters featured the approval of external auditors for the 2026 fiscal year. The executive committee addressed the election of board officers, proposed naming awards, and revisions to board policies concerning the Presidential Academic Advisory Council and academic curriculum requirements. Additionally, the session included the awarding of degrees for the summer term.

The Board of Trustees reviewed various committee items including the construction of support buildings for the Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station, renovation of space in the Brown-Kopel Engineering Student Achievement Center, architect selection for the Haley Center evaluation, and multiple real estate authorizations regarding subleasing, property leasing, and land acquisition. The Board discussed and approved the adoption of the Auburn University Governance and Authority Policy and a new Code of Conduct and Ethics, as well as the posthumous awarding of a degree. Committee reports covered institutional advancement, research and technology updates, endowment performance, and governmental affairs.

The board meeting agenda focused on various capital projects and academic proposals. Capital project discussions included the restoration of Petrie Hall, the final approval for the Jordan-Hare Stadium North Endzone Multipurpose Events Center Addition, the construction of the North Plaza, the renovation of the Foy Hall Student Veterans Resource Center, and the purchase of property on Technology Parkway for a vehicle research facility. Informational reports were provided on the Davis Aerospace Engineering Hall envelope restoration and various ongoing infrastructure projects. Academic agenda items included the proposal of a PhD and a Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering, a Minor in Civic Life and the Public Good, and new Bachelor of Science programs in Artificial Intelligence and Robotics, as well as Information Technology and Cybersecurity. The board also addressed proposed awards and namings.

This document outlines the Auburn University Code of Conduct and Ethics, which formalizes the institution's values derived from the Auburn Creed, specifically Integrity, Respect, and Excellence. It establishes expected ethical, legal, and professional behaviors for all Auburn Personnel across teaching, research, public service, and business practices. Key focus areas include exhibiting honesty and integrity, complying with laws and policies, preserving data security and confidentiality, and avoiding, reporting, and managing conflicts of interest. The Code also emphasizes respecting the rights and dignity of others, promoting equal opportunities, maintaining the Auburn brand reputation, encouraging reporting of concerns without fear of retaliation, and taking collective responsibility for actions.