Kristie Abbs

This President's Report outlines the ongoing Strategic Plan, which is built upon four core pillars: Inclusive Culture, Academic Discovery, Community Impact, and Financial Stewardship. The plan focuses on enhancing recognition and engagement, advancing access and belonging, improving communication, fostering academic excellence and student experience, expanding learning pathways, strengthening community partnerships and educational outreach, promoting sustainability practices, and ensuring operational efficiency, revenue diversification, and financial alignment.

The special meeting convened to act upon the Slippery Rock University Fiscal Year 2025-2026 operating budget proposal, following a comprehensive review by the Finance Committee. The budget presentation included forecasts for potential fee increases for dining and parking in Spring 2026, and a discussion on providing greater budget drill-down options for trustees. The Council ultimately approved the Proposed Budget Request for FY 2025-2026 via a roll call vote. Closing comments thanked the Council for their flexibility and support in approving the budget proposal during challenging times.

The Slippery Rock University Council of Trustees held a quarterly business meeting. The meeting agenda and the minutes from the previous meeting were approved. Public comments were provided by the SRSGA President, including updates about the SRSGA Campus Safety Crawl and the SRSGA field dedication. The president reported an increase in enrollment and discussed the university's financial picture and budget scenarios. Construction and technology projects were reviewed, including the MacFarland Recreation Sports Complex turf project and the conversion from Banner to OneSIS. The Strategic Plan is in its implementation phase. Several news about the university, students, faculty, staff and alumni were shared.

The special meeting was convened to act on the naming opportunity for the Slippery Rock University (SRU) College of Business. The council approved a resolution to rename the SRU College of Business to the Haverlack College of Business, recognizing a $5 million gift from the Haverlack family. The gift is the largest in SRU's history. The naming will adhere to university signage style and standards, as per university policy.

The meeting included discussions on enrollment numbers, financial updates, construction projects, and strategic plan implementation. Updates were provided on various initiatives including the launch of a comprehensive campaign, alumni engagement, and community impact collaborations. The council also discussed academic and student affairs, finance and administrative matters, and university advancement priorities.