Lisa C. Wallis

This document outlines Northeastern Illinois University's strategic planning initiatives and achievements for the 2026-2027 fiscal year, focusing on legislative engagement and advocacy. The plan details efforts with key legislative stakeholders, leading to an increased FY27 appropriation and stronger partnerships. It also identifies ongoing opportunities to build legislative support through narrative and advocacy, emphasizing engagement with various caucuses and policy forums to advance NEIU's legislative and community priorities.

The board meeting agenda covers several key topics, including a legislative update and committee reports from the Academic/Student Affairs, Enrollment, and Technology Committee, the Audit Committee, and the Finance, Buildings and Grounds Committee. Action items include board revisions to committee charters, the acceptance and filing of FY2025 external audits, and consideration of the FY2027 preliminary operating budget. Additionally, the board will review the FY26 third-quarter budget-to-actual report and the FY25 Business Enterprise Program annual report.

The committee meeting agenda covers several key topics including a review of the committee charter and informational reports. Academic affairs discussions include the Higher Learning Commission multi-location visit and the consolidation and redesign of specific degree programs. Enrollment management includes updates on headcount and credit hours for the upcoming terms, while student success and retention covers retention updates. Student affairs includes reports on the Mental Health Early Action on Campus Act and grant work regarding student housing insecurity. The technology session includes discussions on Workday Finance, classroom technology updates, department summary reports, and AI governance.

The joint meeting of the Audit Committee and the Finance, Buildings and Grounds Committee includes presentations on the FY26 third quarter budget, the FY25 Business Enterprise Program annual report, and updates regarding university properties. Considerations include the preliminary FY27 operating budget and the filing of FY25 audit reports, which will be supported by a presentation on FY25 audit findings.

The committee discussed the University's advocacy efforts, including participation in upcoming legislative sessions and advocacy forums. Key agenda items included the recommendation to approve a revised investment policy, which will lead to a future RFP for investment advisory services, and the recommendation for FY2027 distance learning tuition rates for three online-only master's programs to enhance program affordability and competitiveness. The meeting also included an opportunity for public comment and a closed session held under the Illinois Open Meetings Act.