Lynn Fowler

The committee discussed the creation of a matrix for trustees to document their experience and disciplines to assist in strategic recruitment and filling gaps. Suggested categories for the matrix included advocacy, legislative experience, executive leadership, and employment, with a proposal to provide an example line for guidance. The committee also entered into a non-public session to discuss a confidential matter under RSA 91-A:3, ii(c).

The Board received a campus presentation highlighting the Fire Science program. In committee updates, the Board approved the new Business Administration Finance Program at Nashua Community College, discussed systemwide risk assessment and cybersecurity, and received updates on facilities and capital projects, including the endorsement of a business platform transformation proposal. Financial discussions included preliminary talks on a tuition increase, approval of the FY 2027 fee schedule, and the relocation of the investment portfolio. The Chancellor provided updates on Rural Healthcare Transformation and systemwide collaboration initiatives, while the Board recognized outgoing leadership and discussed upcoming commencement ceremonies.

The board discussed and voted on setting tuition rates for the 2027 fiscal year, ultimately approving a 3.5% increase. They also approved updates to the Board of Trustees Finance Policy and accepted the risk profile for the Fidelity investment portfolio as recommended by the Finance Committee.

The committee reviewed candidates for the 2026 slate of officers for recommendation to the full Board of Trustees. Members held a discussion regarding long-term planning and the strategic direction of the system, emphasizing a need to focus on Trustee-level oversight rather than day-to-day operational details. Additionally, the committee proposed incorporating a 30-minute feedback session at the conclusion of future meetings to evaluate meeting effectiveness and process improvements.

The committee approved the establishment of a new degree program in Business Administration Finance and reviewed updates regarding a new pre-nursing certificate program at Lakes Region Community College. Discussions focused on institutional data sharing strategies, the application of early college matriculation data, and ongoing initiatives aimed at optimizing enrollment management across the system, including the need for strategic direction and authority delegation. Additionally, the committee addressed the status of the ONE-NHCC project, discussed the implementation of services to mitigate loan defaults, explored the potential for community college bachelor's degrees, and considered the benefits of adopting a three-year strategic planning cycle.