Marco Ayala-Perez

The University Council meeting addressed several key areas. The President's Report covered faculty and staff recognition, enrollment stability (4,561 total students), a successful Open House, ongoing capital projects, institutional advancement achievements including securing over $2.2 million, and the success of Project Help. The Chair's Report focused on committee appointments and improvements to the University Council Appointment process. Campus Governance discussions involved the Faculty Senate addressing Academic Momentum, seamless transfers, shared governance, and working on new policies regarding classroom reporting and Artificial Intelligence. Divisional reports highlighted academic planning, strong alumni engagement, DEI initiatives, and enrollment targets for Spring 2026, noting a first-year retention rate of 71.4%. The Administration and Finance division confirmed the fiscal budget approval and successful financial audit. A request for the First Destination Report was made during the Public Comment section.

The meeting commenced with roll call and approval of the agenda for the current meeting, following the approval of minutes from the November 17th meeting. Key discussion points focused on the status of the spring semester, including student success, well-being, inclusion, and equity, as well as academic direction and financial stewardship. The discussion highlighted the visit from Chancellor King in mid-January, where progress on student access and opportunities was showcased. Strategic planning for the next phase after concluding the 2022-2025 plan was noted, alongside the advancement of the new academic plan aligning with SUNY's Academic Momentum Initiative. Financial standing was reported as strong, with ongoing system-level advocacy regarding the state budget, which included maintaining the tuition freeze and expanding ASAP/ACE programs. Updates were provided on the Vice Presidential searches for Institutional Advancement and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Furthermore, the council addressed the partnership evolution with Clinton Community College, noting expanded access such as identical on-campus housing rates for Clinton students. A resolution was introduced to rename the Edward and Lillian Redk Hall, recognizing Dr. Redk's significant historical contributions to equity and the transformation of SUNY Plattsburgh into a comprehensive liberal arts institution.

The meeting included a report on campus developments across academic strength, student success, financial stability, and community engagement. Key discussions included the transition of a council member, Michael Cashman, to the New York State Assembly and the resulting vacancy on the council, which is anticipated to take 12 to 18 months to fill. Updates were provided on fall 2025 census data, showing total enrollment of 4,561 students, and a first-to-second-year retention rate increase to 74.1%. Academic affairs highlighted new program development, including the MS in Accounting and progress on the STEM designated VA. Financial stewardship updates noted that the 2025-2026 budget is finalized, and significant capital projects are underway, including a new student admissions center. Institutional advancement reported securing over $2.2 million in new gifts and commitments. Student engagement was highlighted through Project Help, and the council's role in retaining graduates in the region was emphasized.

The meeting commenced with roll call and the approval of the agenda. The President's Report highlighted appreciation for faculty and staff contributions, recognition of a departing Council member, updates on vacant seats, successful events like Black Solidarity Day, and stable enrollment figures (4,561 total students). The President also noted successful transitions in CAS, growth in alumni engagement, and participation in Project Help. The Chair's Report focused on the University Council Award process, the value of Council members, and improvements to the UC Appointment process. Campus Governance discussions included the University Faculty Senate addressing Academic Momentum, seamless transfers, and digital accessibility, alongside updates on AI policy development and Vice Presidential searches. Divisional reports covered academic planning evolution, successful alumni events, support for students with food insecurities, marketing role expansion, and the successful financial statement audit by KPMG. A request for the First Destination Report was made during public comment.

This strategic plan assessment evaluates SUNY Plattsburgh's Plattsburgh Next initiative, a roadmap for the period 2022-2025. The plan is built upon four strategic pillars: growing and stabilizing enrollment, strengthening student success, prioritizing equity and inclusion, and engaging the North Country region. It aims to reverse enrollment decline, enhance student retention, foster innovative programs, and deepen the university's connection with the North Country community, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive and successful institution.