McKenna Reid

The committee meeting focused on two primary topics. First, the proposal to rename the Center for Microgravity Research to The Stephen W. Hawking Center for Microgravity Research and Education was presented, which included discussion on the formal agreements with the Estate of Stephen W. Hawking and Space Florida regarding the use of the name and associated collaborative operations. Second, an update on the UCF Challenge was provided, detailing efforts to utilize a transformational contribution to endow funds for student success, faculty excellence, and scholars' programs, along with current fundraising metrics and pipeline status.

The committee discussed the prior fiscal year's actual attainment results, noting that the goal of $104.3 million was exceeded. Additionally, an update was provided on current fiscal year attainment progress toward the $110 million goal, along with an overview of strategies focused on endowment growth and alumni engagement.

The committee meeting addressed an external naming opportunity for a football center and received updates on fiscal year attainment, progress, and consulting engagements with a marketing agency. Key information items presented included the upcoming Day of Giving, an update on specialty license plate sales, and a strategic communications activity report highlighting media mentions and reputation enhancement efforts.

The committee discussed the UCF Endowment Success Challenge, which aims to leverage a transformational gift to invite additional philanthropic investments for student success and faculty excellence. They also reviewed the Fiscal Year 2022 Advancement goals and Fiscal Year 2021 fundraising results, highlighting the philanthropic action plan. Additionally, the meeting covered an information review of the committee's work plan and charter for the new fiscal year, an update on UCF's legislative budget requests, and an update regarding university license plate initiatives.

The committee reviewed and recommended various items for board approval, including a memorandum of understanding to supplement a collective bargaining agreement, endorsement of a statement of free expression, amendments to a conflict of interest policy, and the repeal of a university regulation regarding acceleration mechanisms. Additionally, the committee considered amendments to regulations concerning the awarding of degrees and patents, trademarks, and trade secrets, as well as discussed direct support organization operating overviews and university leadership criteria.