Megan Alston

The University Advancement and University Communications Committee meeting included an update on the Capital Campaign, reporting that fundraising progress for the fiscal year totaled $62 million, placing the overall campaign at $499 million against a $500 million goal. An overview of the 2025 Bank of America Study of Philanthropy was provided, highlighting donor behavior trends. The University Communications update covered the Forward-Focused brand campaign, including commercial previews, paid media impact, and public relations successes where faculty were featured on CNN, Reuters, and Wired in October. Recognition was given to two employees for exceptional public relations services and an award-winning fan fest event. Furthermore, updates on University Licensing reported working with 203 licensed vendors and growing revenue collections.

The Audit, Compliance, and Human Resources Committee meeting included a report from the Senior Associate Vice President for Audit and Compliance. Key audit updates covered the completion of the Batten College of Engineering and Technology audit, which found internal controls partially effective with no significant exceptions, and the status of open audit findings. A modification to the FY2025 Audit Plan was approved to remove the low-risk petty cash engagement. Planning for the FY2026 Audit Plan is underway, involving a risk assessment process and stakeholder engagement. The Compliance Officer reported on creating a comprehensive compliance matrix. The Vice President for Talent Management and Culture provided updates on minimum wage effects (no impact), classified turnover rates (which dropped to 12.78% in FY24), and the ongoing transformation of the division, highlighting new strategic goals and recognizing service awards. The committee also recommended approval for 70 Administrative and Professional Faculty appointments.

The initial session of the retreat included welcome remarks and introductions of new Board members. President Hemphill provided a comprehensive Year in Review, detailing significant achievements since July 2024, including progress on the merger with EVMS (now Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at Old Dominion University), the opening of the Ellmer College of Health Sciences, results from the 'Monarchs Give Back' food drive, introduction of licensed consumables like the Big Blue Smash Burger, faculty awards, AI research funding initiatives, and the inaugural year of the Blue Crown Society. The review also covered Dr. Bernice A. King's keynote address, the inaugural Forward-Focused event, the University maintaining its R1 institution status, partnerships like the Monarch Morning Roast coffee blend, and groundbreaking ceremonies for the Barry Art Museum expansion, the Biological Sciences Building, and the Ellmer Family Baseball Complex renovation. A new brand launch and the approval of a 10-year master plan were also noted, along with an update on the 'Forward-Focused' capital campaign nearing its $500 million goal. Subsequent discussions featured a presentation on 'The Abundant University' by Dr. Michael D. Smith, followed by a Fireside Chat with the author. Updates were provided on the Forward Focused: Digital Transformation implementation across teaching, operations, and research enablement, and strategic corporate partnerships led by SAVP Kirkland. Vice President Fridley presented on the Future of Research, detailing new academic research models. The second day focused on Master Plan Implementation, where prioritization feedback was discussed. Later segments included the approval of a resolution authorizing the purchase of Parcel 21 following the EVMS merger, and the unanimous approval of proposed Bylaws Revisions regarding Standing Committees (§ 4.03). The document also details extensive articles regarding Board authority, officer duties, presidential oversight, and committee structures.

The Academic and Research Advancement Committee recessed into a closed session to discuss recommendations for the award of tenure to 23 faculty members and the initial appointment of one faculty member with tenure. Upon reconvening in open session and after the required FOIA certification, the Committee formally approved the tenure awards. The consent agenda item covered the approval of 44 faculty appointments and eight emeriti appointments. The regular agenda included the approval of designation resolutions. Information items included an update from the Interim Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs regarding new certificate approvals, ongoing Dean searches, and academic activities related to artificial intelligence (AI). The Vice President for Research and Economic Development provided an update confirming ODU's R1 classification based on 2025 Carnegie Classifications, reviewed the research and funding portfolio, and detailed four strategic research thrust areas: Coastal Resilience, Health Innovations, Maritime Systems, and National Security.

The meeting included a comprehensive update on the Capital Campaign, reporting that fundraising progress for the fiscal year reached $85.8 million, with the overall campaign total at $451.14 million against a $500 million goal. The committee reviewed the ODAF "Game Plan" for athletic development, including giving levels and timelines. An update was provided regarding potential impacts on the Foundation due to legislative and budget decisions from Richmond and Washington, D.C. Furthermore, an update on the university's brand project, which launched in late fall 2024, confirmed it is on track for completion by the end of June 2025, following extensive research.