Melissa Awenowicz

This strategic plan outlines Rowan University's ongoing transformation into a leading public research institution with a focus on strategic and service-minded growth. Key priorities include enhancing innovation and problem-solving capabilities, expanding access to affordable and valuable degree programs, and increasing collaboration with educational, healthcare, corporate, and industrial partners. The plan emphasizes fiscal responsibility and agility to anticipate and meet future needs, positioning the university as a major economic development driver and a model for institutional transformation.

The board addressed various financial and operational matters, including the approval of the interim operating budget, project budgets for facility repairs, and multiple service contracts regarding marketing, campus security, legal services, and procurement waivers for technology and library resources. Additionally, the board approved several consulting and recruitment contracts, the adoption of an emergency operations plan, new academic certification programs, and the acquisition of assets from Nerd Street Gamers, LLC. Personnel actions, including hiring, reappointments, and promotions for faculty and staff, were approved alongside updates to university housing and meal plan rates and the creation of a new school and department of financial planning.

The Board meeting included several action items such as the relocation of the Department of Geography and Environment, acceptance of the FY15 annual audit, and approval of various contracts, including software services, consulting services for a feasibility study, and federal government relations services. The board also delegated authority for the purchase of insurance, established summer rental rates for housing, and approved various project budgets for construction and facility improvements, including laboratory renovations and the replacement of student center infrastructure. Additionally, the Board authorized lease agreements, conferred honorary degrees, approved personnel actions, reappointed faculty and professional staff, and granted sabbatical leaves.

The board discussed the implementation of the Dreamscape Learn initiative for immersive classroom experiences, including the investment in infrastructure and technology. Additionally, there was a presentation regarding strategies to expand the university's online presence and become a top-25 national online education provider. The board approved a contract for consulting services with Propulsion Squared to support the early childhood workforce grant. Finally, the board received a presentation on the principles of trusteeship and effective board governance practices.

The board meeting agenda focused on several key action items, including the approval of summer housing rental rates, a total project budget for the Recreation Center pool HVAC and related systems, and a project budget and contract for updating the West Campus Masterplan. Other topics included an amendment to a technology services contract, various personnel appointments and reappointments of faculty and staff, the authorization of a lease extension for medical professional offices, and the approval of bond refunding measures involving the Camden County Improvement Authority.