Merlyn Bowen

The meeting featured a report from the President regarding university financial management, budget navigation, and a new cross-institutional collaboration with the Community College of Philadelphia involving direct pathways for undergraduate degrees. Updates were provided on campus security improvements, national telethon and town hall communications, and honors student travel opportunities. Standing committee reports covered academic updates, enrollment management, capital projects and facilities renovations, finance and administration priorities including operating budget reductions, institutional advancement and marketing campaigns, and integrated capacity-building frameworks for university sustainability.

The meeting included updates from various committees and officers. The President reported on the Middle States follow-up review, student participation in the Mayor's Masked Ball, May Weekend events, and the 175th Commencement. Concerns were raised about potential funding risks for TRiO and GEAR-UP programs. Updates were provided on academic affairs, strategic enrollment, institutional effectiveness, finance, administration, operations management, institutional advancement, alumni donations, and fundraising efforts.

The meeting included welcoming a new Student Trustee, updates on academic affairs including new faculty and tenure track positions, student affairs initiatives such as the Writing Center and WOW Week, and enrollment management strategies. There were discussions regarding campus safety, capital projects, and renovations, including updates on the Marcus Foster Parking Lot, Ada Georges Dining Hall, Melrose Cottage, and the Sports Complex. The council also reviewed finance and administration matters, focusing on financial stability and the introduction of new finance employees, as well as institutional advancement efforts, including fundraising campaigns and marketing strategies.

The meeting included discussions and reports on various topics. The Chairman reported on attending Cheyney's Founder's Day and addressed questions raised during the Public Comment at the December 10, 2024, Quarterly Meeting regarding Middle States concerns and business partnerships. The President's report covered executive orders related to DEI, updates from the U.S. Department of Education, and the celebration of the 188th Founder's Day. Committee reports included updates on Academic Affairs, Student Affairs, Strategic Enrollment, Institutional Effectiveness, Workforce Development, Middle States Accreditation, Finance and Administration, Business Office Operations, Operations Management, Deferred Maintenance and Capital Planning, Fundraising, and Marketing.

The Cheyney University Strategic Plan emphasizes adapting to the evolving higher education landscape by continuously examining existing programs, implementing cutting-edge programs, and introducing innovative teaching approaches to enhance student learning. A key component is the development of the Cheyney University Institute for the Contemporary African American Experience, which will foster research and applied learning through partnerships with industry and education leaders. The plan aims to address contemporary issues related to race, ethnicity, leadership, access, and diversity, securing a strong future for the university.