Michelle Ritter

The board discussed and approved financial reports, including adjustments for tuition and state grants, and reviewed the timeline for the financial audit. Several bid proposals were authorized, specifically for fiber pathway installation and residence hall renovations. The board received reports from the academic affairs division regarding student support, retention strategies, and faculty recruitment. Additionally, the advancement and foundation team provided updates on fundraising, and the enrollment management office presented demographic insights regarding incoming students.

The Board of Governors discussed several critical agenda items, including the FY26 financial report and a preview of the FY27 budget, which remains under analysis due to legislative developments regarding state appropriations. The Board reviewed a recommendation to accept auditing services from Forvis Mazars and approved the 2026-2027 tuition and fees schedule. Reports were presented by the President and various University divisions, covering legislative advocacy, accreditation reaffirmation through the Higher Learning Commission, workforce development initiatives, and enrollment management strategies. The Board also addressed personnel and infrastructure updates, including maintenance projects and safety training protocols.

The board meeting agenda includes the presentation of financial reports for the current and upcoming fiscal years, along with the approval of the tuition and fees schedule for the next fiscal year. Additionally, the committee will review a recommendation regarding a specific request for proposal and receive administrative reports from university leadership covering academic affairs, administration, university advancement, enrollment management, and athletics. The meeting also includes a segment for new business involving the nominating committee and a planned closed session to discuss matters protected by law.

The meeting agenda included reports from various committees and division heads, such as the Personnel, Finance & Operations Committee and the University President. Key discussion points involved the FY26 Financial Report, FY27 Financial Preview, and a recommendation regarding RFP26-008 for an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and Student Information System (SIS) replacement with Workday and Cognizant. Old Business addressed the ratification of a December 2025 poll vote for a real estate contract approval. New Business led to a Closed Session to consider matters protected by statute. Division reports covered academic calendar changes, HLC Accreditation progress, workforce development partnerships, updates on the 2026-2030 Strategic Plan implementation, state legislative funding efforts, updates on Financial Aid provisions, and the solicitation of bids for the Baker Fitness Center roof replacement.

The 2026-2030 Strategic Plan for Missouri Western State University aims to build a premier regional public university by focusing on student success and regional vitality. Key priorities include enhancing student-centered transformational learning experiences, investing in people, processes, and places, cultivating meaningful community collaborations, and improving educational attainment in the region. The plan emphasizes providing an unparalleled student experience, fostering a culture of excellence among faculty and staff, and acting as a key contributor to the economic, cultural, and social development of the region.