Negussie Tirfessa

The Board meeting included the adoption of an amended agenda, a report from the Chancellor regarding administrative support and sustainability efforts at the universities, and the approval of several resolutions, including honors for student trustees and an interim Senior Vice Chancellor. The Academic Affairs Committee presented a proposal for a new Bachelor of Science in Labor and Workplace Studies at Eastern Connecticut State University, which was approved. The Finance and Administration Committee reviewed and received approval for revisions to fund balance guidelines and a revised General Fund distribution methodology for the universities. Additionally, the Chairman announced a visit by the Governor to Western Connecticut State University regarding funding for a new Fine Arts Instructional Center.

The board discussed and took action on several items including the adoption of the agenda, the presentation of teaching and research awards, and honorary degree nominations. The chancellor and university presidents provided reports on fiscal challenges and campus initiatives. Committees presented updates on academic programs, including a master of science program modification and a new applied physics program. Financial matters addressed included the approval of research grants, child care center lease agreements, authorization for bond borrowing for capital projects, and a 2.5% increase in tuition and fees to address state funding reductions. Additionally, the board discussed strategic focus initiatives and the initiation of a search process for the Southern Connecticut State University president.

The Board of Higher Education reviewed and approved several fee increase proposals submitted by the Board of Trustees for State Colleges. These included increases for education extension fees at the undergraduate and graduate levels effective for the upcoming summer session, as well as adjustments to student housing fees, board fees for meal plans, and general services fees across various state colleges effective for the fall semester.

The Board discussed and approved several items, including revisions to moving expense reimbursement policies for faculty and staff, an eighteen-month lease extension for the Roberts Avenue Elementary School to the City of Danbury, and a request for sabbatic leave for a faculty member. Additionally, the Board ratified an Executive Committee resolution honoring a retired union president.

The board meeting covered several critical areas including legislative updates on university funding, endowment matching grants, and enrollment data. The presidents presented detailed reports on the characteristics and challenges of 'Millennial Students,' focusing on their connection to technology, mental health needs, and academic expectations. The Board approved CSU-AAUP faculty research grants, the naming of Henry Barnard Distinguished Students, and the establishment of a Bachelor of Arts degree program in Media Studies at Southern Connecticut State University. Additionally, the board adopted a new policy on consensual relationships between employees and students, approved a property easement for the Regional Water Authority, and updated the Student Code of Conduct. The session concluded with reviews of external audit reports for university programs and a presentation on annual academic achievements and future strategic focus.