Pattie Katcher

The Board of Regents reviewed and approved the consolidated operating budget for FY 2027, covering the Ann Arbor, Flint, and Dearborn campuses as well as Michigan Medicine and the Athletic Department, with a focus on student affordability, access, and financial stability. Key actions included approving the naming of the Janice M. Granger Behavioral Health Building, the dissolution of the Sparrow Health System corporate entity, and academic calendars for UM-Flint. The Board also conducted a rotation of officer leadership, with Regent Michael Behm named as chair for the upcoming term. Several contracts and conflict-of-interest disclosures were reviewed and authorized, and a public comment session was held regarding university policies, academic freedom, and facility usage.

The Board of Regents meeting included the appointment of a new chancellor for UM-Dearborn and the proposal to purchase 140 acres of property from Concordia University. Presentations were given on a university-community partnership focused on environmental justice, and various faculty promotions were recommended. The Board received reports from several standing committees including Finance, Audit and Investment, Health Affairs, and Personnel, Compensation and Governance. Key actions included the authorization of commercial paper issuance, the approval of several construction and renovation projects, and the authorization of numerous investment and commercialization agreements. Furthermore, the Board approved resolutions concerning the handling of federally classified information, a new undergraduate degree program, and the academic calendar for the Ann Arbor campus.

The Board discussed the appointment of the seventh chancellor of the University of Michigan-Dearborn and a proposal to purchase 140 acres of property currently owned by Concordia University. Additionally, the meeting featured a presentation on community-based environmental research in Dearborn and the review and approval of numerous faculty promotions and tenure recommendations across multiple campuses, including the Ann Arbor, Dearborn, and Flint locations.

The Board of Regents took emergency action to approve the awarding of an honorary Doctor of Laws degree to academic leader and legal scholar Kent Syverud. This action was taken in accordance with board bylaws allowing for official business to be conducted between scheduled meetings.

The meeting featured a range of discussions and actions, including the recognition of university achievements, the status of contract negotiations between Michigan Medicine and Blue Cross Blue Shield, and a reflection on presidential leadership. Key actions included the approval of honorary degree recipients, renaming of the University of Michigan-Dearborn Administration Building to honor Daniel E. Little, and the establishment of a new Master of Urban Technology degree. Several capital projects and renovations were authorized, including the Social Sciences Building relocation, Palmer Commons renovations, and utility tunnel reinforcements. Financial and contractual matters were addressed, such as investment agreements for the Michigan Biomedical Venture Fund, commercialization and license agreements, and fiscal year 2027 capital outlay submissions. The board also received reports from various committees, the Faculty Senate, and the Central Student Government before hearing public comments.