Paul Gannoe

The committee meeting addressed several key educational policy items. The committee reviewed and approved amendments to Title 5 regarding undergraduate degrees, introducing new frameworks including the Bachelor of Education, Bachelor of Professional Studies, and Bachelor of Applied Studies to support flexible, career-connected pathways. Additionally, the committee received an informational update on systemwide research, scholarship, and creative activities, including funding trends and efforts to support undergraduate research. Finally, the committee discussed the Strategic Enrollment Management Framework, focusing on aligning academic pathways and data infrastructure with evolving student needs, regional workforce demands, and long-term educational attainment goals.

The meeting included an update on Tribal relations and systemwide compliance with NAGPRA and CalNAGPRA, highlighting progress in repatriation efforts and the formation of oversight committees. A legislative update was provided covering various sponsored and tracked bills, including discussions on student housing, intersegmental partnerships, campus safety, and artificial intelligence usage. Additionally, the committee discussed and expressed support for the Veterans and Affordable Housing Bond Act of 2026, which aims to provide funding for affordable student housing.

The Committee discussed the proposed audit plan for the upcoming fiscal year, which involves a comprehensive risk assessment process covering assurance and advisory engagements across various functional areas. The committee also reviewed a status report on audit and advisory services activities, including an update on the progress of ongoing audits, data analytics initiatives, and investigations into fiscal improprieties. Furthermore, the meeting addressed intergovernmental audits, including updates on follow-up reports to the California State Auditor regarding student housing, community college transfers, and Title IX recommendations. Additional discussions covered the division's strategic plan and quality assurance improvement program.

The committee discussed executive compensation for the interim vice chancellor of human resources, the president of California State University, San Bernardino, and the interim president of California State University, Monterey Bay. A detailed update was provided regarding the California State Auditor's review of civil rights, Title IX, and nondiscrimination programs, noting significant systemwide improvements. Additionally, the committee addressed the transition program assignment for the outgoing president of California State University, San Bernardino, and the acting president of California State University, Long Beach.

The committee discussed a public-private partnership for an affordable housing project at San Diego State University's Mission Valley campus, involving lease agreements and developer selection. It also reviewed the 2026-2027 final budget, noting state funding increases and spending priorities aligned with the CSU Forward strategic plan. Additionally, the committee evaluated the initial framework and assumptions for the 2027-2028 operating budget, emphasizing the need for continued fiscal discipline to address cost pressures and strategic objectives.