Raena Beetham

The committee reviewed and approved several policies, including the use of institutional funds, software asset capitalization guidelines, and the CT Finish Line Scholarship Program framework. Fund balance action plans for Eastern Connecticut State University and Western Connecticut State University were discussed and adopted. Additionally, the committee approved various partnership agreements with Electric Boat, the Wethersfield Chamber of Commerce, and DEEP, alongside contract approvals exceeding $2.5 million for Grant Thornton, LLP. Informational items covered contract notices for IT technical services and construction projects, updates to student worker pay rates to comply with minimum wage increases, and the implementation of GASB 103 reporting standards.

The meeting included a review of project implementation for Banner and an update on a proposal for an artificial intelligence initiative. The committee discussed the strategic partnership between Charter Oak State College and LearningMate to operationalize enterprise-level AI, focusing on goals such as strategic transformation, responsible innovation, operational scalability, sustainable infrastructure, and capacity building. The status of procurement, governance, and funding for the project was provided, along with the outline of immediate next steps including contract finalization, project kickoff, and platform development.

The Technology Committee discussed the status of the Banner project implementation, covering timelines, discovery processes, and solutions for nonstandard requirements. Additionally, the committee reviewed an artificial intelligence partnership proposal between Charter Oak State College and LearningMate, focusing on potential applications, implementation strategies, and the development of best practices for future technological initiatives.

The board meeting included remarks from the Chancellor and Chair regarding recent commencements and organizational impact. Key actions included the adoption of a consent agenda covering academic program discontinuations and modifications, as well as the approval of faculty promotions, tenure, research grants, and student awards. The board recognized faculty achievements through various teaching and research awards. Additionally, committee reports were provided by the Academic and Student Affairs, Audit, and Finance and Infrastructure committees, resulting in the approval of a new Fund Balance Policy and the naming of specific campus facilities. The meeting concluded with an executive session to discuss the appointment of an interim chancellor.

The committee reviewed standards and expectations and received updates from the Transparency and Accountability Council regarding interest in the chancellor search process and Board of Regents engagement. Discussion included planning for upcoming student leadership elections, preparations for a joint presentation to the Board of Regents, and an update on a systemwide student survey regarding campus safety and mental health. Additionally, the Student Connections Subcommittee provided an update on increasing digital visibility through new email and social media accounts to promote student engagement.