Rukman Niyangoda

The board meeting focused on several key administrative and governance actions. The chair's remarks included the addition of a governance matter to the agenda. The primary action item was the election of officers for the University of the District of Columbia, which included the nomination and election of the Chair, Vice Chair, Treasurer, and Secretary for the upcoming term. Additionally, the board authorized the General Counsel to resolve a specific governance matter and held a session for closing remarks, which included an expression of appreciation for the outgoing student trustee.

The meeting includes an informational report from the Office of the Chief Operating Officer, a financial report presented by the Chief Financial Officer, and an internal audit report.

The agenda focuses on multiple academic and administrative actions, including the transfer of various degree programs, such as Community Health Sciences, Nutrition and Dietetics, and Nursing to different colleges within the university. Additionally, it addresses the approval of UDC Online, the Division of UDC Workforce Innovation, and a new A.S. degree program in Paramedics. The board will also consider awarding several honorary degrees to local, regional, and community leaders, appointing an Interim Vice President for Facilities and Real Estate Management, and receiving reports from various committees and task forces.

The board discussed governance matters, acknowledged staff and student accomplishments, and reviewed several action items. These included the approval of the Master of Social Work program, the executive appointments of a Chief Research Officer and a Vice President for Facilities and Real Estate Management, and the modification of a rooftop license agreement with T-Mobile. Additionally, the board approved the Follett Bookstore lease agreement and student housing lease agreements at 3003 Van Ness, followed by an executive session to consult with legal counsel.

The board meeting featured formal recognition of university staff for their contributions to technology and faculty support. Key actions included the approval of the FY2026 operating budget amendment, the adoption of the FY2027 budget and financial plan, and the approval of executive appointments for the Vice President for External Relations and the Interim Vice President for Government and Community Relations. The chairperson shared reflections on recent campus homecoming events, and the president delivered a report regarding strategic plan implementation, technology infrastructure, and institutional fundraising initiatives.