Ryan Bennett

The Formal Session Agenda for the Board of Trustees included several key components. The Consent Agenda covered routine items such as the approval of minutes, resignations/retirements, and reports on funding productivity, alongside resolutions for the sale of surplus property, specifically a 2009 Maine Cat P-47 Catamaran and a Quick Hot Isostatic Press (HIP) System. Action and Discussion Items involved the recommendation for granting Emeritus Rank to Dr. Miguel Levy, the election of the Board of Trustees Chair and Vice Chair for 2025, and a significant financial approval for the design and construction of the Chang K. Park Center for Student Wellness, not to exceed $55,000,000, funded entirely by a donor. Reports were presented by the University Research and Sponsored Programs, Undergraduate Student Government, Graduate Student Government, and University Senate, detailing research performance metrics, student government activities, and academic items like updating search policies and approving new graduate certificates. Informational items covered investment analysis and sponsored programs updates.

The meeting included committee reports from the Academic Affairs Committee, the Audit and Finance Committee, and the Leadership Committee. The board addressed action and discussion items such as emerita rank, a resolution to accept the FY25 audited financial statements, a five-year state capital outlay plan and request, and a resolution to rename the Advancement Technology Development Complex. Reports were presented on Michigan Tech's Innovation in Industry 5.0, recruiting and enrollment, Undergraduate Student Government, Graduate Student Government, and the University Senate. Informational items included an analysis of investments, sponsored programs, advancement and alumni relations, media coverage, employee safety statistics, and the disposal of surplus property.

Agenda confirmation for the formal session.

The meeting included opening remarks from the Chair and President, recognizing graduates, faculty achievements, and the challenges facing higher education. There were discussions on the Tech Forward 2.0 campus conversations and the new Essential Education program. The public comment period addressed concerns about fossil fuel divestment and political overreach in higher education. Committee reports covered academic affairs, audit and finance, and leadership initiatives. The board approved employee recognition, tenure-track appointments, promotions, emeritus ranks, revisions to the Student Activity Fee policy, the FY26 General Fund Budget, the external auditor, and the appointment of a new Treasurer. Reports were given on research awards, provost activities, and student government.

The strategic plan for the Department of Civil, Environmental, and Geospatial Engineering focuses on providing unique educational and research opportunities for students and faculty. It aims to promote a culture that values teamwork and collaboration, emphasizing safety and accessibility. The plan includes high-impact undergraduate programs, growing graduate programs, and strong, sustainable research programs. Key objectives include faculty and staff development, alumni engagement, and facilities improvement to support the department's mission and vision.