Samantha DeMarse

The board meeting covered several critical areas, including the approval of appointments to the Board of Directors of the William Paterson University Auxiliary Services Organization, Inc., and the conferring of degrees. Discussions included the University's enrollment updates, a review of the 2022-2025 Strategic Plan accomplishments, and the initiation of the 2026-2031 Strategic Plan. Additionally, the board approved an honorary doctorate for Senator Benjie E. Wimberly, the initiation of a new undergraduate certificate, and various personnel matters, including faculty reappointments and promotions. Financial resolutions were passed regarding the external audit for Fiscal Year 2025, the operating budget request for Fiscal Year 2027, and several bid waivers for university services.

The meeting served as a support group session for individuals with unconventional or unfortunate names. Participants introduced themselves and shared the specific stories and circumstances behind their naming, ranging from parental errors and bets to intentional choices made by their families.

This strategic plan is developed with a focus on transparency, inclusion, and broad community engagement. It outlines five key frames for strategic direction: Access and Affordability in Higher Education, Strategic Growth and Collaboration, Enhancement of Academic Offerings and Support Services, Infrastructure and Technological Advancement, and Building Community. The plan aims to inform long-term priorities and institutional direction through extensive stakeholder input.

The board approved a resolution to move into executive session and addressed several key initiatives, including a $1 million allocation from unrestricted reserves to fund a community center in the City of Paterson. The meeting included the annual Clery report on campus safety and crime statistics, an update on enrollment figures highlighting growth in online and dual enrollment, and a legislative update concerning federal and state higher education policy. Additionally, the board reviewed the university's strategic planning progress for 2022-2025 and 2026-2031, approved an external audit for Fiscal Year 2025, authorized the refinancing of existing bonds, initiated new certificate programs in artificial intelligence and emergency management, and confirmed various personnel matters and board policy revisions.

The Board meeting included discussions and approvals across various committees. The Executive Committee approved a supplemental increase to a bid waiver for Devils Arena Entertainment, LLC, presented for informational purposes. Key topics involved a Fall 2025 Post Census I Enrollment and Retention Update, indicating headcount growth despite international student visa issues, and initiatives to support retention. The University Strategic Plan Update noted progress across all pillars, including Adult Learning and Alternative Credentials. The Finance, Audit, and Institutional Development Committee secured unanimous approval for a resolution authorizing the submission of a $20 million grant application to the Secretary of Higher Education under the Higher Education Capital Facilities Program, alongside approvals for the Fiscal Year 2027 Capital Budget Request and consent agenda bid waivers. The Educational Policy and Student Development Committee approved the conferring of degrees for September and November 2025. The Personnel and Compensation Committee addressed various personnel matters, including graduate assistantship appointments, and recommended faculty for emeritus status. The Nominations and Governance Committee confirmed the election results for Board officers.