Shelly B. Blunt

The joint meeting of the Long-Range Planning and Finance Committees focused primarily on the document titled 'Toward the Year 2000.' Key discussions included a review of USI's historical development, projected trends impacting the institution over the next decade, and enrollment projections based on geographical market penetration. The committees reviewed plans to improve instructional, research, and service programs, with a projection of developing master's level programs. Facility needs for the next ten years were detailed, encompassing academic buildings such as a Health Professions Building and a Performing Arts and Classroom Building, as well as student life facilities including additional student housing and a chapel. The committees formally endorsed the concept of the 'Toward the Year 2000' document.

The Academic Affairs and Enrollment Management Committee meeting agenda focused on several key items. Discussions included a presentation showcasing the student-run radio station, 95.7 The Spin, detailing student opportunities in broadcasting. The committee was set to recommend approval for several new undergraduate programs, specifically a Certificate in Coaching and microcredentials in Rural Health, Healthcare Leadership, and Environmental Health. Additionally, a recommendation for delegation of authority to the Provost Office regarding the charter authorization request from the Williams Arts and Technology Academy in Fort Wayne was planned for presentation to the full Board of Trustees.

This report provides a comprehensive analysis of enrollment and retention metrics, including undergraduate continuing student enrollment, dual credit enrollment, and first and second-year retention rates. It identifies factors contributing to non-enrollment and details ongoing and new retention efforts, such as academic support programs, advising initiatives, and curriculum revisions. The document concludes by outlining specific enrollment goals for Fall 2026 across various student populations.

The Academic Affairs and Enrollment Management Committee meeting covered three primary areas. First, the committee recommended approval for five new academic offerings: three undergraduate certificates (Restaurant Management, Human Lactation, and Financial Management) and two undergraduate microcredentials (Health and Society, and Public History). Second, the committee reviewed the Academic Program Development Plan outlining proposed Baccalaureate, Master's, Certificate, and Microcredential programs for the 2025-2027 and 2027-2029 biennia. Third, updates on Fall 2025 post-census enrollment were presented, noting that actual enrollment of 1,753 (1,367 freshmen and 386 transfers) successfully met the combined target. The report also detailed the academic profile of the freshman class and provided enrollment targets and recruitment strategies for Fall 2026. An update on graduate enrollment showed modest growth, with strategies outlined for achieving a 2% increase for Fall 2026.

The Board of Trustees meeting covered several general and academic matters, including the announcement of the Fall 2025 semester Dean's List showing 2,159 undergraduate students achieved the Dean's List. Key discussions involved the upcoming Homecoming events, the Martin Luther King Jr. Day luncheon featuring Dr. Sheila Huff, and USI's planned attendance at a Lilly Endowment Convening on artificial intelligence. The Athletics report highlighted strong academic performance among student-athletes, including a 3.45 overall GPA and 174 students achieving a 3.5 cumulative GPA or above, alongside updates on the Men's Cross-Country, Volleyball, and Women's Soccer teams' performance in the OVC championships. The USI Foundation reported receiving a $1 million gift from Mr. Larry Rutledge for graduate nursing scholarships. Student Affairs provided updates on Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), the launch and high demand for Archie's Pop-up Pantry due to SNAP benefit suspensions, the revitalization of residence hall suites, and the strategic realignment that created the new Student Life Office. The Student Government Association reported on shifting budget allocations toward increased grant funding and the formation of a commuter student committee aimed at developing a lounge area. Financially, interim financial statements for the period ending September 30, 2025, were noted, highlighting a decline in state appropriations. The Board also reviewed construction change orders and received updates on current construction projects. Personnel matters included the announcement and approval of emeritus status for several faculty and staff members scheduled for retirement effective January 1, 2027. Finally, the Board approved conflict of interest statements for calendar year 2026.