Simone Spencer

The meeting included reports from several committees, including Governance, Business and Finance, Athletics, Audit, and Academic and Student Affairs. Key discussion topics included the approval of an amendment to the Board of Trustees bylaws regarding the term of service for the student trustee, updates on enrollment growth, university financial projections for fiscal year 2026, and campus infrastructure and safety improvements. The Board also reviewed the financing for the Richmond Hall renovation, received the Chancellor's report on commencement and community engagement, and discussed the internal audit plan and various academic program expansions, such as a new Minor in Artificial Intelligence.

The Board of Trustees held a special meeting to review and approve the All-Funds Budget for the 2027 fiscal year. The discussion focused on aligning the budget with the institution's Vision 2030, addressing financial challenges such as inflation and deferred maintenance, and implementing strategies for revenue growth and cost-saving measures, including personnel restructuring and reduced operational expenses. Additionally, the Board reviewed institutional budget objectives, revenue and expense projections, and financial workflow improvements aimed at increasing transparency and long-term financial stability.

The board convened for a special meeting to address a specific personnel matter, which involved the deliberation and final approval of the contract for the women's basketball coach. The session included an executive closed session to discuss the personnel item and maintain attorney-client privilege before returning to open session for a formal vote.

The agenda for this special meeting focused on the presentation and formal vote regarding the adoption of the All-Funds Budget.

The Board of Trustees met to discuss and approve various campus facility improvement projects funded by Title III. Projects authorized include renovations to the Alfonso Elder Student Union gaming room, Miller Morgan Auditorium, and School of Education Auditorium, as well as a fire alarm system replacement for New Residence Hall 2, electrical upgrades at the Walker Complex, and a campus electrical sub-metering design project. Additionally, the Board granted the Chancellor delegation of authority to approve projects under $750,000, provided that quarterly status reports are submitted to the Board. The meeting also included a closed session regarding personnel matters.