Stephanie A Toves

The Board of Directors meeting addressed several key items, including the appointment of new board members and committee members, an audit report by the Foundation's auditor, and reports from the University President, the Associated Students, and the Alumni Association. The board discussed philanthropic priorities, reviewed endowment performance for the fiscal year, and addressed the delegation of authority via a revised corporate resolution. Additionally, updates on campus fundraising goals and community engagement initiatives were provided.

The meeting included a campus update regarding the commencement ceremony format and virtual engagement events. The committee reviewed the philanthropic summary report and university advancement planning, highlighting giving figures, athletic fundraising success, and focus areas for future growth. Plans for the first annual Giving Day were discussed, along with a proposal for a collective board challenge. The committee also recommended a new annual giving requirement for board members and noted the ongoing search for a permanent athletics director.

The board meeting included updates regarding campus repopulation plans for the fall semester, vaccination access for staff and faculty, and commencement logistics. Enrollment strategies and the activities of the Green Music Center were also discussed, along with a report on the renovation of Stevenson Hall. A special presentation was delivered on the endowment investment portfolio, covering foundation governance, investment policy, asset allocation, and performance. Committee reports were provided by the Audit, Investment, and Philanthropy committees, which addressed financial audits, the sale of foundation townhomes, and donor outreach efforts including an upcoming Giving Day. Additionally, updates were provided by the Associated Students and the Alumni Association regarding recent elections, student advocacy, and various virtual events.

The committees discussed commencement activities, reviewed philanthropic productivity metrics for the current fiscal year, and evaluated current fundraising goals. The discussion further addressed board member giving minimums, the importance of maintaining a diverse board, and proposed structural changes to board leadership, including the appointment of community board members as chairs. Additionally, the meeting covered nominations for new board members, student representatives, and faculty representatives, and the committees reached a consensus to continue holding joint meetings to foster collaboration.

The board meeting included the approval of new director and committee membership appointments for the 2021/2022 fiscal year. Discussions covered an update on the university's economic impact study, the successful hosting of commencement drive-through ceremonies, and plans for student re-population on campus. The board also reviewed committee reports regarding Foundation Bylaw revisions, audit planning for the upcoming fiscal year, and strategic structural changes for board leadership. Additionally, the board approved the Fall 2021 Pooled Endowment distribution, the 2021/22 operating budget, and an updated operating reserve policy. A presentation on University Advancement strategic planning was provided, along with updates on student and alumni activities.