Stephanie Cowen

The document details the 88th annual commencement ceremony for Montana State University Billings. Key segments included the presentation of Colors by the MSU Billings Army ROTC program cadets, the introduction of the platform party comprising faculty, administrators, and distinguished guests, and greetings from the Associated Students of Montana State University Billings President. Remarks were delivered by the Interim Provost, recognizing the history of the institution and the accomplishments of the 995 graduating students across five colleges, including City College which had the largest number of graduates that year. Further greetings were provided on behalf of the Board of Regents, acknowledging the work of the interim dean of City College, and the commencement speaker, The Honorable Angela McLean, Lieutenant Governor for the state of Montana, addressed the graduates. The ceremony also included recognition and a moment of silence for men and women serving in the military.

The meeting included discussions on foundation processes, fee assessment, and MSUB's participation in the Second Chance Pell Program, which offers educational opportunities to incarcerated individuals. Updates were provided on the Sprint Degree Program and the strategic plan framework, highlighting achievements and ongoing work. The strategic resource reallocation project was reviewed, and there was an update on the repair of the soccer field. The meeting concluded with a presentation and discussion of the article "How to Become an Expert."

The meeting included discussion of a water main update, presentation of Long Range Building Plan requests, planning the 2024 budget, a discussion of a revised draft of the Alcohol Policy, and a presentation on key metrics for MSUB.

This document is an Evaluation of Institutional Effectiveness (EIE) Year 7 Report for Montana State University Billings (MSUB), submitted to the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). It details MSUB's progress in addressing prior recommendations, improving institutional effectiveness, and enhancing student success. Key areas of focus include building educational programs, progressively growing the university, strengthening community relationships, and unifying MSUB's structure and culture. The report highlights accomplishments such as increased student retention rates, revised general education curriculum, and strengthened shared governance, all guided by the institution's mission and current strategic plan (2019-2026).

The Chancellor's Cabinet meeting included discussions on the Commissioner's Directive on transcript withholding, a facilities update regarding building stabilization and water main projects, cybersecurity training progress, and the success of the Wine and Food Festival. There was also a commencement debrief, reminders about employee evaluations and vacation planning, and department updates. Topics included City College furniture upgrades, TRIO grants, foodservice RFIs, academic senate activities, student health services, Title IX regulations, accreditation preparations, athletic updates, marketing initiatives, and event scheduling.