Sukeshini Grandhi

The board meeting covered several critical updates and actions. The Chancellor provided a detailed legislative session update regarding budget allocations, endowment matching funds, and bond bills for capital programs. A presentation was held recognizing the achievements of outstanding faculty across the university system. Resolutions were passed to honor outgoing board members and staff, including the granting of emeritus status. The Academic Affairs Committee discussed a new student learning assessment policy for educational improvement and provided an overview of the tenure process and financial reports for OnlineCSU. Additionally, the board approved an amendment to the appointment date for the Central Connecticut State University President and updated human resource policies regarding course privileges for management and confidential employees.

The Board of Trustees meeting agenda included a report from the Chancellor and university presidents regarding enrollment, and several consent items. Key items for consideration included delegating authority to the Chancellor to request approval from the Department of Public Works for equipment and furniture acquisitions using CSUS 2020 funds, and the use of designated fund balances to finance a new Public Safety Complex at Central Connecticut State University. Additionally, the Academic Affairs Committee proposed the licensure and accreditation of a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism degree program at Central Connecticut State University.

The Board of Trustees formally established the Center for Sustainable Energy Studies within the Department of Environmental Earth Science at Eastern Connecticut State University. The center was designated as a Connecticut Higher Education Center of Excellence, with its primary focus being the study of energy conservation, efficiency, and policy. The resolution outlines the administrative structure, including the role of an endowed chair, advisory board participation, and financial management policies. A sunset date was set for December 31, 2005, pending a formal performance evaluation to determine its continuation.

The committee discussed the status of the Board of Trustees strategic focus initiative, noting that nominees for working groups had been received with a report expected by year-end. Additionally, members were provided with updates regarding ongoing personnel matters at the System Office and the universities. An executive session was held to discuss the evaluation of the Chancellor for the prior fiscal year.

The Academic Affairs Committee reviewed several action items, including the nomination of faculty for Trustees Research and Teaching Awards and the establishment of a Confucius Institute Program at Central Connecticut State University. The committee approved the discontinuance of the MS and Graduate Certificate in Business Education Program at Central Connecticut State University, the creation of a 6th Year Educational Coach Program at Southern Connecticut State University, a new Bachelor of Arts in Musical Theater program at Western Connecticut State University, and updated minimum admission requirements for the system. Informational updates were provided regarding international agreements, recent Board of Governors for Higher Education meetings, the faculty tenure report, and a report on Western Connecticut State University from the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. An executive session was held to discuss honorary degrees and teaching and research award recommendations.