Thomas W. Newkirk

The board meeting included a swearing-in ceremony for a new student board member and a review of ethics standards. The Academic Affairs and Personnel Committee reported on changes to the tenure track appointment process, updates on campus-wide safety training, and the status of the state health plan. The Administration, Governance and Trusteeship Committee discussed student government initiatives and legislative updates impacting the university budget. The Finance and Audit Committee authorized participation in the Interlocal Purchasing System to secure cost savings on technology equipment, reviewed recent financial audits, and provided updates on the university's financial situation. Faculty, alumni, and staff representatives presented reports on the past academic year, including budget challenges, searches for new leadership, and future institutional planning. The session concluded with tributes to outgoing board members and the Chancellor, who also provided an update on enrollment and retention efforts.

The committee held a closed session for legal and personnel discussions before entering an open session. Key agenda items included a report on the campus-wide budget, specifically regarding an anticipated immediate 10% reduction. The committee also discussed renovation plans for the Chancellor's residence, including capital authority thresholds, project scenarios ranging from basic repair and maintenance to full renovation, and potential fundraising efforts for furniture.

The board conducted a closed session to address legal matters, lawsuits, and personnel issues. Committee reports were provided on academic affairs, personnel, governance, and trusteeship, including the election of new Foundation Board members. The finance committee received approval to demolish four university properties and provided updates on budget planning, facility projects, and campus consolidation efforts. The board adopted a final strategic plan and discussed policies regarding lottery advertising at athletic events. Additionally, updates were provided by the Alumni Association, Staff Senate, and Faculty Senate.

The board discussed several items including an ethics statement review, a closed session regarding legal and personnel matters, and reports from various committees. Key topics included Fair Labor Standards Act compliance and student employment policies, institutional quality measures and program reviews, and the adoption of an ISO Standards Resolution. Additionally, the board reviewed the university's alcohol policy, updates on various capital projects, revised the Internal Audit Charter, and approved a tuition and fee schedule increase. Further discussions covered strategic planning, enrollment growth projections, and reports from the Staff Senate, Faculty Senate, and Alumni Association.

The board conducted a special meeting via telephone, which primarily involved a closed session to deliberate on personnel matters, including qualifications, competence, and fitness for appointment of a public officer or employee, followed by a return to open session.