Wahab Abrous

The Board of Trustees reviewed and approved internal audit reports, including findings for educational partnership and outreach programs, and authorized the reissuance of an RFP for internal auditing services due to the pandemic. Additionally, the Board discussed and reviewed a comprehensive reopening plan for the upcoming academic term, which includes strategies for remote instruction and safety protocols on campus, with the Board granting the President authority to make necessary modifications to this plan as conditions evolve.

The Academic Quality and Student Success committee meeting covered several key administrative and academic topics. Updates were provided on the successful implementation of a searchable database for course materials to ensure compliance with legislation. The Provost discussed various faculty and administrative staff searches, including the status of budget and academic affairs positions. Discussions also centered on the development and enrollment status of new degree programs, such as data science and the doctorate in physical therapy. Furthermore, the committee reviewed strategies for managing student enrollment growth, improving academic efficiency by addressing low-enrollment class sections, and ongoing improvements in the division of academic affairs.

The committee reviewed the fiscal year 2020 third-quarter dashboard, discussing the cyclical nature of revenue and expense, the impact of COVID-19 on cash flow and clinical operations, and the management of fund balances. Reports were provided on enrollment pipelines and degree completion. Additionally, the committee received updates on ongoing capital projects, including the Cornett renovation, the Center for Excellence in Engineering, the Student Recreation Center, and the well five rehabilitation, noting the strategy of using owner contingency releases to manage project funding.

The Academic Quality and Student Success subcommittee discussed the impact of the pandemic on academic operations, including the transition to remote learning, faculty training, and student support. Key discussion topics included updates on the implementation of the university strategic plan, academic hiring, the status of the Doctor of Physical Therapy program and its accreditation timeline, and the growth of specific degree programs such as cybersecurity. The meeting also addressed facilities updates, including the renovation of Cornett Hall, plans for the SEEK building, and upcoming temporary relocations due to building projects. Furthermore, the meeting touched upon efforts to improve student retention and general operational updates from the Vice President, including financial challenges within auxiliary units.

The board meeting primarily focused on action items related to finance and facilities, specifically the approval of the academic year spring term fee structure and the tuition and fees for the upcoming 2020-2021 academic year. The committee discussed the student-led tuition recommendation process and the importance of financial aid and student support in light of current operational changes and potential financial instability. Additionally, the board addressed the appointment of a new student board member to replace the outgoing member.