Yvette M. Alex-Assensoh

Oregon 150 is a fundraising initiative launched by the University of Oregon to expand access to education and support students, aiming to raise half a billion dollars for two strategic goals. The first goal is Student Success, which includes access, student support services, academics and research, and career preparation. The second goal is to invest in capital projects for the new Portland residential campus and the Eugene campus. This initiative is designed to create an environment where students can learn, grow, and flourish, preparing them to be big thinkers, problem solvers, creative innovators, and engaged citizens.

This talk outlines the strategic vision for the Knight Campus at the University of Oregon, emphasizing its mission of 'science advancing society'. The core purpose is to accelerate the translation of basic scientific discoveries into real-world applications and solutions. Key strategic priorities include fostering a collaborative, research-rich environment, designing and constructing new advanced research facilities, and developing innovative graduate and entrepreneurship programs. The speaker highlights research on the biology of aging with the goal of extending 'health spans' to improve global health and address the societal and economic challenges associated with an aging population, ultimately transforming society through scientific impact.

The University of Oregon Knight Campus's strategic direction focuses on accelerating scientific impact through the development of Building 2, projected for completion by early 2026. This plan emphasizes advancing translational science, particularly in convergent biosciences and bioengineering for human health, through key initiatives such as 3D printing for medical devices, neural interfaces, and regenerative medicine. It aims to foster an innovation ecosystem by providing incubator spaces for startups, supporting entrepreneurial talent, building partnerships, and training the next generation of scientists and innovators.

The board meeting addressed multiple academic and operational initiatives, including the approval of new degree programs in Data Science, Cybersecurity, and Child Behavioral Health. Key discussions focused on the university's 10-year capital plan, specifically the Child Behavioral Health Building and Lawrence Hall projects. Financial matters were a significant focus, covering quarterly and annual treasury reports, audited financial statements, and the implementation of significant budget reductions to address a structural deficit. Enrollment management strategies, cybersecurity risk management, and the annual presidential review were also reviewed, along with public comments regarding institutional decisions.

The committee held a meeting to review and act upon several academic program requests. These included the proposal for a new Bachelor of Education degree in Child Behavioral Health through the Ballmer Institute, the establishment of a new Master of Science in Data Science within the School of Computer and Data Science, and the implementation of a new Master of Science in Cybersecurity. The committee also received reports from the committee chair and the university provost.