Delta State University

The meeting featured a general overview of campus activities, including marketing initiatives, the launch of a student clothing resource, updates on various campus HVAC and construction projects, and reports from Athletics and Academic Affairs. The Cabinet approved the 2026-2027 annual operating budget and a series of revised university policies covering information technology resources, administrative structure, academic honesty, class attendance and absences, curriculum development, grades and credits, graduate course repetition, FERPA rights, release of information, and student advising. Additionally, the Cabinet approved course fees for the upcoming academic year and discussed preparations for an upcoming Cabinet Advance focused on scholarship and retention.

The Cabinet reviewed departmental updates, including marketing initiatives, facility renovations, and enrollment growth. Key actions taken included appointing an applicant agent for disaster recovery efforts, approving revisions to the 2026-2027 Academic Calendar, and adopting the 2027-2028 Academic Calendar. Additionally, the Cabinet finalized policy revisions regarding Academic Offerings and International Students, and reviewed a draft of the FY 2027 organizational chart.

The meeting included reports on university events, student performances, and campus facilities projects, including renovations and infrastructure repairs. Enrollment data and recruitment strategies were discussed, along with updates on athletics conference developments. Legislative session outcomes were reviewed, specifically regarding funding for university projects, insurance increases, and faculty and staff raises. The Cabinet unanimously approved a recommendation for Staff Emeritus status and discussed potential scheduling for an upcoming Cabinet Advance to focus on scholarship structures.

The council reviewed and unanimously approved the final reading of the revised Abuse of Computers and Network Systems policy, which details requirements for the responsible use of electronic communications and university systems. Additionally, the council reviewed and unanimously approved the final reading of the revised Paid Parental Leave policy, which outlines eligibility for paid leave following the birth or legal adoption of a child in compliance with state law.

The President's Cabinet discussed several university-wide updates, including preparations for the FY27 budget, spring enrollment data, athletics program updates, and curriculum planning initiatives. A presentation was provided on the implementation of Kuali, a new online forms tool designed to digitize and streamline administrative processes. The Cabinet formally approved the schedule for staff performance evaluations, a flexible summer work schedule, the holiday schedules for FY27 and FY28, and the transition of the annual staff development day into a week-long staff appreciation series.