James Madison University

The Dukes Remembrance Day event served as a formal ceremony to honor and celebrate the lives of students, faculty, and staff lost over the past year. The program featured remarks from the university president and student leadership, a poetry reading, and a candle-lighting tribute representing the university community. The ceremony concluded with a musical tribute by the string chamber ensemble and a moment of silence to acknowledge the shared grief and collective strength of the university family.

The virtual reception focused on providing prospective students and families with information about the university experience at James Madison University. Discussion topics included the diverse range of academic colleges and majors, campus culture, housing, student support resources like the career and academic planning centers, and safety protocols. Additionally, the panel shared insights on student organizations, entrepreneurship opportunities through the Gillum Center for Entrepreneurship, and logistical information regarding transportation and student success outcomes.

The Academic Excellence Committee meeting included an update from the Provost regarding the status of faculty handbook revisions and progress on the core curriculum. A significant portion of the meeting involved a two-part report on artificial intelligence (AI) in Academic Affairs, highlighting initial findings on the gap in ethical and critical AI literacy and the consensus that AI should augment human learning. The committee also heard from a faculty and student research panel focusing on collaborative research experiences. Furthermore, a roundtable discussion was held with the Deans of the Honors College, University Studies, and the Graduate School concerning research, scholarship, and creative activity, including anticipated opportunities and key challenges. Finally, the committee reaffirmed the previously approved curriculum proposal for a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) in Dance.

This document outlines James Madison University's vision to be nationally recognized by 2040 for creating a new model of higher education as a preferred partner, innovator, and research leader. To achieve this, the institution's 2030 strategic plan focuses on four key pillars: enhancing the value and impact of a JMU education through the Madison Promise, charting a new path as a national research university, fostering partnerships to meet regional and national needs, and creating an innovative campus community. The plan aims to ensure student success, advance research, strengthen community engagement, and develop an innovative physical environment.

The Advancement and Engagement Committee meeting covered various topics, including a fundraising report showing strong progress in FY22, exceeding prior-year totals. Enrollment updates for Fall 2022 highlighted successful marketing initiatives and high applicant numbers. Reports on Corporate and Foundation Relations detailed significant increases in private organizational giving. A new partnership with the Black Alumni Chapter and Mentor Collective for a student-to-alumni mentorship program was announced. The success of the annual Giving Day was reviewed, and the Fall 2022 football schedule was discussed, focusing on opportunities for donor engagement around away games.