Lincoln University

The Board of Trustees held their annual meeting, covering reports from the Alumni Association President, the Chairman, and the University President, including updates on enrollment and campus safety. Key resolutions passed include the authorization of a microgrid energy infrastructure project, the adoption of collective bargaining agreements for police, clerical, and faculty staff, and the acceptance of the 403(b) employee benefits plan audit. Additionally, the Board approved a new Conflict of Interest Policy, a policy regarding the use of scooters and personal e-devices, and a salary increase for the University President. Personnel and legal matters were addressed during an executive session.

The board discussed organizational priorities including fundraising strategies, portfolio performance, and enrollment management. Key actions included the approval of an endowment fund spending rate, a 5% increase in room and board fees, and a 5% increase in tuition and related fees. The board also approved tenure and promotion recommendations for faculty members and authorized the awarding of honorary degrees. Additionally, the meeting covered updates on workforce development initiatives, student recruitment efforts, and infrastructure project planning.

The meetings involved discussions on alumni activities, the university reaccreditation process, and strategic enrollment management for the School of Adult and Continuing Education. The Board approved the re-appointment of two university trustees, authorized residence hall financing, and approved updates to the Campus Master Plan. Additionally, the Board accepted several financial audits, approved new institutional policies including Free Speech, Cyberbullying, and Religious Holiday policies, adopted an updated strategic plan, and approved the President's goals. Subsequent meetings focused on the authorization of a loan through the HBCU Capital Financing Program and the approval of a transaction resolution proposed by the RICE Programming team.

The board meeting featured a recognition ceremony for outgoing trustees and received a report from the Alumni Association regarding alumni engagement, financial impact, and leadership transitions. Discussion topics included updates on the Lincoln University Foundation, the restoration of Cresson Hall, and milestones such as the groundbreaking of a new residence hall and the launch of an ESports arena. Leadership reported on enrollment and retention strategies, workforce development initiatives, and ongoing advocacy for federal and state funding. The Board formally approved the 2025-2026 operating and capital budgets, conferred professor emeritus status to retired faculty, adopted a 4-credit curriculum model, and elected a new slate of board officers. The meeting also included an executive session to address personnel and legal matters.

The board meeting included updates from the alumni association regarding engagement and fundraising goals for the upcoming Golf Invitational. The Chairman’s report highlighted various Homecoming events and recognized community partners. The President’s report covered an after-action review following a Homecoming incident, campus safety improvements, institutional achievements including new academic partnerships and symposia, and student success stories. The Treasurer's report was presented for informational purposes. The Board accepted the audit of financial statements for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025, approved honorary degree nominees, and held an executive session to discuss personnel and legal matters.