Pennsylvania State System Of Higher Education

The Board of Governors discussed several critical topics, starting with a review of the PASSHE academic year and student success initiatives. The Board addressed the current budget request submitted to the General Assembly for a 5% allocation increase to maintain flat tuition rates. Additionally, the meeting included a presentation from faculty union leadership regarding systemic concerns over ADA compliance, highlighting issues with human resources policies, remote work accommodations, and recertification requirements. A member of the public also presented a draft policy intended to bridge gaps in disability rights and institutional compliance, requesting its formal review by the Audit, Compliance, and Risk Committee.

The board discussed and addressed several key items, including the re-appointment of a student board member and a review of academic program changes across system universities. The meeting featured an update on the PASSHE Foundation and a presentation of the Ali Zaidi Award for academic excellence. Additionally, the Governance and Leadership Committee recommended the appointment of several new student trustees to various university councils. The board also acted on property disposition requests for Commonwealth University and Millersville University.

The agenda for this meeting included remarks from the Chair, union leaders, and the PACT president, as well as a public comment section and an update from the State Board of Higher Education. Key discussions under the Consent Agenda covered meeting minutes, the calendar, committee assignments, and an FYI update on academic program changes. The University Success Committee addressed two property dispositions: the sale of Commonwealth University's Clearfield location, which is expected to yield approximately $1 million in annual savings and eliminate over $3.6 million in deferred maintenance, and the transfer of Millersville University's Witmer Health Services Building to Student Lodging, Inc. for demolition to satisfy parking ordinance requirements. Board consideration addressed the approval of committee actions, including student trustee appointments, the Fiscal Year 2025-26 budgets and capital spending plans, and the Fiscal Year 2026-27 E&G appropriation request. The Board also ratified the collective bargaining agreement with the PASSHE Officers Association.

The meeting commenced with a roll call confirming a quorum. The Chair opened the session by highlighting the success of first-generation students and acknowledging the dedication of staff and faculty. February was noted as the midpoint of the academic year, with a focus on students preparing for exams and internships, and the importance of state investment in keeping universities affordable and accessible, resulting in increased enrollment of first-generation and transfer students, and record high retention rates. Following the opening remarks, statewide union leaders addressed the board. Dr. Ken Mash, representing the AppScuff Union, voiced serious concerns regarding the lack of funding needed to maintain the status quo, technological deficits requiring significant investment for redesign plans to succeed, and general campus issues such as leaking building conditions and non-functional elevators, all of which contribute to low morale. Dr. Rich Furick, representing the trustees through PACE, reported on key focus areas: the budget (specifically addressing the governor's flat budget proposal versus the request for a 5% appropriations increase to hold tuition flat), trustee appointments that are overdue at several institutions, and preparations for the annual meeting in April. Public comment included testimony from Jess Hughes and Dr. Jill Craraven regarding significant, long-standing failures in ADA compliance across the state system, citing the lack of transition plans, insufficient ADA coordination on campuses, and burdensome accommodation processes for faculty.

The meeting convened following an executive session to discuss contractual obligations. The Board subsequently ratified the Memorandum of Understanding for the PASSHE Officers Association (POA) and a tentative side letter for the Association of Pennsylvania State College and University Faculties (APSCUF), authorizing the Chancellor and Chairwoman of the Board to execute the necessary documents. Board members expressed gratitude regarding staff collaboration and condolences.