Pennsylvania State System Of Higher Education

The board meeting included the recognition of a student recipient of an award for academic excellence and the approval of several appointments to university councils of trustees, as well as the appointment of two new members to the Board of Governors. The Chancellor provided a review of campus visits and system progress, while the foundation presented its strategic plan for 2030. Additionally, the board approved the appointment of a new president for Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania and passed resolutions honoring the service of outgoing members.

The board meeting included remarks from the Chair regarding academic progress and institutional mission, as well as updates from union and association leaders. Presentations were provided regarding the state of higher education. The Board approved the disposition of university-owned property and improvements located at the Commonwealth University Clearfield site and the Witmer Health Services Building at Millersville University. Additionally, the Chancellor presented an evaluation regarding the financial return on investment 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.