PennWest Clarion

The meeting commenced with roll call attendance. President Anderson delivered a quarterly report highlighting alumni engagement through receptions in various cities and shared student success stories emphasizing clarity, flexibility, and purpose in education. Key strategic work discussed included the reinvisioned undergraduate academic experience and revised academic array designed to place student choice and career preparation at the center of degree pathways, offering 43 bachelor's degrees, 40 minors, and 36 undergraduate certificates. Furthermore, the development of a Penn West Staff Senate was detailed as a representative body to strengthen communication and support shared governance. Three presidential task forces (strategic planning, data strategy, and capital campaign) are nearing completion of their work. A new brand campaign was also launched to align external messaging with internal progress. Following the President's report, Trustee Weaver presented a positive evaluation of President Anderson, noting the chancellor's high praise for the report's quality. Representatives from the Faculty Senate (ABScuff) raised concerns regarding inadequate technology infrastructure eroding instructional quality and the rushed nature of the academic array redesign, urging sustained investment in technology and transparent shared governance. The Clarion campus representative also stressed the need to maintain a critical mass of programs and faculty due to its small size and vulnerability.

The strategic plan for Pennsylvania Western University (PennWest) focuses on providing affordable, quality education that integrates diverse disciplines and practical skills to prepare students for evolving career environments. Key strategic goals include maintaining affordability, offering comprehensive student support, emphasizing career outcomes, expanding access through multiple campuses and online options, and fostering a community that values innovation, inclusivity, and collaboration. The university aims to shape future learners and leaders who will contribute positively to their communities and professions.

The Council of Trustees meeting included welcoming a new student trustee and recognizing a graduating student trustee. The University Order of Succession was approved. Updates were provided on PACT activities, communications and marketing initiatives, academic affairs, enrollment, student affairs, finance and administration, and university advancement. The University Capital Spending Plan for fiscal years 2025-2026 through 2029-2030 was approved, as well as student fee and meal plan rates effective Fall 2025. There was also a presentation on the upcoming International Association of Technology and Management Conference.

The meeting included a welcome to a new student trustee, Aiden Dugan, and a quarterly report from President Dr. John Anderson, highlighting academic innovation, workforce readiness, expansion of access through online programs, tuition-free nursing training, and growing dual enrollment. The report also mentioned strengthening relationships with K12 schools, new women's sports programs, transformative philanthropy, progress on accreditation, and new platforms for storytelling. Challenges remain, including addressing a budget deficit and declining enrollment, with a focus on creating density, building the leadership team, and expanding reach through partnerships and campaigns. Remarks were made by Dr. Lisa Kavalchek from ABSCUF, discussing faculty positions and the need for infrastructure and support for mixed modality instruction. Dr. Robin Weaver provided an update on the Faculty Senate, including the adoption of the common hour, an advising day proposal, a review of the university budget, program assessments, and the faculty empowering excellence award. Student trustee Tyreek Witson reported on the student alumni night and DEI leadership and humanitarian awards, and highlighted the California Mutual Aid group's goals to address food insecurity.