Portland State University

The committee meeting covered a range of academic and student affairs topics, including standing reports from the President and Provost, a special guest presentation, and a proposal for a new Bachelor of Applied Science in Criminology and Criminal Justice. Key discussions included an update on Portland State University's Academic Plan for Institutional Vitality and Transformation (PIVOT), status updates from the General Education Task Force, and detailed reports on student success initiatives, enrollment management strategies, and financial aid updates.

The agenda focuses on the formal appointment of a new Secretary to the Board of Trustees by the President. The role involves acting as a primary liaison between the Board and the university administration, managing Board governance, strategic work plans, and ensuring proper meeting notices and record-keeping for Board activities.

The Finance, Administration & Audit Committee meeting agenda covered several significant areas. Key discussion items included the Q1 Budget Report, which indicated a higher forecasted operating deficit primarily due to Enrollment and General Fund (E&G) revenue shortfalls and increased Tuition Free Degree support. The committee reviewed the Multi-year Enrollment and E&G Forecast, noting significant enrollment declines and potential future state funding constraints, leading to downward revisions in budget scenarios. Updates were provided on the Bridge to the Future 2.0 initiative aimed at achieving financial sustainability, with detailed recommendations expected in March. Furthermore, the results of the FY2024-25 Financial Statement Audit were reviewed, which resulted in an unmodified audit opinion with no material weaknesses noted. Finally, updates on capital projects included a recommendation for the Millar Library renovation and a request for an additional $15 million in debt for the Housing project.

The document lists individuals and groups who submitted public comments for the Board of Trustees meeting. Key discussion topics included Portland State's enrollment challenges and budget crisis, union support, contract negotiations, proposed budget cuts, the impact of impending cuts on students and the community, the closure of the University Place Hotel, strategies for long-term care and success of urban assets on campus, and the preservation/reuse of the Blackstone Building and Montgomery Court. Additionally, written comments addressed sponsored projects administration.

The committee meeting focused on several substantial agenda items, including a presentation and discussion regarding building comprehensive General Education reform at PSU, presenting an overview of the process and early draft white paper for campus feedback. A separate presentation provided an update on PSU's Academic Plan for Institutional Vitality and Transformation (PIVOT), detailing progress on realigning academic offerings to address structural deficits. The committee reviewed standing reports from Student Affairs, Student Success, Enrollment Management, and Academic Programs in Review. A key action item was the discussion and recommended approval for a New Program Proposal: Bachelor of Science (BS) in Artificial Intelligence within the Computer Science Department, slated for a Fall 2026 start.