Salem State University

The committee reviewed the university's investment performance and economic outlook for the period ending April 30, 2026. The committee also recommended the approval of the Fiscal Year 2027 All Funds Budget, including trust fund budgets and significant contracts. Additional topics included a status update on real estate matters, progress reports on minor capital projects and the BOLD project, and informational updates regarding third-quarter financials and sustainability efforts.

The committee meeting featured updates on Fall 2026 admissions and enrollment figures across undergraduate and graduate programs. Discussions included the participation of the university in the National Institute for Student Success (NISS) to identify institutional barriers to student completion. Personnel actions concerning faculty and librarian tenure, promotions, and emeritus status were reviewed and approved. Additionally, the committee evaluated the role of the Center for Academic Excellence and the use of the N360 platform in centralizing student data, facilitating coordinated support, and tracking academic outcomes.

The board discussed and voted on several financial and administrative matters, including the approval of tuition and mandatory fee rates for the 2026-2027 academic year and a revision to the financing strategy for the BOLD capital project to maintain tax-exempt status. The board also appointed an audit firm for the fiscal years 2026 through 2028. Other agenda items included a presentation on experiential learning initiatives in the Bertolon School, student remarks highlighting personal academic success, and a reports section covering updates on capital projects, labor contracts, legislative budget status, and upcoming university events.

The committee reviewed the progress of the Meet the Moment campaign, noting substantial advancement toward the fundraising goal with contributions for financial aid, student success, and unrestricted funds. Discussion included a summary of noteworthy gifts, an update on the SSU BOLD project, and a recap of the annual Viking Warrior Day results. Additionally, the committee reviewed the upcoming schedule for the Alumni and Friends Weekend and discussed donor recognition initiatives.

The committee held an audit entrance discussion regarding the university's fiscal year 2026 audit, covering the planned timing, approach, and upcoming accounting pronouncements. Additionally, a 2025-2027 Risk Assessment Report was reviewed, which identified enrollment and retention, financial sustainability, aging infrastructure, student mental health, artificial intelligence, and workforce stability as key risk areas, along with proposed mitigation strategies for each.