San Diego State University

The Board of Directors meeting included a presentation on the Center for International Business Education and Research, updates on economic development initiatives and the Mission Valley Innovation District, and a report on proposal and award activity. The board reviewed staffing plans and the implementation of procurement software. Additionally, the finance and investment committee provided updates on endowment returns, the mid-year general fund budget, and the approval of a revised Investment Policy Statement. Finally, the audit committee reported on completed sponsor audits and the audit plans for the upcoming fiscal and calendar years.

The committee held a public comment session regarding the importance of Research Support Funds for university growth and research programs. Discussions covered the impact of current federal actions, such as federal budget changes and potential F&A rate caps, on research funding and the Research Foundation's financial performance. The committee reviewed financial metrics, including a decline in awards and indirect recovery, and evaluated multiple distribution scenarios for fiscal year 2025-26. Ultimately, the committee approved Resolution R26-01, authorizing a 75% distribution of Research Support Funds with specific exceptions for committed costs, and established a strategy to allocate potential surplus revenue for future research infrastructure needs.

The San Diego State University Cyberinfrastructure Plan outlines the institution's technological development and strategic direction, directly aligning with SDSU's overarching 2020-2025 strategic plan, with a focus on becoming a premier public research university. The plan prioritizes investment in local compute and storage with cloud bursting capabilities, promotes the use of national resources, emphasizes security and compliance, and provides structured research IT support. Key areas also include ensuring sustainability of investments, making cyberinfrastructure accessible to underserved populations, fostering partnerships with CSU and regional partners, and integrating AI/ML into instruction and research.

The meeting included the election of board members and committee appointments, along with an extensive report from the CEO regarding the volatile federal funding environment, grant terminations, and financial mitigation strategies. The board approved the fiscal year 2025-26 original general fund budget. Additionally, the board passed a resolution to establish an ad hoc committee and delegate authority to manage and potentially reallocate research support funds due to the ongoing uncertainty in federal research grants and shifting administrative policies.

The meeting included a presentation on the Experimental Mechanics Laboratory and the approval of a signature delegation resolution for a community enhancement program. Board members and committee assignments were re-appointed and confirmed. The CEO provided updates on research proposal activity, staffing plans, and space utilization at the Gateway Center. The Finance and Investment Committee reported on endowment returns, banking transitions, and the upcoming RFP process for banking services, leading to the adoption of the Fiscal Year 2023-24 General Fund Budget. Additionally, the Vice President for Research and Innovation presented on the development of the Mission Valley Innovation District, and the board conducted a closed session regarding employment matters.