South Carolina State University

The meeting agenda was adopted with an amendment related to the Student Affairs and Athletics Committee. The Board approved the minutes from previous meetings held in April, June, and August of the current year. The Chairman welcomed a delegation from the Bahamas seeking academic program alignment, particularly in agriculture, and recognized the Greater Augusta Chapter for significant fundraising efforts. The President provided updates on extensive campus construction planned over the next five years aimed at modernization and supporting student growth, noted several campus achievements including a student receiving a full scholarship and increased enrollment, and outlined top appropriation requests for capital projects like facility replacements and renovations. Standing Committees presented actions: Academic Affairs received approval for three new degree programs (M.S. in Agriculture & Natural Resources Management, B.S. in Animal & Veterinary Science, and B.S. in Natural Resource Management). The Finance and Administration/Operations Committee received approval for the FY2025-2026 Budget, the Hillcrest Lease Agreement, and an Operating Agreement, following a clean audit report. Other committees reported on fundraising goals, IT infrastructure updates, and athletics budget. The session concluded with an executive session regarding a personnel contractual matter, after which the Board approved the 5-year employment contract for the head men's basketball coach.

The Special Meeting of the Board of Trustees commenced with a call to order and invocation. Key actions included the amendment of the agenda to include an Executive Session, which was subsequently held. During the Executive Session, certain administrators were asked to join the Chairman, Attorney, and other key personnel. Upon reconvening in open session, a motion was passed to exit the Executive Session, confirming that no decisions or actions were taken during that time. The meeting concluded with an adjournment.

The special meeting commenced with the Vice Chair calling the session to order and confirming that proper notice compliant with the Freedom of Information Act was provided. The primary actions during this meeting involved the amendment and approval of the agenda to include an Executive Session. Following the motion and approval, the Board entered and subsequently reconvened from the Executive Session. It was explicitly noted that no decisions, votes, or actions were taken during the Executive Session. The meeting concluded with an adjournment.

The meeting included updates from the President on the university's new Research II status, financial situation, and upcoming events. Discussions covered curriculum changes, infrastructure projects, and the renovation of the student center. The Finance Committee discussed the university's capital campaign and presented a bond resolution for approval. The Public Service and Agriculture Committee highlighted the impact of cancer and diabetes cooking classes. The Student Affairs and Athletics Committee presented a resolution to opt into the NCAA House settlement. The board also approved the extension of President Alexander Conyer's contract.

The meeting included an invocation, adoption of the agenda with an amendment to add an executive session. The board went into an executive session and then reconvened in an open session. The meeting was then adjourned.