Southeast Missouri State University

This document outlines the strategic planning process for Southeast Missouri University, initiated by President Brad Hodson, with the goal of reinventing the institution and strengthening its ability to serve the evolving needs of students, employers, and the region. The process is organized into four phases: Pre-Planning, Building a Shared Understanding, Developing and Prioritizing Strategic Options, and Drafting and Socializing the Strategic Plan. Key activities include data gathering, market analysis, extensive stakeholder engagement through focus groups and surveys, identification of core themes, prioritization of goals and initiatives, and the iterative development and refinement of the strategic plan based on community feedback.

The board meeting included the introduction of new members and a presentation regarding the university's recent branding research and refresh. Key discussion topics included planning for the upcoming Athletics and HCAM Gymnastics Night, the annual LEGO Day at the Museum, and the Horn Choir's participation in the MMEA conference. Additionally, the board reviewed the success of recent holiday programming, received updates on the new Grace Café, discussed recent and upcoming student recruitment efforts in New Orleans and Puerto Rico, analyzed ticket sales data for community impact, and began initial planning for the upcoming 20th season anniversary celebrations.

The board discussed several agenda items, including the quilt exhibition at the Rosemary Berkeley and Harry L Crisp Museum, an update regarding the preservation or potential removal of a 200-year-old beech tree, and the success of the Lanford Wilson New American Play Festival. Future plans for the upcoming season, including ticket sales, symphony events, and guest artists, were also reviewed. Additionally, the board addressed personnel changes, including faculty retirements and the resignation of the music chair, and discussed initiatives with external agencies to improve lighting and signage in the surrounding area.

The meeting includes a consideration of project naming and a request to convene a closed session to discuss matters authorized by the Revised Statutes of Missouri, specifically concerning legal, personnel, or real estate actions. Following the closed session, the board will reconvene in an open session to announce any actions taken during the private meeting.

This document details Southeast Missouri State University's legislative priorities for Fiscal Year 2022, serving as a roadmap for advocating institutional needs. Key focus areas include securing core appropriations to match peer institutions and restore prior funding levels, investing in critical infrastructure such as the utility tunnel system, and bolstering workforce development through state financial aid programs and enhancements to the Law Enforcement Academy, Computer Science and Cybersecurity, and Visual and Performing Arts programs. The university also seeks legislative approval for a statewide mission in specific academic areas, with the overall vision of reducing student financial burden, supporting institutional growth, and contributing to regional economic development.