The Connecticut State Colleges And Universities System (CSCU)

The Board of Regents Finance and Infrastructure Committee meeting involved discussion and approval of several high-value contracts, including HVAC repair services and a food services contract amendment for Central Connecticut State University. The meeting also addressed financial reporting improvements aimed at increasing transparency and accountability, the tuition and fees refund policy for universities, the establishment of tuition reduction programs at Eastern Connecticut State University in partnership with external organizations, and a review of the spending plan for the upcoming fiscal year. Additionally, the committee discussed institutional revenue and expenditure trends, operating deficits, and long-term financial projections for the system and its member institutions.

The committee discussed the implementation progress of the Banner system, including project phases and commonality across the institution. Additionally, the committee reviewed and recommended the adoption of the CSCU Information Security Policy to the Board after approving a modification to the enforcement section regarding termination.

The committee meeting focused on a review of the honors program, including its recent program review, student achievements, and seminar series events. The committee also formally approved the proposal for a new Master of Social Work program, highlighting its alignment with market demand, focus on clinical and macro practice, and the inclusion of an addictions track. Additionally, the committee discussed items regarding the reduction of credit requirements for existing degree programs to align with academic standards.

The Committee discussed the Dual Credit Advisory Council's year-end report, which included recommendations for concurrent enrollment funding and teacher credentialing. The Committee reviewed updates to the CT State Community College Academic Fresh Start Policy and considered program modifications, including renaming the Disability Specialist associate degree program to Disability Studies. Academic updates were provided across the CSCU system, highlighting enrollment growth, faculty research grants, promotion and tenure approvals, emeritus awards, and professional development initiatives. Additionally, the Committee discussed the ACT-BOR Spring 2026 Enrollment Report and rescinded the legacy CSCU Rights of Students Policy.

The Board of Regents meeting included the adoption of the agenda and an update regarding a planned executive session to discuss board affairs. The Board Chair addressed concerns about the conduct of a prior interim chancellor, emphasizing the commitment to an independent investigation for which an RFP process has been initiated with selection finalization currently underway. The appointment of an interim chancellor was noted, along with reports on the system's northstar framework to improve student economic mobility and success. Additionally, faculty and students provided public commentary regarding the financial resilience of institutions, concerns about potential restructuring and resource allocation, the need for enhanced mental health and support services, and systemic issues regarding system office bureaucracy and institutional autonomy.