The University of Virginia's College At Wise

The board meeting will include a closed session to discuss faculty promotion and tenure. Action items on the agenda consist of reviewing and potentially approving faculty promotions and tenure, the proposed 2026-2027 college budget, updates regarding board membership, clerk appointments, and scheduling of future board meeting dates. Additionally, the agenda covers a strategic planning process and a report from the Chancellor.

The board meeting featured several reports and action items across multiple sessions. Key discussions included an update on the SACSCOC Accreditation and Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP), focusing on the first-year experience restructuring and the introduction of new graduate programs (MS in Technology Management and Data Analytics, and MS in Nursing: FNP). Student Affairs provided an overview of Fall 2024 activities, noting increases in housing occupancy and counseling sessions, and discussed updates to intramurals and the gaming hub. The finance section covered the 2025-2026 Proposed Operating Budget, assuming a 3% salary increase and zero tuition/fee increase for two years, and included approvals for adjustments to meal plan structures and new student housing rental rates for off-campus townhouses. Action was taken to approve the 2025 six-year institutional plan for submission. Furthermore, the board approved the election of a new Clerk of the Board and accepted several new and reappointment member nominations. Resolutions of appreciation were adopted for departing board members and retiring staff.

The meeting included updates on SACSCOC accreditation and the Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP), focusing on the first-year experience and restructuring the first-year seminar. Experiential learning was discussed, with the introduction of the GivePulse platform for tracking student activities. Updates were provided on housing and student engagement, including historical data on housing numbers and counseling sessions. The legislative update covered the 2025 General Assembly Calendar and UVA Wise's legislative priorities. The proposed operating budget for 2025-2026 was presented, including revenue and expense assumptions. The Chancellor reported on the Honor the Future Campaign, the endowment total, and the Robert F. Stallard Fellowship in STEM scholarship. Enrollment numbers for Spring 2025 and admitted students for Fall 2025 were also shared, along with recent accomplishments at the College.

The meetings covered a range of topics, including updates on the college's strategic plan, legislative matters, and enrollment management. The board discussed and approved actions related to tuition and fees, graduate programs, and housing rates. Reports were presented on various initiatives such as the iPad program and student affairs, along with recognitions of faculty and students. Additionally, the board addressed budget matters, campus facilities, and collaborations with other institutions and organizations.

The strategic plan for the University of Virginia's College at Wise outlines goals and priorities across various areas, including curriculum enhancement, alignment with regional needs, faculty and staff development, student attraction and retention, and system updates. Key initiatives include restructuring the Liberal Arts Core, embedding diversity and inclusion, establishing a Center for Educational Excellence, and strengthening community ties. The plan aims to enhance the college's role as an educational leader in Southwest Virginia, promote economic growth, and improve the health and wellness of the region.