University of Wisconsin-System Administration

The board meeting focused on the complex issue of college affordability, with a detailed presentation on the distinction between sticker price and net price for students. Key discussion topics included trends in tuition increases across various higher education sectors, the impact of student debt, the role of financial aid such as Pell Grants, and the necessity of clearly communicating cost information to students and families. Additionally, the meeting included the introduction of the new head of UW Colleges and UW Extension.

The meeting included the declaration of conflicts of interest by board members and the formal welcoming of several new Regents and university leadership personnel, including new provosts and vice chancellors for finance. The Board recognized the upcoming retirements of key university staff and passed a resolution of appreciation for the service of the retiring Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration at UW-Lacrosse. Additionally, the Board reviewed and highlighted the impact of the Regent Business Partnership Award program, showcasing collaborations between universities and regional businesses to foster research, career training, and economic development.

The board addressed several agenda items, including the approval of the consent agenda regarding capital planning and maintenance requests. Discussions focused on the UW Madison land acquisition and leasing plan to relocate fleet services and waste management operations, as well as the demolition of obsolete buildings at UW Eau Claire and UW Milwaukee to facilitate campus redevelopment projects. Additionally, the board reviewed and debated a proposed policy revision concerning the selection process for senior system leadership positions.

The meeting focused on the progress of the 2020 Forward strategic framework, addressing Wisconsin's demographic challenges, workforce trends, and their impact on higher education enrollment. Key topics included strategies to improve the educational pipeline through 360 advising and seamless transfer policies, the expansion of high-impact practices within the university experience, and business mobilization efforts via the Career Connect portal and Wisconsin Idea Summits. Additionally, the Board discussed operational excellence initiatives aimed at streamlining business practices, capital planning, and policy modernization across the university system.

The meeting included an update on the search process for the new Chancellor at UW River Falls. Discussion covered the system's ongoing COVID-19 response, including surge testing operations, the implementation of aggressive testing protocols to keep campuses open and safe, and the future goal of transitioning to at least 50% in-person instruction. The board was updated on the new nursing student initiative to assist healthcare providers and prepare for vaccine distribution. Additionally, the meeting featured the introduction of new leadership, including the interim vice president of administration and the new senior equity, diversity, and inclusion officer.