Westfield State University

The Financial Affairs Committee meeting involved several key agenda items and updates. The committee recommended approval of the revised Procurement Process Policy (0320) to the full Board. Significant discussion occurred regarding the FY26 Budget Reporting, noting increases in state appropriation and grant revenue, with expenses tracking higher primarily due to collective bargaining salary increases. Capital Projects updates highlighted the Ely Pool renovation and R22 replacement project, both reported to be on track. The committee reviewed the DCAMM threshold status, which the institution is on target to meet. Extensive focus was placed on Capital Project Strategy and Deferred Maintenance, noting the significant gross need of almost $600 million, including $422 million for the mandatory decarbonization plan. Funding strategies involving DCAMM, MSCBA debt, and potential state bonding (BRIGHT Act) were discussed. Financial analysis included a review of University Cash Summary, which showed an 11% increase in investment cash balances year-over-year, and an Annual Debt Report which identified that the debt burden ratio and net operating revenue ratio require attention. Finally, fixed assets and policy reviews for Remote Access Policy (0620) and Data Classification Policy (0630) were conducted.

The Equal Opportunity, Nondiscrimination, and Title IX Plan for Massachusetts State Universities outlines comprehensive policies to ensure equal opportunity and prevent discrimination across its institutions. Its primary purpose is to prohibit discrimination, discriminatory harassment (including sex-based harassment and sexual misconduct), detail prevention efforts, and establish procedures for the prompt, impartial, and thorough investigation and resolution of complaints. The plan also commits to promoting equitable policies and practices, actively pursuing affirmative action in the recruitment, selection, and promotion of students and employees, and ensuring equal access and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities and pregnancy-related conditions.

The Audit Committee meeting included a presentation of the FY25 Financial Statements by external auditors, who reported an unmodified opinion and found no material weaknesses or significant deficiencies in internal controls. Key financial details discussed included cash balances, capital assets totaling $233 million, and a net pension and OPEB liability of approximately $63.5 million, which negatively impacts the unrestricted net position. The committee recommended the full Board accept the FY25 annual report for submission to state offices. The committee also reviewed internal audit findings concerning Building Access and Security, noting deficiencies in the legacy key wizard system and physical key tracking protocols, leading to a plan for system upgrades and improved communication procedures. Additionally, an Accounts Payable review identified areas for best practice improvements regarding W9 verification and the use of auto debits. The next steps for the internal audit plan were discussed, focusing on risk areas like campus safety.

The meeting covered several key topics, starting with information items regarding the SU SUCCESS Grant for Spring 2026, including first-year success measures and focusing on At-Risk students based on Pell or Mass Grant eligibility. The Athletics Report detailed academic excellence, team performance (including championship wins and NCAA tournament appearances), community engagement success, and updates on recreation utilization. The primary action item involved the approval of several Honorary Degree recipients: General Clara Adams-Ender (Ret), Mr. Kevin Queenin, Mr. Maurice Watson, J.D., and Mr. Lawrence Gwozdz.

The committee meeting focused primarily on Persistence and Retention data for first-time student cohorts spanning 2015-2024, examining statewide trends for state universities, and analyzing high school GPA distributions, which indicated a 'bifurcation' trend with more students in high and low GPA bands. Discussions covered enrollment stabilization around 2022 and strategies for future student attraction, including plans for a new life sciences building and the approval of three new master's programs. The committee also reviewed program adaptation based on enrollment success. A key action item was the unanimous recommendation to the full Board of Trustees to grant Faculty Emeritus/a status to Dr. Stephen Adams (English) and Ms. Jamie Wainwright (Art), effective December 18, 2025.