Worcester State University

The agenda for the meeting included administrative business such as the call to order and the required approval of prior committee and board minutes from November 20, 2025. Administrative updates covered the Chair's report, the Student Trustee's report, and the President's report. Key discussion points included planning for the next meeting in April 2026, updates on the campus master plan process focusing on identity, balance, modernization, and revenue generation, and advocacy efforts concerning the BRIGHT Act bond authorization, where Worcester State is seeking an increase in allocated funds. The President also highlighted positive earnings outcomes data for WSU graduates. Furthermore, the Board was asked to vote on the approval of nominees for the commencement speaker, honorary degree recipients, and community service awards pool as recommended by the President.

The meeting included presentations and discussions on inclusive excellence and belonging, featuring a TRIO Student Support Services Grant Presentation and announcement, and a sabbatical presentation on curriculum reform in Estonia. Reports were given by the Human Resources and Academic & Student Development Committees. Administrative updates included reports from the Chair, the Student Trustee, and the President, covering various topics such as the approval of nominees for speaker/awards pool, an update on the University's Master Plan, an enrollment update, and sabbatical leave proposals.

The meeting included discussion of the FY2025 draft financial statements audit and administrative updates. The financial statements included the Independent Auditor's Report, Management's Discussion and Analysis, Basic Financial Statements, Supplementary Information, Statistical Information, and Other Reports.

The strategic plan emphasizes academic excellence, student support and success, marketing and enrollment, community engagement and public good, people and culture, and resources and infrastructure. It focuses on measuring progress against established metrics and initiatives, promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice, and fostering continuous improvement. The plan aims to enhance the university's visibility, support student success, engage with the community, and ensure efficient resource utilization.

The Mid-Cycle Progress Report for Worcester State University's strategic plan, "Beyond 150: Lead, Succeed, and Engage (2020-2027)," reviews progress made in key areas including academic excellence, student support and success, marketing and enrollment, community engagement, people and culture, and resources and infrastructure. It highlights achievements such as increased experiential learning opportunities, improved retention and graduation rates, growth in graduate enrollment, expanded community partnerships, and a growing endowment. The report also identifies areas for future focus, such as addressing equity gaps in student outcomes, enhancing support for Latine students, improving internal communication, and updating the Climate Action Plan.