Board of Visitors summary of actions and discussions

The James Madison University Board of Visitors met Friday, September 16, 2022, in the Festival Conference and Student Center.

The following is a summary of actions taken by the board and key areas of discussion at the board meeting: 

Approved the April 22, 2022 Board of Visitors meeting minutes, the minutes of the Executive Committee meetings on June 22 and August 29;  and the bank resolution;

Accepted committee reports from the Academic Excellence, Advancement and Engagement, Athletics, Audit, Governance, Finance and Physical Development, and Student Affairs committees;

An update on the dashboard was provided by Chris Orem, director of Strategic Planning and Engagement; 

And update on national university status was presented by Heather Coltman, provost and senior vice president for Academic Affairs and Anthony Tongen, vice provost Research and Scholarship;

Nick Langridge, vice president for advancement led an update on the Unleashed campaign.

President Alger shared during his President’s Report:

• The university welcomed 4,861 students as part of the class of 2026, with 1,257 being out of state, 23% being underrepresented minorities and 14% being first-generation students;
• A new Center for First-Generation Students was announced;
• A summary of health and well-being resources and initiatives including Kognito training, TimelyCare telehealth support for students, and safeTALK training for the Office of Residence Life and the new 988 number;
• A $1.4 million National Science Foundation S-STEM grant to increase STEM degree completion of low-income undergraduates;
• A $1.4 million TRIO Talent Search grant to supports local first-generation, low-wealth or disabled students;
• The creation of an information technology major;
• A snapshot of career outcomes. More than 95% of graduates are employed or pursuing an advanced degree; 60% of graduates remain in Virginia for employment; graduates are working in 49 states, Washington, D.C. and 14 countries;
• JMU ranks #51 nationally in Washington Monthly ranking, #19 most cost-effective by Stacker and #72 public by US News & World Report;
• There was record investment by the General Assembly in higher education and recognition of the university’s historic funding disparity. Tuition will be held flat for in-state students with a one-time scholarship. Faculty and staff will receive salary increases;
• Construction updates including plans for a complete renovation of Carrier Library, renovation of the old convocation center, demolition of Ikenberry Hall and construction of a 500 bed facility, softball stadium expansion and Sentara Park locker room addition;
• An update on the economic revitalization series hosted by JMU and the creation of working groups to focus on workforce development, transportation, housing and childcare;
• The Unleashed campaign wrapped up on June 30^th raising over $250 million;
• The recognition of the IMPACT program with the American Association of State Colleges and Universities Award for Leadership Development and Diversity;
• An introduction of new leadership within the Center for Civic Engagement and the focus on free speech, civil discourse and voter and civic engagement;
• Introduction of vice president for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and Chief Diversity Officer Dr. Mailka Carter-Hoyt;
• Towana Moore’s appointment as the new vice president for Administration and Finance;
• The football team won their first two games and the Sun Belt Conference has a focus on sportsmanship;
• Encouragement for participation in the Purple Friday initiative.