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. Over 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 30th 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.
Board Materials - September 15-16, 2022
