Board of Visitors Meeting June 6-7, 2024

The Christopher Newport University Board of Visitors met Thursday, June 6, 2024 through Friday, June 7, 2024.

Thursday, June 6, the Executive Committee met in Room 201 from 10:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. followed a Board of Visitors lunch at 11:25 a.m. in the Carney Smith Reception Room. University Advancement Committee and Student Life Committee met simultaneously from 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. in Rooms 201 and 202 respectively. The Athletics Committee took a tour of the athletics facilities from 1:45p.m. – 2:45 p.m. departing from the second-floor lobby. The Academic Affairs Committee met in Room 202 from 1:45 p.m. – 2:45 p.m. and Operations, Audit and Risk Committee met in Room 201 from 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. The Board of Visitors held a dinner at 5:30 p.m. at The University President’s House (1205 Riverside Drive, Newport News, Virginia) no official business was conducted.

Friday, June 7, the Board assembled beginning at 8:30 a.m. on the second floor in the Lobby. The Finance and Facilities Committee met from 9:00 a.m. – 10:15 a.m. in Room 202.

A Regular meeting of the Board of Visitors was held from 10:30 a.m. ~ 1:00 p.m. in Room 201. The meeting was available by livestream audio link. The Board of Visitors Regular Meeting was followed by lunch at 1:15 p.m. on the second floor in the Lobby. The Board of Visitors Yearly Meeting with the President (Full Board) was held from 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. in Room 201.

Separate Minutes were taken for each of the Committee meetings that were held.

Present from the Board

Mr. Brently K. Archer
Regina P. Brayboy
Lindsey Carney Smith, Esq., Rector
William A. Estrada, Esq.
Mr. John R. Lawson, II
Kelli Purdy Meadows, CPA, CCIFP
Ms. Christy T. Morton, Secretary
LTC (R) Boris G. Robinson
The Honorable Ronald L. Tillett
Dr. Lee Vreeland

Absent from the Board

Ms. Terri M. McKnight, CPA, Vice Rector
Mr. C. Larry Pope (as to Open Session)
Mr. Sean D. Miller

Remote Board Member Participants

Dr. Daniel M. Gade - Remote participation permitted for personal travel to Madison, Wisconsin to attend a wedding pursuant to the Code of Virginia § 2.2-3708.3(B)(4).
LTC (R) Boris G. Robinson - Remote participation permitted due to distance between the member’s primary residence in Round Rock, Texas and the meeting location pursuant to Code of Virginia § 2.2-3708.3(B)(4).

Present from the University

Mr. Bruce Bronstein, Executive Director of the Ferguson Center for the Arts
Dr. Robert Colvin, Vice President for Strategic Initiatives
Ms. Amie Dale, Liaison to the Board of Visitors
Mr. Vidal Dickerson, Special Assistant to the President and Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer
Dr. Lisa Duncan Raines, Vice President for Enrollment, Student Success, and Institutional Effectiveness
Dr. Chip Filer, VP for Facilities and Campus Operations
Mr. Jim Hanchett, Chief Communications Officer
Ms. Sarah Herzog, Chief Financial Officer and Associate Vice President
Dr. Kevin Hughes, Vice President of Student Affairs
Dr. Rachel Holland, Immediate Past President of the Faculty Senate
President William G. Kelly
Mr. Kenneth C. Kidd, Deputy Chief of Staff
Dr. Quentin Kidd, Executive Vice President, Provost/Chief Academic Officer
Ms. Holly Koons, Executive Director of the Fine Arts Center
Dr. Rob Lange, Dean of Admission
Ms. Jennifer Latour, Chief of Staff
Maureen Matsen, Esq., University Counsel
Mr. Kyle McMullin, Director of Athletics
Dr. Brian Puaca, Faculty Senate President
Ms. Adelia Thompson, Vice President for Advancement, External Engagement and Arts

Call to Order and Welcome: Rector Lindsey Carney Smith

During the Board of Visitors meeting on June 7th, 2024, the board convened for their final session of the academic year. The meeting began with a warm welcome and acknowledgment of Mr. Robinson and Dr. Gade who were both participating remotely. Rector Carney Smith welcomed and recognized Nate Fontaine, president of the Alumni Society, and Dr. Puaca and she thanked them for representing the Alumni Society and the Faculty Senate, respectively.

The session included heartfelt appreciations for members concluding their terms or roles including Ms. Brayboy, Vice Rector McKnight, Ms. Matsen, and Ms. Belote.

The Rector also paid tribute to Judge Bray, a former board member who had passed away. His contributions during his tenure, especially during the presidential search that brought President Kelly to the campus, were highlighted. A personal anecdote shared by a board member reflected on Judge Bray's character and the gentle humor he brought to board discussions.

Approval of Minutes: Rector Lindsey Carney Smith

The meeting proceeded to official business, starting with the approval of the minutes from April 18-19, 2024. Rector Carney Smith called for a motion to approve the minutes of the Board of Visitors Regular Meeting on April 18-19, 2024. Mr. Lawson provided the motion, which was seconded by Secretary Morton and the minutes were approved by a unanimous vote of the Board.

Rector Carney Smith called for a motion to approve the minutes of the Athletics Committee Meeting on April 18, 2024. Mr. Tillett provided the motion, which was seconded by Mr. Estrada and the minutes were approved by a unanimous vote of the Committee.

Appointment of Student Representative: Rector Carney Smith

Rector Carney Smith called for a motion to approve the appointment of Mckenzie Hurley, Student Government Association President as the Non-voting Advisory Student Representative to the Board of Visitors for academic year 2024-25. Mr. Estrada provided the motion, which was seconded by Mr. Lawson and the resolution was approved by a unanimous vote of the Board. Ms. Hurley was not present at the meeting as she was participating in a research fellowship at the University of Missouri.

The Rector called on President Kelly to give the President’s Report.

President’s Report: William G. Kelly

President Kelly began his report by honoring the memory of Judge Bray, reflecting on the inspiration drawn from his life. He connected this remembrance to the broader context of historical significance, noting the 80th anniversary of D-Day and its powerful legacy of freedom, a poignant reminder on Higher Education Day in America.

President Kelly recounted the university's recent accomplishments, highlighting the graduation of over 900 undergraduates and 69 master’s degree recipients, with significant honors achieved by many. He noted the university's athletic achievements, noting landmark successes in women's tennis, sailing, and lacrosse, alongside a cheer team that clinched a national championship.

President Kelly shared the news of Ms. Adelia Thompson retiring from Christopher Newport and accepting the role of CEO of the Peninsula Community Foundation, emphasizing the continued partnership with the university.

On academic and enrollment fronts, President Kelly reported stable student numbers with enthusiastic participation in new undergraduate programs and certificates. He outlined strategic partnerships, especially with our local community colleges, enhancing the university's outreach and reinforcing its commitment to academic excellence.

President Kelly noted that next academic year, we will celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Ferguson Center for the Performing Arts and the third anniversary of the Mary M. Torggler Fine Arts Center, applauding their vibrant community impact under the leadership of Bruce Bronstein and Holly Koons, respectively.

In closing, President Kelly expressed gratitude for the unwavering support from the board, faculty, staff, and the community, underscoring a collective commitment to the university's mission. He then called on Secretary Morton to aid him in bringing forward a special resolution in honor of Rector Carney Smith. The resolution was read aloud and then Secretary Morton called for discussion. After a brief discussion that praised and honored the Rector, Secretary Morton called for a motion to approve the Resolution of Appreciation: Lindsey Carney Smith. Mr. Lawson provided the motion, it was seconded by Mr. Tillett and approved by a unanimous vote of the board.

The special tribute continued with recognition from Mr. McMullin that celebrated the Rector’s contributions not only in service to the university, but also as a student athlete. He then announced that the Rector is to be included in the 2024 Christopher Newport Athletics Hall of Fame.

Executive Committee Report: Rector Carney Smith, Chair

During the recent meeting of the Executive Committee, the Rector reported that the session opened with Ms. Vanessa Buelmann presenting on the Bonner Scholarship service program, highlighting its impact and outreach. This was followed by Dr. Colvin’s presentation on the Strategic Compass process, focusing on the procedural aspects with anticipation of substantive updates in the fall.

The Rector provided an update on the budget, touching on various key initiatives including the Virginia Military Survivors Dependents Act and the Shoe Lane Task Force. The committee also looked into the university's policies regarding the prohibition of weapons, with Dr. Hughes leading the charge to consolidate existing policies into a comprehensive, accessible format. Christopher Newport’s unique stance among Virginia public universities–lacking a specific prohibition on weapons–was discussed, with planned codification to address concealed carry regulations at upcoming meetings.

A significant portion of the meeting addressed governance transitions. With the term of Terry McKnight as vice rector ending on June 30, as well as Christy Morton’s term as Secretary, and her own term ending, Rector Carney Smith recommended that Christy Morton serve as the Presiding Officer, in accordance with the Board’s Bylaws, until the official elections commence at the Annual Meeting in September.

The Rector then called for a motion to appoint Ms. Morton as the Presiding Officer until such time as officers are elected at the September meeting. Mr. Lawon provided the motion, Mr. Estrada provided the second and Rector Carney Smith asked Ms. Dale for a roll call vote: Rector Carney Smith, Mr. Archer, Ms. Brayboy, Mr. Estrada, Dr. Gade, Mr. Lawson, Ms. Meadows, Mr. Robinson, Mr. Tillett, and Dr. Vreeland.

Rector Carney Smith concluded the report and called on Mr. Lawson for the Advancement Committee report.

Advancement Committee Report: John Lawson, Chair

Mr. Lawson opened his report by addressing a key resolution related to gift acceptance policies necessitated by recent legislative changes in Virginia. He detailed that the 2020 General Assembly requires the establishment of a policy to manage the review, acceptance, and documentation of significant gifts, particularly those over $1 million or those that could impose new obligations on the institution, excluding scholarships and other financial aid.

Mr. Lawson brought forward RESOLUTION 2: Gift Acceptance Policy at the recommendation of the Committee on University Advancement. He called for discussion and there being none, Secretary Morton made a motion to approve Resolution 2 and it was passed by a unanimous vote of the Board.

As Mr. Lawson concluded his report, he expressed a personal note of gratitude towards Adelia Thompson for her dedication and effective leadership in advancement activities, recognizing her pivotal role in preparing the university for future campaigns and strengthening its community ties and endowment.

Rector Carney Smith called on Mr. Archer to deliver the Student Life Committee report due to Mr. Robinson’s absence at the committee meeting.

Student Life Committee Report: Brent Archer, Member

Mr. Archer presented a comprehensive overview of the Student Life Committee's activities and initiatives, focusing on the vibrant and transformative experiences available to students at Christopher Newport University. He emphasized the committee's dedication to fostering an enriching campus environment that supports both the personal and academic growth of students.

The report highlighted several key developments and programs that have been implemented to enhance student engagement and well-being. Mr. Archer detailed the success of new student orientation programs designed to integrate students into university life seamlessly. He also touched upon the various health and wellness services that have been expanded to better meet the needs of the student body, ensuring that students have access to essential support services.

Mr. Archer discussed the enhancements in residential life, noting the improvements in housing facilities and the introduction of new living-learning communities that encourage scholarly interaction outside the classroom. He proudly mentioned the active participation of students in community service projects, underscoring the university's commitment to civic engagement and the development of leadership skills among students.

The committee also reviewed ongoing challenges with FAFSA and future plans, with a particular focus on increasing diversity and inclusion efforts on campus. Mr. Archer outlined strategies to foster a more inclusive community that respects and celebrates diversity in all its forms. Notably, the discussion also covered the university's handling of a campus expression event on April 30, related to broader national protests, praising the administration's proactive and fair approach to facilitating a peaceful event that allowed for expression without disrupting campus activities.

Concluding his report, Mr. Archer reaffirmed the committee's commitment to creating a supportive and dynamic student life environment, which is fundamental to the university’s mission of developing well-rounded leaders and citizens.

Athletics Committee Report: Rector Carney Smith, Chair

In her final Athletics Committee report, Rector Carney Smith reflected on a year of unprecedented competitive success for Christopher Newport’s student-athletes. She began by celebrating the cheer team's national championship, a highlight from April that set the tone for an exceptional year across the board.

For the first time in the university's history, all sports teams with a win-loss record earned a bid to the NCAA tournament, marking a significant milestone. This achievement encompassed 18 teams, including women's sailing, which qualified for their national championship. The university's teams collectively secured a winning rate of 76% over the year.

Rector Carney Smith emphasized the academic and behavioral standards of the student-athletes, noting that 21 students were recognized as All-Americans, with three receiving academic All-American honors. Reports indicate that student-athletes not only match but occasionally surpass their non-athlete peers in academic and behavioral measures. The annual contact report highlighted a decrease in the proportion of student-athletes involved in academic integrity and student conduct cases compared to previous years.

The committee's activities included a comprehensive tour of the athletic facilities led by Mr. Kyle McMullin, Director of Athletics, showcasing the university's commitment to providing top-tier facilities for its athletes. However, the tour also underscored the aging infrastructure, with many facilities over 20 years old, signaling a need for ongoing repair and replacement planning.

The meeting concluded on a high note with the announcement that athletics fundraising efforts had surpassed the annual goal, raising over $1.2 million. This success was driven by targeted support for specific sports programs, amassing more than $850,000, thanks to the generosity of alumni, families, and friends.

The Rector’s report celebrated the remarkable achievements of the student-athletes and underscored the ongoing commitment of the Athletics Committee to support and enhance the athletic programs at Christopher Newport University.

The Rector then called on Dr. Vreeland to deliver the report for the Academic Affairs Committee.

Academic Affairs Committee Report: Lee Vreeland, Chair

Dr. Vreeland led the Academic Affairs Committee report noting that they received a presentation by Dr. Lynn Lambert, Associate Provost for Research and Dean of Graduate Studies that highlighted the diverse range of faculty research across disciplines such as music, kinesiology, environmental science, and English emphasizing the university's unique position in fostering a robust research environment despite its primary undergraduate focus. It was shared that nearly one-third of the students on campus participate in faculty-led research, illustrating the deep integration of research into the academic fabric of the university.

The committee also reviewed a presentation by Ms. Tressa Aulenbach, Assistant Director of Assessment, who detailed the upcoming Quality Enhancement Plan as part of the ten-year reaffirmation cycle. Key upcoming deadlines include a compliance certificate report due in September 2026 and a new quality enhancement plan due in January 2027. These steps are critical for maintaining accreditation and enhancing educational quality.

A correction to Resolution 7 from the April 19, 2024 Board meeting was discussed, concerning the organizational structure within the College of Arts and Humanities. It was clarified that the School of the Arts would consist of the Departments of Music, Theater and Dance with an amendment to remove a grammatical error in the departmental listing.

Provost Kidd provided a year-end summary, celebrating significant achievements including two professors, Adele Patel and Johnny Finn, winning prestigious Outstanding Faculty Awards. The academic success extended to impressive admissions of students into professional and graduate programs, with noteworthy placements in medical, dental, physical therapy, and law schools.

Dr. Vreeland concluded with a highlight of community engagement through academic projects, notably a GIS class project that assisted local nonprofits and the Newport News Fire Department in determining the optimal location for a new fire station, which is set to begin construction.

Dr. Vreeland brought forward RESOLUTION 7R: Organizational Change, Establishment of Academic Units In the College of Arts and Humanities (Correction) at the recommendation of the Committee on Academic Affairs. She called for discussion and there being none, Dr. Vreeland made a motion to approve Resolution 7R and it was passed by a unanimous vote of the Board.

The Rector called on Secretary Morton to provide the report for the Operations, Audit and Risk Committee.

Operations, Audit and Risk Committee Report: Secretary Morton, Chair

Secretary Morton presented a report on the committee’s agenda that included contributions from several key university personnel and external auditors.

The committee reviewed the draft audit report for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023, presented by the Auditor of Public Accounts (APA). The APA will issue an unmodified opinion on the university’s financial statements—indicating a clean audit with no findings of fraudulent transactions or disagreements with management on accounting and disclosure matters. However, the APA noted two significant deficiencies in internal controls related to operating security and IT risk management, with one being a repeat finding. These areas highlighted the need for continued improvement in access permissions and risk assessment practices to safeguard the university's critical data.

Ms. Faith Belote, Director of Internal Audit, provided updates on several fronts including campus safety, identity and access management, and audit planning. An annual risk-based audit plan for FY 25 was outlined, set for approval in September. The committee also received a draft internal audit charter aligned with new global standards, aiming for finalization at the upcoming September meeting.

Mr. Brian Donahue, Director of Emergency Management, introduced a new policy on campus safety and emergency preparedness training. This policy is a response to recent legislation requiring active shooter event preparedness training for first-year students, with biennial reviews for returning students. The comprehensive Crisis and Emergency Management Plan was also reviewed, reflecting necessary updates from changes in university leadership and other strategic shifts.

Ms. Ashleigh Andrews, Chief People Officer, updated the committee on the ongoing searches for the Director of Institutional Compliance/Title IX Coordinator and Director of Internal Audit, with promising candidates expected to be introduced in the fall.

Dr. Chip Filer, Vice President of Facilities and Campus Operations, delivered his first presentation to the committee, covering the Environmental Health and Safety program. His report included an overview of policies and procedures designed to minimize hazards, manage risks, and ensure compliance with various regulatory standards.

Secretary Morton concluded by presenting three resolutions from the committee's discussions, emphasizing the continuous efforts to enhance operational integrity, risk management, and audit processes at the university.

RESOLUTION 1: Campus Safety and Emergency Preparedness Policy at the recommendation of the Committee on Operations, Audit and Risk. She called for discussion and there being none, Mr. Archer made a motion to approve Resolution 1 and it was passed by a unanimous vote of the Board.
RESOLUTION 3: Crisis and Emergency Management Plan at the recommendation of the Committee on Operations, Audit and Risk. She called for discussion and there being none, Mr. Estrada made a motion to approve Resolution 3 and it was passed by a unanimous vote of the Board.
RESOLUTION 4: Award of Administrative and Professional Faculty Emeritus at the recommendation of the Committee on Operations, Audit and Risk. She called for discussion and there being none, Mr. Tillet made a motion to approve Resolution 4 and it was passed by a unanimous vote of the Board.

The Rector called on Mr. Tillet to deliver the Finance & Facilities Report.

Finance & Facilities Committee Report: Ron Tillett, Chair

Mr. Tillett shared that the committee's focus was on maintaining the fiscal integrity and operational excellence of Christopher Newport University, highlighted by a detailed examination of the budget and university facilities.

The session began with a budget overview presented by Ms. Sarah Herzog, Chief Financial Officer, offering a comprehensive analysis of the financial impacts from the latest legislative session on the university and broader trends across the Commonwealth. This was complemented by Dr. Filer’s presentation on facilities and operations, which were both praised for their clarity and thoroughness.

The university's financial audit for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023, was a topic of pride, with the Auditor of Public Accounts set to issue an unmodified opinion indicating a clean audit. The audit found no fraudulent transactions or illegal acts, and there were no disagreements with management over auditing, accounting, or disclosure matters, although there were two significant deficiencies noted in internal controls that are targeted for improvement.

Mr. Tillett applauded President Kelly and his team for their effective advocacy in Richmond, which has been instrumental in securing favorable budget outcomes for the university. He highlighted the importance of direct communication with legislators to ensure they understand and support the university's financial needs.

The committee reviewed the university's approach to calculating and communicating the net price of attendance, considering tuition, fees, scholarships, and grants. This method provides a clearer picture of the actual cost to families, which is an ongoing focus of the committee's reporting.

Looking ahead, the committee discussed the fiscal 2024-2025 operating budget, totaling $197.7 million, which includes allocations for essential services and strategic initiatives while managing to limit tuition increases to 2.9%. This budget also supports a 3% salary raise for staff, reflecting the university's commitment to its employees and strategic goals.

Mr. Tillett noted an optimistic outlook on the university's financial strategies, emphasizing a biennial and six-year planning approach that aligns with the state’s budgeting process. This forward-thinking strategy is designed to anticipate and adapt to changing financial landscapes, ensuring the university remains financially stable and capable of supporting its mission and objectives.

Mr. Tillett brought forward RESOLUTION 5: Budget Resolution FY 2025 at the recommendation of the Committee on Finance and Facilities. He called for discussion and there being none, Secretary Morton made a motion to approve Resolution 5 and it was passed by a unanimous vote of the Board.

Mr. Tillett continued his report by focusing on the university's capital projects, which were discussed in Dr. Chip Filer’s presentation to the committee. His insights provided clarity on the current state and future plans for the university’s infrastructure, highlighting the proactive measures being taken to address facility needs.

The committee reviewed four major state-funded projects, starting with the expansion of the Science and Engineering Research Center. This project has visibly commenced with structural steelwork, signaling significant progress as construction materials are being embedded into the ground.

Another key project discussed was the Plant Operations replacement building, with an allocated budget of approximately $47 million. This project received critical funding in this year’s budget, allowing for the replacement of an outdated facility, which the committee had the opportunity to tour during the last board meeting.

Further discussions included the final build-out of a children's exploration space in the Torggler and the installation of fume hood pressurization valves and controls, primarily located in Forbes Hall, scheduled to begin this summer. This timing is strategic, ensuring that such critical maintenance occurs outside of the regular academic calendar to minimize disruption.

Additionally, Mr. Tillett outlined the financial strategy for these projects, particularly the use of debt financing. He explained the necessity of adopting a resolution to allow for the reimbursement of certain expenditures from the proceeds of tax-exempt bonds, in accordance with federal Treasury regulations. This approach ensures financial flexibility and compliance, allowing the university to advance these projects efficiently without financial strain.

Mr. Tillett then brought forward RESOLUTION 6: Declaring the Intention to Reimburse the Cost of Certain Expenditures from the Proceeds of Bonds at the recommendation of the Committee on Finance and Facilities. He called for discussion and there being none, Secretary Morton made a motion to approve Resolution 6 and it was passed by a unanimous vote of the Board.

The Rector called for a five-minute break and when the meeting resumed she turned the business of the meeting over to general reports calling on Ms. Holly Koons, Executive Director of the Mary M. Torggler Center, to give the first presentation.

General Reports: Holly Koons, Bruce Bronstein, Brian Puaca and Nate Fontaine

Ms. Koons provided an engaging overview of the Mary M. Torggler Fine Arts Center, emphasizing its mission to serve both the campus community and the general public through exceptional visual arts exhibitions that promote creative expression, critical thinking, and cultural dialogue. She highlighted the center's commitment to making visual arts accessible, offering free admission to exhibitions to foster community engagement.

The Torggler Center boasts impressive facilities, including four gallery spaces and five community-oriented classrooms, along with a 150-seat lecture hall which Ms. Koons regards as one of the most beautiful spaces on campus. The center also houses the Department of Fine Arts and Art History, integrating academic and community functions.

Ms. Koons detailed the center’s primary programs: exhibitions, educational programs, and special events. These initiatives are designed to enhance the educational experience and stimulate community interaction, with events like "Torggler with a Twist" drawing significant public participation. The center’s exhibitions focus on both contemporary and historic themes, curated to contribute to broader dialogues in the art world.

Financially, the Torggler Center operates with a blend of state funding and private support, the latter of which Ms. Koons expects to grow as the institution continues to establish itself. She acknowledged the significant contributions from donors and the effective fundraising efforts led by her colleagues, especially Ms. Kim Hinson.

Ms. Koons also shared the center’s ongoing process for accreditation by the American Alliance of Museums, a critical step for enhancing its reputation and capabilities in the art community. This accreditation will enable the center to borrow objects from other esteemed institutions, further enriching its offerings.

Looking forward, Ms. Koons is excited about the development of the Children’s Interactive Gallery, expected to launch next year, and upcoming exhibitions that continue the center's series on materiality in art.

In conclusion, Ms. Koons expressed pride in the Torggler Center's rapid growth and its impact on both the university and the wider community, foreseeing continued expansion in its programs and influence.

Mr. Bronstein, the Executive Director of the Ferguson Center for the Arts, provided an overview of the center’s development and current operations. Starting his career as a Broadway booking agent in New York, Mr. Bronstein joined Christopher Newport University 19 years ago and has been involved in various capacities, notably helping to shape the university’s brand and admissions strategy.

Upon assuming leadership at the Ferguson Center in 2015, Mr. Bronstein inherited a financial deficit which he successfully reversed within three years through strategic business model adjustments. The center has been profitable every season since these changes were implemented.

Mr. Bronstein highlighted the financial health of the Ferguson Center, noting a balanced income statement with revenues of $3.4 million, derived almost equally from ticket sales, educational and general funds (E&G), and advancement and other non-ticket revenues. Expenses, totaling about $3 million, resulted in a notable profit, underscoring the center's efficient management and the critical role of donor support in its operations.

Looking ahead, Mr. Bronstein shared exciting plans for the center’s 20th anniversary, including performances by renowned artists like Diana Ross and pianist Yuja Wang. He also mentioned ongoing strategic planning with Michael Kaiser from the Davos Institute to guide the center's future development.

Mr. Bronstein emphasized the Ferguson Center’s commitment to community engagement through the "Arts for All" program, which aims to make the arts accessible to everyone by offering significantly reduced ticket prices.

Additionally, he introduced new initiatives such as the James River Shakespeare Company, created by students, which exemplifies the center’s support for innovative student-led projects.

Concluding his presentation, Mr. Bronstein expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming season and invited the board members to engage more deeply with the Ferguson Center’s vibrant offerings.

Dr. Puaca, representing the Faculty Senate, humorously quoted Alice Cooper's "School's Out" to capture the essence of faculty life during the summer months. Contrary to the song's message, he explained that faculty are far from idle; instead, they are deeply engaged in research, planning, and preparation for the upcoming academic year.

Dr. Puaca shared anecdotes about faculty enjoying the smaller, intimate graduation celebrations and departmental receptions, emphasizing the personal connections faculty make with students and their families. These moments, he noted, were as fulfilling as the larger graduation ceremonies.

Highlighting the active summer schedule, Dr. Puaca stressed that most faculty work over the summer without compensation, as their contracts are typically for the nine-month academic year only. Despite this, faculty members dedicate themselves to research, professional development, and university service during these months.

He provided examples of how faculty use the summer for significant academic pursuits, such as writing book manuscripts, revising articles, preparing new courses, and engaging in scholarly research. Additionally, faculty often take this time to mentor students, participate in community outreach, and prepare grant applications, reflecting their commitment to their disciplines and to student success.

Dr. Puaca also mentioned the ongoing strategic planning within the Faculty Senate and expressed gratitude for the support from university leadership, highlighting the cooperative spirit that enhances the academic environment at Christopher Newport University.

Concluding his remarks, Dr. Puaca expressed a heartfelt thanks to the Board and the university community for their continued support of the faculty's endeavors.

Mr. Fontaine, President of the Alumni Society, opened his report by celebrating the success of the recent commencement, expressing gratitude to the faculty, staff, and board for their efforts in nurturing the students who have now joined the ranks of over 35,000 alumni. He highlighted the Alumni Society's role in recognizing outstanding faculty through the 2024 Alumni Society Award for Excellence in Teaching and Mentoring, which was awarded to Dr. Lynn Shulman.

Mr. Fontaine discussed the inaugural season of "CNU Live at Lunch," a series initiated by President Kelly to connect alumni with campus activities through monthly presentations on various topics. This initiative aims to extend the university's reach to alumni who are geographically dispersed.

He also noted ongoing "Welcome Home" events, which are halfway through, designed to reconnect alumni and provide networking opportunities. Mr. Fontaine was headed to the Loudoun County event immediately after the board meeting.

Looking forward, Mr. Fontaine mentioned the board's work in filling four vacancies and preparing for the alumni awards ceremony in August. This event will honor alumni who exemplify the significant lives that Christopher Newport University encourages its graduates to lead.

Additionally, Mr. Fontaine spoke about the "Life After Graduation" video series, which provides practical advice to recent graduates on topics such as insurance, car buying, and real estate. Plans for the upcoming year include enhancing alumni contributions in both treasure and time, and increasing engagement between alumni and current students to share real-world experiences across various fields.

Concluding his report, Mr. Fontaine thanked the board for their support and collaboration, which has strengthened the ties between the alumni body and the university, making the Alumni Society more robust than ever under his leadership.

Closed Session Under pursuant to the Code of Virginia: §2.2-3711(A)(9) Gifts, Bequests and Fund Raising and (A)(1) Personnel

Rector Carney Smith called for a motion to enter Closed Session for discussion on gifts, bequests and fund-raising activities and to receive an update on the search for the Vice President for University Advancement position pursuant to the Code of Virginia § 2.2-3711(A)(9) Gifts, Bequests and Fund-Raising and (A)(1) Personnel. Secretary Morton provided the motion, it was seconded by Mr. Estrada and the motion was passed by unanimous vote of the Board.

Return to Open Session: Secretary Morton

The Board returned to Open Session and Secretary Morton asked for a roll call certifying that only public matters were discussed that were identified in the motion by which the executive or closed meeting was called. All Board members certified to the above by roll call: Mr. Archer, Ms. Brayboy, Rector Carney Smith, Mr. Estrada, Dr. Gade, Mr. Lawson, Ms. Meadows, Secretary Morton, Mr. Robinson, Mr. Tillett, and Dr. Vreeland.

Adjournment: Rector Carney Smith

Rector Carney Smith facilitated the closing segment of the board meeting, focusing on critical motions that required board approval. The first significant motion presented was from the Executive Committee, which proposed the drafting of a regulation concerning the conformity of weapons on campus. This regulation, once drafted, will be reviewed and presented to the board at a future meeting.

Mr. Tillett provided the motion to recommend that the University draft a regulation, the second was provided by Mr. Archer and Ms. Dale polled the board:

Yea: Mr. Archer, Ms. Brayboy, Rector Carney Smith, Mr. Lawson, Ms. Meadows, Secretary Morton, Mr. Robinson, Mr. Tillet and Dr. Vreeland
Nay: Mr. Estrada, Dr. Gade

Following this, the board addressed the approval of an amended and restated instructional faculty contract for President Emeritus Paul Trible. The terms and conditions of this contract had been discussed in a closed session.

Rector Carney Smith brought forward a motion to approve the contract as presented, it was seconded by Dr. Vreeland, and Ms. Dale polled the board: Mr. Archer, Ms. Brayboy, Rector Carney Smith, Mr. Estrada, Dr. Gade, Mr. Lawson, Ms. Meadows, Secretary Morton, Mr. Robinson, Mr. Tillett, and Dr. Vreeland. The motion was passed upon the roll call vote.

Rector Carney Smith thanked everyone for attending and for their dedication to the Board. She called for any further business, there being none the meeting was adjourned at 1:51 p.m.