2021-02-26

Murray State's Digital Commons Murray State's Digital Commons

Board of Regents Meeting Minutes Digitized Collections

2-26-2021 12:00 AM

2021-02-26 2021-02-26

Board of Regents, Murray State University

Follow this and additional works at: https://digitalcommons.murraystate.edu/borminutes

Recommended Citation Recommended Citation

Board of Regents, Murray State University, "2021-02-26" (2021).

Board of Regents Meeting Minutes

. 719.

https://digitalcommons.murraystate.edu/borminutes/719

This Article is brought to you for free and open access by the Digitized Collections at Murray State's Digital

Commons. It has been accepted for inclusion in Board of Regents Meeting Minutes by an authorized administrator

of Murray State's Digital Commons. For more information, please contact [email protected].

Minutes of the Quarterly Meeting of the Board of Regents

Murray State University

February 26, 2021

Call to Order/Roll Call

The Murray State University (MSU) Board of Regents met on Friday, February 26, 2021, in

Quarterly and Committee Session via video teleconferencing (ZOOM). Chair Jerry Rhoads

called the meeting to order at 8:30 a.m. and welcomed those joining the meeting via ZOOM or

Livestream. The roll was called and the following Board members were present: Eric Crigler,

Virginia Gray, Sharon Green, Warren Norman, Leon Owens, Jerry Rhoads, Lisa Rudolph, Phil

Schooley, Melony Shemberger and Don Tharpe. Absent: none.

Others participating in the ZOOM meeting were: Robert L (Bob) Jackson, President; Jill Hunt,

Senior Executive Coordinator for the President, Coordinator for Board Relations and Secretary

to the Board; Tim Todd, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs; Jackie Dudley, Vice

President for Finance and Administrative Services and Treasurer to the Board; Don Robertson,

Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management; Bob Pervine, Associate

Provost; Robert Miller, General Counsel; Jordan Smith, Executive Director of Governmental and

Institutional Relations; Renee Fister, Executive Director of Strategic Enrollment Management

and Director of Institutional Effectiveness and Strategic Planning; Shawn Touney, Executive

Director of Marketing and Communication; Director of Athletics Kevin Saal and Information

Technology staff monitoring the technology component of the meeting. The meeting was

livestreamed to provide access to the general public. It was noted that various presenters would

join the Board via ZOOM at the appropriate time throughout the meeting.

AGENDA

Call to Order Chair Rhoads

Roll Call Secretary Hunt

Consent Agenda Chair Rhoads/President Jackson

A. Minutes of the Fall Quarterly Meeting and Committee Meetings of the Board of

Regents on December 4, 2020*

B. Audit and Compliance Committee (For Information Only)

1) Office of Internal Audit – Internal Audit Work Status Report

2) Office of Internal Audit – Summary of Presidential Travel Report

C. Finance Committee

1) Personal Services Contracts – Schedule of Expenditures (For Information

Only)

D. Personnel Changes

1) Staff Leaves of Absence without Pay*

Report of the Chair Chair Rhoads

Report of the President President Jackson

Report of the Treasurer* Vice President FAS Dudley

(Quarterly Financial and Investment Reports)

Committee Reports/Recommendations

A. Academic Excellence and Scholarly Activities Regent Shemberger

1) Academic Program Review Update (For Information Only)

2) Faculty Rank Change Report (For Information Only)

B. Athletics Regent Crigler

1) Personnel Change – Contract of Employment Amendment –

Head Women’s Basketball Coach – Rechelle Turner*

2) Personnel Changes – Offers/Contracts of Employment Extensions –

Assistant Coaches (For Information Only)

C. Audit and Compliance Regent Tharpe

1) Audit Engagement Letter*

D. Buildings and Grounds Regent Schooley

1) Facilities Management Projects Update (For Information Only)

E. Enrollment Management and Student Success Regents Rudolph and Norman

1) Enrollment, Retention Communication Plan and Student Affairs Updates

(For Information Only)

12 noon (approx.) Break for Lunch

12:30 p.m. (approx.) Reconvene

F. Finance Regent Owens

1) Fiscal Years 2020-21 and 2021-22 Budget Update (For Information Only)

2) 2021 Federal Stimulus Funding Update (For Information Only)

3) Annual Lease Report*

4) Projects Approval*

5) Personal Services Contracts*

G. Legislative and Economic Development Regent Gray

1) Legislative Update Report (For Information Only)

H. Marketing and Community Engagement Regent Green

I. Ad Hoc Presidential Evaluation Process Review Committee Regent Crigler

1) Annual Presidential Review – Adoption of Electronic Survey

Method and Revised Survey Instrument*

NOTE: Full Board action will follow Committee action.

Personnel Changes President Jackson

A. Faculty Sabbatical Leaves*

B. Salary Roster*

Policy Changes President Jackson

A. Board of Regents Policy Manual – New Section 2.24 – Minors on Campus (second

reading)*

B. Board of Regents Policy Manual – Section 2.6 – Fee Establishment Revisions (second

reading)*

Supplemental Materials (For Information Only) President Jackson

A. “Good News” Report (January 2021)

B. Quarterly Branding, Marketing and Communication Report (October – December

2020)

C. Sponsored Programs – Grants and Contracts Report

Other Business Chair Rhoads

Adjournment Chair Rhoads

(*Requires Board of Regents Action)

Consent Agenda Items, approved

Chair Rhoads reported the following action and “For Information Only” items were included on

the Consent Agenda for approval/acceptance (action items are denoted with an asterisk):

• Minutes of the Fall Quarterly Meeting and Committee Meetings of the Board of Regents on

December 4, 2020*

• Audit and Compliance Committee – Office of Internal Audit – Internal Audit Work Status

Report (For Information Only)

• Audit and Compliance Committee – Office of Internal Audit – Summary of Presidential

Travel Report (For Information Only)

• Finance Committee – Personal Services Contracts – Schedule of Expenditures (For

Information Only)

• Personnel Changes – Staff Leaves of Absence without Pay*

Murray State University offers a variety of excused staff leaves without pay such as family

medical leave, military leave, educational leave, a personal leave or a general leave of absence.

Conditions and requirements of the specific types of leaves are defined in the Board-approved

Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual. The following individuals have requested a Staff

Leave of Absence without Pay for the period indicated:

Name Department Effective Date

Rebecca Billington University Libraries 10/05/2020

Anna-Marie Ulrich Undergraduate Admissions 11/10/2020-12/14/2020

Regent Tharpe moved that the Board of Regents, upon the recommendation of the President of

the University, approve the action items on the Consent Agenda as submitted. Regent Schooley

seconded and the motion carried unanimously.

Report of the Chair, received

Chair Rhoads reported that all continue to focus on the pandemic and Board appreciation was

expressed for the frequent updates furnished by President Jackson. The information has been

helpful in keeping the Board informed on how the University is dealing with the pandemic. The

last information provided was positive and all are beginning to see the light at the end of the

tunnel or, as President Jackson has indicated, the beginning of the end. All can be proud that

Murray State has handled this crisis better than most universities. Enrollment remains strong and

appreciation was expressed to President Jackson and faculty, staff and students for developing

and adhering to the Racer Safe and Healthy plan. Appreciation was also expressed to President

Jackson and others responsible for bringing the Regional Vaccination Center to the CFSB

Center. Many volunteers have donated their time and skills at the Regional Vaccination Center,

further demonstrating Murray State’s commitment to the health and welfare of all persons in its

region.

Chair Rhoads also recognized the passing of a true Murray State patriot – Dr. Jack Rose – and

expressed appreciation for his immense contributions to the University. Dr. Rose had a

distinguished career as a professional educator, was Superintendent of schools in Calloway

County for two decades and even had A football stadium named after him. At Murray State, he

was Dean of the College of Education and Human Services and later served as a Professor in that

college training new school administrators. He also served as Faculty Regent on this Board and

was a proud alumnus of Murray State. He always showed his love for the University – not only

in service but also through his generous financial support – and he and his wife Janice have

endowed a scholarship annually for a Calloway County High School graduate. They also

underwrote construction of the John W. Carr (Murray State’s first President) and Racer One

statues on campus. The Board extends its sincere condolences to Janice and his two sons John

and Andy.

Chair Rhoads indicated he is also sad to report that the University has recently lost some

prominent faculty members to be recognized by President Jackson.

This report was presented for informational purposes only and required no Board action.

Report of the President, received

President Jackson reported that Dr. Rose was a friend to Murray State University and to him

personally. Dr. Rose loved Murray State and he bled blue and gold and will be missed. All were

asked to keep Janice and the family in their thoughts and prayers in the days ahead.

The University has also lost several very distinguished faculty, staff and administrators who

helped build Murray State, including Dr. Farouk Umar and Dr. Gene Garfield, both from the

Department of Political Science and Sociology. These individuals impacted a lot of students at

Murray State over many years. Also recognized were Dr. Russ Wall, retired former Dean of the

College of Education and Human Services and Dr. Eddie Adams, who helped build the Industry

and Technology area at the University. All were asked to keep these families in their thoughts

and prayers.

MSU Football Coach Dean Hood and his players and staff are gearing up to play spring football

and this represents a new era for that sport. It has been over a year since the Football team has

been able to play and Coach Hood was hired. The team is comprised of tremendous athletes and

all are excited to watch them move forward. The University’s Rifle program and Coach Alan

Lollar are national leaders in their sport. They won the Ohio Valley Conference (OVC) and

were recognized at the highest level nationally. Two students are national qualifiers. This has

been one of the top athletic programs at Murray State for many years and that tradition

continues. Both the men’s and women’s teams will participate in the OVC Basketball

Tournament. For the first time in this institution’s history, every sport is playing during the

Spring Semester.

A detailed Enrollment Management report will be provided but all are doing an excellent job in

the areas of recruitment and retention. The Enrollment Management team has worked very hard

in a difficult environment over the past year. Appreciation was expressed to faculty, staff and

administrators. Everyone at Murray State is a recruiter because 71 percent of the University’s

budget is driven by enrollment and a laser-like focus has been concentrated on this area over the

past two and a half years. The University will again set a record for scholarships and financial

aid awarded to current students to assist with retention, as well as to new students for recruitment

purposes. Over $115 million in scholarships and financial aid will be awarded in the months

ahead for the next academic year. The amount of private money the University has been able to

raise for the third time through the Racers Give program amounts to over $600,000 awarded for

need-based scholarships for next fall. The need in this area is tremendous due to the pandemic

and the current economic environment. Enhancements are also being made to the Murray State

Promise. Currently, if students are Pell-eligible, their tuition is already paid for and additional

enhancement work in this area is already underway.

A detailed financial report will also be presented related to federal stimulus funds and the gap

that still exists from revenues lost and additional expenses incurred as a result of the pandemic.

This report will include an update on the current budget – Fiscal Year 2021 – and also planning

for Fiscal Year 2021-22. Meetings have been held with faculty and staff leadership and the

Budget Advisory Committee comprised of faculty, staff and student leadership.

At the December Quarterly meeting, this Board approved up to $2 million for improvement work

that had to be undertaken in Lovett Auditorium to address asset preservation and deferred

maintenance needs. Lovett Auditorium has been closed since the middle of last fall due to

HVAC issues, necessary duct work, electrical needs and ceiling issues. Contracts are being

awarded to begin to move this work forward. The original, 95-year-old seats in Lovett

Auditorium must be removed to undertake the required renovation work. This project presents

an opportunity to provide the new seating that is required in this important venue to not only

campus but also the region. Private funding will be utilized to replace the seating. When this

project is completed it will change Lovett Auditorium into a true performing arts center. Tina

Bernot, Executive Director of Development, is working on an additional seat naming program

subject to Board approval later today. A detailed Facilities Management report will also be

provided.

The Task Force on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion was appointed in 2019 primarily for the

recruitment and retention of underrepresented minority (URM) students, faculty and staff. The

Task Force has been doing excellent work in the areas of tenure and promotion for URM faculty

and enhancing recruitment efforts for minority students. The Regents Fellows program was

developed last fall where underrepresented minority graduate students at Murray State who apply

for and are designated as Regents Fellows receive a graduate stipend and work in a respective

office on campus. The program is designed to create a pipeline for these individuals to be

trained so they can be hired for different positions on campus. One Regents Fellow has already

been hired by the University and is working in the Branding, Marketing and Communication

(BMC) area. She is an excellent student and is already doing a tremendous job. Another URM

staff member has been hired in the Provost’s Office. The 2019 Task Force was put in place to

establish new ideas, policies and procedures and identify ways to improve in this area. Their

work is starting to pay off and appreciation was expressed to Cami Duffy, Executive Director of

the Office of Institutional Diversity, Equity and Access/Title IX Coordinator/ADA-Section 504

Coordinator. The Diversity Fellows program has also been reinvigorated by Provost Todd and

others for the recruitment and retention of URM faculty and staff. Two faculty members have

agreed to lead the Diversity Fellows program. Appreciation was expressed to Provost Todd for

his work in this regard. As part of the work of the Task Force, the Mills Scholarship has been

updated through the work of Dr. SG Carthell, Executive Director of the Office of Multicultural

Initiatives, Student Leadership and Inclusive Excellence, for student recruitment and retention

purposes. This fall the number of scholarships for URM students has doubled over the previous

fall and recruiting and retention methods have been enhanced. Mr. Touney’s office is working

on a recruiting video for URM students, faculty and staff. Dr. Oluwabunmi Dada, Assistant

Professor of Occupational Safety and Health, has been accepted into the 2021 Council on

Postsecondary Education (CPE) Academic Leadership Development Institute for minority

faculty members throughout the Commonwealth. Regent Tharpe expressed appreciation for

being included in the work of the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee and in a separate

meeting with African American faculty. Dr. Jackson expressed appreciation to Regents Tharpe

and Owens for their participation in numerous functions over the past year to share their time and

stories and encourage students, faculty and staff. They also spoke to the Black Faculty and Staff

Association and received questions from members. This meant a great deal to the group.

Racer Safe and Healthy initiatives taking place across campus were highlighted. Appreciation

was expressed to students, faculty and staff for their assistance in ensuring all guidelines and

practices are followed. New messaging in this regard was started yesterday and all are ready to

move ahead. Mr. Smith, Executive Director of Governmental and Institutional Relations, is the

University’s appointed Racers Safe and Healthy officer. A new program has been implemented

to recognize student groups each week who are adding to campus from a safety and health

standpoint. The housing staff, under the leadership of Dr. David Wilson, Director of Housing

and Residence Life; David Looney, Executive Director for Auxiliary Services and Emily Asher,

Manager of Data and Communications have done an excellent job overseeing the residential

facilities on campus to ensure occupants remain safe and healthy. Appreciation was expressed to

Regent Norman, the Student Government Association and all student groups on campus for their

leadership over the past year. Appreciation was also expressed to Regent Shemberger for her

leadership with faculty and Regent Phil Schooley for his leadership with staff. It has taken a

collaborative effort to carry the Racers Safe and Healthy message forward in a positive manner.

The Residential College Heads were also recognized for their efforts in this regard, as was the

Honors College Student Council.

The School of Nursing and Health Professions faculty, staff and students, under the leadership of

Dean Dina Byers, have done an excellent job and student nurses have volunteered at the

Regional Vaccination Center. Two vaccination events have been held on Sundays and these

individuals have given their time and talent to assist with the work that needed to be undertaken.

This has also presented an opportunity for these students to obtain hands-on training.

Appreciation was also expressed to Mr. Saal and CFSB Center staff for their efforts in this

regard. Re’Nita Avery, Director of Student Life and Curris Center, and her student workers were

recognized with the Racers Safe and Healthy Distinguished Leaders Award. These individuals

are the first contact visitors have when arriving on campus and are key to ensuring guidelines are

followed and accurate information is distributed.

The University is planning in-person Commencement ceremonies and various venues and

outdoor spaces are being considered. Additional communications will be forthcoming.

The Murray State eSports program is also an important component of campus. The National

Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) now recognizes collegiate eSports programs. This

represents a recruiting and retention tool as many high schools in the region have an eSports

program. In Fall 2018 there were 20 students in the eSports program and there are now over 150

members. Appreciation was expressed to all involved in identifying space, resources and

technology needs for eSports over the past many months.

President Jackson reported he recently made a presentation to the CPE which highlighted the fact

that first-time freshmen at Murray State were up 6 percent this year – for the second consecutive

year. Appreciation was expressed to all involved in these recruiting efforts. Murray State had

the highest increases in graduation rates (5 percent) among the Kentucky public universities.

Murray State also had the highest increases among its Kentucky peer institutions in the

categories of low-income students (11 percent), underrepresented minorities (21 percent) and

graduate degrees (6 percent). The University’s graduation rate is 53.1 percent and it has the

highest retention rate among all the Kentucky comprehensive universities at 81.1 percent.

Underrepresented minority retention increased by 7 percent, again leading the state in this area.

Regent Crigler indicated it would be important to see information in regard to tracking first-

generation college students but sufficient data may not yet be available to report in this area.

President Jackson reported that this is not a metric measured by the CPE for Performance

Funding purposes but it is measured internally. The presentation to be made later by Drs.

Robertson and Fister will include first-generation college students. A heavy percentage of

students coming to Murray State are still first-generation college students.

The CPE and legislators seriously consider the average cost of attendance at the various

universities. Murray State’s average cost of attendance decreased 1 percent, making it one of

only three with a decrease. The University’s net price decreased by 6 percent, leading the state

in this area. This is a result of maintaining no or low tuition increases and making more

scholarship and financial aid awards available. Approximately one-half of Murray State students

graduate with no known student debt. This is important to Murray State and ensuring students

do not accumulate debt is a central focus. This is one of the reasons – among others – why U.S.

News and World Report, Washington Monthly magazine and many others recognize Murray

State as one of the best academic values in the country. Regent Crigler expressed appreciation to

President Jackson and the administration for their commitment to affordability.

Mr. Smith will provide a detailed legislative update later but since late last fall a large percentage

of the administration’s time has been spent meeting with legislators. There are very few days

remaining in the Legislative Session and this is when big decisions will be made relative to

Performance Funding and pensions. Appreciation was expressed to the University’s

congressional delegation for the federal stimulus funding Murray State received. There will

likely be one additional stimulus package passed that will benefit Murray State and its students

in a difficult economic environment throughout the country and world.

This report was presented for informational purposes only and required no Board action.

Report of the Treasurer (Quarterly Financial and Investment Reports), accepted

Ms. Dudley highlighted the following with regard to the Quarterly Financial and Investment

Reports:

➢ The Treasurer’s Report is being presented in a new format. The report is based on data that has been

analyzed for Fiscal Year 2020-21 through Quarter 2 (ending December 31, 2020). The Board was

encouraged to provide feedback on the new report format. Appreciation was expressed to Director of

Accounting and Financial Services Ellen Dale and Michelle Clark, Assistant Director – Financial

Reporting for their work in this regard.

➢ Data on cash, accounts receivable, working capital and net position was presented on actual numbers

for the second quarter compared to a year-to-date number. A three-year comparison period has been

provided.

➢ Data on total revenues and expenditures was provided, representing overall revenues for the

University. This includes all fund groups, overall revenues which would include grants and contracts

and the Plant Fund, in addition to the Education and General Fund, tuition and auxiliaries. This is

presented as a comparison of the quarter to year-end data for the prior two years. From a revenue

perspective, the University is very much in line with the previous two quarters. The data also shows

where the University falls in meeting its numbers from the prior two years. The same is true for

expenditures.

➢ Graphical presentations for Education and General revenues and revenue from auxiliaries was

provided with the same theme of showing the second quarter compared to the budget for the prior two

years. These represent an actual number compared to budgeted numbers for this year as well as the

previous two years.

➢ Although the financial statement presented has been condensed, no information is missing from the

larger report the Board is accustomed to seeing. The larger report will continue to be produced and

focus will be maintained on identifying trends and fluctuations to manage the finances of the

institution.

➢ Separate graphs were provided for both the Balance Sheet and the Income Statement with the data

presented in millions comparatively from the prior two years. Notes are provided next to each of the

condensed statements to explain the changes for the current year compared to the prior year. With

regard to the Balance Sheet, the pension adjustment is up as is the University’s net position. This is

primarily due to the institution recording a decrease in expenditures for the pension estimate for the

current year ($23.1 million). The University’s pension adjustment is recorded at the end of the year.

Each quarter an estimation is made as to what the pension adjustment will be at the end of the year.

This estimation is derived from an average of prior-year pension numbers and is then spread out by

quarter for the current year, which resulted in reduced expenditures because the University’s liability

is predicted to go down. Last year the University’s liability went down quite a bit because it was a

good investment year and the Teachers’ Retirement System performed very well – reducing the

University’s liability and resulting in a reduction in expenditures. The same is being forecast this

year but the market is not in as good of a position and the University may not hit the market with this

but it is recorded each quarter so there is not a big fluctuation at the end of the year.

➢ There are similar fluctuations with the Income Statement which are explained in the notes. The

Income Statement is also trending up due primarily to the University receiving at the end of the year

$3.5 million from Sodexo, the dining vendor. Sodexo pays the University scheduled investments to

fund dining improvements which are being made on campus. The University also received $2.9

million in Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act funding. Last year the

University received and used over $6 million in CARES funding. Due to accounting

pronouncements, the University could not recognize all revenue received last year because it had to

be spread out into this year. This does not represent additional monies but is simply an accounting

transaction representing a change in net position. The Income Statement notes explain the fluctuation

between the Fiscal Year 2021 Quarter 2 and Fiscal Year 2019 Quarter 2. The information provided is

designed to present the overall change in net position and the reasons for that change.

➢ The Tuition Analysis presented included graphical data showing where the University is at Quarter 2.

Net tuition and fees for December 2020 total $30.9 million compared to $31.3 million in Fiscal Year

2020 (approximate $400,000 decrease). The discount remains at 40 percent but the Spring Semester

is not included in the numbers presented due to the University’s billing cycle. The Tuition Analysis

represents the forecast for the end of this fiscal year. The net tuition and fee budget is $60.9 million.

It is forecasted that the institution will be short of meeting budget by slightly less than $700,000 (1

percent of budget) which will be absorbed by the budget contingency that is in place. Summer I

revenues will be key to meeting budget.

➢ The Balance Sheet and Income Statement for just the Education and General Fund was presented.

The University is where it expected to be (same as last year) and some of the fluctuations are solely

reflective of timing. This is not the case for the Auxiliaries Fund which remains challenged because

of lost revenues due to the pandemic during the fall and continuing into the spring. Without the

Sodexo investment, there would be a slightly over $1 million shortfall in the Auxiliary Fund as of

December. This will continue to grow as spring numbers are known but stimulus funding will be

available to the University to cover the deficit. Stimulus funding received in December has not yet

been allocated because all federal guidelines have not been issued relative to how the University can

cover lost revenue. Auxiliaries will continue to be a challenge through the end of this year.

➢ Regent Crigler suggested that the Board also have access to the full statements if members have a

question relative to the condensed statements provided.

Regent Owens expressed appreciation to Vice President Dudley and her team for the effort they

put into revising the format of how the Treasurer’s Report is provided to the Board to help it

meet its fiduciary responsibility. Appreciation was also expressed to Vice Chair Crigler for his

input on how the Board reviews the University’s finances.

Regent Shemberger moved that the Board of Regents, upon the recommendation of the President

of the University, accept the quarterly unaudited Financial and Investment Reports for the period

of July 1, 2020, through December 31, 2020, as presented. Regent Owens seconded and the

motion carried unanimously.

(See Attachment #1)

Committee Reports/Recommendations

Academic Excellence and Scholarly Activities Committee

Melony Shemberger – Chair

Virginia Gray

Warren Norman

Leon Owens

Dr. Shemberger called the Academic Excellence and Scholarly Activities Committee to order at

9:40 a.m. and reported all other members were present.

Academic Program Review Update, received

Dr. Todd reported that approximately one year ago the CPE contracted with the data analytics

company Gray Associates. There has been a mandate from the CPE for all the public

universities in the Commonwealth to begin to utilize the same type of data metrics produced with

regard to examining enrollments, cost, competition, demand and employment. In October 2020,

faculty, staff and administrators participated in day-long workshops conducted by Gray

Associates for training purposes. Outcomes from the workshop included potential new

programs, categorization of existing programs to guide future planning, credit hour generation

and cost of instruction data used to inform hiring requests and data on student demand and job

growth.

Prior to these workshops, Murray State had submitted extensive financial and enrollment data for

Fiscal Years 2016, 2017 and 2018. The data was analyzed by Gray Associates and the results

were presented and discussed during the workshops. Academic Affairs uses enrollment data,

potential employment and salary information and data from sources such as Gray Associates,

Stamats and Burning Glass to evaluate current programs and plan for new programs. There are

also internal metrics which are used. Dr. Fister utilized these metrics in creating very

sophisticated pivot tables. This analytical tool is being utilized on faculty vacancy requests

which allows the Deans, Chairs and Provost to provide very focused information to the

President. Registrar Tracy Roberts has historically created sophisticated enrollment tables that

the Deans and Chairs utilize. Appreciation was expressed to Dr. Fister and Ms. Roberts and the

Deans and Chairs were complimented for participating in the training and beginning to utilize the

data provided.

Dr. Pervine reported that a complete set of analytic tools are being developed to help run the

academic side of the University. Program closures have been an issue with the CPE Board in

terms of efficiency and eliminating duplication across the state. Since 2017, Murray State has

suspended/closed 31 programs. These include majors, minors and certificates and examples

were cited. This represents an ongoing program review process at all levels based on student

demand, enrollment and employment prospects and includes the regional campuses. A listing of

recent program additions was provided and outlined. A listing of potential new programs under

consideration based on Gray Associates analysis was also provided and outlined.

Next steps beyond ongoing program reviews include understanding new Southern Association of

Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Substantive Change requirements, developing a

state-wide academic program review process in concert with the CPE and implementing a new

University Studies Program for the Fall 2022 Semester under the guidance of Interim Assistant

Provost Ashley Ireland.

This report was presented for informational purposes only and required no Board action.

Faculty Rank Change Report, received

Dr. Todd reported that, historically, non-tenure track faculty members holding the rank of

Instructor may be recommended for appointment to the rank of Senior Instructor after

demonstrating distinguished performance over time.

The following faculty member has been recommended for appointment to Senior Instructor:

Emma Vaughn Center for Academic Success

This appointment has the support of the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs.

This report was presented for informational purposes only and required no Board action.

Adjournment

The Academic Excellence and Scholarly Activities Committee adjourned at 9:50 a.m.

Athletics Committee

Eric Crigler – Chair

Jerry Rhoads

Lisa Rudolph

Phil Schooley

Don Tharpe

Regent Crigler called the Athletics committee to order at 9:50 a.m. and reported all other

members were present. Under the leadership of President Jackson and Athletic Director Saal, in

Fall 2020 the Athletic Department posted a grade point average (GPA) of 3.25. This represents

the second highest semester GPA the Athletic Department has posted and was only slightly less

than Spring Semester 2020 (3.32 GPA). This speaks to the entire Athletic Department and

Coaches going into a mindset of helping student-athletes focus on their academic studies during

a challenging time. Twelve of the 16 athletic teams had an average GPA of over 3.0. The

graduation rates published by the NCAA include numerous metrics but two basic ones are

Graduation Success Rate and Federal Graduation Rate and both were at the second highest level

recorded at Murray State. The teams won championships while also performing well in the

classroom. This is the 16

consecutive year in which the Athletics’ graduation rate is better than

the University overall. The Athletic Department staff and Coaches are to be commended for

their efforts.

Defensive Lineman Christopher Stahl was awarded a prestigious NCAA post-graduate

scholarship to continue his education after he graduates from Murray State. This is one of only

29 awards given nationally to NCAA athletes in Divisions I, II and III from among 500,000

student-athletes across the country. Regent Crigler was also a recipient of this award and

appreciation was expressed to Dr. Karl Hussung who was the NCAA Liaison who nominated

him for the award.

Appreciation was expressed to the overall Athletic Department. The pandemic has been

challenging and for the safety of the student-athletes the decision was made to postpone fall

sports to the spring. During Spring 2021 there will be a full academic year of athletic events.

The Rifle team was congratulated on their 15

OVC Championship which they won. Two

players qualified for the national NCAA Tournament – Matius Kiuru and Allison Henry – and

they are wished the best of luck in their competition. All were encouraged to attend the Football

home opener on Sunday and usher in the Dean Hood era. Next week the OVC Basketball

Tournament will begin and both the men’s and women’s teams will participate.

Personnel Change – Contract of Employment Amendment – Head Women’s Basketball

Coach – Rechelle Turner, approved

Mr. Saal reported that during Coach Rechelle Turner’s four seasons at Murray State, the team

has maintained a 3.13 GPA in the last six semesters combined. Fourteen students have been

Commissioner’s Honor Roll (3.3 GPA or higher) recipients and one student was an OVC Medal

of Honor winner. Coach Turner is a regular contributing member of the community through the

weekly Athletics Diversity and Inclusion team that has been formed and leads the department in

posts and student-athlete engagement in Black History Month. Competitively, Coach Turner has

been at Murray State for four seasons which has resulted in appearances at four OVC

Tournaments. She coached five All-OVC Selections in her first three years, 2017-18 OVC

Player of the Year Ke’Shunnan Jame, 2018-19 Freshman of the Year Macey Turley and likely

another with Katelyn Young (seven-time Freshman of the Week and named Player of the Week

last week). The 2018-19 Women’s Basketball team was picked 12

by the Coaches but finished

. Coach Turner has also coached two members of the 1,000-point club. She has consistently

overachieved and her winning percentages have escalated each year from a .367 in 2017-18 to a

.583 in 2020-21.

Mr. Saal reported that the employment agreement with Head Women’s Basketball Coach

Rechelle Turner expires March 31, 2022. The University desires to amend the contract to expire

March 31, 2023. Salary remains unchanged at $100,000, standard performance evaluation will

occur and any merit/performance-based salary increase will be addressed in June of 2021.

On behalf of the Athletics Committee, Regent Rhoads moved that the Board of Regents, upon

the recommendation of the President of the University and the Director of Athletics, approve the

Contract of Employment amendment for Murray State University’s Head Women’s Basketball

Coach – Rechelle Turner – as submitted. Regent Schooley seconded and the motion carried.

Full Board Action – Personnel Change – Contract of Employment Amendment – Head

Women’s Basketball Coach – Rechelle Turner, approved

On behalf of the Athletics Committee, Regent Crigler moved that the Board of Regents, upon the

recommendation of the President of the University and the Director of Athletics, approve the

Contract of Employment amendment for Murray State University’s Head Women’s Basketball

Coach – Rechelle Turner – as submitted. Regent Gray seconded.

Regent Shemberger expressed appreciation for Coach Turner’s enthusiasm and positivity. Her

social media campaigns for the program are enjoyable and informative. She is an educator and

that comes across in her students Dr. Shemberger had in class which is a testament to her

leadership.

The roll was called with the following voting: Mr. Crigler, yes; Mrs. Gray, yes; Ms. Green, yes;

Mr. Norman, yes; Mr. Owens, yes; Mrs. Rudolph, yes; Mr. Schooley, yes; Dr. Shemberger, yes;

Dr. Tharpe, yes and Mr. Rhoads, yes. The motion carried unanimously.

Adjournment/Reconvene

The Board adjourned at 10:10 a.m. for a break and reconvened the Athletics Committee at 10:25

a.m.

Personnel Changes – Offers/Contracts of Employment Extensions – Assistant Coaches –

Report, received

Mr. Saal reported that the employment agreements with the Coaches listed below expire on

March 31, 2021. The University desires to continue to employ these Coaches for the period of

April 1, 2021, to March 31, 2022. Salaries remain unchanged, standard performance evaluations

will occur and any merit/performance-based salary increases will be addressed in June of 2021.

Women’s Basketball

Monica Evans $44,000

Amber Guffey $52,000

Sarah Jones $44,000

The employment agreements with the Coaches listed below expire April 30, 2021. The

University desires to continue to employ these Coaches for the period of May 1, 2021 to

April 30, 2022. Salaries remain unchanged, standard performance evaluations will occur and

any merit/performance-based salary increases will be addressed in June of 2021.

Men’s Basketball

Tim Kaine $96,500

Casey Long $100,000

Shane Nichols $104,000

The employment agreement with the Coach listed below expires May 1, 2021. The University

desires to continue to employ this Coach for the period of May 2, 2021, to November 30, 2021.

Salary remains unchanged, standard performance evaluation will occur and any merit/

performance-based salary increase will be addressed in June of 2021.

Soccer

Paul Cox $39,000

This report was presented for informational purposes only and required no Board action.

Mr. Saal reported that all 15 sports will be competing this spring. The OVC recognized that

given the size of the staffs at the various institutions that non-traditional days of play needed to

be considered and this is why the Football team – as well as other sports – will play on Sundays.

Adjournment

The Athletics Committee adjourned at 10:26 a.m.

Audit and Compliance Committee

Don Tharpe – Chair

Eric Crigler

Jerry Rhoads

Lisa Rudolph

Regent Tharpe expressed condolences to the family of Dr. Ed Adams who was one of his

professors. He called the Audit and Compliance Committee to order at 10:27 a.m. and reported

all other members were present.

Ms. Dudley reported that the University’s Audited Financial Statements are prepared by an

independent external auditing firm – Dean Dorton Allen Ford, PLLC (Dean Dorton) – and

address state and federal requirements. The Board annually reviews and takes action on the

Audit Engagement Letter provided by the auditors.

Audit Engagement Letter, approved

Ms. Dudley reported that at its February 24, 2017, meeting, the Board of Regents approved the

issuance of a contract to Dean Dorton Allen Ford, PLLC (Dean Dorton) for the performance of

the University’s financial and compliance audits for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2017, and

further authorized the University to enter into six subsequent contract renewals based upon

mutual consent. At its meeting on December 4, 2020, the Board of Regents approved the

extension of the auditing services contract for the 2020-21 fiscal year. The cost for the 2020-21

contract, which is the first extension of the contract, is $129,000.

In an effort to allow for a service contingency in the event added hours are needed due to

changes in accounting guidance, federal/state tax laws, etc., the Engagement Letter includes up

to 100 hours, not to exceed $12,500 of additional fees. The Engagement Letter outlines the

scope of work and parameters of the audit performed by Dean Dorton.

On behalf of the Audit and Compliance Committee, Regent Rudolph moved that the Board of

Regents, upon the recommendation of the President of the University, approve the Engagement

Letter for the June 30, 2021, audit by Dean Dorton as submitted. Regent Crigler seconded and the

motion carried.

Full Board Action – Audit Engagement Letter, approved

On behalf of the Audit and Compliance Committee, Regent Tharpe moved that the Board of

Regents, upon the recommendation of the President of the University, approve the attached

Engagement Letter for the June 30, 2021, audit by Dean Dorton. Regent Owens seconded and the

roll was called with the following voting: Mr. Crigler, yes; Mrs. Gray, yes; Ms. Green, yes; Mr.

Norman, yes; Mr. Owens, yes; Mrs. Rudolph, yes; Mr. Schooley, yes; Dr. Shemberger, yes; Dr.

Tharpe, yes and Mr. Rhoads, yes. The motion carried unanimously.

(See Attachment #2)

Adjournment

The Audit and Compliance Committee adjourned at 10:30 a.m.

Buildings and Grounds Committee

Phil Schooley – Chair

Warren Norman

Leon Owens

Don Tharpe

Regent Schooley called the Buildings and Grounds Committee to order at 10:30 a.m. and

reported all other members were present.

Facilities Management Projects Update Report, received

Mr. Youngblood, Director of Facilities Management, reported the following:

➢ In early February, the Facilities Management team began working to prepare for the long-range

weather forecast with multiple days below freezing expected. Jamie Miller, Building and Equipment

Maintenance Supervisor, and his team began identifying potential locations on campus where freeze

issues might exist prior to the arrival of the below freezing temperatures and identifying what could

be done to avoid having issues. The deep freeze did materialize, along with significant precipitation

in the form of ice, snow and sleet. The preparations the team did beforehand minimized damages to

campus. There were frozen coils, pipes and sprinkler heads and some busted water lines but the

damage and resulting clean-up were fairly minimal. Most issues took a few hours or couple of days

to repair and return back to normal. The preventative maintenance undertaken prior to the arrival of

the winter weather helped the University avoid having a lot of damage on campus.

➢ SSC and the Grounds Maintenance crew also did the best they could to keep the ice and snow

accumulation at a minimum to help protect students who were on campus. Central Plant staff were

on campus 24/7 as were members of the MSU Police Department.

➢ Photos were provided of the control systems which have been put in place for the Biology building

and the Science Complex. The issues in this facility have existed for many years and completing the

remediation required has been an ongoing project. The planned physical work was completed in

January but there will be ongoing adjustments as facilities transition into the cooling period for the

spring. All spaces have now been returned for occupancy.

➢ Work on the Waterfield Library Makerspace is nearing completion and it is expected to open soon.

The University Library is working with Procurement and Facilities Management to secure the

equipment needed and installation completed. Once completed, this space will provide many

opportunities for students.

➢ Blackburn building renovations are underway. The substantial completion date for the construction

work is April 2021 and it is anticipated move-in can occur by August. Summer programs are also

planned in the facility.

➢ An update was provided on Lovett Auditorium renovations. A contract has now been awarded to

begin the physical work but the project is slightly delayed due to issues which arose as part of the

bidding process. The contractors have a pre-construction meeting planned next week. Some of the

work to take place will be modified which will result in project savings. The original seating in the

auditorium had to be removed to replace the HVAC units and this presented an opportunity to

purchase new seating for Lovett if third-party funding sources can be identified. The end panels from

the original seating will be refurbished to help tie-in the new seating. It is expected that the entire

project will be completed during the Fall Semester.

➢ Two window and exterior door replacement projects will be undertaken in Wells Hall and Wilson

Hall. Consultants were in both buildings yesterday to examine every window from the interior. It is

anticipated these projects will happen over the summer but this will also be dependent on when the

windows can be ordered and delivered.

➢ The Curris Center boiler replacement project is near completion. The boilers are installed and are

working to provide heat and hot water. Work to transition kitchen equipment is still underway and

must occur before the facility can be completely taken off the current steam system. The University

is working with Sodexo to make this transition possible while minimizing shutdown time.

➢ Concept photos of the refresh of the Curris Center interior renovation project were provided. The

University continues to work with Sherman Carter Barnhart consultants on this project. They have

developed plans based on stakeholder input and are making estimates of what it would take to turn the

Curris Center into the facility all want. They are also working on revisions to the budget and

developing estimates in order for the project to be phased-in over time and provide associated

options. This is a very active building on campus and it cannot be closed in order for renovations to

be undertaken.

➢ At the start of the heating season, the Hart Hall boiler failed upon start-up and a rental boiler is

currently in place. The University is working with consultants to determine how to move forward

with this project. Replacement boilers are very expensive and a consultant will be on campus soon to

help the University evaluate all available options for replacing the heating/HVAC system.

➢ A roof project is underway for the Industry and Technology building. Roofs deteriorate over time

and must be on a schedule to be replaced. The Consolidated Educational and Renewal and

Replacement (CERR)-funded roof replacement projects schedule has previously been provided to the

Board. Replacement of the center section of the Pogue Library roof is also being planned.

➢ Storm drainage improvement projects are being undertaken on campus.

➢ The 2022-28 Capital Plan timeline was outlined. Kentucky Revised Statute 7A establishes a six-year

capital planning process that requires submission of the Plan for a six-year period each odd-numbered

year. The initial Plan for the University must be submitted to the Capital Planning Advisory Board

(CPAB) by April 15, 2021. This Plan includes projects that the University – and not the state – may

be able to fund. Many of the projects listed in the Plan are required but the state must approve the

University expending funding for this purpose. The CPAB will meet and review the University’s

submission between May and September 2021. September 1, 2021, is the deadline for amendments

to be made and the final Plan is due by November 1, 2021. Any projects over $1 million must be

included in the University’s Six-Year Capital Plan and approved by the state before any funding can

be spent or bonding authority obtained. The Six-Year Capital Plan will be submitted to the Board for

approval in June or August.

Regent Tharpe commended President Jackson and the Facilities Management team for work that

is being undertaken to protect the University’s assets. President Jackson expressed appreciation

to Regent Schooley who chairs the Buildings and Grounds Committee. He tours all buildings on

campus on a regular basis. There are also a number of smaller projects being undertaken by Vice

President Dudley and Facilities Management staff to address additional needs on campus. He

appreciates the support of the Board in helping the University move forward and improve

campus. This ongoing work is important to recruiting and retention to protect the look and feel

of campus.

This report was presented for informational purposes only and required no Board action.

Adjournment

The Buildings and Grounds Committee adjourned at 10:50 a.m.

Enrollment Management and Student Success Committee

Lisa Rudolph and Warren Norman – Co-Chairs

Virginia Gray

Sharon Green

Melony Shemberger

Regent Rudolph called the Enrollment Management and Student Success Committee to order at

10:50 a.m. and reported all other members were present.

Enrollment, Retention Communication Plan and Student Affairs Updates, received

Regent Norman reported student elections will be held on March 8 and 9 and there is a record-

breaking number of applicants (47 students). The virtual Rally for Higher Education is taking

place today and Governor Andy Beshear and CPE President Aaron Thompson addressed the

group. Appreciation was expressed to staff in the Center for Student Involvement and the Student

Government Association (SGA) executive team. They have done an excellent job keeping

students occupied throughout this time with plenty of activities still occurring on campus. This

has helped keep students engaged and shows them how they can help in this time of need.

Dr. Robertson reported the following:

➢ Appreciation was expressed to Regent Norman and the Student Government Association. They have

done an outstanding job this year. One of the strengths of this University is its student leadership and

no one provides stronger leadership than Murray State’s SGA. Many other groups on campus have

also helped keep students active and involved.

➢ Appreciation was expressed to all involved in making recruitment and retention efforts work. This

includes many individuals and offices on campus.

➢ Spring 2021 preliminary enrollment numbers remain fluid but overall total headcount and credit hours

are currently down by approximately 2 percent from this same period last year. Graduate numbers are

up but undergraduate numbers are down slightly. This is due to what is occurring in the high schools

and Racer Academy numbers since most instruction is being delivered virtually and not in the schools.

Given the work currently being undertaken, it is expected Racer Academy numbers will improve next

fall. In the current environment, all are encouraged by 2021 Spring Semester enrollment.

Confirmation was provided that the work of Academic Partnerships has been a factor in the increase in

graduate numbers, in addition to the great work of Matt Jones, Coordinator for Domestic Graduate

Recruitment and Retention. Dr. Todd indicated that Graduate Coordinators in each of the departments

also deserve credit for the increase in numbers in this area. The five programs identified by Academic

Partnerships have led to the increase and the trajectory for additional growth at an even higher level is

good. A portion of the enrollment decline is also due to the success of students with more of them

graduating this past fall than in fall 2019.

➢ Regional campus credit hours and course counts are up at both the undergraduate and graduate levels

from the Spring 2020 Semester to the Spring 2021 Semester. All regional campuses are up in this

regard. In-person enrollment is up at two of the regional campuses and the others are holding steady.

Dan Lavit, Executive Director of the Center for Adult and Regional Education, and others are doing

well in this regard.

➢ There were 672 registrations for the Admitted Student Kick-Off held on February 5-6, 2021. There

were 28 states represented compared to 21 states in 2020. Three virtual sessions with on-campus tours

were offered. One of the goals of the Admitted Student Kick-Off was to encourage students to sign up

for Racer Nation Orientation (formerly Summer O) because this represents a critical component of

students actually enrolling at Murray State University for the fall. The two orientation sessions offered

in April will be virtual. Those occurring during the summer most will likely be in-person visits, with a

virtual component if needed. On-campus tours were also offered and a number of students and their

families took advantage of this opportunity. Beth Acreman, Associate Director of New Student

Programs, played an integral role in this process. There are currently 619 freshman students as of last

evening who have registered for Racer Nation Orientation and 36 transfer students and this compares

well to the past two years.

➢ For the Fall 2021 Semester, slightly over 7 percent more students have been admitted. Scholarship

applications received by the deadline are up by 13 percent and housing applications are up 54 percent.

First-time transfers are down but recruiting initiatives for this population are currently underway.

Admitted student numbers from the 18-county service region and the surrounding ten counties is up

over last year. Kentucky student numbers are up overall by 27 percent, as well as in neighboring states

the University targets. Underrepresented minority student numbers are also up over last year and

international student applications have increased. A great deal of work remains and an aggressive fall

Communications Yield Plan has been planned by the Branding, Marketing and Communication team.

Appreciation was expressed to Dr. Fister who provides the detailed data needed for Dr. Robertson and

President Jackson to make focused decisions. Confirmation was provided that all look forward to

being able to conduct in-person visits once again in the high schools.

➢ The University’s scholarship operation plays a large role in this process and appreciation was expressed

to Wendy Cain, Director of Student Financial Services and Bursar, and her team for their work in this

regard. Mrs. Cain reported that the committee for the Racers Give initiative has selected awardees for

these scholarships next year. There have been 643 students awarded $1,000 scholarships. Most of this

funding is coming from both the University and the Foundation. The University was able to set aside

funding for a one-time award of $350,000 as a benefit of a portion of the CARES money it received.

The committee reviewed each of the applications for this needs-based scholarship. A significantly

greater number of awards were given this year compared to last year and notifications will go out to

students in mid-March. Mrs. Cain was asked to contact Regent Tharpe regarding a needs-based

organization that has scholarship monies available to ensure Murray State receives a share of this

funding. President Jackson indicated that the process to award Foundation-based private scholarships

is also underway, representing approximately 1,000 scholarship endowments. These awards represent

a significant amount that is awarded from private monies through Foundation scholarships.

Appreciation was also expressed to Mrs. Cain for her work in this regard.

➢ Two recent promotions were administered through the Office of Recruitment under Director Shawn

Smee’s leadership. Due to the departure of a staff member, Kendrick Quisenberry has been promoted

to the Senior Associate Director/Coordinator of Multicultural Recruitment position. Ivy Anderson has

also been promoted to the Assistant Coordinator for Multicultural Recruitment position, in addition to

maintaining her prior Lead Admissions Counselor duties.

➢ Dr. Fister reported that first-generation students comprise approximately 46 percent of the overall

student population this fall. The first-generation undergraduate population is about 45 percent. The

first-time freshman first-generation population is 42 percent. The retention rate for this population is

82 percent which is above the overall student population retention rate. For this year in terms of total

degrees, first-generation students (undergraduate and graduate) comprise 47 percent, compared to 45

percent last year. First-generation undergraduate degrees are 48 percent compared to 46 percent last

year. First-generation graduate degrees are 50 percent compared to 52 percent last year based on self-

reported information. Dr. Robertson confirmed that first-generation initiatives are part of the work of

the Office of Student Engagement and Success, under the leadership of Peggy Whaley.

➢ Office of Student Engagement and Success initiatives include the development of a Retention

Communication Plan. The Retention Communication Plan and key components were outlined. The

Office of Multicultural Initiatives and the Residential College Program play a key role in this process

as well. The University also received a grant from the CPE to help address mental health concerns.

Currently, there are 185 faculty and staff members who have signed up for an eight-hour class to

receive training on what to look for in terms of identifying mental health issues and ensuring students

are aware of the resources available to them. Deans and Chairs were tasked with following up with

faculty and staff in their respective areas to identify faculty and staff who might be interested in

participating. A group will also be trained to present the information in individual sessions across

campus this year and moving forward. A series of mental health/emotional well-being resources are

also being provided online. This initiative provides funding to carry out this work through June 30,

2022, allowing the University to supplement in-person counseling services with online resources. The

University has also received a grant of over $70,000 to be utilized institutionally. A Committee

composed of Dr. Fister; Dr. Angie Trzepacz, Director of University Counseling Services; Laura

Liljequist, Professor and Director of the Psychological Center; Mrs. Whaley and the Office of Student

Engagement and Success and the Psychological Center has been formed to oversee this grant. The

University is receiving resources for training, outreach, additional equipment for the Psychological

Center, promotional materials to market available online resources and mental health speakers. There

is also a club on campus called Active Minds and resources will be provided to this group to undertake

peer-mentoring activities related to mental health. Additional hot spots are being installed for students

who do not have computers or internet access so the online resources are also available to these

individuals.

➢ On-campus employment is critical for many students. Available positions are posted in Handshake

(Murray State’s online career management platform) and can be accessed by anyone on campus. In

Fall 2020, over 1,400 students applied for on-campus employment. This new system streamlines the

process for promoting positions and has been well received by both departments and students.

➢ Multicultural initiatives as part of Black History Month were outlined and a link for additional

information was provided. Dr. SG Carthell and his student staff have provided important leadership in

regard to offering an outstanding series of programming for Black History Month and beyond. Dr.

Carthell has worked in conjunction with Wilmington College and Wittenberg University to allow their

students to have access to speakers hosted by Murray State. MSU students can also take advantage of

speakers sponsored by the two institutions mentioned.

Regent Rudolph expressed appreciation to Dr. Robertson and staff and the entire University for

working so well together to focus on enrollment due to its importance to this institution. The

Board sincerely appreciates the work of all in this arena.

This report was presented for informational purposes only and required no Board action.

Adjournment

The Enrollment Management and Student Success Committee adjourned at 11:32 a.m.

Finance Committee

Leon Owens – Chair

Eric Crigler

Jerry Rhoads

Lisa Rudolph

Phil Schooley

Regent Owens called the Finance Committee meeting to order at 11:32 a.m. and reported all

other members were present.

Fiscal Years 2020-21 and 2021-22 Budget Update, received

Ms. Dudley reported the following budget highlights:

➢ A summary of Fiscal Year 2021 budget items was provided in the eBoard book. Tuition and fees and

auxiliaries were discussed earlier as part of the Treasurer’s Report. The Board was assured that the

University’s contingency remains in place for the current year. A line item for Asset Preservation Fees

was also included in the budget this year and those are coming in as expected at approximately $1.8

million for the deferred maintenance pool. In August 2020, the Board approved projects to be

undertaken with this funding, including part of the HVAC replacement project in Lovett Auditorium

and the window projects for Wells and Wilson halls. It is also hoped a building automation system can

be purchased.

➢ For Academic Year 2022, a traditional campus environment will be key. The revenues and fees that

will be included in the budget will be developed based on a traditional campus environment with face-

to-face instruction and students being on campus, eating in the campus dining venues and living in the

residence halls. Fall enrollment, as just outlined by Dr. Robertson, is also a key factor. One unknown

moving into 2022 is remaining COVID-19 pandemic-related expenditures and lost revenue. It is not

known how long these expenditures and lost revenue will continue. It is hoped stimulus funds will be

provided to help the University but that is an unknown as planning is underway for next year.

➢ Also affecting the Fiscal Year 2022 budget will be the impact of the January 2021 Kentucky

Legislative Session as much remains unknown relative to pensions, state appropriations and

performance funding.

➢ The Fiscal Year 2022 budget calendar was presented and included key dates. A meeting of the Budget

Advisory Committee, which includes membership from all of the constituency groups, was held in

January. Meetings have also been held with Faculty Senate, Staff Congress and SGA leadership

relative to the budget categories outlined. An additional Budget Advisory Committee meeting will take

place on April 8 (following the Legislative Session) and a virtual University Town Hall is scheduled

for April 14. This Town Hall will be open to the entire campus and others to receive an update from

the President and Vice President on the budget and answer any questions presented. The links for these

two events will be provided soon. A Special Meeting of the Board of Regents has also been scheduled

on April 23, 2021, to approve tuition and mandatory fees and housing and dining rates.

➢ The University will continue to monitor upcoming important dates relative to the budget planning

process in terms of the CPE, Legislative Session, Board of Regents and University schedules. At its

meeting on April 23, the CPE is expected to set tuition parameters. The Presidents will meet the first

part of April and at that time will be informed of what the tuition caps will be by the CPE. The

University’s recommendation regarding tuition and mandatory fees must be forwarded to the CPE

Finance Committee by May 4 for review and approval.

President Jackson reported that outside of COVID-19, revenue losses and additional expenses, the

issue of pensions continues to be the biggest budget pressure point facing the University. Two

pieces of legislation will be covered as part of the legislative update to be provided later. One is

dealing with the Teachers’ Retirement System (TRS) which provides more long-term stability for

the system but no immediate financial assistance. Employees hired from this point forward would

be put into a hybrid system or choose the Optional Retirement Plan (403-B) that the University

currently offers. The biggest single pension issue is the Kentucky Employees Retirement System

(KERS) and represents a significant budget pressure for universities in the Commonwealth.

Negotiations are currently underway to identify what will help the universities moving forward.

Legislation is currently being negotiated between the House and Senate (House Bill 8). All are

waiting on the second half of a two-year budget to be presented and this will not be known until

Sine Die of the General Assembly which is March 30.

Regent Shemberger expressed appreciation to President Jackson and Vice President Dudley for

meeting with the Budget Advisory Committee and for working with different models to determine

a way to integrate a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), in addition to everything else that is going

on. Maintaining a focus on faculty and staff salaries is very much appreciated. Faculty have

expressed concerns with TRS relative to the caps that have been imposed, especially with regard

to extra compensation which is not currently included in the retirement calculation. Ms. Dudley

reported this represents a Kentucky Administrative Regulation that was passed last year and it is

not statutory in nature. The universities were not made aware of the regulation but TRS is trying

to make changes so their pension plan is more manageable. TRS started notifying the University

of this change at about the same time faculty began finding out about it. Some of these changes

being made by TRS may remain over the next few years from a pension funding standpoint.

This report was presented for informational purposes only and required no Board action.

2021 Federal Stimulus Funding Update, received

Ms. Dudley reported the following with regard to federal stimulus funding:

➢ An update was presented on the financial impact to the University as a result of the pandemic and

included total financial impact for Fiscal Years 2019-20 and 2020-21. Indirect costs have not been

identified in the schedule provided. Student credit refunds for the Spring 2020 Semester amounted to

over $4 million and total lost revenue is estimated to be $8.2 million. The total financial impact is

projected to be approximately $16 million for the last two fiscal years. These figures will continue to

change as the University moves through the Spring 2021 Semester.

➢ External funding available to the University to be able to put toward the $16 million deficit includes

federal CARES Institutional Funds ($3.1 million), Governor’s Emergency Education Relief Funds

($800,000), Coronavirus Relief Funds ($1 million) and Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental

Appropriations Act Funds (CRRSAA) in the amount of $7.1 million. Total funding awarded to help

cover the $16 million deficit amounts to slightly over $12 million which leaves a net impact of

COVID-19 to the University of over $4 million. Some added CARES funding may be forthcoming as

part of a third stimulus package. A portion of this funding may be used to cover the net impact to the

institution but whether that can occur will depend on the guidelines that will be issued tied to those

funds. Overarching guidelines were released with the bill but the federal Department of Education

issues the specific guidelines relative to those funds. These have not yet been issued for both the

institutional share and the student share of those dollars that became available to the University in

December 2020. While some schools are distributing these funds already, they are taking a risk in

doing so because compliance directions have not yet been provided by the Department of Education

and this is presenting a challenge for the universities. These funds have been made available to the

University but are still being held by the Department of Education. The University did not receive a

big check in December. Such funding is always handled on a reimbursement basis. The timing

relative to the third round of stimulus funding is almost the same as that utilized for the CARES

funding provided in the first round. Lost revenue is the most important aspect the University hopes to

be able to recover utilizing the new CARES funding.

➢ A breakdown of federal funds awarded for COVID-19 was provided relative to student grants from

federal CARES and CRRSAA funds totaling over $6.2 million. Prior to the end of December, $3.1

million was spent to reimburse students from the first round of funding received from the federal

government. There was a like amount of federal funding received in December ($3.1 million at

minimum) and this will be provided to the students once more is known about how these funds can be

spent. Institutionally, federal funds amount to slightly over $18 million.

➢ Technology enhancements needed to support teaching and learning have been identified and amount to

$655,160. These enhancements support the current environment but also help the University be

prepared in a more traditional environment. Brian Verkamp, Chief Information Officer, helped

develop a schedule in terms of how to utilize these funds and that information was presented. Mr.

Verkamp reported that even though the University was able to move to remote learning within a very

short timeframe last spring, gaps still exist in terms of technology needs. Technology to be able to

work and learn remotely is key. Currently Waterfield Library has a laptop loaner program available for

students, faculty and staff checkout. This was absolutely essential during the pandemic and still is but

these machines are aging and need to be replaced. Fifteen additional long-term loaner laptops will be

purchased to address various campus needs. An expansion of the Murray State Racerdesk (virtual

computer labs) was also critically needed to allow students to access software from anywhere at any

time and have the same virtual experience on campus as they would from home. Security is also

enhanced by moving to a virtual desktop platform. Computers in student labs will be replaced in

Waterfield Library and the Weaver Center. New equipment was also needed to connect to KY Wired,

moving from a 10GB connection to 40GB internet speeds to campus for students, faculty and staff.

These speed gains will impact on- and off-campus usage. An outdoor wireless expansion has also been

planned for the north residential complex, intramural complex and the academic campus. A pool to

fund technology needs to support online teaching and advising, working through Information Systems

to ensure compatibility and support across campus, is being created. Allocation of funds will be based

on student FTE for each college/school and there will be supplemental funding for the Faculty

Development Center.

This report was presented for informational purposes only and required no Board action.

Annual Lease Report, accepted

Ms. Dudley reported that as per Item #16 of the Delegation of Authority, the Board is to approve

University real property and facilities’ leases under which 1) the University is the lessee if the

annual rental is in excess of $100,000 or 2) the University is the lessor of University real

property or facilities and the lease has a non-cancellable term exceeding one year. No additional

approval will be required if an approved lease is renewed pursuant to the same terms and

conditions but the Board will be advised of any such renewal. A listing of all leases is provided

to the Board annually and was included in the eBoard book. There are no new leases this year.

On behalf of the Finance Committee, Regent Crigler moved that the Board of Regents, upon the

recommendation of the President of the University, accept the annual Lease Report as presented.

Regent Rhoads seconded and the motion carried.

Full Board Action – Annual Lease Report, approved

On behalf of the Finance Committee, Regent Owens moved that the Board of Regents, upon the

recommendation of the President of the University, accept the attached annual Lease Report.

Regent Rudolph seconded and the motion carried unanimously.

(See Attachment #3)

Projects Approval, approved

Ms. Dudley reported that Delegation of Authority Item #20 states that “…Prior to moving

forward, all projects costing over $200,000 and up to the threshold denoted by Kentucky statue

should be reviewed by the Board Chair and the President and a determination made in terms of

those projects requiring further Board approval.

The following two schedules listing projects initiated since the last Board report were included in

the eBoard book:

1. Projects with estimated costs of $200,000 or less

2. Projects with estimated costs of over $200,000, which were reviewed by the Board Chair

and President.

Designation of project funding is obtained from the Board to allow the institution to report the

funds as “board designated” in the quarterly financial reports and annual audit. This is not an

exhaustive listing of projects under $200,000 but those that have been started and not completed

as of the report preparation date in order to designate funding. Two major projects include the

Industry and Technology roof replacement ($795,000 from the CERR pool) and the seating

project for Lovett Auditorium ($950,000 from private monies). Board approval means the

University can move forward with these two projects.

On behalf of the Finance Committee, Regent Rudolph moved that the Board of Regents, upon

the recommendation of the President of the University, designate the funding as outlined for the

projects on the listing provided. Regent Crigler seconded and the motion carried.

Full Board Action – Projects Approval, approved

On behalf of the Finance Committee, Regent Owens moved that the Board of Regents, upon the

recommendation of the President of the University, designate the funding as outlined for the

projects on the attached listing. Regent Shemberger seconded and the roll was called with the

following voting: Mr. Crigler, yes; Mrs. Gray, yes; Ms. Green, yes; Mr. Norman, yes; Mr.

Owens, yes; Mrs. Rudolph, yes; Mr. Schooley, yes; Dr. Shemberger, yes; Dr. Tharpe, yes and

Mr. Rhoads, yes. The motion carried unanimously.

(See Attachment #4)

Personal Services Contracts, approved

Ms. Dudley reported that Item #11 of the Delegation of Authority stipulates that the Board:

“....approve all Personal Services Contracts totaling more than $50,000. The Board will be

notified of all Personal Services Contracts between $10,000 and $50,000 before they are

submitted to the Legislative Research Commission. Upon review, individual Board members

may request that these be held for approval at the next Board meeting.”

The contracts on the listing provided in the eBoard book require approval by the Board of

Regents. The University is seeking approval for $300,000 to engage an advisor to assist with the

housing and dining public-private partnership (P3) project. P3 efforts were well underway prior

to the pandemic and developers had been identified for this purpose. The number of developers

that bid this type of project has changed dramatically since March 2020. The need to hire a

developer that specializes in this type of work particularly for higher education is critical because

these represent long-term contracts with the respective developer. The $300,000 represents an

initial engagement request but will not entirely cover what is needed for such a project to reach

fruition and future discussions with the Board will be necessary in this regard. President Jackson

reported that it is critical for new housing to be developed on campus. Pre-pandemic he was

confident the expertise existed on campus to negotiate a P3 arrangement. Post-pandemic many

of these firms are not as solid financially and arrangements have become more complicated,

requiring an expert in this arena. Other institutions have already utilized the type of firm being

considered for P3 housing arrangements.

Ms. Dudley reported that an additional PSC is for $25,000 to engage a firm to update software in

the College of Education and Human Services.

On behalf of the Finance Committee, Regent Crigler moved that the Board of Regents, upon the

recommendation of the President of the University, approve the Personal Services Contracts as

listed in the document provided per requirements of the Delegation of Authority Item #11.

Regent Rhoads seconded and the motion carried.

Full Board Action – Personal Services Contracts, approved

On behalf of the Finance Committee, Regent Owens moved that the Board of Regents, upon the

recommendation of the President of the University, approve the Personal Services Contracts as

listed in the attached document per requirements of the Delegation of Authority Item #11.

Regent Schooley seconded and the roll was called with the following voting: Mr. Crigler, yes;

Mrs. Gray, yes; Ms. Green, yes; Mr. Norman, yes; Mr. Owens, yes; Mrs. Rudolph, yes; Mr.

Schooley, yes; Dr. Shemberger, yes; Dr. Tharpe, yes and Mr. Rhoads, yes. The motion carried

unanimously.

(See Attachment #5)

Adjournment

The Finance Committee adjourned at 12:20 p.m.

The Board also adjourned for lunch.

Reconvene

Chair Rhoads reconvened the Quarterly and Committee Meetings of the Board of Regents at 12:45

p.m. and reported all members were present.

Regent Owens commended President Jackson, Vice President Dudley and the team. Due to the

current environment, with the budgetary pressures that the University is having to respond to on

an almost daily basis, as well as the lack of a state budget with only 11 days left in this Legislative

Session of the General Assembly, they are not only flexible but are doing a great job. They have

ensured that the Board is informed of the various pressures and also the moving parts associated

with the current environment.

Legislative and Economic Development Committee

Virginia Gray – Chair

Sharon Green

Leon Owens

Jerry Rhoads

Mrs. Gray called the Legislative and Economic Development Committee to order at 12:45 p.m.

and reported all other members were present.

Legislative Update Report, received

Mr. Smith reported the following:

➢ Today is Day 19 of the 30-day Budget Session. Budget Sessions do not usually occur as part of the

Short Sessions and are normally for a two-year biennium but this represents a one-year budget. The

Legislature will meet for another full week and March 8-10 the Conference Committee will officially

begin. Many of the legislators appointed to the Conference Committee have already been meeting

quietly and discussions have occurred with many of these individuals regarding the University’s

budget and funding priorities. The Governor’s Veto Days will then be March 17– 27. The

Legislature will meet on March 29 to override any vetoes, as needed, and the Session will convene on

March 30 (Sine Die Day 30).

➢ The President, Vice President Dudley, Mr. Smith and Ronny Pryor, Legislative Lobbyist, have

participated in weekly ZOOM calls, in-person meetings, through text messages and phone calls with

legislators and legislative staff. Meetings about the Legislative Session and also items that arise

suddenly have occurred with CPE staff.

➢ Murray State funding priorities have been previously shared with the Board but include

reauthorizations for University (agency) bonding/public-private partnership which involves the use of

the institution’s own funds, capital projects approval and the CPE asset preservation requests. In the

budget document, it is important for the Legislature to grant the University authorization to utilize its

own funds for deferred maintenance and campus improvement projects, as well as other similar items

that will benefit Murray State students, faculty and staff. The University must have these

reauthorizations approved before it can move forward with any potential P3 opportunity. A great deal

of time has been spent ensuring funding priorities are listed correctly so they can be included in the

final budget.

➢ The University fully supports the Council on Postsecondary Education’s asset preservation state bond

request. This would provide Kentucky’s postsecondary education institutions with state bonds to

address some of the large-scale facilities renovation projects that no higher education institution has

the money to fund right now. The CPE has surveyed all Kentucky public postsecondary education

institutions and identified over $7 billion in unmet deferred maintenance needs that exist. Legislators

are reminded that the facilities on the various campuses are also state assets.

➢ Pensions have taken up a great deal of time during the Legislative Session and have represented a

primary focus. TRS and KERS pension rates, as well as the performance funding bill, have been part

of continued discussions.

➢ Overall, there was a large number of bills filed this Legislative Session impacting Murray State

University and higher education – certainly more than what was anticipated. Regent Gray added that

staff are also working behind the scenes not only on the fiscal side of legislation but also to help stop

bills that would be detrimental in other ways to the University. In the eleventh hour bills pop up that

no one knew were coming and that must also be monitored and decisions made quickly. Mr. Smith

expressed appreciation to the Regents, Vice Presidents, General Counsel, Deans and the Director of

Athletics for their participation in the Legislative Session, especially in regard to bills that would

place an administrative burden on the institution. Faculty and staff have been fantastic when asked to

review a bill to help determine the impact it would have on the University. Receiving this feedback

helps the University make the best decisions for all involved.

➢ The 2021 Legislative Brochure was included in the eBoard book. This brochure has been provided to

every legislator in Kentucky. The University’s capital project requests, public pension item and

national rankings, in addition to other information, are included in the brochure. Appreciation was

expressed to Mr. Touney; Charley Allen-Dunn, Web and Digital Advertising Manager in BMC;

Tobie Tubbs, Printing Manager and others who helped produce the brochure quickly due to the late

date at which information could be finalized. The $66 million for P3 arrangements must be approved

by the Legislature before the University can move forward and the same is true for capital project and

asset preservation project requests.

➢ Information and materials are sent to legislators on a year-round basis, not just during the Legislative

Session. Secretary Hunt and Missy Nesbitt, Senior Executive Assistant, help distribute the Blue &

Gold magazine, as well as other items of interest to Murray State, to the Legislature and the CPE.

➢ House Bill 8 (HB 8) is the KERS pension bill. This bill would change the KERS non-hazardous

employer contribution rates for universities and all other quasi-agencies from a total percentage of

payroll to level-dollar funding, with a normal cost component included. Rates would go from 49.47

percent to 98.8 percent, representing a $3.8 million increase for the University per fiscal year. The

University has been working with regional legislators and the bill sponsor to provide information on

how this change would affect Murray State. The House has proposed funding 90 percent of the

KERS funding increase for all quasi-agencies, including universities in the first year and at a

decreased percentage in subsequent years. MSU supports the methodology of HB 8 if universities

receive the full 90 percent of funding increases and the KERS funding can be securely designated in

the University’s base appropriation as a mandated program. HB 8 passed the House 88-0 and is

currently in the Senate awaiting committee hearing.

➢ House Bill 192 (HB 192) is the Executive Branch Budget Bill and represents the primary vehicle for

many MSU legislative priorities such as asset preservation, reauthorizations for agency bonding/P3

and capital projects. HB 192 passed both the House and Senate with the two Chambers not

concurring. A Conference Committee has now been appointed to finalize the budget.

➢ House Bill 258 (HB 258) is the Teachers Retirement System Bill and would create a new, fully

funded hybrid tier of the TRS for new hires only who join on or after January 1, 2022. President

Jackson was appointed to Chair a Work Group comprised of university Presidents and this legislation

is the result. The Kentucky School Board Association, Kentucky Association of Superintendents,

Kentucky Association of School Administrators, Jefferson County Teachers’ Association, Kentucky

Education Association, as well as the universities, were involved in the process of crafting this bill in

the Interim Session. HB 258 passed the House 68-28 and is currently awaiting a committee hearing

in the Senate.

➢ Senate Bill 135 (SB 135) is the Performance Funding Bill. This bill has now passed the state Senate

unanimously and no issues are expected in the House. This bill is the direct result of the CPE

Performance Funding Work Group comprised of all university Presidents, CPE President Aaron

Thompson, the Speaker of the House, Senate President and others. The Murray State team helped by

providing suggestions and data – particularly Vice President Dudley and Dr. Fister – as well as

faculty and staff. SB 135 includes all of the tweaks recommended by the universities and will create

a more equitable funding mechanism as opposed to the last iteration of the bill.

Chair Rhoads reported that the performance funding bill did not come easy and several

universities agreed to it reluctantly which shows the degree of diplomacy that was required as

part of this process. President Jackson took the lead in this work and all are fortunate with the

resulting legislation. Confirmation was provided that the funding needed to make the new

Performance Funding Model work will be included in the budget starting July 1, 2021. Dr.

Jackson added that the performance funding bill establishes a floor for the postsecondary

education institutions that equals each university’s net General Fund appropriation for Fiscal

Year 2021, less appropriations for Fiscal Year 2022 mandated programs.

Regent Gray expressed appreciation to Mr. Smith for his work with the Regional Vaccination

Center at the CFSB Center. She has heard nothing but great things and the balancing act

required for this work, along with monitoring the Legislative Session, has not been easy.

This report was presented for informational purposes only and required no Board action.

Adjournment

The Legislative and Economic Development Committee adjourned at 1:12 p.m.

Marketing and Community Engagement Committee

Sharon Green – Chair

Eric Crigler

Virginia Gray

Melony Shemberger

Regent Green reported that there was no business to come before the Marketing and Community

Engagement Committee.

Ad Hoc Presidential Evaluation Process Review Committee

Eric Crigler – Chair

Virginia Gray

Jerry Rhoads

Lisa Rudolph

Don Tharpe

Regent Crigler called the Ad Hoc Presidential Evaluation Process Review Committee to order at

1:14 p.m. and reported all other members were present. The Ad Hoc Presidential Evaluation

Process Review Committee was commissioned at the August 2020 meeting of the Board of

Regents for the purpose of reviewing and revising the procedures utilized to evaluate the Murray

State University President, if deemed necessary. This Committee carefully reviewed the

procedures for both the annual evaluation and the 360° (four-year) evaluation for the President of

the University and the Board adopted the revised procedures submitted by the Committee at the

December 4, 2020, Quarterly Meeting.

Consensus was reached during the December Quarterly Meeting that the current method and

instrument that have been utilized as part of the annual presidential review process would be

revisited and a determination made on whether changes were necessary. Any resulting

recommendations relative to the survey method or instrument to be utilized as part of the annual

Presidential Review Process would then be submitted to the full Board for consideration at the

February 2021 Quarterly Meeting.

The Ad Hoc Committee met earlier in the week and agreed to bring to the full Board a motion

that would approve the adoption of an electronic survey method, with guaranteed anonymity of

Board member responses, utilizing the survey instrument as presented.

Annual Presidential Review – New Survey Method and Revised Survey Instrument,

approved

On behalf of the Ad Hoc Presidential Evaluation Process Review Committee, Regent Crigler

moved that the Board of Regents, upon the recommendation of the Ad Hoc Presidential

Evaluation Process Review Committee, approve the adoption of the following: 1) utilizing an

electronic survey method, with a focus on anonymity for Board members and 2) utilizing the

revised survey instrument as presented as part of the annual Presidential Evaluation

Process. Regent Owens seconded and the motion carried unanimously.

Adjournment

The Ad Hoc Presidential Evaluation Process Review Committee adjourned at 1:18 p.m.

Personnel Changes

Faculty Sabbatical Leaves, approved

Provost Todd reported that the Sabbatical Leaves, as described below, have been

recommended by all appropriate recommending levels.

 Beckers, Oliver Biological Sciences Fall 2021 Full Salary

Dr. Beckers will prepare several manuscripts for publication, collect data for projects and learn

new research techniques.

 Brannon, Tony Hutson School of Agriculture Fall 2021 Full Salary

Dr. Brannon plans to work on projects for the compilation of the last 50 years of Murray State

Agriculture history, develop an administrative strategic transition plan and develop a strategic

plan for Eagle Rest Farm.

 Bryant, James Art and Design Fall 2021 Full Salary

Professor Bryant plans to design and produce a series of typographic posters highlighting

quotes, excerpts and lyrics of Kentucky authors and musicians.

 Callahan, Kathy History Fall 2021 Full Salary

Dr. Callahan will complete her research on the Duchess of Buccleuch and prepare a journal article for

publication.

 Donovan, Elizabeth Mathematics and Statistics Fall 2021 Full Salary

Dr. Donovan will co-author and co-edit a book manuscript in discrete mathematics and co-author a

fully digital calculus project.

 Ezumah, Bellarmine Journalism and Mass Communications Spring 2022 Full Salary

Dr. Ezumah plans to engage in research on global mass communication and journalism education

focusing on a nation-wide restructuring mandate in the Nigerian universities.

 Humphreys, James History Spring 2022 Full Salary

Dr. Humphreys will be conducting research to complete a chapter for publication in a volume of

essays on Kentucky’s Civil War historians.

 Joyce, Amanda Psychology Fall 2021 Full Salary

Dr. Joyce will produce manuscripts and abstracts in the areas of cognitive development and student

learning for publication.

 Roach, David Mathematics and Statistics Spring 2022 Full Salary

Dr. Roach will focus on mathematical research in Wavelet Analysis leading to publication and

presentation opportunities.

Regent Shemberger moved that the Board of Regents, upon the recommendation of the President

of the University, grant the requests for Sabbatical Leaves for the individuals and periods

indicated above. Regent Owens seconded and the motion carried unanimously.

Salary Roster, approved

President Jackson reported that in compliance with state statute and the responsibilities of the

University Treasurer as identified in the Bylaws of the Murray State University Board of

Regents, the Salary Roster presented outlines the amount paid to each professor, teacher or

official of the school. The Salary Roster is presented to the Board at the meetings following June

30 and December 31 each year.

Regent Tharpe moved that the Board of Regents, upon the recommendation of the President of

the University, approve the attached Salary Roster as of December 31, 2020, which includes new

employment, retirements, resignations and terminations. Regent Shemberger seconded and the

roll was called with the following voting: Mr. Crigler, yes; Mrs. Gray, yes; Ms. Green, yes; Mr.

Norman, yes; Mr. Owens, yes; Mrs. Rudolph, yes; Mr. Schooley, yes; Dr. Shemberger, yes; Dr.

Tharpe, yes and Mr. Rhoads, yes. The motion carried unanimously.

(See Attachment #6)

Policy Changes

Board of Regents Policy Manual – New Section 2.24 – Minors on Campus (second reading),

approved

President Jackson reported that in 2020, he appointed a committee to develop a policy outlining

the University’s requirements for programs in which minors participate. The focus of the policy

developed was youth programs and their oversight. Examples of applicable programs are

summer and athletic camps and youth tournaments, band camps, Festival of Champions, Quad

State Festivals, youth rodeos, Future Business Leaders of America conferences and academic

summer programs (i.e., Commonwealth Honors Academy, Governor’s Scholars Program,

Governor’s School for the Arts). This policy does not apply to public events in which minors

may attend (i.e., Fall on the Farm, Shakespeare Festival and theatrical performances). This

policy was presented to the Board as a first reading at the December 2020 Quarterly Meeting and

this represents the second reading.

Regent Shemberger moved that the Board of Regents, upon the recommendation of the President

of the University, approve the attached Board of Regents Policy – new Section 2.24 – Minors on

Campus, having been presented as a first reading at the December 4, 2020, Quarterly Meeting.

Regent Tharpe seconded and the motion carried unanimously.

(See Attachment #7)

Board of Regents Policy Manual – Section 2.6 – Fee Establishment (second reading),

approved

President Jackson reported that this represents the second reading of the Fee Establishment

policy. Several years ago a course fee was put in place at Murray State to address the large

number of undergraduate and graduate courses requiring unique equipment, materials, travel or

activities that are purchased at substantial cost to academic departments and colleges/schools.

For example, STEM+H and Graphic Design students must be taught to use state-of-the-art

technology, Chemistry and Studio Art students must have supplies in their labs and studios and

Education and Business students must have access to state-of-the-art computers, software and

teaching technology. This revised policy clarifies language on the use of the course fee for

instructional, teaching and learning purposes in the colleges and schools.

All collected fees will be used to defray the educational expenses associated with the types of

courses from which they are collected. For example, all Art course fees will be spent only on Art

instructional costs, Biology course fees will be spent only on Biology instructional costs, etc. in

compliance with the Board-approved use of course fees. The recommended change to the use of

course fees broadens the types of expenditures that can be covered by these funds to include

instructional personnel cost related to the course but not to include regular salaries and benefits.

Regent Rudolph moved that the Board of Regents, upon the recommendation of the President of

the University, approve the attached revised Board of Regents Policy – Section 2.6 – Fee

Establishment – having been presented as a first reading at the December 4, 2020, Quarterly

Meeting. Regent Shemberger seconded and the motion carried unanimously.

(See Attachment #8)

Supplemental Materials

President Jackson reported that Regents were provided with supplemental materials in the

eBoard book, including the “Good News” Report (January 2021); Quarterly Branding,

Marketing and Communication Report (October – December 2020) and Sponsored Programs –

Grants and Contracts Report. The Litigation Status Report prepared by General Counsel Miller

was provided in a separate, confidential eBoard book. These reports were provided for

informational purposes only and required no Board action.

Other Business/Adjournment

Regent Owens reported that on March 21, 2021, prior to the football contest against Tennessee

State, the University will be dedicating the Dennis Jackson Racer Room in Roy Stewart Stadium

Mr. Jackson was the first Black athlete at Murray State and participated at a high level in

Football and also Track and Field. Appreciation was expressed to President Jackson, Director of

Athletics Saal and others involved in making this honor happen. Mr. Jackson is a humble and

quiet man and has had a life full of service, not only to the community but also to Murray State

University. Chair Rhoads indicated he had the pleasure of working with Mr. Jackson on the

Director of Athletics Search Committee. He is a true pioneer at Murray State and throughout the

Ohio Valley Conference and the University owes him a debt of gratitude.

There being no further business to come before the Board, Chair Rhoads requested a motion for

the Board of Regents Quarterly and Committee meetings to adjourn. Regent Shemberger so

moved, seconded by Regent Rudolph, and the motion carried unanimously. Adjournment was at

1:30 p.m.

___________________________________

Chair Jerry Rhoads

___________________________________

Secretary Jill Hunt

(Remainder of page intentionally left blank to allow for inclusion of attachments.)