and seeking entertainment on campus. As well, a 5-percent decline in enrollment has had a significant impact on tuition and fee revenue. Operating expenses are also down significantly, but not enough to offset the reduction in revenues, so without federal or state assistance the university will experience a $12-million operating loss. Summer furloughs, FTE reductions, layoffs and reductions in goods and service spending have met or exceeded planned cost-reduction plans. However, the unplanned costs directly attributable to COVID-19 such as PPE, testing, and disinfecting have offset savings. In spite of these very challenging circumstances, the budget outlook remains cautiously optimistic. CWU will receive federal assistance through the recent Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2021, and the governor’s proposed budget had some encouraging signs, both in the biennial operating and capital budgets. PRESIDENT’S REPORT Long-term budgeting considerations. As CWU adjusts to new budget challenges, it will be important for the university to look forward rather than backward to the “pre-COVID” budget. CWU’s reality lies ahead of us, not behind. For the past decade, CWU has embraced a long-term budget-planning philosophy. Anticipating budget opportunities and challenges has helped us prepare for the digital world that has overtaken everything we do, and carried us through two of the worst financial challenges ever to face this institution: the Great Recession and the coronavirus pandemic. As CWU emerges from the pandemic, we must be thinking about key investments necessary to ensure the university’s ability to deliver relevant, efficient, and compelling educational content and services. Approval of Development of Long-Term Investment Recommendations Motion 21-06: Mr. Conner moved that the Board of Trustees of Central Washington University direct staff to develop and present at the May board meeting, recommendations for long-term investment. Ms. Gillis seconded the motion. The motion was approved. Facilities Financial Sponsorship Matrices. The Department of University Advancement, in consultation with university partners, has developed a matrix to guide the financial sponsorship of two new facilities, the $53.5-million Health Sciences facility, due to open January 2022, and the $61-million Health Education project, the renovation of and addition to Nicholson Pavilion. The matrices outline the cost to benefactors of naming various facilities and these charitable contributions are managed by University Advancement. The actual facility name, however, must be authorized by the president or the Board of Trustees. Communications. The president noted communications from the Associated Students of CWU and from the Faculty Senate. ACTION AGENDA Approval of Consent Agenda The formal recognition for our faculty and staff is contained in our consent agenda. Motion 21-07: Mr. Nellams moved that the Board of Trustees of Central Washington University hereby approves the consent actions items submitted February 25, 2021. Ms. Black seconded the motion. The motion was approved.
3 Board of Trustees Minutes February 25, 2021
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