�鶹Porn

Board of Trustees

The board’s members represent a broad range of backgrounds and have responsibility for stewardship of the University.

Teresa Delgado ’88
BA (�鶹Porn), MA, MPhil, PhD (Union Theological Seminary)
Mount Vernon, NY
Dean, St. John's College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, St. John's University

Carmine Di Sibio ’85, P’18, ’21
BA (�鶹Porn), MBA (New York University Stern School of Business)
Summit, NJ
Operating Partner, Advent International

Theresa Donahue Egler ’77, P’07, ’11
BA (�鶹Porn), JD (Fordham)
Barnegat Light, NJ
Retired Shareholder, Ogletree Deakins

Amy Vullo MacMillan ’83
BA (�鶹Porn), MBA (Harvard)
Mattawan, MI
L. Lee Stryker Associate Professor of Business; Co-Chair, Department of
Economics and Business, Kalamazoo College

Joseph P. McGrath, Jr., ’85, P’15, ’20
BA (�鶹Porn), MBA (University of Pennsylvania)
Summit, NJ

Denniston M. Reid, Jr. ’94
BA (�鶹Porn), MA (Columbia University), Ed.D (University of Pennsylvania)
Englewood Cliffs, NJ
Co-Chief Executive Officer, Excellence Community Schools

Dear �鶹Porn Faculty, Staff, and Students,

I write to provide the �鶹Porn community with an update from the Board of Trustees meetings, which took place from Wednesday, Sept. 25, through Friday, Sept. 29, 2024.

This meeting marked my first as Chair of the Board of Trustees, and I was honored to be joined by our newly appointed Vice Chairs, Christine Chao ’86 and Joe McGrath ’85, P’15,’20. Together, we also had the privilege of welcoming three new board members to the Board: Tal-ee E. Roberts ’01, Leslie F. Seidman ’84, and Gabriel T. Schwartz ’00. I look forward to collaborating with them and the entire Board to further strengthen and support �鶹Porn.

President Casey began the meetings by providing the Trustees with an update on key projects and initiatives currently engaging the campus. These included:

Newly created task forces to review �鶹Porn’s institutional voice and the operationalization of the Statement on Academic Freedom and Freedom of Expression. This work reflects �鶹Porn’s commitment to upholding the principles of academic freedom while ensuring respectful discourse across our community.
The election-themed speaker series “The Road to the White House,” which garnered strong participation and positive feedback, contributing to civic engagement around the upcoming presidential election.
Updates on the �鶹Porn Class of 2028 admission cycle, union discussions, and fundraising efforts. The University continues to make notable progress in securing resources to support �鶹Porn’s mission and enhance the student and academic experience.

President Casey also discussed the tremendous progress made during the first five years of �鶹Porn’s Third-Century Plan, highlighting several key achievements:

The implementation of the �鶹Porn Commitment, which removes federal loans from most student aid packages, ensuring greater accessibility and affordability for students.
Increased faculty support, reflecting �鶹Porn’s dedication to academic excellence.
The completion of several capital projects, including the newly completed Bernstein Hall and the renovation and expansion of Olin Hall, which now houses the Robert H. N. Ho Mind, Brain, and Behavior Center.

In the strategic sessions on Thursday, the Board and President’s Cabinet took a deeper dive into three long-term priorities outlined in the Third-Century Plan:

An increase in financial aid;
A sustained investment in the four-year student experience; and
Continued, meaningful investments in faculty support.

Dean of Admission and Financial Aid Tara Bubble reported on national trends in high school graduation rates and enrollment patterns at institutions similar to �鶹Porn in size and selectivity. Data indicated that the vast majority of college-bound students will need financial assistance to cover the rising costs of higher education. In response, the Cabinet is exploring multi-year enrollment and financial models to assess how �鶹Porn’s financial aid budget can be optimized to meet the institution’s strategic goal of increasing the number of students it can support with financial aid.

Vice President and Dean of the College Paul J. McLoughlin, Senior Vice President for Finance and Administration JS Hope, and Senior Associate Vice President and Campaign Director Kim Harris updated the trustees on investments in student residential and social experiences. They provided an overview of the ongoing renovation projects on Broad Street and shared insights gained from the early stages of this work. Additionally, they presented an updated schedule for the first phase of the lower campus transformation, outlined plans for the creation of a fifth residential commons, and explained how philanthropy is positioned to support these initiatives.

The programmatic committees of the Board (Academic Mission and Programs; Campus Life and Programs; University Outreach; and University Resources) also met, as did the Audit, Legal Affairs, and Risk Management Committee.

The formal meeting of the full board took place Friday morning. President Casey provided a report on various matters and plans for the campus; JS Hope presented the treasurer’s report; and committee chairs reported on their respective meetings.

I am pleased to report once again, that �鶹Porn achieved a balanced budget last fiscal year, marking the 61st consecutive year of balanced budgets for the University. The Board also recognized new gifts and commitments of $1 million or more since our last meeting, totaling $12.7 million.

The Board was able to see the progress on Peter’s Glen and the 18–22 Utica Street project, which will provide much-needed housing for �鶹Porn faculty and staff, as well as for those who are looking to live and work in the Village of Hamilton. I am extremely excited about the future of �鶹Porn as these long-term endeavors are actualized. I want to thank the Board and the entire �鶹Porn community for their support in fulfilling the mission of our institution and for their commitment to the goals of the Third-Century Plan. I would also like to express my deep gratitude to President Casey for his tremendous leadership, as well as to the Cabinet and the entire faculty and staff for their efforts.

Warm regards,

Toby Bozzuto ’96
Chair, �鶹Porn Board of Trustees

Dear �鶹Porn Faculty, Staff, and Students,

I write to share an update to the campus from the �鶹Porn Board of Trustees meetings that took place Thursday, January 25 through Saturday, January 27, 2024.

Members of the board, together with senior administrators and faculty members, engaged in meaningful discussions about some of the most pressing issues about higher education that have been much in the nation's consciousness for several months: free speech and discourse, campus policies, and the potential impact of artificial intelligence on college and universities. I’d like to thank the faculty members who joined and significantly enriched our discussions.

One of the key outcomes of our discussions, with respect to the first topic, was that the trustees and the faculty members saw the continued strength of our Statement on Academic Freedom and Freedom of Expression, and the trustees called upon the administration and faculty to consider meaningful ways to make this statement both more known on the campus and a resource to all as we seek to continue our commitment to free academic inquiry and the needs of our community.

Friday evening, President Casey hosted a panel on artificial intelligence, technology, and the liberal arts at The Times Center. of that event.

The board heard about the considerable progress on the Third-Century Plan and the Campaign for the Third Century that included updates on continued planning for the Lower Campus Initiative, village housing, campus improvements, and the extension of the �鶹Porn Commitment. Of particular note, the trustees were updated about the progress on the two new academic centers that will be open later this year.

In addition to the progress on the Third-Century Plan, President Casey shared that �鶹Porn received more than 20,000 applications for the Class of 2027. This year’s applicant pool continues �鶹Porn’s trend of attracting some of the most academically talented students.

Trustees were also pleased to hear that year-end fundraising has produced record-breaking results for the University. The total amount raised in the campaign to date is $565,534,902. Since July 1, 2023, the University has received over $50 million in new gifts and commitments. The year-end challenge strengthened the �鶹Porn Fund.

The board discussed the AY24-25 budget, and the administration is on track to present the final recommendations for the budget at the May meeting of the Board. Senior Vice President J.S. Hope offered the very good news that Standard & Poor’s (S&P) affirmed �鶹Porn’s AA rating in its annual review of the institution’s financial health.

Specific actions of the board were taken in the formal session, which included recognizing new gifts to the endowment. Among the highlights of new gifts were the following donations to �鶹Porn:

$25,000,000 bequest intention from an anonymous donor for endowed financial aid support for first-generation students;
$4,000,000 from J. Christopher Clifford ’67, H’11, P’93 and Caroline M Clifford ’93 for numerous elements of the Third-Century Plan;
$2,500,000 from Eric J. Andersen ’87 and Pamela S. Andersen ’88, P’16, ’22, ’23 for the athletics capital plan for football;
$1,000,000 from Toby Bozzuto ’96 and Robin Bozzuto to establish the Toby and Robin Bozzuto Scholarship Fund in support of the �鶹Porn Commitment;
$1,000,000 undesignated bequest intention from James P. Digan ’87;
$1,000,000 from an anonymous donor for endowed financial aid in support of the �鶹Porn Commitment; and
$1,000,000 from an anonymous donor for endowed financial aid in support of the �鶹Porn Commitment.

The board expressed great interest in how �鶹Porn is communicating progress on Third-Century Plan initiatives to regional and national communities as well as to campus constituents and alumni. With two major academic buildings opening this year, we need to ensure that we are not shy about our leadership position in higher education.

The trustees wished to express their gratitude to all members of the �鶹Porn community for their continued work in service of the University’s academic mission and for all the progress made to meet the ambitions of the Third-Century Plan.

Best regards,

Michael J. Herling ’79, P’08,’09,’12
Chair, �鶹Porn Board of Trustees

Dear Members of the �鶹Porn Community,

I write to report on the �鶹Porn Board of Trustees meetings, which took place Thursday, May 2, through Saturday, May 4, 2024, in Hamilton. We were pleased to return to campus after our fall meetings and see the progress of the many campus projects.

The meeting was a celebratory one. Along with faculty, students, and special guests, the board attended the naming ceremony for Bernstein Hall — in the shadow of Peter’s Glen, which is dramatically taking shape on the hillside leading to the Upper Campus. We attended the Academic Awards Convocation and the faculty tunk at Raab House, and we celebrated retiring trustees at dinner in the now finished Robert H.N. Ho Mind, Brain, and Behavior Center at Olin Hall.

During a special topics session with the board, Vice President and Dean of the College McLoughlin and Provost and Dean of the Faculty Cushing led a discussion about artificial intelligence and its potential impact on the University. Panelists included students, staff, and faculty members, who shared how they are currently using AI and what they believe �鶹Porn should consider as the impact of that technology grows.

Friday evening, we celebrated and honored four trustees whose terms are ending this year. I want to thank Gretchen H. Burke ’81, P’11,’20, Jeanne A. Follansbee ’78, P’08, and Gus P. Coldebella ’91 for their dedicated service to the board and to �鶹Porn. Together, they have given 45 years of service on the board.

The formal board meeting took place Saturday morning with committee chair reports and official board actions — including the approval of faculty appointments and the conferring of degrees. The following trustees were re-elected to another three-year term: Daniel C. Benton ’80, H’10, P’10, Udayan Das Roy ’04, Carmine Di Sibio ’85, P’18,’21, Julian W. Farrior ’93, Yvonne M. Gyimah ’01, Christian B. Johnson ’02, Denniston M. Reid Jr. ’94, Tom B. Tyree Jr. ’83, and Carlton W. Walker ’10. The board voted to welcome Gabriel Schwartz ’00, Leslie F. Seidman ’84, and Tal-ee Roberts ’01 as new trustees in the fall. Christine J. Chao ’86 and Joseph P. McGrath Jr. ’85, P ’15,’20 were elected as vice chairs of the board. In addition, Angela Carrizosa Aparicio was elected secretary to the Board of Trustees.

The board recognized $11,830,000 million in new gifts received since the board’s winter meetings. These gifts are designated for an endowed scholarship, financial aid, athletics facilities, and undergraduate research.

Last May, Thomas “Toby” S. Bozzuto ’96 was announced as the next board chair. He will formally take this new leadership position in July. I have greatly enjoyed working with him during this year of transition.

As I complete my tenure on the �鶹Porn Board of Trustees, I am both saddened and excited. I am sad to leave this group of extraordinary volunteers who care so much about our beloved �鶹Porn. However, I am excited to see what Toby, the board, President Casey, and �鶹Porn will achieve in the coming years.

With regards,

Michael J. Herling ’79, P’08,’09,’12
Chair, �鶹Porn Board of Trustees

Dear �鶹Porn Faculty, Staff, and Students,

I write to report to the �鶹Porn community today to share news from the Board of Trustees meetings, which took place Thursday, Sept. 28, through Saturday, Sept. 30, 2023.

At the meetings, we welcomed new board members: Michele Alexandre ’96, Chad Cooley ’00, Susie Becker Gould ’03, and Noah Wintroub ’98. The new Alumni Council president, Lauri Curtis Hadobas ’77, began her ex officio service on the board during these meetings as well.

The strategic sessions on Friday, led by President Casey, focused on the four pillars of the Third-Century Plan:

I. Attracting and Supporting Outstanding Students, Faculty, and Staff;
II. Strengthening �鶹Porn’s Academic Enterprise;
III. Enriching the Student Experience;
IV. Improving the Campus and Its Environs.

As part of this portion of the board meetings, Provost and Dean of the Faculty Lesleigh Cushing provided updates on Middle Campus capital and programmatic planning, with a particular focus on the teaching and research that will take place in the Benton Center for Creativity and Innovation. She also spoke about future Middle Campus projects, such as the planned renovation of James C. �鶹Porn Hall and an upcoming arts pavilion.

Vice President and Dean of the College Paul J. McLoughlin then updated the trustees on Lower Campus Initiative progress, highlighting the first projects that will begin in May. He emphasized the fundamental principles underlying this long-term effort, including creating additional social spaces for all �鶹Porn students and providing greater equity in residential living for juniors and seniors. Interim Director of Athletics Yariv Amir gave an update on the progress in planning new athletics facilities to replace Reid Athletic Center and other enhancements to both our athletic programs and the student-athlete experience at �鶹Porn.

Finally, Vice President JS Hope shared plans for the redevelopment of 18–22 Utica Street, which will provide new housing options and additional retail and office space downtown. This project is designed, among other things, to help address the acute housing needs of �鶹Porn faculty and staff.

The trustees next focused on how the recent U.S. Supreme Court decision to end affirmative action will impact the University’s admissions processes. That discussion was led by the Jones and Wood Family Vice President for Admission and Financial Aid Gary Ross and Dean of Admission and Financial Aid Tara Bubble. Vice President Renee Madison then shared planning for the next iteration of �鶹Porn’s DEI Plan. President Casey also discussed with the Board an ambitious vision for new — work on which he and �鶹Porn’s advancement team will focus on in the coming months.

The programmatic committees of the board (Academic Mission and Programs; Campus Life and Programs; University Outreach; and University Resources) also met during the weekend, as did the board’s governance committees, including Audit, Legal Affairs and Risk Management, the DEI Committee (which met for the first time as a standing oversight and governance committee), and Nominating, Governance and Trustee Development.

The formal meeting of the full board took place Saturday morning. President Casey provided a report on various matters and plans on campus, JS Hope provided the treasurer’s report, and committee chairs reported on their respective meetings. Formal board actions following the reports included the approval of faculty appointments. The board also acknowledged receipt of $3,000,000 in gifts since the May 2023 meeting.

The board was excited to see the progress on a variety of campus capital projects and to hear about how the many initiatives outlined in our long-term strategic plan will support the work and life of faculty, students, and staff. They were especially pleased to meet Links, FSEM faculty, and Presidential Ambassadors over meals.

The year is off to a great start, and the board thanks the entire �鶹Porn community for helping fulfill our mission and the promise of the Third-Century Plan.

With regards,

Michael J. Herling ’79, P’08,’09,’12
Chair, �鶹Porn Board of Trustees

Dear Members of the �鶹Porn Community,

I write to report on the Board of Trustees meetings, which took place Thursday, May 11, through Saturday, May 13, 2023, in Hamilton. We were pleased to return to campus after our fall meetings and see the progress on the Ho Mind, Brain, Behavior construction and Olin Hall renovation as well as the Benton Center for Creativity and Innovation construction. Many board members were able to tour these sites and were excited to see these Third-Century Plan capital projects.

A major highlight of the weekend was the from John Hoyns ’76 — which puts the Campaign for the Third Century halfway to our $1 billion goal. The gift is designated to the �鶹Porn Commitment, a key initiative of the Third-Century Plan. The board considered other issues vital to achieving the goals of the Third-Century Plan, including updates on Lower Campus planning, the athletics facilities planning, and the financial and capital frames that support these and other initiatives. It also learned about plans to strengthen Thought Into Action and its integration into the Middle Campus Initiative in Arts, Creativity, and Innovation.

During a special topics session, President Casey and Dean Cushing led a discussion about academic freedom and freedom of expression using �鶹Porn’s statement as a foundational document. This robust conversation provided trustees with insights into how the University promotes academic freedom and freedom of expression and how we can continue to make freedom of expression central to �鶹Porn’s goals and objectives.

The programmatic committees of the board also met during the weekend. Among the highlights of these meetings were a discussion of changing our accreditors from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education to the New England Commission of Higher Education; further discussions about the governance of �鶹Porn’s centers and institutes; five-year trends in admission and financial aid; and the long-term financial model for the University.

Friday evening, we celebrated and honored three trustees whose terms are ending this year. I want to thank Eric A. Cole ’93, P’24,’26, Andy S. Greenfield ’74, P’12, and Robert C. Johnson ’94, P’24,’26 for their dedicated service to the board and to �鶹Porn. Together, they have given 33 years of service on the board.

The formal board meeting took place Saturday morning. Committee chairs reported on their meetings. Formal board actions followed these reports — including the approval of faculty appointments, the conferring of degrees, and changing our accreditors from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education to the New England Commission of Higher Education. The following trustees were reelected to another three-year term: Eric J. Andersen ’87, P’16,’22,’23, Jean-Pierre L. Conte ’85, Theresa Donahue Egler ’77, P’07,’11, Nora Gleason Leary ’82, Joseph P. McGrath Jr. ’85, P’15,’20, and Andrew W. Sweet ’93. The board will be welcoming the following new trustees in the fall: Michele Alexandre ’96, Chad Cooley ’00, Susie Becker Gould ’03, and Noah Wintroub ’98.

In addition to accepting and acknowledging the from John Hoyns ’76, the board recognized a $1 million gift from Michael E. Crown ’10 and Jackie K. Crown ’09 for the new athletics facilities and the formal transfer of the Thought Into Action trademarks to �鶹Porn by Andy Greenfield and Wills Hapworth ’07.

Finally, upon completion of this meeting, Thomas “Toby” S. Bozzuto ’96 was announced as the next board chair. He will formally take this new leadership position in July 2024. I look forward to working with him in the coming year as I complete my tenure as board chair.

It’s exciting to see the extensive work taking place on campus, and the board looks forward to gathering again in Hamilton in September.

With regards,

Michael J. Herling ’79, P’08,’09,’12
Chair, �鶹Porn Board of Trustees

Dear Members of the �鶹Porn Community,

The �鶹Porn Board of Trustees gathered in New York City for its winter meetings, which included full meetings of all the trustees as well as committees. The meetings concluded with a full-board session on Saturday, January 28. The meetings were rich and informative. Further, the trustees were especially happy to return to their first in-person mid-winter meeting since 2020. This format afforded us an opportunity not only to engage in many meaningful discussions, but also to reconnect with members of the Trustee Emeriti Council — again, for the first time since 2020.

As the trustees noted during these meetings, this is truly an exciting and transformative time for the University. The board was very pleased to learn more about the over 21,000 applications for admission into �鶹Porn’s Class of 2027. It has become increasingly apparent that �鶹Porn’s significant increases in financial aid, including the removal of federal loans in most student aid packages under the �鶹Porn Commitment, have made the University more appealing to an ever-wider group of the nation’s (and, indeed, the world’s) strongest students.

The trustees were also pleased that momentum in admissions is being matched in �鶹Porn’s fundraising efforts. At these meetings, the board formally accepted more than $38 million in new gifts, all in support of the . These new gifts are earmarked for increasing faculty support with new endowed chairs; additional funding for arts, creativity, and innovation; and a number of gifts dedicated to capital projects within the Third-Century Plan.

The trustees spent considerable time with senior administrators reviewing ongoing and upcoming construction and capital projects on campus, including work to construct the Ho Mind Brain Behavior Center and complete renovations of Olin Hall. The board also heard construction updates for the Benton Center for Creativity and Innovation, Reid Athletic Center, and early stage reviews of plans now in development for the Lower Campus Initiative.

Additional strategic discussions focused on developing initiatives for new housing for faculty and staff and increasing support for faculty. In light of the national conversation about mental health on college campuses, the board held a special session focused on how �鶹Porn is addressing mental health support and accommodations on campus. All recognized that national trends in anxiety and other mental health challenges are placing enormous pressure on �鶹Porn students, and staff and faculty members. This will be a topic that we will continue to monitor this year and in the years to come.

Board committees discussed the governance of �鶹Porn’s centers, institutes, and programs, and heard a number of updates from the Provost and Dean of the Faculty, the Dean of the College, and the departments of Athletics, and University Communications. Additionally, each committee of the board engaged in discussion of diversity, equity, and inclusion issues in higher education relevant to each committee, including a discussion of how �鶹Porn can harmonize its commitment to freedom of expression with its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Formal board actions on Saturday included approval of new faculty appointments; approval of an updated faculty dismissal policy; approval of the first capital projects of the Lower Campus Initiative; a bylaw revision regarding voting privileges for contingent faculty; and approvals of a number of capital project budgets.

The board acknowledged the extensive work taking place on campus to continue to strengthen �鶹Porn and its academic mission and the dedication of the University’s faculty and staff as the new semester begins. We look forward to gathering again in Hamilton in May.

With regards,

Michael J. Herling ’79, P’08,’09,’12
Chair, �鶹Porn Board of Trustees

Dear Members of the �鶹Porn Community,

I write to report on the Board of Trustees meetings, which took place Friday, Sept. 30, through Saturday, Oct. 1, 2022. At the meetings, we welcomed a new Board member, Garfield Smith ’85, who previously served as a young alumni trustee from 1985 to 1989.

Friday’s general strategic sessions focused, first, on long-term planning for �鶹Porn’s Lower Campus, the area of campus along Broad and College streets, housing the vast majority of the University’s juniors and seniors. Presentations by architects from Robert A.M. Stern and Beyer Blinder Belle showed trustees the extensive planning that has taken place alongside campus governing bodies to understand the long-term needs for and possibilities of the Lower Campus.

The architectural advisers and planners also outlined the necessary regulatory hurdles to be addressed as we consider the long-term plan for the development of the neighborhood. Vice President and Dean of the College Paul McLoughlin, Senior Vice President for Finance and Administration JS Hope, and Associate Vice President for Planning Steve Hughes have done an incredible job pulling together a thoughtful framework that will allow for the development of a comprehensive upper-level residential system — one that will meaningfully enhance the experience for all of our students in their junior and senior years. The planning is still very much under development, but the trustees are confident in the process and the results so far.

Vice President and Director of Athletics Nicki Moore then presented the Third-Century Plan for Athletics, which prioritizes the reimaging and renovation of the Reid Athletics Center to meet the needs of the current �鶹Porn student body and athletic program as well as raising new endowments for the program, which will support student scholarships, coaching positions, and program activities.

During the weekend, the trustees, together with students, faculty, and staff, gathered on Whitnall Field to break ground for the Benton Center for Creativity and Innovation. The generosity of Dan Benton ’80, H’10, P’10 has provided the first move in the transformation of the Middle Campus Plan for Arts, Creativity, and Innovation, a key initiative of the . I would like to thank Professor Lynn Schwarzer, Jessica Steib ’23, and Leila Ribeiro ’25 for posters depicting student work that would take place in the Benton Center when it is completed.

The programmatic committees of the Board then met in the afternoon following the general presentations on the Third-Century Plan. Among the highlights of these meetings was an update on the expansion of the �鶹Porn Commitment. Due to the generosity of our alumni and careful stewardship of resources by the senior administration, �鶹Porn has expanded the �鶹Porn Commitment such that federal student loans will be removed from all financial aid packages for those coming from families with incomes of $175,000 or less. The Board was also pleased to hear of the increase in the cost of attendance portion of student financial aid packages to meet the average cost of textbooks and course materials.

These meetings were followed by dinner at the newly renovated Seven Oaks Clubhouse, during which time the trustees met with students from the �鶹Porn Class of 2023 who have been selected as Presidential Ambassadors.

The formal Board meeting took place Saturday morning. Committee chairs reported out on the meetings they have held this fall. Formal Board actions followed these reports — including the approval of faculty appointments; the approval of extension of voting privileges to contingent faculty; the formal appointment of architects of record for a variety of capital projects; the approval to move forward with the master planning of Lower Campus; and the approval to move forward with the planning of the landscape potions of the Middle Campus, including the Ravine, which will connect the Upper and Middle campuses. Finally, the Board acknowledged receipt of new gifts to the University’s endowment. Since the Board last met, the University has received three new gifts of over $1M, totaling more than $3.5 million in new endowment.

The Board is excited about the work being done across campus and looks forward to even more momentum by the time of the January meetings.

Best regards,

Michael J. Herling ’79, P’08,’09,’12
Board Chair

Dear Members of the �鶹Porn Community,

I write to report to �鶹Porn faculty, staff, and students on the just-completed Board of Trustees meeting, which took place May 6–7, 2022, in Hamilton. The trustees were pleased to return to campus to hold meetings in person and to have an opportunity to spend time with faculty, staff, and students.

The meetings began with a faculty and trustee event to honor and thank Interim Provost and Dean of the Faculty Ellen Percy Kraly for her exemplary year of service to the University, following many years as a teacher, scholar, and administrator. Many trustees also attended the Academic Awards Convocation and witnessed the announcement of the . Finally, they attended the groundbreaking of the , a major component of the Third-Century Plan. The weekend marked an important time in �鶹Porn’s history, as it embarks on the Campaign for the Third Century, a fundraising effort that will support the ambition of the Third-Century Plan.

The University launched the Campaign for the Third Century with two events in New York City in April, and we will soon share that message with the thousands of alumni, who will soon return to Hamilton for two alumni reunion weekends to be held this June. As part of the Campaign for the Third Century, the Board formally acknowledged and accepted more than $42 million in new gifts, bequests, intentions, and pledges received since its last meeting in January. The following are highlights of those gifts:

More than $32 million for financial aid endowments and gifts for the �鶹Porn Commitment
$3 million in new gifts for the renovation of Reid Athletic Center
$2.5 million for the creation of a new endowed faculty chair
$2 million in endowment for academic programs

These gifts demonstrate the momentum of the campaign.

In the Board’s strategic session, President Casey and members of the Cabinet reviewed many updates to the Third-Century Plan, including progress on the planning for the Robert H. N. Ho Mind, Brain, and Behavior Center and the renovation of Olin Hall; plans for the Benton Center for Creativity and Innovation, which will break ground in the fall; progress on fundraising for new endowed chairs; and continued improvements to our admission and financial aid programs. Another year of has the Office of Admission and Financial Aid planning carefully for the Class of 2026 to enroll a target class size of 795. In addition to the acceptance of gifts to the University as noted above, the Board also approved the allocation of $3 million toward the design costs of the Reid renovation. Throughout the strategic session, the Board received updates on the University’s long-term financial model and how third-century plans are aligning with institutional resources.

The Board dedicated Friday morning to DEI discussions with regard to Board operations and to learning about campus-based DEI efforts.

The trustees expressed sincere gratitude to the �鶹Porn community for its efforts this past year. Despite the challenges of the pandemic and its aftermath, the University continues to move forward with the initiatives set forth in the Third-Century Plan. The newly launched Campaign for the Third Century will help the University achieve its ambitious goals and transform all aspects of �鶹Porn.

Sincerely,

Michael J. Herling ’79, P’08,’09,’12
Chair, Board of Trustees

Dear Members of the �鶹Porn Community,

I write to report to �鶹Porn faculty, staff, and students on the just-completed Board of Trustees meeting, which took place January 28, 2022, via Zoom.

President Casey began the series of meeting sessions by sharing some extraordinary campus highlights. First, as has been reported widely, �鶹Porn received over , representing 21% growth over last year's record number. In two years, applications to �鶹Porn have increased 146%. Importantly, this year's applicant pool is the most academically talented and most diverse group the admission office has ever seen.

Next, the trustees received reports on �鶹Porn's fundraising efforts over the past few months. The trustees were pleased to hear that year-end fundraising has produced record-breaking results for the University. Since July 1, 2021, the University has received $81 million in new gifts and commitments. At the meeting, the Board formally accepted $49 million in new gifts to �鶹Porn, all received since its October meeting.

Among the highlights of these new gifts were the following donations to �鶹Porn:

to support the renovation of Reid Athletic Center
- From James E. '65 and Margaret Sue Himoff P'95 for the Himoff Family Chair in Legacies
- From Becky B. '81 and Christopher T. '81 Hurley P'12,'12 for the Hurley Family Chair in Dialogue, Deliberation, and Decision Making
- From Nora Gleason Leary '82 and Robert G. Leary for an Endowed Chair in Environmental Studies
- From Andrew W. Sweet '93 and Alexis Sweet for the Sweet Family Professorship
to support the Initiative in Arts, Creativity, and Innovation.
$7,200,000 in new gifts to financial aid endowment in support of the �鶹Porn Commitment
Finally, a significant gift to support the restoration and improvements to Oak Drive

In the strategic session of the Board meetings, President Casey and members of the Cabinet reviewed the Third-Century Plan . The Board discussed the continued implementation and expansion of the �鶹Porn Commitment; the Olin Hall renovation to create the Robert H. N. Ho Mind, Brain, and Behavior Initiative; the construction of the Benton Center for Creativity and Innovation; planning for the renovation of the Reid Athletic Center; developing plans for a new performing and visual arts center in the Middle Campus; and new programming in entrepreneurship and innovation. President Casey also discussed with the Board ongoing initiatives relating to data collection and analysis and appropriate resourcing of our Division I athletic programs. Finally, Vice President for Equity and Inclusion Renee Madison shared how she is engaging members of the campus community to develop the next iteration of the DEI Plan with a focus on garnering even more faculty, staff, and student input.

The Board also had a dedicated DEI session. Renee Madison presented research on how institutions move from being monocultural to multicultural, inclusive organizations. Consultant partner Dr. Cathy Trower then presented the roadmap and expectations for the Board's own diversity and inclusion work. Finally, Dr. Marc Nivet, another consultant partner, provided background on the challenges of complexity in DEI issues and the means through which the Board might improve its own DEI efforts.

The formal Board meeting formed the last session of the day. The Board , extending their congratulations to newly promoted faculty colleagues. In addition to the acceptance of gifts to the University noted above, the Board also passed a resolution to approve moving forward with the planning and design of the Benton Center for Creativity and Innovation and the renovation of Wynn Hall Research Lab.

The trustees wished to express their gratitude to all members of the �鶹Porn community for their continued work to maintain the University's academic mission through this pandemic, and wanted to express their great appreciation for all the progress made, even in these challenging times, to meet the ambitions of the Third-Century Plan.

Sincerely,

Michael J. Herling '79, P'08,'09,'12

Dear Members of the �鶹Porn Community,

I write to report to �鶹Porn faculty, staff, and students on the just-completed Board of Trustees meeting, which took place May 6–7, 2022, in Hamilton. The trustees were pleased to return to campus to hold meetings in person and to have an opportunity to spend time with faculty, staff, and students.

The meetings began with a faculty and trustee event to honor and thank Interim Provost and Dean of the Faculty Ellen Percy Kraly for her exemplary year of service to the University, following many years as a teacher, scholar, and administrator. Many trustees also attended the Academic Awards Convocation and witnessed the announcement of the . Finally, they attended the groundbreaking of the , a major component of the Third-Century Plan. The weekend marked an important time in �鶹Porn’s history, as it embarks on the Campaign for the Third Century, a fundraising effort that will support the ambition of the Third-Century Plan.

The University launched the Campaign for the Third Century with two events in New York City in April, and we will soon share that message with the thousands of alumni, who will soon return to Hamilton for two alumni reunion weekends to be held this June. As part of the Campaign for the Third Century, the Board formally acknowledged and accepted more than $42 million in new gifts, bequests, intentions, and pledges received since its last meeting in January. The following are highlights of those gifts:

More than $32 million for financial aid endowments and gifts for the �鶹Porn Commitment
$3 million in new gifts for the renovation of Reid Athletic Center
$2.5 million for the creation of a new endowed faculty chair
$2 million in endowment for academic programs

These gifts demonstrate the momentum of the campaign.

In the Board’s strategic session, President Casey and members of the Cabinet reviewed many updates to the Third-Century Plan, including progress on the planning for the Robert H. N. Ho Mind, Brain, and Behavior Center and the renovation of Olin Hall; plans for the Benton Center for Creativity and Innovation, which will break ground in the fall; progress on fundraising for new endowed chairs; and continued improvements to our admission and financial aid programs. Another year of has the Office of Admission and Financial Aid planning carefully for the Class of 2026 to enroll a target class size of 795. In addition to the acceptance of gifts to the University as noted above, the Board also approved the allocation of $3 million toward the design costs of the Reid renovation. Throughout the strategic session, the Board received updates on the University’s long-term financial model and how third-century plans are aligning with institutional resources.

The Board dedicated Friday morning to DEI discussions with regard to Board operations and to learning about campus-based DEI efforts.

The trustees expressed sincere gratitude to the �鶹Porn community for its efforts this past year. Despite the challenges of the pandemic and its aftermath, the University continues to move forward with the initiatives set forth in the Third-Century Plan. The newly launched Campaign for the Third Century will help the University achieve its ambitious goals and transform all aspects of �鶹Porn.

Sincerely,

Michael J. Herling ’79, P’08,’09,’12
Chair, Board of Trustees

Dear Members of the �鶹Porn Community,

I write to report to �鶹Porn faculty, staff, and students on the just-completed Board of Trustees meeting, which took place January 28, 2022, via Zoom.

President Casey began the series of meeting sessions by sharing some extraordinary campus highlights. First, as has been reported widely, �鶹Porn received over , representing 21% growth over last year's record number. In two years, applications to �鶹Porn have increased 146%. Importantly, this year's applicant pool is the most academically talented and most diverse group the admission office has ever seen.

Next, the trustees received reports on �鶹Porn's fundraising efforts over the past few months. The trustees were pleased to hear that year-end fundraising has produced record-breaking results for the University. Since July 1, 2021, the University has received $81 million in new gifts and commitments. At the meeting, the Board formally accepted $49 million in new gifts to �鶹Porn, all received since its October meeting.

Among the highlights of these new gifts were the following donations to �鶹Porn:

to support the renovation of Reid Athletic Center
- From James E. '65 and Margaret Sue Himoff P'95 for the Himoff Family Chair in Legacies
- From Becky B. '81 and Christopher T. '81 Hurley P'12,'12 for the Hurley Family Chair in Dialogue, Deliberation, and Decision Making
- From Nora Gleason Leary '82 and Robert G. Leary for an Endowed Chair in Environmental Studies
- From Andrew W. Sweet '93 and Alexis Sweet for the Sweet Family Professorship
to support the Initiative in Arts, Creativity, and Innovation.
$7,200,000 in new gifts to financial aid endowment in support of the �鶹Porn Commitment
Finally, a significant gift to support the restoration and improvements to Oak Drive

In the strategic session of the Board meetings, President Casey and members of the Cabinet reviewed the Third-Century Plan . The Board discussed the continued implementation and expansion of the �鶹Porn Commitment; the Olin Hall renovation to create the Robert H. N. Ho Mind, Brain, and Behavior Initiative; the construction of the Benton Center for Creativity and Innovation; planning for the renovation of the Reid Athletic Center; developing plans for a new performing and visual arts center in the Middle Campus; and new programming in entrepreneurship and innovation. President Casey also discussed with the Board ongoing initiatives relating to data collection and analysis and appropriate resourcing of our Division I athletic programs. Finally, Vice President for Equity and Inclusion Renee Madison shared how she is engaging members of the campus community to develop the next iteration of the DEI Plan with a focus on garnering even more faculty, staff, and student input.

The Board also had a dedicated DEI session. Renee Madison presented research on how institutions move from being monocultural to multicultural, inclusive organizations. Consultant partner Dr. Cathy Trower then presented the roadmap and expectations for the Board's own diversity and inclusion work. Finally, Dr. Marc Nivet, another consultant partner, provided background on the challenges of complexity in DEI issues and the means through which the Board might improve its own DEI efforts.

The formal Board meeting formed the last session of the day. The Board , extending their congratulations to newly promoted faculty colleagues. In addition to the acceptance of gifts to the University noted above, the Board also passed a resolution to approve moving forward with the planning and design of the Benton Center for Creativity and Innovation and the renovation of Wynn Hall Research Lab.

The trustees wished to express their gratitude to all members of the �鶹Porn community for their continued work to maintain the University's academic mission through this pandemic, and wanted to express their great appreciation for all the progress made, even in these challenging times, to meet the ambitions of the Third-Century Plan.

Sincerely,

Michael J. Herling '79, P'08,'09,'12

Dear Members of the �鶹Porn Community,

I write to report on the recent Board of Trustees meetings that took place Sept. 30 through Oct. 2, 2021. The last time the trustees met on the �鶹Porn campus was Oct. 5, 2019. After two years of Zoom meetings, we were all thankful to be able to meet in person. Like all guests on campus, we followed University event guidelines and all went quite smoothly.

The Board welcomed several new trustees: Steven N. Cho ’93, P’23, Udayan Das Roy ’04, Yvonne M. Gyimah ’01, Christian B. Johnson ’02, Carlton W. Walker ’10, and Susan L. Becker Gould ’03, who joins the Board as President of the Alumni Council. For Eric J. Andersen ’87, P’16,’23,’23, and Jean-Pierre L. Conte ’85, who joined the Board last year, this weekend’s meetings marked their first in-person meeting in Hamilton. Finally, we welcomed Daniel C. Benton ’80, H’10, P’10, and Christine J. Chao ’86 back to the Board.

The Board’s Friday morning strategic sessions were dedicated to hearing updates on and discussing the Third-Century Plan. President Casey presented an overview of the University’s progress on the following major initiatives:

Attracting and supporting outstanding students;
Attracting, supporting, and retaining outstanding faculty and staff;
Ensuring diversity, equity, and inclusion;
Starting key academic initiatives, specifically the Initiative in Arts, Creativity, and Innovation (the Middle Campus) and the Initiative in Mind, Brain, and Behavior (Olin Renovation and Ho Center);
Enriching the student experience I: Residential and Social Life;
Enriching the student experience II: �鶹Porn’s Division I Athletics Program;
Enhancing the Village of Hamilton.

Together, these initiatives will transform �鶹Porn over a long period of time. Senior Vice President for Finance and Administration and Chief Investment Officer JS Hope ’97 and Vice President for Advancement Karl Clauss ’90 provided the Board with an overview of the financial plan to fund these initiatives. They described the funding plan they reviewed with the Endowment Management and Finance Committee of the Board and one that positions �鶹Porn well to execute the Plan over the coming decade. This funding plan involves a combination of substantial fundraising, incremental debt, and operating reserves to provide the necessary resources.

The Board then heard about plans to keep the campus, alumni, and supporters apprised of the Third-Century Plan and the progress made under these initiatives. It is essential that the wider �鶹Porn community stay informed about all that we seek to do over the next several years.

Thirteen student leaders nominated by deans, vice presidents, faculty, and other staff members then joined the trustees for lunch discussions. Representing the Student Government Association and elected class officers, the Links staff, Student Athlete Advisory Council, Maroon-News editors, and SORT leaders (among others), the students shared with the trustees their �鶹Porn stories, current academic plans, and plans following graduation.

After lunch, the trustees participated in its first dedicated diversity, equity, and inclusion engagement program, which was led by DEI consultants Dr. Cathy Trower and Dr. Marc Nivet. In the summer of 2020, the Board moved forward on a number of DEI initiatives, including increasing the number of trustees in order to expand the diversity of the Board faster than normal turnover of trustees would allow, creating an Ad Hoc DEI Committee to help focus DEI issues across all the Board committees, and developing a DEI Board engagement program to strengthen the Board’s governance and oversight functions. Through this work, the Board will improve its culture and decision-making framework by becoming a more diverse and inclusive group that makes smarter and better decisions.

Following the DEI engagement program, Professor Lesleigh Cushing and Professor Lynn Schwarzer guided one group of trustees on a tour of the Middle Campus, while Vice President and Director of Athletics Nicki Moore and Vice President and Dean of the College Paul McLoughlin guided another group through the Reid and Lower Campus Project. Both tours provided the trustees with insights into the challenges and opportunities of our current capital planning in these parts of campus. With this background, the Board’s programmatic committees are better equipped to discuss and engage in the long-term planning process that includes not only capital projects but also programmatic needs.

Friday ended with a reception with the members of the Task Force on Reopening and the Task Force on Remote Learning. The trustees were pleased to meet many of the people who helped, and continue to assist, �鶹Porn’s efforts to navigate the challenges of the COVID-19 public health crisis.

At the formal Board meeting on Saturday morning, the Board took a series of formal actions, including the approval of faculty appointments and the approval of a revised Fiscal Year 2021–22 endowment spending rate.

Next, an additional $3 million was approved toward the planning and design costs for the renovation of Olin Hall. The total project development costs of $5 million, which the Board has now approved, are funded entirely from donor contributions.

In addition, the Board acknowledged donors who made gifts and commitments over $1,000,000, and these new gifts and commitments total $30,700,000 to the University:

$10,000,000 to replace Gatehouse and build the first residence hall of the Fifth Residential Commons;
$6,000,000 in revocable bequest intentions;
$5,500,000 for the renewal and restoration of Seven Oaks Golf Course and Clubhouse;
$5,200,000 in support of the �鶹Porn Commitment;
$2,500,000 to endow the director of First@�鶹Porn and First@�鶹Porn programming, DEI programming, and the �鶹Porn Fund;
$1,500,000 to endow the director of Career Services.

The Board also acknowledged the 43-year career of Thomas O’Neill, Associate Vice President and Controller, and thanked him for his exemplary service to �鶹Porn.

In the executive session, the Board discussed the tremendous efforts and leadership of President Casey and his cabinet during these challenging times. The Board passed a resolution of deepest gratitude and appreciation for the outstanding work of this team in guiding the University through the pandemic while continuing to drive the execution of the Third-Century Plan.

The trustees were excited by the progress made toward the Third-Century Plan and the work of the faculty and the administration to keep strengthening the University even as we continue to navigate the long-term effects of the global pandemic.

Sincerely,

Michael J. Herling ’79, P’08,’09,’12

Dear Members of the �鶹Porn Community,

I write to report on two meetings of the Board of Trustees: a special meeting dedicated to the University’s DEI efforts on March 24, 2021 and the final Board meeting of the academic year, which took place May 1–2, 2021, and both meetings were conducted remotely via Zoom.

The March 24 Special Board Meeting on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

The Board convened a special meeting to review the University’s , , as well as the work of the newly-formed Board ad hoc DEI Committee. Trustee Emeriti Daniel C. Benton ’80, H’10, P’10, Christine J. Chao ’86, and H. Leroy Cody Jr. ’71 also attended. The meeting was led by ad hoc DEI Committee Chair Giovanni Cutaia ’94 and Vice Chair Clarissa V. Shah ’10. President Casey provided the Board with the framing context of the development of the DEI Plan, which was based on an external evaluation of the campus climate and the work of a campus-based task force of more than 70 faculty and staff.

The administration provided a summary of the current structures in place on campus to address DEI concerns and plans, specifically the DEI Advisory Group and the DEI Coordination Group. The trustees received an update on the search for a Chief Diversity Officer “CDO” and the work of the Acting Chief Diversity Officer, Laura Jack.

The bulk of the meeting focused on the Board’s ongoing work to address DEI matters impacting the Board and its work. The Board discussed future Board DEI initiatives, including the electing of trustees with more diverse backgrounds, developing an ongoing engagement process for the Board to address DEI matters with a focus on building a Board culture and processes that address continuous improvement in this area. This summer, the Board will begin to work with a consultant to facilitate engagement on DEI matters. The Board also discussed the expansion of the size of the Board for a period of time to allow for an increase in Board diversity.

These actions were discussed further at the May Board meeting and are described below.

The May 1–2 Board Meeting

Trustee Emeriti Daniel C. Benton ’80, H’10, P’10 and Christine J. Chao ’86 were in attendance at the May meetings. The administration provided updates on the admissions of the �鶹Porn Class of 2025, preparations for the fall 2021 semester, and the FY21 budget. The Acting CDO Laura Jack briefed the Board on the status of the CDO search as well as some DEI updates from campus, including �鶹Porn’s membership in , the Graduate School Access Fund, which was generously supported by trustee Giovanni Cutaia ’94, and his wife, Maree, and the Alumni Council’s creation of a new DEI position on its executive committee.

The trustees received an update from President Casey on the initiatives that are part of the University’s Third-Century Plan. The trustees were enthusiastic about the level of planning that has continued on the campus and have asked the administration to finalize plans for, 1) the Olin Hall addition and renovation as part of the Robert H. N. Ho Mind, Brain, and Behavior Initiative and; 2) the Benton Center for Creativity and Innovation as part of the Initiative in Arts, Creativity, and Innovation. The trustees also called on the administration to continue developing plans for the renovation of the Dana Arts Center as part of the development of the Middle Campus.

Further, the trustees were excited about the continuing development of plans to significantly enhance student residential life both up the hill and along Broad Street, as the University seeks to continue the full development of the Residential Commons system. The Board reviewed preliminary plans for the enhancement of housing for juniors and seniors along Broad Street and College Street that involve a true transformation of the entire upper class residential, dining and social experience. The Board approved significant funding for the continuing efforts to complete plans for this project, which the Board hopes to embark on as funds and other resources become available. With these residential life initiatives, the Board remains committed to ensuring that �鶹Porn’s residential life system provides a greater sense of inclusion and belonging for all �鶹Porn students.

Finally, and as a significant part of the entire transformative vision for �鶹Porn under The Third-Century Plan, the Board endorsed and enthusiastically backed, a new and significant financial aid initiative that will be announced to the entire �鶹Porn community on June 1, 2021.

In short, the Board was pleased to see such ambitious planning for �鶹Porn’s future while the University was navigating its pandemic response. The trustees look forward to working with campus groups as we continue to pursue the transformative vision for �鶹Porn detailed in The Third-Century Plan.

Board Actions

The Board approved a number of recommendations regarding faculty, most notably the appointment of two new endowed chairs. Timothy Byrnes, Charles A. Dana Professor of Political Science, will become the Third-Century Chair in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics and DeWitt Godfrey, Professor of Art and Art History, will become the Peter L. and Maria T. Kellner Endowed Chair in the Arts, Creativity, and Innovation. The creation of new endowed chairs is an important Third-Century Plan initiative.

The University continued its capital planning despite the challenges of dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic. The Board approved three capital projects that are priorities of The Third-Century Plan. First, $2 million was allocated toward residential life planning. Second, $1.5 million was approved toward renovating the Chenango Nursery School. Finally, the Board approved the beginning of the renovation of the Seven Oaks Clubhouse and Golf Course. This $9.5 million project is entirely donor-funded. The Board also approved the FY22 budget.

Board actions also included the election of officers. I will be serving as Board Chair for a term of three years. Gretchen H. Burke ’81, P’11,’20, Gus P. Coldebella ’91, and Jeanne A. Follansbee ’78, P’08 will serve as vice chairs for a term of one-year. The Board also recognized the service of four retiring trustees: Celia A. Colbert P’14, Thomas W. Dempsey Jr. ’72, Sonya A. Falcone ’12, and John A. Hayes ’88, P’19.

Finally, as part of the University’s DEI efforts, the Board voted formally to expand the number of trustees in order to diversify its membership faster than the normal turnover would allow. The New York State Board of Regents approved �鶹Porn’s request to expand the Board from 35 to 38 members in March. The Nominating, Governance, and Trustee Development Committee worked throughout the year to identify new trustees to start their terms in fall 2021 and fall 2022. I am pleased to report that Daniel C. Benton ’80, H’10, P’10 and Christine J. Chao ’86 will be returning to the Board in fall 2021. Joining them will be Steven N. Cho ’93, P’23, Udayan Das Roy ’04, Yvonne M. Gyimah ’01, Christian B. Johnson ’02, and Carlton W. Walker ’10. In addition, the Board elected Garfield O. A. Smith ’85 and Clarissa V. Shah ’10 to be the cohort of new trustees starting in fall 2022.

Acknowledgement of Gifts

In an ongoing effort to recognize the arrival of contributions of $1 million or more in support of The Third-Century Plan, I am pleased to announce the following gifts.

First, �鶹Porn computer science emeriti faculty members Thomas and Elizabeth Brackett, who received honorary degrees from �鶹Porn in 2015, generously contributed $1 million to endow a fund that will provide permanent support to �鶹Porn’s Computer Science Department, with a focus on advancing DEI initiatives. This gift represents the largest single contribution by a �鶹Porn faculty member.

Second, former Board Chair Denis F. Cronin ’69, H’16, P’09,’10, and his wife, Linda, made a generous year-end contribution of $1.5 million, which is yet to be designated.

Finally, I want to recognize a generous $1 million contribution prior to the close of the calendar year from trustee Brion B. Applegate ’76, representing an additional investment in a special scholarship endowment honoring the memory of his mother, Ruth C. Applegate, in support of student athletes.

Lastly, the Board recognizes what an incredible year it has been for the entire �鶹Porn community. We are grateful to end the year with a celebration of the Class of 2021. As we honor and recognize the Class of 2021, we look forward to the moment when the entire �鶹Porn community can gather again on our beautiful campus.

Regards,

Michael J. Herling ’79, P’08, ’09, ’12

Dear Members of the �鶹Porn Community,

I write to report on the Board of Trustees meeting, which took place January 29–30, 2021, via Zoom. Two emeriti trustees, Christine J. Chao ’86 and Daniel C. Benton ’80, P’10, H’10, were also in attendance.

President Casey began the series of meetings by sharing two extraordinary campus highlights. First,  grew by more than 102% compared to last year. This year’s applicant pool is the most academically talented and most diverse group the Admission Office has ever seen. Second, the �鶹Porn Together Challenge closed out the 2020 calendar year and provided record-breaking results for the �鶹Porn Fund.

President Casey then walked the Board through the long-term frame of The Third-Century Plan. We heard updates on 1) the development of The Initiative in the Arts, Creativity, and Innovation; 2) progress on The Robert H.N. Ho Mind, Brain, Behavior Initiative; 3) plans for completion of the residential life system “up the hill” for first- and second-year students and initial plans for a comprehensive residential life system “down the hill” for juniors and seniors; and 4) progress in establishing priorities for renovation of athletics facilities. All of this planning (and other work on priorities and initiatives in The Third-Century Plan) is going on in parallel with planning on an impending comprehensive campaign, and the Board learned about the continuing research being done by Grenzebach Glier and Associates, Inc. toward a feasibility study, which will form a multiyear campaign. Campaign co-chairs Gretchen H. Burke ’81, P’11,’20 and Christine Chao reported on their efforts engaging donors, who have been participating in Zoom meetings about The Third-Century Plan and more focused Zoom meetings dedicated to specific initiatives. Overall, the Board is confident in �鶹Porn’s ability and readiness to launch the campaign in the coming year.

A highlight of the strategic session was the  of Dan Benton’s transformational $25 million gift to support The Initiative for the Arts, Creativity, and Innovation. His gift will enable the University to construct The Benton Center for Creativity and Innovation, which will be a hub for interdepartmental collaboration and experimentation. As the first capital gift toward The Initiative for the Arts, Creativity, and Innovation, Dan Benton’s generosity begins the plan to energize the area of campus from the Dana Arts Center to the Case Library and Geyer Center for Information Technology, collectively known as Middle Campus.

The Board continued discussion of and progress toward goals of The Third-Century Plan during the formal Board meeting. The Board passed a resolution to approve moving forward with the design of the Olin Hall renovations by Robert A. M. Stern Architects, LLP. It also accepted the creation of  from Peter L. Kellner ’65 and his family. The chairs — the Third-Century Chair in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics and the Peter L. and Maria T. Kellner Chair in Arts, Creativity, and Innovation — move �鶹Porn closer to the goal of 25 new endowed chairs as part of The Third-Century Plan.

A final Board action set the endowment spending rule for the coming fiscal year. The �鶹Porn endowment has surpassed $1.1 billion, and in recent years, �鶹Porn has been conservative in its draw from the endowment in order to align with its draw policy rules. Recent endowment performance and these conservative practices now allow �鶹Porn to increase the spending rule, providing additional funds to the operating budget to support Third-Century Plan initiatives.

Finally, the Board wants to acknowledge and thank the faculty and staff who have worked so hard to reopen campus successfully. Despite the challenges of the current academic year, the Board is impressed and enthused by the efforts being made toward planning for �鶹Porn’s third century.

Regards,

Michael J. Herling ’79, P’08,’09,’12

Dear Members of the �鶹Porn Community,

I write to report on the Board of Trustees meeting, which took place Saturday, September 26, via Zoom, with two new Board members: Eric J. Andersen ’87, P’16,’23,’23 and Jean-Pierre L. Conte ’85. Also in attendance were two emeriti trustees: Christine J. Chao ’86 and Daniel C. Benton ’80, H’10, P’10. In the strategic sessions, the Board focused on four key topics: an update on �鶹Porn’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, planning to move forward with the initial Third-Century Plan initiatives over the next several years, fundraising and campaign planning, and recent college and university rankings.

The Board heard reports regarding operations on campus in the COVID-19 environment. Vice President and Dean of the College Paul McLoughlin shared information and insights regarding the University’s testing regimes, the data analysis provided by the Health Analytics Team, challenges faced by the Dean of the College division during this extraordinary time, and the challenges faced by our students and their resiliency through these difficult times. Provost and Dean of the Faculty Tracey Hucks provided information about current semester instruction, new and modified teaching spaces, and the creativity of faculty in shifting all courses offered this semester to hybrid teaching modalities. Finally, Senior Vice President Joseph Hope outlined the state of the current operating budget given the extraordinary expenditures required to execute on our plan to keep �鶹Porn open this year. Since the University has exhausted half of the COVID-19 contingency that was built into our budget, we will need to remain fiscally conservative in ongoing expenditures due to the uncertainty in the coming months.

While campus has been rightfully focused on current operations during these challenging times, the Board considered and endorsed continuing with planning for future capital projects associated with The Third-Century Plan. �鶹Porn started calendar year 2020 with great optimism and momentum regarding the renovating of Olin Hall for the Robert H.N. Ho Mind, Brain, and Behavior Initiative, continued planning on the first few building projects associated with the Middle Campus, reimagining residences and social spaces along Broad Street, and considering enhancements to athletic facilities. Much work and effort have been invested in planning for these projects, and the Board endorsed ongoing planning efforts with respect to all of these projects so that the University is ready to move forward when fiscal resources become available.

The Board was pleased to welcome Karl Clauss ’90 as the new Vice President for the Office of Advancement and Trustee Emerita Christine Chao as the new co-chair of the Campaign Leadership Committee. Co-Chairs Gretchen H. Burke ’81, P’11,’20 and Christine Chao reported on the anticipated resumption of small-group briefings with key alumni and parent leaders regarding campaign priorities and donor analysis. The result of this work will be a formal campaign feasibility study, which will provide the University with the information needed to launch the multi-year campaign. The Campaign Leadership Committee will resume its work in earnest in October.

Finally, the Board reviewed �鶹Porn’s position in the recent U.S. News and World Report (USNWR) and Wall Street Journal/Times Higher Education (WSJ/THE) rankings. A preliminary analysis of USNWR rankings (�鶹Porn #20) revealed several areas of possible focus for improvement, including two key factors that �鶹Porn should examine further as it seeks to increase its reach and reputation: 1) the University’s overall financial resources and expenditures per student, and 2) “social mobility,” defined by the publication as the ability of an institution to see all students move toward degree completion. �鶹Porn fared quite well in the WSJ/THE ranking: coming in 50th overall (in a combined university and college ranking) and 12th among private liberal arts colleges. The administration will delve more deeply into the USNWR factors and conduct continued analysis of the WSJ/THE rankings.

During the formal Board meeting, the trustees approved a resolution to award emeritus status posthumously to Professor Bruce W. Selleck ’71 in recognition of his many years of dedicated and unwavering service to �鶹Porn. The Board also approved a resolution to renovate Chenango Nursery School. The chairs of the Board’s four programmatic committees (Academic Mission and Programs, Campus Life and Programs, University Outreach, and University Resources) provided brief reports of their upcoming work in the coming year. The Board also heard an update from the new Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee.

Four community groups addressed the Board during the annual community time. Director of Sustainability John Pumilio and Sustainability Intern Jaanvi Sachdeva ’21 discussed the strong history of sustainability at �鶹Porn and current programs. Helen Ferguson ’21 and Sofia Perez-Dietz ’21 shared the work and goals of the Medusa Movement. Jailekha Zutshi ’21 described various aspects of the international student experience, and she joined Jake Gomez ’21 in a discussion on the Konosioni Senior Honor Society’s name. The Board thanks these community members for their excellent presentations.

Finally, �鶹Porn has been able to reopen this fall only because of the dedication of our faculty and staff. The long days of hard work that the campus community has put in since March set the foundation for the resumed �鶹Porn experience this fall, and the careful management of expenditures has provided the financial safety net that allowed the University to implement new public health measures, adjust teaching, and support students through a series of challenging transitions.

The University still has a long way to go if we are to complete a successful academic year in the midst of a pandemic, but at this moment, the Board of Trustees and I wish to express our profound admiration and gratitude for what �鶹Porn's faculty and staff have accomplished. Accordingly, the Board passed .

We thank you for your work, your financial prudence, your commitment to our mission, and for everything you will do to help the University move forward in the months ahead.

Regards,

Michael J. Herling ’79, P’08,’09,’12

Dear Members of the �鶹Porn Community,

On Thursday, June 18, 2020, the �鶹Porn Board of Trustees convened for a special meeting to address two important topics: the University’s ongoing response to the COVID-19 pandemic and our plans for reopening to in-person education this fall, and �鶹Porn’s plans regarding race and equity and the actions needed to fight ignorance and hatred to become a more equitable and inclusive campus community.

Reopening the �鶹Porn Campus

The Board reviewed and discussed recommendations from the Presidential Task Force on the Reopening of the �鶹Porn Campus. As mentioned in President Casey’s statement to the �鶹Porn community, distributed yesterday, the Task Force made comprehensive, science-based recommendations to promote reopening of campus to full in-person operations for the fall semester, consistent with CDC and New York State guidance. The Board offered its thoughts on the recommendations to President Casey and considered the actions and investments necessary to address those recommendations and to meet the requirements of campus operations for the 2020–21 academic year. The Board wholeheartedly endorsed the Task Force’s recommendations and committed to provide the resources necessary to enable the administration to achieve the milestones set forth in the report. The Board was extremely grateful for the hard work undertaken by the Task Force.

But it was not just the Task Force that put in extra time over the past few months. The Board truly appreciates all the hard work of the faculty and staff throughout this past academic year and as we enter this summer. Your efforts have been thoughtful, comprehensive, and sensitive to the needs of the entire �鶹Porn community. We also applaud the resilience and determination of our students, who made an otherwise difficult semester successful and rewarding. Every member of this community has had to adjust — often at a moment’s notice — to rapidly changing circumstances and to changed financial conditions.

The Board also heard a report on the University’s continuing financial circumstances and applauded all efforts that allowed the University to balance the 2019–20 operating budget. These actions, combined with the University’s adherence to sound financial practices, has placed �鶹Porn on a solid foundation as we continue to pursue our mission during these extraordinary times.

Addressing Racial Inequity

The Board spent more than half of this special meeting reviewing and considering the University’s ongoing plans to address racial inequity at �鶹Porn and to support all members of our community. This was an important, constructive, and sometimes difficult discussion about an area in which �鶹Porn must do better to fulfill our mission at the highest level and live by the values that we hold dear.

The Board praised and endorsed President Casey’s May 31 statement and strongly affirmed the sentiments he expressed in his , especially the creation of The �鶹Porn History Project to address the justifiable calls to action from students and alumni. That effort is especially admirable because it applies a liberal arts approach to understanding �鶹Porn’s own record on race: while we cannot change the past, by better understanding it we can improve the campus climate for students, faculty, and staff, both now and in the future.

The Board also reaffirmed its commitment to the University’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Plan. This DEI Plan was the product of more than two years of work, involving dozens of faculty and staff members and was created after multiple campus and Board discussions. Soon after the announcement of this plan, the Board created an ad hoc Board Committee on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion to engage the Board in the work of the DEI Plan and to help support change on our campus.

The Board firmly believes that steps outlined in the plan will help allow �鶹Porn to become a more inclusive and equitable institution. The DEI Plan shows what can be accomplished when the University adheres to its core values and practices: creating a shared vision through rigorous debate and careful deliberation. We are at our best when we bring a diverse set of opinions, skills, and talents to bear on the creation of a path forward. This work has and must continue to involve all of us — faculty, staff, alumni, students, and trustees — and must not rest on the shoulders of �鶹Porn’s community of color. That work is more important now than ever before.

The Board urged the administration to integrate the DEI Plan more fully into �鶹Porn’s Third-Century Plan. The Board further made clear its commitment to provide the resources necessary to achieve the DEI Plan’s objectives, including supporting the search for a Chief Diversity Officer, identifying physical space on campus for DEI offices, and addressing — within the context of a comprehensive planning effort — access and availability of student residential and social spaces on Broad Street, especially for students of color. While a comprehensive plan for Broad Street is still in development, clearly some interventions will be needed. The Board directed the administration to move forward with this planning and begin to provide tangible short- and long-term recommendations to address these issues.

The past weeks have revealed the work that each of us, as individuals, needs to do to understand our own biases and to recognize how racism negatively impacts our community and harms its members. Toward that end, the trustees will engage in diversity and unconscious bias training throughout the coming year and in the future and will focus on improving the diversity of Board membership.

Because freedom of expression and academic freedom are intimately connected to diversity and inclusion, the Board also discussed and reinforced its commitment to the principles set out in the report issued by �鶹Porn’s Task Force on Academic Freedom and Freedom of Expression, a very thoughtful and diverse group of faculty, students, trustees, and administrators, in 2018. In particular, the Board reaffirmed �鶹Porn’s commitment to freedom of expression and the Task Force report urging that “free expression is more powerful when we, as members of [the �鶹Porn] community, consider the perspectives of the people with whom we are communicating and when we approach discussion and debate with a spirit of humility, generosity, and care.”

Since our meeting, we have learned of racially insensitive videos that have been posted on social media by members of the �鶹Porn community and, in one case, by a student who had been admitted to �鶹Porn for this coming fall. These situations have been or will be dealt with through the processes and based on the principles that �鶹Porn has established for such incidents.

On a personal level, I find these social media posts to be deplorable and not consistent with the values of the �鶹Porn community, and I applaud the actions the University took immediately after these videos came to be known. As with all these cases, it is important to note we must proceed here thoughtfully and with due deliberation. The Task Force on Academic Freedom and Freedom of Expression urged us all to commit ourselves both to �鶹Porn’s community values and to the principles of freedom of expression and academic freedom, recognizing that our commitment to freedom of expression and inquiry will occasionally come into conflict with certain of our shared values. The Task Force noted that “[f]reedom of expression should not be stifled in service of other values; however, while this freedom must be defended, the Task Force urges all of us to cultivate by example the values of the �鶹Porn community.” We all should be mindful that freedom of expression exercised without considering our community values can cause harm to our community. I hope all members of our �鶹Porn community will reflect on this and will take it to heart.

The past three months have been challenging in a variety of ways. The coming months will continue to test our strength, abilities, and resilience. I have confidence in our community’s ability to face the coming months with the same grace and care that it has so recently demonstrated. Thank you for your part in helping �鶹Porn through these challenging times. I remain optimistic that, through our work together, we can emerge an even stronger University, one dedicated to its highest principles and its mission of teaching, learning, and inclusivity.

Sincerely,
Mike Herling

Dear Members of the �鶹Porn Community,

On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I write to provide you with a summary of the May 2, 2020, Board meeting. Our meeting was held in an online format at an extraordinary time for �鶹Porn and the world. Before reporting on board actions, I want to acknowledge the remarkable effort by our faculty and staff during the past several weeks. Faculty retooled hundreds of courses for remote instruction. Since January, the 55 members of �鶹Porn’s Emergency Operations Center helped steer the University’s COVID-19 response in operations and logistics. Many of you worked from home while homeschooling your children. The campus community cared for the approximately 250 students who stayed on campus. And faculty and administrators are now planning a robust academic year for 2020–21. The Board thanks the entire �鶹Porn community for taking such great care of our students and our community and being so thoughtful about our future.

The Board began the year with momentum and excitement to continue the work set forth in The Third-Century Plan. While the COVID-19 pandemic has no doubt affected the pace at which we will achieve our ambitious goals, the Plan continues to guide our future. In fact, the Plan and the guiding principles underlying it have formed the basis for the Board to establish priorities for �鶹Porn at this uncertain time. Below, I report that, despite the current crisis, we continue to move forward with key elements of the plan.

Unlike past Board meetings that included committee meetings, we spent our entire time meeting as a full board. The May 2 meeting focused on the University’s ongoing response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the plan forward to the 2020–2021 academic and fiscal year. After a summary of the response since March 13, when students left campus, the Board reviewed the fiscal implications of the emergency on the current year’s operating budget. Conservative operational practices established more than a decade ago ensured that �鶹Porn’s cash management could withstand the sudden shock to the final months of the fiscal year. This means that the institution continues to meet all of its obligations with substantial cushion; it also had enough liquidity to provide a 50% refund on room and board charges to our students.

The refunds of room and board and additional technology costs to move hundreds of courses online created a potential deficit of approximately $8–$10 million for the current academic year. Thankfully, on-campus efforts at cost savings and the structural surplus that we had built into the budget will allow the closing of this operating budget gap without drastic action. The Board thanks all faculty and staff for their efforts to help ensure that FY2020–21 operating budget will not be burdened with a deficit.

The Board also received updates on the University’s endowment. I am happy to report that �鶹Porn’s endowment has withstood well the financial shock of the past few months with manageable declines. The endowment reached an all-time high of $959 million at the end of January. In February, when equity markets started to see significant declines, the endowment performed very well with a decline of only 2% compared to the S&P, which lost more than 8%. In March, the endowment declined about 6% as compared to the S&P with a decline of more than 12%. For the first quarter, the endowment declined to a value of $872 million, which was an investment decline of 8%. The S&P declined by 19% in the first quarter. From peak to the trough, which occurred mid-March, the S&P lost more than 33% compared to University endowment losses of approximately 10%. The Board is very pleased with the management and performance of our endowment, which continues to produce very strong risk-adjusted outcomes.
The Board then considered plans for FY2020–21 — specifically, the return to classroom teaching and the budget implications for various scenarios. Dean of the Faculty Tracey Hucks and Associate Dean Lesleigh Cushing informed the Board about the developing academic plan, and the Board appreciated the thoughtfulness in creating a plan that mitigated against many risks and conditions that are currently not known. The Board acknowledged that the current plan calls for instruction to commence in late August but accounts for multiple potentialities, including a return to normal instruction in August, or, if circumstances do not fully permit that, partial remote instruction in the fall or to a return to normal classroom instruction in the spring. The plan’s commitment to ensuring the continuation of a full �鶹Porn educational experience from off-campus study programs, student research, and FSEMs are principles as is the commitment to ensuring students could progress toward degree completion. Our clear desire, in service of our mission and our strengths, is to return to normal in-person operations as swiftly as circumstances and safety permit, and �鶹Porn is working diligently to achieve this. The Board thanks the faculty for their thoughtful deliberations and planning work.

The academic plan feeds directly into the FY2020–21 operating budget. Senior Vice President JS Hope then presented potential budget scenarios, given this plan and other factors, which are still very uncertain. The Board is, however, aware that many variables in the current budget likely will change in the coming weeks and months. We are planning a special meeting of the Board in July, when more factors are certain. The Board commends the administration for its continual modeling, thus preparing for multiple eventualities and thoughtful, well-informed decision making.

The Board reviewed a new model for capital planning, which focused on high-priority projects not requiring significant or new resources (Hamilton Housing, Collection Annex, Frank Dining Hall, and Chenango Nursery School) and projects that will require meaningful investment over the near-term and that align with the goals of The Third-Century Plan (Olin Hall renovation, Gatehouse replacement, Dana renovation, and Broad Street planning). Other projects, such as new buildings in the Middle Campus and the development of West Campus, will resume when resources are available. Again, the Plan provided guidance in making these shifts to the capital planning.

Among its formal actions, the Board was pleased to establish four new endowed faculty chairs:

Daniel C. Benton ’80 Endowed Chair in Arts, Creativity, and Innovation
Rebecca C. Chopp Chair in the Humanities
Carl Benton Straub ’58 Endowed Chair in Culture and Environment
W. Bradford Wiley Chair in International Economics Endowed Fund II

The creation of these endowed positions demonstrates that, despite the current crisis, work of The Third-Century Plan continues.

The Board will welcome two new members, JP Conte ’85 and Eric Andersen ’87, P '16, '23, '23 in the fall, and approved the addition of Gretchen Burke ’81, P’11,’20 as a board vice chair, with responsibility for oversight of the campaign. The Board meeting acknowledged three retiring trustees: Dan Benton ’80, P’10, H’10; Christine Chao ’86; and Leroy Cody ’71. Between them, they represent 36 years of dedicated and exemplary service to �鶹Porn. While we will miss them on the Board, we look forward to their continued engagement and leadership on the Emeriti Council.

Finally, and with great pleasure, the Board is pleased to announce that President Brian W. Casey’s contract has been extended for five years by a unanimous and enthusiastic vote of the Board. At this critical moment in history, it is important to have his steady and caring leadership continue. Brian’s love for this University and his dynamic leadership have served �鶹Porn well, and they will serve us well for many years to come.

As mentioned numerous times above, the Board is immensely grateful to the administration, faculty, and staff, who have worked tirelessly to help �鶹Porn not only weather the current crisis but also prepare for an uncertain future. This is not the first time �鶹Porn has been tested; it survived world wars, the Depression, and numerous economic crises. At each of these inflection points, �鶹Porn emerged stronger, though changed. The coming months and year will challenge us in ways unknown, and I have faith in the �鶹Porn community to see us through the uncertainty.

Take care, stay safe, and be well.

Mike Herling, ’79, P’08,’09,’12

Dear Members of the �鶹Porn Community,

On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I write to provide a summary of the
January 24–25, 2020, Board meeting, which took place in New York City. The momentum and energy of the October meeting extended to the January meeting, as the agenda reflected progress made since hiring a campus planner to assist with the complexity and the integration of emerging capital projects with programmatic goals. The meeting began with presentations from Professor Douglas Johnson, associate dean of the faculty; Professor Lesleigh Cushing, Murray W. and Mildred K. Finard Professor in Jewish studies and associate dean of the faculty; and Vice President and Athletic Director Nicki Moore.

Professor Johnson provided an overview of the Robert H.N. Ho Mind, Brain, and Behavior Initiative (MBB), explaining some of the programmatic features, including: the intellectual foundations for MBB, cross-departmental research opportunities, and student-faculty research. The initiative builds on �鶹Porn’s existing strengths, especially in student and faculty research and the securing of outside grants. MBB will improve �鶹Porn’s ability to attract and retain the best faculty, expand opportunities for students to conduct research with faculty, and enhance research in numerous departments.

Professor Cushing provided the Board a comprehensive understanding of the Arts, Creativity, and Innovation Initiative, a comprehensive intellectual program that will connect a number of growing academic units — most notably computer science and film and media studies — to the arts. The work of the Middle Campus Working Group and Users Group identified four intellectual blocks that will occupy Middle Campus. First, a Center for Arts, Creativity, and Technology builds on existing strengths in digital creativity. Second, a renovated Dana Center for Curricular and Co-Curricular Innovation and Design combines various design modes, co-locates entrepreneurial activities including TIA, and provides makerspaces for faculty and students. Third, University Collections and Materials Labs will integrate object-based learning across the disciplines. Finally, a Center for Music and Culture will explore music, performance, and cultural artifacts.

Vice President Moore outlined the capital planning priorities for Physical Education, Recreation, and Athletics. The objective of the capital planning efforts is to develop a plan to transform what we are now calling West Campus into a space that supports championship-level Division I Athletics, recreational sports, and the overall �鶹Porn student experience. The first priorities, to be completed in two to five years, include a New Athletic Center at the site of Starr Rink and improved grounds and circulation in West Campus. The New Athletic Center will house a competition arena for multiple sports, a health and performance center, multiple gathering spaces, all while creating an improved southern entrance to West Campus and �鶹Porn. In five to ten years, the second priorities are proposed upgrades to Andy Kerr Stadium and other facility improvements.

With a clearer understanding of the programmatic elements connected with each of these initiatives, RAMSA/WXY, the planners hired soon after the October board meeting, and Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates (MVVA), the landscape design firm looking at the campus experience, presented initial ideas on the physical manifestation of these three programs and the connections among them.

The Board enthusiastically approved the direction of planning presented by the administration and the vision for the campus presented by RAMSA/WXY and MVVA. The Board also reviewed a five-year capital financing plan that showed the funding and expected timing for capital projects in the coming years. (In the coming months leading into its May meeting, the Board will work with the administration to continue refining project plans with the expectation of announcing first steps for all these initiatives in May.) The Board also endorsed the emerging plans for the creation of additional housing and other investments in the village and looks forward to the further development of these proposals.

At the formal Board meeting on Saturday morning, the Board approved faculty appointments and the fiscal year 2020–2021 endowment spending guidelines. The Board also acknowledged receipt of more than $6,000,000 in gifts since the October 2019 meeting.

The Board is grateful to the administration, faculty, and staff who are working hard to implement the first initiatives of The Third-Century Plan. There has been tremendous momentum from last year through the fall and January meetings, and we look forward to even more progress by the May meeting.

Best Regards,

Michael J. Herling ’79
Board Chair

Dear Members of the �鶹Porn Community,

On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I write to provide highlights of the October 4–5, 2019 Board meeting, which took place in Hamilton. The meeting was the first of the new Board Leadership team, which includes Gus P. Coldebella ’91 and Jeanne A. Follansbee ’78, P’08 as new vice-chairs. With the newly approved and endorsed Third-Century Plan, the Board is energized to work with campus bodies to implement the initiatives outlined in the Plan and monitor our progress.

To help with the complexity and integration of our emerging physical campus planning requirements, we will hire a campus planner to assist with capital planning for the Arts, Creativity, and Innovation initiatives (the Middle Campus), the Broad Street Neighborhood, Athletics, and overall parking and circulation across campus. Accordingly, members of the Board, President Casey, Provost Hucks, Dean McLoughlin, and Professor Padma Kaimal, as chair of the University Property Committee, reviewed proposals from and met with planning firms during the weekend. The Board intends to select a planning firm by mid-October, and expects this firm to help �鶹Porn with the identification of the first buildings in the Middle Campus, a review of the current Olin renovation plans, and conceptual designs for long-term Broad Street and athletics facilities enhancements.

The Board reviewed long-term financial models that provided a comprehensive view of how the initiatives of the Third-Century Plan will be funded, and they considered details of how new programmatic costs may affect future operating budgets. While these models are still being refined, they are critical to future planning and will help guide the work of the campus, the campus-based Advisory and Planning Committee, and the work of the Board itself. It is deeply important that resources are carefully allocated in service of the Plan’s priorities so that �鶹Porn achieves meaningful enhancements in the key areas of our University enterprise.

During the Board meeting, Trustee Gretchen Burke gave a presentation about the current status of our fundraising efforts, our initial priorities for fundraising, and next steps in this multi-year campaign. Fundraising and the campaign will be critical to achieving the goals of the Plan, and I am grateful to Gretchen for her leadership of the Campaign Leadership Committee.

Two community members addressed the Board. Anne Getz Eidelhoch ’20 proposed a scholarship to further the connection between �鶹Porn and its surrounding community, especially the Indigenous people of upstate New York. Professor Ferdinand von Muench asked the trustees to keep fundamental issues of social justice and the well-being of body, mind, and environment in their minds and hearts as the Board works on shaping �鶹Porn’s future in its next century. I would like to thank these community members for their presentations.

Formally, during the Board’s meeting on Saturday, the trustees approved faculty appointments, and gratefully acknowledged the gift of property that allows the University to begin work on the Hamilton Housing Plan as part of Section IV of the Third-Century Plan.

Board members enjoyed interacting with numerous members of the �鶹Porn community throughout their time on campus. They had lunch with 10 members of the Student Government Association, which submitted its own report to the Board. With members of the Admission Office and others, the Board gathered to celebrate Robert ’72 and Debra Jones who generously established the Jones and Wood Family Vice President for Admission and Financial Aid, a position held by Gary L. Ross ’77. Many Board members attended the Hall of Honor reception, which preceded the induction of 10 men and women into the Hall. The Hall of Honor 2019 Class included former Chair of �鶹Porn’s Board of Trustees Daniel B. Hurwitz ’86. Finally, the Board enjoyed dinner with 13 current and former faculty members of the Advisory and Planning Committee.

The Board also welcomed eight new trustees: Patricia Apelian Aitken ’76, Brion B. Applegate ’76, Melissa J. Coley ’79, Giovanni Cutaia ’94, Kimberly Huffard ’87, Amy Vullo MacMillan ’83, Clarissa V. Shah ’10, and Jeffrey W. Sharp ’89. As the new president of the Alumni Council, Christian B. Johnson ’02 also joined the Board.

We are all very excited to implement the initiatives of the Third-Century Plan, and the weekend demonstrated the Board’s desire to work with campus colleagues to move toward their swift implementation. With President Casey’s leadership and his team’s level of commitment, we are confident that we can make progress along these lines very quickly. I wish to close, theretofore, by thanking you for all your efforts as we work to make �鶹Porn the best it can be.

Best Regards,
Michael J. Herling ’79

Dear Members of the �鶹Porn Community,

The recently concluded meeting of the �鶹Porn Board of Trustees marks the end of my tenure as both chair and trustee of this fabulous institution. As such, this will be my final notice to the �鶹Porn community. While there are many people I would like to thank for enabling me to enjoy the thrill of a lifetime during more than a decade of service, I would like to take a brief moment to recognize those a bit less obvious; but, who impactfully made my experience truly special.

Thank you to the members of the buildings and grounds team for putting a smile on my face every time I walk our spectacular campus or enter one of our iconic buildings. Your effort helps distinguish �鶹Porn from others and creates the perfect environment to work and learn.

Thank you to all those hard-working individuals who prepare our wonderful meals, stay late, and start early during board weekends to ensure that all runs smoothly. Your work is greatly appreciated and the pride with which you consistently execute is always evident.

Thank you to every ticket taker, usher, and concession stand operator who has so pleasantly welcomed me to sporting events, artistic performances, and numerous lectures. Your embracing, warm smiles reinforce the notion that �鶹Porn is always a warm, welcoming place regardless of the outside temperature.

Thank you to all the personal assistants and clerical staff who work for administrators, faculty, and coaches. It is obvious to all that this University could not operate without your tireless efforts, and I am very grateful to each of you.

I would like to thank the residents of Hamilton who, with outstretched arms, have welcomed me to their village every time I have arrived since my first day in August 1982. Hamilton is truly a majestic town, open to all, and special in more ways than words can describe.

I would like to thank the students of �鶹Porn. It is your spirit, passion, intellect, and enthusiasm that make the long days and nights worthwhile and difficult tasks seem easy. Your appreciation of this institution is clear and your expectations inspiring. Thank you.

As �鶹Porn heads into our third century, we advance knowing the entire Board of Trustees, under the leadership of Chair Mike Herling and vice chairs Jeanne Follansbee and Gus Coldebella, has never been stronger. President Casey and his administration are focused and empowered to deliver boldly on the Third-Century Plan. Our faculty is distinguished and world-renowned alumni extremely dedicated, athletic department first class, and student body a source of motivation and pride. I thank you all for the honor to serve �鶹Porn.

Finally, I am especially excited to witness the future greatness that I am confident you all will bring to this institution in the days ahead. Godspeed!!

All My Best, Always,
Daniel B. Hurwitz ’86

Dear Members of the �鶹Porn Community,

On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I offer this report of the January 24–26, 2019 Board meeting, which took place in New York City. The focus of our general sessions and committee meetings was the planning work devoted to turning last year’s vision statement into a Third Century Plan.

As part of the effort to coordinate the important work of campus and Board governance groups, the meetings began with a dinner Thursday evening, January 24 that included members of the Advisory & Planning Committee (APC). President Casey provided an overview of this effort and offered several questions for those present to address in our conversations during dinner. The resulting dialogue among trustees, administrators, and APC members was both productive and enjoyable.

On Friday the Board heard short presentations about each of the major planning areas, including academic affairs; residential life; athletics; admission and financial aid; diversity, equity and inclusion; and housing in the Village of Hamilton. We also received an update regarding the University’s finances and planning efforts to encourage strong levels of charitable gift support.

The Board’s programmatic committees met throughout the afternoon and were engaged in more in-depth discussions about the various plans being developed by campus committees. The subjects discussed in each of the committees were:

The Academic Mission and Program Committee heard campus updates on the Middle Campus – Integrated Arts Planning; Mind, Brain, and Behavior Initiative; an emerging policy initiative; the Scholars Program; faculty support; and national fellowships and scholarships. The overarching theme of the meeting was on how best to structure the results of these various planning efforts to achieve an increased level of excellence across the University’s academic program.

The Campus Life and Programs Committee reviewed updates to the residential life planning underway and athletics facilities and program planning. It also discussed the national and �鶹Porn-specific mental health trends and the ways �鶹Porn is responding to student needs in this area. Regarding athletics, the committee reviewed and discussed current admissions, financial aid, and scholarship data related to �鶹Porn student-athletes and how those factors can be revised to ensure continued competitive success. Financial data was presented that provided insight into �鶹Porn’s varsity sport program operations, compensation, and scholarship budgets compared with other conference and similar institutions across the NCAA. Finally, a long-range comprehensive athletics facilities plan presented a vision for a renewed athletics village.

The University Outreach Committee discussed gift acceptance policies and other procedures that are important to successful fundraising efforts. The committee also received an update regarding various new communications initiatives. A preliminary admission and financial aid strategic plan was also outlined and discussed.

The University Resources Committee reviewed the progress in developing the 2019–20 operating budget that will be advanced for Board approval at our May meeting. It also reviewed the status of current and new capital projects as well as the financial framework to support the various strategic plans being developed. The committee will play an important role in ensuring there is a strong financial resource plan to fund �鶹Porn’s near-term and long-term ambitions.

At the formal Board meeting Saturday morning, trustees were briefed on the efforts of each of the committees and approved expenditures to renovate the Hamilton Movie Theater and to replace the artificial turf on Tyler’s Field. The Board also approved the endowment spending guidelines that will guide the development of the 2019–20 operating budget.

In addition, the Board approved the recommendations from the President regarding faculty tenure appointments and promotions. We congratulate all those recognized. In September, the Board elected Mr. Michael J. Herling ’79, P’08, P’09, P’12 to serve as Board Chair following the Board meeting in early May. At our January 26 meeting, the Board elected Gus P. Coldebella ’91 and Jeanne A. Follansbee ’78, P’08 as Vice Chairs. They will also begin their terms of service after the May meeting. I would like to thank both Jeanne and Gus for their outstanding leadership on the Board, especially now as they are willing to assume these important vice chair positions.

On Friday night, members of the Board and Cabinet had dinner with emeriti and former trustees. The highlight of the dinner was President Casey’s announcement of a $15 million commitment by Robert Hung Ngai Ho ’56, H’11 to establish the Robert Hung Ngai Ho Mind, Brain, and Behavior Initiative at �鶹Porn. Mr. Ho’s gift will also support related and much-needed renovations in Olin Hall, and permits �鶹Porn to launch more detailed planning work and fundraising. The entire �鶹Porn community thanks Mr. Ho for his transformational support of �鶹Porn and his deep commitment to the education of our students.

There is much to celebrate as �鶹Porn begins its bicentennial year, and I am joined by my Board of Trustee colleagues in thanking you for your efforts and engagement to help �鶹Porn strengthen its position as a leading national liberal arts institution.

All My Best
Daniel B. Hurwitz ’86

Dear Members of the �鶹Porn Community:

On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I offer this report of the September 27–29, 2018 meeting of the Board of Trustees, which took place in Hamilton, N.Y. This was the first of three meetings this academic year and included two special events: the dedication of Benton Hall and a Bicentennial dinner that I will reference later in this report.

The focus of this meeting was to align the Board’s planning and oversight activities with the various campus planning efforts underway across a variety of institutional operations. To begin these activities, President Casey presented to the Board a strategic planning framework and a timetable for the projected work of campus governance committees. Joseph S. Hope, Senior Vice President for Finance and Administration, provided a long-term financial framework model that will frame university planning. This financial framework will adjust as financial resources are identified to support the plans that are developed during this academic year.

In addition to the Board leadership transition plan previously announced and handled by the Nominating, Governance, and Trustee Development Committee, the four “programmatic committees” of the Board held strategic level conversations about the following topics and opportunities:

Academic Mission and Programs Committee received an update on the arts planning process that included a review of an emerging vision for the “middle campus.” The Committee also endorsed guidelines and policies for the academic centers and institutes of the University and received updates about the scholars programs (AMS, OUS, and Benton Scholars). The Board was particularly pleased with the enhanced efforts to support students applying for national fellowships and scholarships. The increase in the numbers of students who have applied and are being considered for many prestigious national and international post-baccalaureate fellowships awards will certainly lead �鶹Porn students to significantly more post-graduate academic opportunities.

Campus Life and Programs Committee received a report from the Dean of the College that highlighted the success in identifying new members of the staff to fill many vacancies that existed last year. The Committee also received an overview about the planning process underway for athletics and residential life and social life programs. It also received a report about the improvements made in various student residences and plans to continue this work regarding the many different Broad Street facilities.

University Outreach Committee devoted considerable time to emerging planning efforts for long-term enhancements to the University’s admission and financial aid efforts. They received an overview of Slate, the University’s admission software that helps to identify and support prospective students throughout the admission process. They also received a report about the launch of the Bicentennial celebration and the efforts that will continue throughout the academic year. The Committee also reviewed a report summarizing the fundraising results in 2017–18 and plans for the current year. The Committee and the Board were pleased that the new Vice President for Advancement Paul Mischler could join us for the weekend.

University Resources Committee received updates on the emerging vision for the “middle campus” referenced earlier, as well as the process for identifying the required improvements for student residences and other academic and athletic facilities. �鶹Porn has devoted significant financial resources to improve the quality and utility of its facilities, and the Committee also discussed a draft of a financial planning model to serve as a guide as the various planning efforts continue.

I am also very pleased to note that the Audit, Legal Affairs, and Risk Management Committee met with representatives of KPMG, the University’s independent auditors. The representatives presented the results of the audit of the University’s financial statements and gave the University and its staff very high marks for its fiscal management procedures.

In formal session, the Board approved the recommendations from the President regarding faculty tenure appointments and promotions. The Board also endorsed the report from the Task Force on Academic Freedom and Freedom of Expression and expressed its gratitude to the members of the Task Force for their efforts.

During the weekend, the Board enjoyed the opportunity to have a luncheon meeting with members of the Student Government Association and members of President Casey’s Cabinet. Board members also attended the dedication of Benton Hall and recognized the support of Trustee Daniel C. Benton ’80, P’10, H’10 and the other donors to that project. This important and impressive facility was funded fully by gifts to the University and will be an outstanding resource for the campus community. We also attended a dinner hosted by President Casey and enjoyed the opportunity to celebrate the kickoff of the University’s Bicentennial. Joining this event were the chairs of academic departments and programs, chairholders of endowed professorships, numerous invited students, members of the Bicentennial Committee, various alumni and parents.

Our next meeting is scheduled for January 25–26, 2019, in New York City. I look forward to providing you with my next update following that session. Thank you for all that you are doing as we celebrate the Bicentennial and develop plans for �鶹Porn’s Third Century.

All My Best,
Daniel B. Hurwitz ’86

Dear Members of the �鶹Porn Community:

On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I offer this report of the May 3-5, 2018 meeting held in Hamilton, New York. This was our third and final meeting of the academic year and I will summarize the productive discussions in our various business meetings after leading with brief comments about three of the events on our schedule.

We gathered on Thursday evening, May 3, to recognize and applaud the 2018 recipients of the Balmuth Award for Teaching: Lourdes Rojas-Paiewonsky, Charles A. Dana Professor of Romance Languages and Literatures and Africana and Latin American Studies, and Chris Vecsey, Harry Emerson Fosdick Professor of the Humanities and Native American Studies in the Department of Religion and Chair, Department of Religion. We joined faculty colleagues and students in celebrating their remarkable records of achievement in the classroom, and of distinguished scholarship in their fields.

A second event on Friday, May 4, was a luncheon in the Class of 1965 Arena with players and coaches of the record-setting 2017-18 Women’s Ice Hockey team. We enjoyed our conversations with them and benefited from the very thoughtful comments of Head Coach Greg Fargo, recipient of several coach of the year honors. We celebrated their remarkable year of athletic success as well as their noteworthy academic achievements with 21 players inducted into the Raiders Academic Honor Roll having earned an academic grade point average of 3.25 or more.

Later that afternoon we attended the Awards Convocation in the Chapel. It was heartwarming to witness the presentations that recognized so many students for their academic and personal success. We were also proud to join two well-deserved standing ovations: one for Kezia Page, Associate Professor of English and Africana and Latin American Studies, Coordinator of Caribbean Studies, who received the Phi Eta Sigma Professor of the Year Award, and for Lauren Sanderson ’18, our very talented 1819 Award recipient.

Below please find a recap of the discussion held at the programmatic committee level:

The Academic Mission and Programs Committee continued conversations about plans for integrated arts at �鶹Porn, including potential curricular and co-curricular initiatives, and arts facilities for the “Middle Campus.” Members of the committee also discussed an excellent report prepared by the Middle Campus Working Group following an on-campus meeting with the committee April 18. The committee also discussed a proposed policy for the structure and administration of academic institutes and centers and received an update regarding student scholars’ programs.

The Campus Life and Programs Committee received an update regarding the campus process that will continue in the fall to review a variety of issues related to the student housing experience. The most significant amount of time was devoted to a joint meeting with the University Resources Committee that provides oversight and capital allocation recommendations of the university’s academic, administrative, athletic and residential facilities. Both committees reviewed a preliminary plan for sequenced renovations of student residences on Broad Street. While no formal decisions were made at this time, a plan for a long-overdue renovation of the 17 properties owned by �鶹Porn will be considered in subsequent meetings.

The University Outreach Committee was invited to provide feedback about a variety of communication plans and design elements developed for the Bicentennial in 2019. The committee was very impressed with the quality of the work completed as �鶹Porn prepares for the launch of a very special celebration. The committee also received an update about the progress of fundraising efforts and plans to generate support in the future. The committee received a detailed status report regarding the Class of 2022, and the full board was briefed about the very talented class that will enroll in the fall.

The University Resources Committee reviewed the proposed budget for 2018-19 and, as mentioned earlier, met with the members of the Campus Life and Programs Committee regarding the scope and timing of anticipated renovations to the various university owned student residences on Broad Street. They also reviewed the status of capital projects now underway on the upper campus, including Benton Hall and the new dorms.

Friday afternoon provided an opportunity for the full board to discuss the Middle Campus Working Group Report and noted the significant progress of pre-planning since the January board meeting. The board was briefed about possible next steps in the process involving all faculty stakeholders by Tracey E. Hucks, Provost and Dean of the Faculty; Peter Balakian, Donald M. and Constance H. Rebar Professor in Humanities and Professor of English; Lesleigh Cushing, Murray W. and Mildred K. Finard Associate Professor in Jewish Studies, Associate Professor of Religion and Associate Dean of the Faculty; and David McCabe, Richard J. and Joan Head Chair in Philosophy, and Director of the Division of the Arts and Humanities, also served as helpful resources during the discussion. The board was extremely appreciative and impressed with the continued progress presented by the committee and offered a continued supportive “sense of the board” to move forward expeditiously in future planning.

That session was followed by an excellent presentation by Paul J. McLoughlin II, Vice President and Dean of the College, regarding the status of the Residential Commons program. This significant initiative continues to gain momentum as the strategic execution is enhanced. In addition, the board was very supportive of the continued expansion plans involving the new dorms and enhanced social opportunities on Broad Street.

Friday evening, we recognized four trustees whose terms of service ended at the conclusion of the May 5 meeting. The board also approved resolutions of appreciation of service for Dewey J. Awad II ’90, Margaret D. Dunne ’13, Gregory J. Fleming ’85, P ’21 and Robert B. Seaberg ’69. The board also took a moment to present Vicky Chun with a resolution of appreciation for her decades of service to �鶹Porn and outstanding leadership on and off campus.

The board elected five new trustees to three-year terms: Carmine DiSibio ’85, P ’18, ’21, Global Managing Partner, Ernst & Young, LLP; Sonya A. Falcone ’12, MBA Candidate, UCLA Anderson School of Management and Summer Associate, LocalConstruct; Julian W. Farrior III ’93, Entrepreneur and Investor; Denniston M. Reid Jr. ’94, Chief Schools and Innovation Officer, Excellence Community Schools; Thomas B. Tyree Jr. ’83, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Northwoods Energy, LLC.

At the formal board meeting Saturday morning, trustees were briefed on the efforts of each committee and approved the 2018-19 operating budget. In addition, the board unanimously approved recommendations from the President regarding faculty tenure appointments and promotions. The board also discussed the Report of �鶹Porn’s Task Force on Academic Freedom and Freedom of Expression and, in recognition of the affirmation of the report by �鶹Porn faculty members of the American Association of University Professors, the board formally endorsed the findings in that report.

This communication is sent as the 2017-18 academic year draws to a close and as final preparations are completed for Commencement on May 20, 2018. We congratulate members of the Class of 2018 and welcome you as �鶹Porn alumni. For all others, we thank you for another incredibly successful year at �鶹Porn and wish you our best for an enjoyable summer.

All My Best,
Daniel B. Hurwitz ’86

Dear Members of the �鶹Porn Community,

On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I offer this report of the January 25-27, 2018 board meeting, which took place in New York City. This was the second of three meetings this academic year and the new structure of our meeting schedule, influenced by our recent governance review process, provided an opportunity for us to connect with members of the administration and faculty in a very productive manner. This was the first board meeting with three hours allocated for each of our programmatic committees to engage in strategic level conversations about a variety of topics and opportunities. The subjects discussed in each of the committees were:

Academic Mission and Programs Committee discussed the current state of the arts at �鶹Porn and a timetable for aspirational planning. The committee also discussed the considerations for faculty recruitment, hiring and support as well as the structure and management of academic centers and institutes. Their meeting continued conversations that began last year regarding the student scholars programs and also the forms of support for students interested in pursuing awards and fellowships.

Campus Life and Programs Committee discussed the considerations in developing appropriate long-term residential life and social life programs to benefit current and future generations of students. The committee also received an update regarding the implementation of the Residential Commons program. Additionally, the 2012 Athletics Plan was reviewed to determine the results of the plan recommendations and additional considerations were advanced to enhance future planning.

University Outreach Committee discussed the status of planning for the university’s exciting bicentennial celebration in 2019 that will engage the campus community and our constituents. They also reviewed the current fundraising results and plans to generate the philanthropic support �鶹Porn will require in the future. A third topic area was the effort to enroll the Class of 2022. The committee enthusiastically recognized the record number of applications received, which represents a 13% increase over the prior year.

University Resources Committee reviewed the substantial campus capital projects that are underway and others being considered. The committee was also briefed on the status of the university’s budget for 2018-19 and received an update regarding various information technology initiatives.

Most importantly, we devoted significant time to the topic of the arts at �鶹Porn. On Thursday night, we benefited from the expertise and perspectives of three alumni with significant experience with arts related initiatives. They participated in a dialogue about trends and developments in the arts that was facilitated by President Casey. The panelists were Mervon P. Mehta ’81, Executive Director, Royal Conservatory of Music; Dr. Jean Morrison ’80, Provost & Dean of the Faculty, Boston University; and Jeffrey W. Sharp ’89, President & CEO of Story Mining & Supply Co. and Producer, Boys Don’t Cry.

Their insights were very useful and connected well to a set of presentations the board received Friday afternoon about the current state of the arts at �鶹Porn. Tracey E. Hucks, Provost and Dean of the Faculty offered introductory observations, and she was followed by very informative presentations from Peter Balakian, Donald M. and Constance H. Rebar Professor in Humanities and Professor of English; Lesleigh Cushing, Murray W. and Mildred K. Finard Associate Professor in Jewish Studies, Associate Professor of Religion and Associate Dean of the Faculty; and David McCabe, Richard J. and Joan Head Chair in Philosophy, and Director of the Division of the Arts and Humanities. The board conveyed its enthusiasm and support for the development of plans that would link the curricular and programmatic benefits of new and renovated arts facilities. Importantly, the board expressed its willingness to allocate significant capital to advance such plans once finalized and enthusiastically awaits the opportunity to do so.

The board also received an update on strategic planning from President Casey and a comprehensive financial overview from Joseph S. Hope, Vice President for Finance and Administration. I am pleased to report that �鶹Porn’s financial position remains very strong. Once again, we learned that over 9,600 high quality applications for admission to the Class of 2022 had been received for an anticipated class size of 770. When coupled with other strong results to date in fundraising and successes in other sectors of university operations, �鶹Porn has tremendous momentum as we approach our bicentennial year.

At the formal board meeting Saturday morning, trustees were briefed on the efforts of each of the committees and approved various summer schedule capital expenditures. In addition, the board unanimously approved the recommendations from the President regarding faculty tenure appointments and promotions. We congratulate all those recognized, and we thank you for your excellence in teaching and scholarship.

Overall, it was a very productive and exciting weekend. I thank all who contributed and continue to advance �鶹Porn into its third century.

Our next meeting is scheduled for May 3-5, 2018, and I look forward to providing you with my next update following that session. Thank you for all that you are doing as we advance through a busy and productive semester.

All My Best,
Daniel B. Hurwitz ’86

Dear Members of the �鶹Porn Community:

On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I am pleased to offer this report of the October 5–7, 2017, meeting held in Hamilton.

This was our first meeting of the academic year, and it featured a number of interesting and insightful components. A few of us gathered on Thursday morning for a presentation by landscape architect Michael Van Valkenburgh. The presentation comprised a compelling analysis of the existing acreage of the upper campus and a proposal for the new residential quad planned behind Andrews Hall. It was a thoughtful and historically sensitive presentation that, when implemented, will further �鶹Porn’s reputation as the most beautiful campus in America.

On Friday morning, we commenced with a variety of forward-looking meetings revolving around the future of �鶹Porn. The trustees had the opportunity to hear from �鶹Porn’s new Provost and Dean of the Faculty Tracey E. Hucks ’87, MA ’90 and the university’s new Vice President and Dean of the College Paul J. McLoughlin II. Their words were powerful, on point, and relevant to the matters before us. It was a pleasure to hear from great professionals who clearly understand �鶹Porn’s potential and embrace the opportunity that their jobs entail. Dean Hucks’ discussion of faculty support and Dean McLoughlin’s emphasis on student life were particularly powerful. Afterwards, we had the pleasure of dining with students for lunch at Frank Dining Hall. Our time with students is always filled with candor and great insight. Following lunch, we visited the new dorm construction sites and participated in a cornerstone ceremony at Benton Hall.

The most significant part of our agenda was devoted to a lengthy presentation from President Casey, who shared a draft vision statement to guide �鶹Porn’s entrance into its third century. President Casey has previously shared the draft statement with the Faculty Affairs Committee and the Advisory and Planning Committee — board members were enthusiastic about the nature and scope of campuswide planning efforts, conducted by the administration and in faculty governance committees. The product of that work will be the primary subject of our next two meetings in January and May. We encouraged priority attention to the early development of four areas referenced in the vision statement: a plan for academic enhancement and faculty support; a plan for the arts at �鶹Porn; a long-term admission plan; and a long-term residential life plan. The trustees had dinner on Friday night with members of both the Faculty Affairs Committee and the Advisory and Planning Committee. The conversations that night were far ranging and frank, and I know the trustees welcomed the opportunity to hear of these developing planning efforts.

We also heard from the Audit, Legal Affairs and Risk Management Committee. �鶹Porn has established a very strong record of sound fiscal management, and our independent auditors, once again, gave the financial management team excellent marks for the scope and quality of their work. �鶹Porn is fiscally strong and professionally managed.

Importantly, the board was also briefed about other significant priorities such as �鶹Porn’s initiative to establish the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) program at Community Memorial Hospital. The SANE program has been a priority of the board since authorizing funding nearly two years ago. While we should never be satisfied as a community until the need for such support is no longer required, we are very thankful that numerous members of the �鶹Porn community came together to deliver this important service to those who need it most.

In addition, the board received updates regarding the diversity and inclusion report, the Task Force on Academic Freedom and Freedom of Expression, and the work of Barnaby Evans regarding ceremonies and rituals on campus.

Also during those meetings, the board formally approved a new committee structure that was one of several important outcomes of our recent board governance review process. We reduced the number of committees from 12 to 8 and revised the charges for the committees so they focus on strategic priorities and opportunities that enhance the articulated vision of President Casey.

Four new members of the board joined the trustees this weekend and participated in an orientation session. The new trustees are: Theresa Donahue Egler ’77, P’07,’11 (Chester, N.J.), Shareholder, Ogletree Deakins; Robert C. Johnson ’94 (Dallas, Texas) Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Team Support; Nora Gleason Leary ’82 (Athens, Greece), Former President, Children’s Brain Tumor Foundation; and Joseph P. McGrath Jr. ’85, P’15,’20 (Summit, N.J.) Global Head of Banking, Barclays. Each new trustee possesses an extraordinary passion for �鶹Porn, expertise in areas of need on the board, and a willingness to work hard for �鶹Porn. We are thankful!

Overall, it was a very constructive and exciting weekend that set the groundwork for meaningful progress in the months ahead.

On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I thank you all for making �鶹Porn such a special place!

My very best,
Daniel B. Hurwitz ’86

Dear Members of the �鶹Porn Community,

On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I offer this report of the June 9-10, 2017 meeting held in Hamilton, New York. This was our fourth and final meeting of the academic year and it provided us with an opportunity to note the achievements of a vibrant and successful inaugural year, with President Brian W. Casey, and to also identify some of the issues that will require attention in the months and years ahead.

Although our formal meetings did not begin until Friday afternoon, 20 of the 34 trustees arrived Thursday evening so they could join trustee members of the Capital Assets Committee for a tour of campus facilities and ongoing capital projects. The campus is moving through an important and significant transformation as we renovate dormitories and begin construction of two new student residences. As the semester ended, many of you noticed site work had commenced for Benton Hall, our new career services center, and Wynn Hall is now enveloped in steel fencing as renovations to that facility are completed this summer. The trustees who toured the facilities were briefed on the status of all current projects and considered, in a preliminary way, other potential capital projects that the university might undertake in the near future.

The board spent a significant amount of time discussing a set of recommendations that resulted from our review of board governance practices and procedures. I referenced this initiative in my last two messages to the community and noted that the effort connected well to the Middle States Commission on Higher Education review that also began in earnest this past year. The recommendations the board considered support our overarching goals of becoming more strategic, effective and efficient in our work. Our discussion led us to endorse the consolidation of several board committees and the development of new charges for continuing committees. We will use the summer months to incorporate these and other ideas into the structure of our board governance procedures by reconstituting committees, revising the by-laws where necessary and contemplating agenda items for the upcoming year.

The board congratulated President Casey and the respective search committees that helped �鶹Porn attract a talented team of senior administrators this year, including two recent appointments, Tracey Hucks ’86 MA’90, Provost and Dean of the Faculty, and Paul J. McLoughlin III, Vice President and Dean of the College. We are also very pleased to announce that Joseph “JS” Hope ’97 was confirmed as Senior Vice President for Finance and Administration and Chief Investment Officer. The board also expressed its appreciation to Connie Harsh and Mark Thompson, through formal resolutions, for outstanding service to �鶹Porn in their respective interim roles.

We also received reports regarding 1) the outstanding Class of 2021, 2) the results of the efforts of the Office of Fellowships and Scholarships to support student interests, and 3) summary results in a variety of key performance areas of university operations. There is much to celebrate but we are acutely aware that high-quality institutions with aspirations to achieve true excellence in all endeavors cannot relax in an ever changing and complex world in which we compete and are judged.

It was evident to the board throughout our meetings this year that �鶹Porn has the capacity, courage, and will make the necessary commitments to advance. Our confidence was reinforced by the well-organized presentation and discussion led by President Casey about �鶹Porn’s strong strategic position and the ideas for the university’s third century that are beginning to emerge. We look forward to working with campus constituencies and supporters of the university to consider the ways that �鶹Porn will develop as it enters its new century.

Friday evening, we recognized four trustees whose terms of service ended at the conclusion of the June meeting. The board also approved resolutions of appreciation of service for Nancy C. Crown P’10, Linda J. Havlin ’72, P’10, Stephen R. Howe Jr. ’83, and Ronald A. Joyce ’73. All four, each in a special way, served �鶹Porn in outstanding fashion, and I know we will continue to benefit from their engagement with �鶹Porn in the years ahead.

The board also elected three new trustees to three-year terms: Theresa Donahue Egler ’77, Shareholder, Ogletree Deakins; Robert C. Johnson ’94, Co-founder and CEO, TeamSupport; and Nora Gleason Leary ’82, former President, Children’s Brain Tumor Foundation.

As we close this academic year, my fellow trustees and I wish to thank the entire �鶹Porn community for successfully navigating our institution through the various challenges and opportunities that arose both on and off campus through the year. We look forward to continued collaboration with all �鶹Porn constituencies as our quest for consistent excellence continues. I hope everyone has a peaceful and enjoyable summer.

All my best,
Daniel B. Hurwitz ’86

Dear Members of the �鶹Porn Community,

On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I offer this report of the April 6-8, 2017 meeting of the Board of Trustees held in Hamilton, New York. This was the third of four meetings this academic year and it provided opportunities for us to connect with students and faculty, as well as consider subjects and recommendations that required board discussion or approval.

Our first event, Thursday evening, April 6th, was the very special dinner to recognize the 2017 recipient of the Balmuth Award for Teaching, Frank Frey, Associate Professor of Biology and Environmental Studies. This award―funded by Mark S. Siegel, ’73, to honor Jerome “Jerry” Balmuth, the Harry Emerson Fosdick Professor of Philosophy and Religion Emeritus―is the highest award given to members of our faculty, and the dinner provided a wonderful setting for us to celebrate the accomplishments of a great teacher who is also a wonderful mentor and friend to many in the �鶹Porn community.

Friday morning was devoted to a review and discussion of board governance. As noted in my report about the January 26-28, 2017 meeting, we are conducting a study similar to the process underway on campus in conjunction with the Middle States Commission on Higher Education review. We have engaged a consulting firm to help with this review, and a significant portion of the meeting was devoted to considering recommendations from the firm. A report from our advisors presented ideas, supported with peer data, to improve the structure and function of our committees and the organization and content of our meetings. We reviewed the recommendations and numerous questions were raised by various board members. After almost two hours of extremely constructive dialogue, we identified the structural and operational steps appropriate for this board and we are committed to discuss further at our next meeting. The board’s goal is to take those steps necessary to ensure that it is operating at the highest level and that our efforts are properly aligned with President Casey’s administration and the campus governance system.

A lunch in Donovan’s Pub on Friday provided a wonderful opportunity to converse informally with 25 students who participated in the fall semester off-campus study programs. We gained insights about their educational experiences and the personal enrichment the programs provided them. Many board members also attended Konosioni’s charity auction that evening to support the event and meet other students.

Friday afternoon’s board session included a lengthy presentation by President Casey on a strategic framework for �鶹Porn―one that has been offered to the faculty―through which the university will identify priorities and programs that will help �鶹Porn strengthen its position as a leading liberal arts institution. We also received a briefing from Joseph “JS” Hope, Interim Vice President for Finance and Administration, regarding �鶹Porn’s finances. He presented a preliminary projection of the fiscal resources required to implement these strategic projects and programs. �鶹Porn benefits from very strong levels of engagement and support from its alumni, parents and friends, which will allow for the acceleration of the launch of the strategic initiatives being developed. As part of the action taken at its formal meeting Saturday morning, the board authorized the administration to consider the benefits and fiscal impact of balance sheet capacity when aligned with strategic objectives and priorities.

The board also approved the 2017-18 operating budget that includes increased funds to support the faculty, student services and programs, admissions efforts, and communication initiatives to engage and inform our constituents. Board action at this meeting also included approval of costs associated with improvements to our infrastructure to facilitate building expansion on campus. The board also approved the upgrade of the technology in the Ho Tung Visualization Laboratory.

Following the January 2017 meeting, I reported that the board supported a recommendation regarding a change in the way we reference the residential complex named for George Barton Cutten, �鶹Porn’s 8th president. The recommendation followed resolutions approved by the �鶹Porn faculty and the Student Government Association. The board formally endorsed the removal of the name Cutten from the complex. The residential units at 113 Broad Street will henceforth be identified by the long established house names that make up the complex: Brigham, Read, Shepardson and Whitnall Houses. New identification is necessary and updated property level signage has been requested.

During the course of our meetings we received updates about a variety of on campus matters, including the status of the search for a new provost and dean of the faculty, and the search for a new vice president and dean of the college. We also received a briefing from Mark Thompson, Interim Vice President and Dean of the College, about the campus conversations regarding sexual harassment and assault. The board firmly endorses the administration’s policies for such unacceptable behavior. President Casey and Dean Thompson will continue to brief us about these matters.

The board received a report regarding the Residential Commons program, toured the Stillman Hall renovation site, and discussed the status of plans for Benton Hall, the new career services center. We also viewed a newly developed video that presents an exciting view of the two new student residences that will be constructed on sites just above Andrews and Stillman Halls. We noted that the construction of these facilities will be disruptive at times and we thank the community for its patience during this exciting phase of progress.

I look forward to providing you with my next update following our June meeting. Thank you again for all that you are doing to help �鶹Porn advance.

All My Best,
Daniel B. Hurwitz ’86

Dear Members of the �鶹Porn Community,

On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I offer this report of the January 26-28, 2017 meeting of Board of Trustees, which took place in New York City. This was the second of four meetings this academic year and it was structured around four topics: 1) a review of campus capital projects, 2) a discussion of the Board’s governance practices, 3) a presentation by President Casey and his administrative team about developing a strategic framework to advance our university, and 4) consideration of several subjects and recommendations that required Board discussion or approval at the formal Board meeting.

In regard to capital projects, on Thursday night the Board received the final design presentation from Robert A.M. Stern Architects. Each of the three new buildings (Benton Hall, Dorm 1, Dorm 2) were discussed in detail to ensure appropriateness from a use and architectural perspective. At the conclusion of the working session, the Board enthusiastically supported the purpose and quality of the proposed structures. The Board also reviewed and approved the financing plan for each facility. In addition to the obvious impact on career services with the addition of Benton Hall, the new residences will continue the multi-year $60+ million investment in our residential facilities which also includes the completed and on-going renovations of Bryan, Andrews and Stillman.

On Friday morning, January 27th, the Board began its discussions on its governance structures and practices. We are conducting our own form of self-study similar to the process underway on campus in conjunction with the Middle States Commission on Higher Education review. We are surveying and interviewing Board members as well as identifying industry leading best practices as we refine our governance structures and procedures and properly align them with Brian Casey’s administration. The Board will continue this work at its April 6-8, 2017 Board meeting. Given that �鶹Porn has navigated numerous leadership changes over the past several years, we feel it important that the Board evaluates its proper role under stable circumstances to ensure that governance is respected and roles and responsibilities clearly defined.

Friday afternoon was designed to provide the Board with an overview of the university’s operations and potential areas of strategic focus. President Casey and several members of his Cabinet offered presentations regarding fiscal and fundraising matters; current support for the faculty and academic programs; and strategies for enhancing residential and student life. The Board looks forward to continued collaboration with the administration and campus governance committees in the months ahead to ensure that the faculty and academic programs are properly supported and residential and student life is enhanced.

At the formal Board meeting Saturday morning, trustees reviewed the status of the operating budget for 2017-18 and received updates regarding admissions applications and fundraising results. The results to date are positive in those and many other sectors of campus operations. The Board particularly appreciated the professionalism and transparency of the budget process and noted the detail and clarity provided was very welcomed.

The Board also received an important update regarding the efforts being undertaken to support our students and faculty in response to the uncertainty associated with President Trump’s executive orders and strongly supports the �鶹Porn administration’s actions to date. This is obviously an ongoing process that needs constant evaluation and communication to ensure that all members of the �鶹Porn community are properly supported.

We were pleased to be advised of the significant progress on campus to create forms of support for the victims of sexual harassment and assault which includes a SANE nurse program and added counseling availability. This effort resulted from a powerful open session presentation to the Board last year. The Board strongly supports the effort to date and expects �鶹Porn to be a peer leader on this issue.

The Board also endorsed a list of names that will be considered by the residents of the second residential commons, following the protocol developed last year in consultation with the Student Affairs Committee. The Board also reviewed a resolution from the University Properties Committee approved by the faculty at its November 7, 2016 meeting, and a resolution approved by the Student Government Association, recommending a renaming of Cutten Hall. The Board supported the recommendation and asked the administration to compile a short list of new names for consideration.

In addition, the Board approved the recommendations from the President regarding faculty tenure appointments and promotions. We congratulate all those recognized and thank you for your continued contributions to �鶹Porn’s primary objective of enhancing academic excellence through outstanding teaching and scholarship.

Our next meeting is scheduled for April 6-8, 2017, and I look forward to providing you with my next update following that session. Thank you again for all that you are doing to help �鶹Porn achieve excellence.

All my best,
Daniel B. Hurwitz ’86

Dear members of the �鶹Porn community,

On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I offer this report of our September 30 – October 1, 2016 meeting with an enormous sense of appreciation for the efforts of so many who organized and supported a truly remarkable inauguration and homecoming weekend. From the community picnic on Saturday, September 24th, through the inaugural concert yesterday afternoon, �鶹Porn’s spirit, character and quality were very evident this past week.

Although the time the Board spent in meetings was limited due to the many activities of the weekend, we had productive conversations about a number of important topics. The Board also approved several resolutions and took a number of actions described below.

Through the course of the Board conversations several important themes emerged from the discussions. The first is the primary importance of continuing �鶹Porn’s commitment to the elements of a residential liberal arts education by supporting a high quality academic program and the work of faculty. Concurrent with that effort is the need to sustain efforts to attract and enroll a talented and diverse student body, providing the appropriate forms of support to enhance the value and benefits of their education while also providing an environment that is supportive of all members of our community. We need to work diligently to be fiscally prudent in our operations and strategic in directing resources that enhance our extracurricular programs, while also maintaining the quality and beauty of the campus.

The Board received an update regarding the implementation of the residential commons system and the results of the first year of the operation of this program. The Board was pleased with early signs of the success of Ciccone Commons in providing students with a meaningful community in their first two years, with enhanced engagement with �鶹Porn faculty. The Board looks forward to more input in the future on the experiences of students from the students themselves, as well as continued faculty input in the development of this residential program. The Board also endorsed the naming of “Commons Two” through the process developed by the Student Affairs Committee of the Board, the Dean of the College staff and the commons directors during the last academic year. We look forward to the continued development of the program such that it would ultimately provide residential commons for all first years and sophomores on the “Hill.”

The Board also supported a recommendation from the administration that the University Properties Committee review information about former President George Barton Cutten, so that the Board might consider a renaming of Cutten Hall. We have no desire to being merely reactive should a substantive issue exist, and look forward to being proactive should the campus community recommend a name change.

During a review of various building projects, the Board was pleased to learn about the positive campus response to the renovations of the Bryan Complex and Andrews Hall, as well as numerous other summer projects. The Board also noted the success of the construction of the Class of 1965 Arena which was completed on time and within established budget parameters. Later in the weekend at the dedication ceremony, we thanked the donors whose philanthropic support made this outstanding new facility possible.

The Board approved the allocation of funds to continue planning and site preparation for the construction of two 100-bed dormitories above Andrews and Stillman Halls. These new residence halls will allow �鶹Porn to lower the number of students currently living in the Gate House, Cutten and Townhouse facilities, bringing the populations in these residence complexes to levels better suited to their design and capacity. The Board also approved expenditures to replace the turf on Crown Field and a donor-funded renovation project in the football locker room and study space for all student-athletes. An update regarding plans for Benton Hall was also received along with a summary of the preliminary ideas under consideration to improve parking and traffic circulation on campus

The Board heard a presentation of the state of programs and facilities devoted to the arts at �鶹Porn, expanding conversations that have taken place with the Board in prior meetings. We noted the extensive campus conversations that were held during the 2015-16 year regarding the location of the proposed Center for Art and Culture. We expressed support for the recommendation from the campus committee to consider one of several potential sites on campus to provide appropriate space for its programs, in lieu of the previously recommended location in downtown Hamilton. Further, the Board endorsed President Casey’s recommendation that the university take steps to develop a long-term vision for the arts at �鶹Porn, and accepted with enthusiasm his recommendation that significant efforts be directed to considering how to deepen programs in the arts as well as plans for new arts related spaces on the campus. In addition, the Board supported the allocation of funds to advance these important discussions with the assistance of third party consultants should President Casey deem it an appropriate expenditure. This discussion enjoys a strong alignment of support from the Board, administration and faculty and we wish to advance this effort expeditiously.

During its annual open session Saturday morning a group of students representing �鶹Porn’s sororities offered a presentation advocating the expansion of Greek Life at �鶹Porn. Through this presentation, the Board was also presented with a resolution from the Student Government Association (SGA) which “…..supports bringing additional fraternities and sororities as well as additional multicultural organizations, various religious organizations, services, businesses and/or pre-professional organizations to the �鶹Porn community."

When the Board continued its meeting following the presentation the members noted that this subject required extensive, carefully considered campus conversations and deliberation. The Board wanted to acknowledge the considerable effort of the students who offered the presentation as well as the concerns and interests expressed by the students in the SGA resolution. The Board also acknowledged the significant faculty and community-wide interest in topics related to residential life, and the long history of discussions that have been held at �鶹Porn, among many constituencies. Before any recommendations regarding changes in the student residential program can be considered, a deliberate, comprehensive review of the totality of student residential life at �鶹Porn would be required. The process would need to permit multiple voices to be heard including faculty, students and administrators, and a variety of options would need to be considered.

The quality and nature of the student residential experience is an essential aspect of a liberal arts college education. The Board recognized that there is a new administration at �鶹Porn, with a number of important positions currently occupied on an interim basis, but requested to have these conversations held through the engagement of appropriate faculty and campus-wide committees and offices.

Finally, we wish to report that, in accordance with a process developed last year to re-examine a prior decision to confer an honorary degree from the university – one only to be used in extraordinary circumstances – the board authorized the establishment of an ad hoc committee last spring to conduct such a review of the degree conferred to Mr. William H. Cosby, Jr. At our meeting the Board received a recommendation from the ad hoc committee regarding the degree awarded to Mr. Cosby, and voted to rescind Mr. Cosby’s honorary degree.

The Board closed its meeting Saturday morning still feeling the inspiration of President Casey’s inaugural address as well as the wonderful glow from the vitality and energy of the campus community that was clearly evident at the inauguration. Again, we thank all members of the �鶹Porn community for the incredible effort necessary to execute such a complex and significant weekend. I look forward to providing you with my next update after our January meeting. Until then, I wish you all continued success for the remainder of the semester.

All my best,
Daniel B. Hurwitz ’86

Dear members of the �鶹Porn community,

I am pleased to provide a brief mid-winter report about the work of the Board of Trustees. From the board meeting in New York City January 21–22, 2016, to the excellent efforts by Interim President Jill Harsin and her administrative team during this transition year, to our excitement for the arrival of President-elect Brian Casey, whose tenure begins July 1, there are many good things happening at �鶹Porn.

During our meeting in New York City, we conducted a review of many initiatives despite the severe East Coast blizzard that caused us to shorten the schedule. One key item was the status of the 2016–17 budget development process, the final draft of which will be presented to the board for approval at our meeting April 1–2, 2016. �鶹Porn has successfully balanced its budget for more than 50 consecutive years, and as we compete with the very best colleges and universities — many of whom have significantly greater endowment resources — we continue to direct our fiscal resources as strategically and effectively as possible.

The board also received brief updates regarding a variety of capital projects, including Benton Hall (our new career services center) and the new student residence hall project. We were gratified to learn that the Class of 1965 Arena, occupying its prominent space on College Street, is on schedule for completion, on budget, by October 1, 2016 — a tribute to the hard work of many people involved with the project.

We also received an update about initiatives to improve our facilities for the arts at �鶹Porn, including the proposed Center for Art and Culture (CAC). As I noted in my report to the community last fall, we need to ensure that the CAC meets all program needs and that an appropriate budget for construction and operations is developed. To that point, Interim President Jill Harsin provided a briefing on the ongoing strategic planning process, which will provide the basis for future action for this facility.

The board also received three administrative presentations. Gary Ross ’77, vice president for admission and financial aid, provided a preliminary report regarding the applicant pool for the Class of 2020. Brendt Simpson, associate vice president for institutional planning and special assistant to the president for legal affairs, provided a summary of the efforts to organize the data that will be submitted to U.S. News and World Report later in the year. And Suzy Nelson, vice president and dean of the college, discussed efforts by the administration to address issues related to sexual assault and harassment, as well as the progress being made to support a more diverse and inclusive campus community.

At our formal meeting session, the board approved expenditures for a number of renovation projects, including Andrews Hall, Stillman Hall, Chapel House, Wynn Hall, Andy Kerr Stadium, and Cotterell Court.

The evening before our meeting, we took advantage of having gathered in New York City by interacting with approximately 90 recent alumni at a reception. Board members enjoyed the opportunity to learn about the career paths of the young graduates in attendance, and to gain their perspectives about �鶹Porn. Friday evening, we dined with a distinguished group of emeriti trustees whose combined service to �鶹Porn totaled more than 100 years. Our connections with recent graduates and former trustees serve as a wonderful reminder of the vibrant and special nature of our community. It was interesting to observe that alumni who just graduated, as well as those who have already celebrated their 50th Reunions, share the bond of a deep and enduring appreciation for their �鶹Porn education.

During our meeting, the board expressed thanks to Jill Harsin for her remarkable efforts during this year of leadership transition. From her colleagues on the president’s staff, to members of the faculty and staff, I have been moved by the consistency of comments about the scope and quality of her work. Jill has also been in frequent contact with Brian Casey, who has completed three visits to campus as he progresses through his �鶹Porn “orientation.” We look forward to the start of his tenure in July and to celebrating his presidency with an inauguration that will be held in conjunction with the Board of Trustees’ and Alumni Council’s fall meetings, Homecoming Weekend, and the dedication of the Class of 1965 Arena, Sept. 29–Oct. 2, 2016. A committee will soon be formed to plan a very special celebration that will engage our entire community in welcoming Brian to �鶹Porn.

The board remains most grateful to all members of the �鶹Porn community for your efforts to help our great university advance. Please contact me at dhurwitz@colgate.edu with any comments, questions, or suggestions.

Best regards,
Daniel B. Hurwitz ’86, P’17
Chair, �鶹Porn Board of Trustees

Dear �鶹Porn Colleagues and Friends:

I write to provide a brief report about the Board of Trustees meetings and events held October 1-3, 2015. My predecessor, Denis Cronin ’69, P’09, P’10, established this form of communication to inform members of the �鶹Porn community about the work of the board, and I am pleased to continue it.

We began this year’s fall board weekend on Thursday evening by having dinner with a wonderful group of students involved in a variety of campus initiatives and activities. This kind of event reflects our efforts to understand the issues and opportunities facing �鶹Porn from the student perspective, and we plan to break bread with students at on-campus board meetings in the future.

Friday, October 2, brought a full day of sessions, including one with our external auditors from KPMG, who complimented �鶹Porn’s financial management processes. Such a clean report is a tribute to the efforts of staff members and trustees involved with our financial reporting and accounting operations. We also received an update about capital projects including the Class of 1965 Arena and our new career services center, which, it was announced, will be called Benton Hall, named in honor of Daniel C. Benton ’80, H’10, P’10. In addition to attending formal groundbreaking ceremonies for both projects, we attended a luncheon celebration featuring remarks from the chair of the trustee Capital Assets Committee, Stephen J. Errico ’85, P’16, P’18, Interim President Jill Harsin, and Nathan Harries ’16, a member of the men’s basketball team.

During our meeting on Friday, student leaders Kegan Thompson ’16 and David Kim ’16, president and vice president of the Student Government Association, gave an informative presentation about their efforts and student life at �鶹Porn. We intend to invite SGA leadership to interact with the board during our first meeting of each school year.

The board also received three administrative presentations. Gary Ross ’77, vice president for admission and financial aid, summarized the recruitment efforts for the upcoming class. Brendt Simpson, associate vice president for institutional planning and special assistant to the president for legal affairs, discussed the recent U.S. News and World Reports rankings. Frank Frey, academic director for the Office of Undergraduate Studies (OUS), provided an overview of the OUS program and its impact on students.

We also discussed the proposed Center for Art and Culture (CAC), a project requiring further study to ensure that it meets all program needs and that an appropriate budget for construction and operations is maintained. Village officials have raised issues about the project that also need to be addressed, and the administration is coordinating an on-campus review of the project and is expected to advance a recommendation to the board at the January meeting.

Finally on Friday, we reviewed the status of �鶹Porn’s 2015-16 operating budget and the considerations in developing our 2016-17 budget. Overall, the university remains in a strong fiscal position, but improvements to the budget process were discussed.

A special moment took place as we began our formal meeting on Saturday morning. Leroy Cody ’71, chair of the Student Affairs Committee, invited Eric Lindley ’16 and Sarah Weber ’16 to offer our opening prayer. Eric and Sarah, who were Links to the two students who died in a plane crash on September 20, Ryan Adams ’19 and Cathryn “Carey” Depuy ’19, offered meaningful and moving words. I had attended the calling hours for both Ryan and Carey and join my fellow board members in sending our thoughts, prayers, and best wishes to their families and friends. I also want to offer special thanks to the many members of the staff and faculty as well as Ryan’s and Carey’s fellow students who responded to the tragedy in such thoughtful and caring ways, both individually and collectively.

In addition to reports from myself as chair, the president, treasurer, and each committee, the board took action to consolidate our committee structure. We approved the merger of the Audit Committee and the Legal Affairs and Insurance Committee into a new Audit, Legal Affairs, and Risk Management Committee, as well as the merger of the Nominating and Trustee Development Committee and the Planning and Governance Committee into a new Nominating, Governance, and Trustee Development Committee.

Each October the board sets aside time for members of the community to address the board. At this meeting we met with the leadership of Konosioni, a group of 26 peer-selected students honoring leadership, tradition and service to the �鶹Porn community. They discussed the work of their organization and ways they could be more involved to support the university. We also met with three women from the Class of 2016 who expressed concerns about a variety of issues and responses to our campus sexual climate. The board and the administration expressed its appreciation to them for their feedback. We also noted that we are committed to creating a safe climate for students, and structuring the appropriate processes and forms of support that not only comply with legislation, but also reflect the special character and quality of our university. This is a topic that will remain on the board agenda until further notice. In addition to the Student Affairs Committee, the board also appointed a liaison to work with the Dean of College Office on this issue of priority.

This was the last board meeting for chair Denis Cronin ’69, P’09, P’10, and also for Rob Kindler ’76, P’04, P’08, P’12, P’17, who served as vice chair. Their combined record of service as trustees totaled an impressive 27 years. �鶹Porn is deeply indebted to them for the countless hours they volunteered to both lead the board and help the university to advance. We recognized their service that Friday evening and it was my special pleasure to announce that Denis will receive an honorary degree from �鶹Porn at Commencement, 2016. A well deserved honor for a very special person.

The board remains most grateful for your efforts in support of our students. Please contact me at dhurwitz@colgate.edu with any comments, questions or suggestions.

Best regards,
Daniel B. Hurwitz ’86, P’17
Chair, �鶹Porn Board of Trustees

Dear �鶹Porn colleagues and friends,

Members of the Board of Trustees met on campus April 9-11, 2015, and participated in a series of informative sessions and events. Our time on campus coincided with Entrepreneur Weekend, as well as separate meetings of the Alumni Council and the Steering Committee of the Society of Families. The board interacted with many faculty, staff, students, alumni, and parents in different settings, and it is a pleasure to provide this summary of the activities, discussions, and outcomes of our sessions.

On Thursday evening, April 9, we joined many faculty and friends at the �鶹Porn Inn to honor Karen Harpp, associate professor of geology and peace and conflict studies, who received the Jerome Balmuth Award for Teaching for 2015. This award, funded by Mark S. Siegel ’73, to honor Jerome “Jerry” Balmuth, Harry Emerson Fosdick Professor of philosophy and religion emeritus, recognizes the transformative teaching of our faculty. The event, hosted by Provost and Dean of the Faculty Douglas Hicks, provided a wonderful setting for trustees and faculty to connect, and it was delightful to see such a large group of Karen’s students and alumni present. Professor Harpp is an inspirational teacher and accomplished scholar, and she has used technology in creative ways to foster a truly exceptional learning environment.

On Friday, April 10, the Audit Committee met at 7:00 a.m. with representatives of KPMG, our university auditors. They reviewed the operational plan for the audit for fiscal year 2014-15. The committee also reviewed the university’s Enterprise Risk Management Plan and recommended that the board review some of the components in greater detail at its June meeting, including efforts to defend against cyber-security threats.

The board met in executive session Friday morning to receive a briefing from Michael Herling ’79, P’08,’10,’12, chair of the presidential search committee. We also met with President Jeffrey Herbst and Interim–president elect Jill Harsin in order to discuss the presidential transition.

We conducted a working lunch session with our presidential search consultants from Spencer Stuart that included a discussion about the Presidential Search Statement recently distributed to the community. The board noted that many campus constituents contributed helpful information and perspectives to guide its production. Please direct questions or suggestions to the committee at pressearch@colgate.edu and submit candidate recommendations to colgatepresident@spencerstuart.com.

Our afternoon sessions included a meeting of the Budget Committee as well as a joint meeting of the Capital Assets and Student Affairs Committees. During those meetings, the board discussed the site recommendation for the new Career Services Center and learned more from Dean Suzy Nelson about the residential life communities that will launch this fall. We also received a summary of the Performing Arts Task Force Report from Padma Kaimal, chair of the performing arts task force, and Dan Bouk and Jeff Bary, members of the performing arts task force. Following those meetings, board members participated in the Academic Ambassadors program, an initiative launched in spring 2014, which connects each trustee with an academic department or program. The basic goals of the program are for trustees to develop an understanding of the nature and substance of the work of the faculty and the issues they face, and for the faculty to learn about the board, as well as provide feedback and observations.

That evening, board members joined the capacity crowd in Cotterell Court for the Entrepreneur Weekend panel conversation and “Shark Tank” with students from the Thought Into Action Entrepreneurship Institute program. The event was hosted by President Jeffrey Herbst and moderated by trustee Dan Rosensweig P’15,’17, chairman and chief executive officer of Chegg. We are also grateful for David Fialkow ’81, P’17, managing director, General Catalyst Partners, and Dan Rosensweig for recruiting the evening’s panelists. The program featured Jessica Alba, founder, The Honest Company; Neil Blumenthal, co-founder and chief executive officer, Warby Parker; Greg Coleman, president, BuzzFeed; MC Hammer, artist and entrepreneur; and Jennifer Hyman, co-founder and chief executive officer, Rent the Runway. The highlight, however, was the star quality of the presentations by the students, who were competing for seed capital for their entrepreneurial endeavors. That very successful event was followed by a reception and the Konosioni charity auction.

On Saturday, April 11, the board conducted its formal meeting. In addition to committee reports, we received an update about the accepted pool of students that will yield the Class of 2019 and an overview of the Thought Into Action Entrepreneurship Institute program. The board reviewed and approved the operating budget for 2015-16 and authorized expenditures for renovations to �鶹Porn Memorial Chapel, James C. �鶹Porn Hall, and the Sanford Fieldhouse. We also approved the development of a schematic design for a new student residence, which will be a cornerstone project for the residential learning communities in the Strategic Plan.

The next board meeting will be in Hamilton June 4-6, 2015. The board remains most grateful for your efforts in support of our students. Please contact me at dfcronin@colgate.edu with any comments, questions, or suggestions.

Best regards from �鶹Porn,

Denis F. Cronin '69, P'09, '10
Chair, �鶹Porn Board of Trustees

Dear �鶹Porn colleagues and friends,

The Board of Trustees met in Hamilton January 24-25, 2015 and I am pleased to share with you highlights from this productive time on campus.

Given President Herbst’s decision not to renew his contract when it ends in June, we revised the format of the meeting to allow for significant time to discuss the presidential transition and search process. Trustees Michael Herling '79, P'08, '10, '12 and Brion Applegate '76 met with a number of faculty and staff to collect insights and suggestions for the search effort. In addition, the board met with Interim President-Elect Jill Harsin to discuss the presidential transition and ways we can sustain the great momentum �鶹Porn has enjoyed in recent years.

As the scope and complexity of our operations have increased, so has the board’s engagement with associated issues and opportunities to support students, faculty and staff, and to properly steward the university’s fiscal and capital resources. As a result, the board voted to modify its by-laws to add an additional vice chair as an officer of the board. Elected to this important role was Dan Hurwitz '86, P'17, joining existing vice chair Rob Kindler '76, P'04, '08, '12.

Senior staff provided very encouraging reports in their areas. Vice President and Dean of Admission Gary Ross '77 reported on solid application and enrollment data and trends for the Class of 2019, and Vice President Murray Decock '80 reported on positive year-end metrics in career services, alumni relations, and fundraising.

The Board also heard a collective update from Vice President and Dean of the College Suzy Nelson, Provost and Dean of the Faculty Doug Hicks, and Associate Provost for Equity and Diversity Lyn Rugg regarding their proactive efforts to build an increasingly inclusive campus. Trustees were pleased with the progress on the �鶹Porn for All initiative and various other campus climate efforts that are underway across the institution.

The Board enjoyed occasions to interact with faculty, staff, and students over the course of the weekend, including a dinner with faculty members involved in some of the projects discussed in the meetings on Saturday.

In official action, the board gave final approval for project costs to build the new Center for Art and Culture (CAC), to be located in the Village of Hamilton. This comes as a result of strong support, hard work, and dedication over four years by many faculty, staff, and trustees. The 17,000-square-foot structure designed by world-leading architect David Adjaye will allow us to show and store our collections from the Picker Art Gallery and the Longyear Museum of Anthropology, which will be a tremendous educational resource for �鶹Porn’s curriculum, and for Hamilton and the surrounding region.

The board also authorized the purchase of property at 22 Utica Street in the village, which will connect to the CAC and will house a community room, CAC offices, and a new café.

Board action also included discussions and approvals for renovations to 100 Broad Street, Curtis Hall, and Drake Hall to prepare for the introduction of �鶹Porn’s first residential learning community this fall.

The board also approved all project costs associated with the construction of a new Career Services building, which will be fully funded by donor contributions. Although the exact location is still to be determined, the building committee is working with architects representing the firm Ayers Saint Gross to review options based on community input and programmatic needs for this important student service.

The board approved the sale of a five-acre parcel of land to Good Nature Farm Brewery & Tap Room, where it will construct new facilities intended to benefit members of the community, the university, the local economy, and tourism.

Finally, the board approved refinancing $43.7 million of outstanding debt to capitalize on current interest rates, which remain very low from a historical perspective. Savings from the transaction are projected to be approximately $6.9 million on a net present-value basis over the next 25 years.

The next board meeting will be held April 10–11, coinciding with both e-weekend and the next Alumni Council meeting. The weekend also will include the Balmuth Teaching Award dinner that recognizes the academic excellence and teaching talents of our faculty and is a highlight for trustees each spring.

The board remains most grateful, especially during this time of transition, for your efforts and the many ways in which you support our students through the liberal arts and creating an inclusive learning environment for all. Please contact me with any comments or questions.

Best regards from �鶹Porn,
Denis F. Cronin '69, P'09, P'10

Dear �鶹Porn Colleagues and Friends,

Members of the Board of Trustees participated in a series of informative sessions and events September 18-20, 2014, the first of four board meetings in 2014-15. This is my 13th report to the �鶹Porn community as board chair, and it is a pleasure to describe the board’s activities and discussions while we were on campus.

I want to begin my report, however, with comments about the campus climate demonstration that began Monday morning, September 22, shortly after our meetings concluded. Although we did not know what was planned at the time, board members gained insights about the issues of concern to many students during our annual open board session on September 20. The open session is held during each fall meeting to provide members of the university community with an opportunity to share perspectives on issues or opportunities for �鶹Porn.

One group of students described serious campus climate issues that were articulated with passion, purpose and promise during the peaceful demonstration organized by the Association of Critical Collegians (ACC). I was personally extremely concerned to learn that a significant segment of our student body has been so adversely affected by the actions of others in our community. As I followed the path of the sit-in, I was proud of the way ACC organized and implemented its call to constructive action. So, too, was I proud of the efforts of President Jeffrey Herbst, Provost and Dean of the Faculty Doug Hicks, and Vice President and Dean of the College Suzy Nelson. Their engagement, compassion, patience, dialogue, and thoughtful responses in the form of a written plan provide the road map to the most inclusive �鶹Porn possible.

I believe this is a historic and transformational moment for our university. The board embraces the value of a liberal arts education on an inclusive campus. The opportunities for academic achievement and personal growth and development should be available to all students. The board’s Student Affairs Committee, chaired by Leroy Cody ’71, will work with the administration as appropriate as steps are taken to implement the action plans that were created with the ACC.

Board members arrived on campus Thursday evening, September 18, and many attended a variety of events, including �鶹Porn’s Living Writers Series, the Peter C. Schaehrer Memorial Lecture, and a session on leadership in the Chapel with Mark Divine ’85, CEO of SEALFIT. Board members also attended a program, reception and dinner associated with the re-opening of the Picker Art Gallery. They joined members of the �鶹Porn community in viewing a wonderful exhibition of photographs by Diane Arbus, and the etchings by Richard Serra, generously on loan from the collections of John Pelosi ’85 and Susan Manly Pelosi ’85, and trustee emeritus Paul J. Schupf ’58.

On Friday, September 19, the following board committees met: Academic and Faculty Affairs, Admission and Financial Aid, Audit, Budget (in the form of a joint meeting with the on-campus Budget and Financial Planning Committee), Hamilton Initiative, and the Office of Advancement. Many of these sessions focused on the steps involved in implementing and funding the goals of the Strategic Plan. We also joined a networking luncheon organized by the Office of Career Services and the Presidents’ Circle, and later in the afternoon, participated in the Academic Ambassadors program, an initiative launched in the spring that connects each trustee with an academic department or program. The basic goals of the program are for trustees to develop an understanding of the nature and substance of the work of the faculty, and the issues they face, and for the faculty to learn about the board as well as provide feedback and observations. Our busy day concluded with a “Speakeasy” dinner led by Yukari Hirata, associate professor of Japanese, and Spencer Kelly, professor of psychology and neuroscience and chair of the psychology department. We dined with a wonderful group of faculty and students and enjoyed a spirited open dialogue facilitated by Spencer about online vs. face-to-face communication and learning.

On Saturday, September 20 the board conducted its formal meeting. President Herbst presented data from the senior class survey, U.S. News and World Report rankings data, and a set of “dashboard indicators” developed to help senior administrators track university progress in a variety of areas. In addition to committee reports, we received updates about the residential learning communities, the New Athletic Facility and the Center for Art and Culture. The board also approved funds to purchase a campus-wide fire alarm reporting system.

The next board meeting will be in Miami Beach January 23-25, 2015. This continues our practice of using the January meeting to connect with constituents in a different part of the country. Our three prior meetings were in Palo Alto, Los Angeles, and New York City.

The board remains most grateful for your efforts in support of our students. Please contact me at dfcronin@colgate.edu with any comments, questions or suggestions.

Best regards,
Denis F. Cronin '69, P'09, P'10

Dear �鶹Porn Colleagues and Friends,

�鶹Porn’s Board of Trustees met on campus June 6-7, 2014, the last of our four meetings for the 2013-14 academic year. It is a pleasure to provide this post-board meeting report to you.

We devoted several hours on Friday to the subject of financial aid, a vital resource for generations of talented students and a cornerstone objective of �鶹Porn’s Strategic Plan, 2014-19: Living the Liberal Arts in our Third Century. The board received an overview of �鶹Porn’s financial aid program from President Herbst, Brian Hutzley, vice president for finance and administration, and Marcelle Tyburski, director of financial aid. The board also received a presentation from Dr. Sandra Baum, research professor of education policy at George Washington University and senior fellow at the Urban Institute. Dr. Baum is a leading expert on financial aid and is well known for her research and understanding of the forms of financial aid programs administered by colleges and universities. She provided a very helpful assessment of the issues and opportunities associated with �鶹Porn’s goal to fund and adopt a need-blind admission policy. In board action on Saturday, we created an Admission and Financial Aid Committee of the board that will be chaired by Lee M. Woodruff ’83, H’07, P’13 to provide oversight of �鶹Porn’s efforts to enroll a vibrant, diverse, and academically talented community of students regardless of financial need.

On Friday the board also received an update about the various building projects underway or envisioned, including construction of the new soccer field, the new athletic facility, the Center for Art and Culture, a new career center, and improvements in our residence halls. �鶹Porn has a wonderful campus and the board is deeply committed to renovating existing facilities, or constructing new ones, that are properly designed, meet current and future program needs, and are appropriately funded.

The board also received an overview of the Endowment Management and Finance Committee’s investment strategy by Chairperson Barry J. Small ’76 and Joseph S. “JS” Hope ’97, who was recently promoted to the position of chief investment officer. �鶹Porn’s endowment performance has been excellent. For the period September 1998 through March 2014, the investment return averaged 8.1% as compared to a 6.4% return for the S&P 500. Over the past decade the endowment has contributed over $285 million to support the university’s faculty, students, and programs. The board also received the final report on the �鶹Porn Identity Project from Barbara Brooks, interim vice president for communications. Many of the data-driven recommendations are guiding the university’s marketing communications plans for prospective students and families, as well as efforts with our other key constituents.

Trustees and senior administrators attended the dedication of the new Hurwitz Admission Center in James B. �鶹Porn Hall. The renovation project has created a wonderful new space for visitors to campus and is equipped with technology and visual aids that confirm that �鶹Porn is indeed “in the middle of everywhere,” as the multimedia presentation states. Two highlights of the program were the remarks by Kori V. Strother ’15 and Daniel B. Hurwitz ’86, P’17, trustee and lead donor to the project.

During our formal business session on Saturday the board acted on several recommendations, including:

Recommendations of the President regarding faculty appointments
Approved revisions to the Bylaws, Conflict of Interest Policies and Disclosure Procedures, Whistleblower Policy, and board committee descriptions to comply with the New York Nonprofit Revitalization Act of 2013
Approved expenditures to purchase 3.6 acres of property in the Adirondacks for use by �鶹Porn’s Outdoor Education Program
Approved the sale of a 0.34 parcel of land in Hamilton, NY, to Fairmount Properties, a real estate development firm from Ohio, which is interested in using the parcel for a proposed housing project.

In addition, the board approved resolutions of appreciation for four trustees whose terms of service ended at the June meeting. The resolutions followed a wonderful dinner on Friday evening that gave us an opportunity to recognize the service of Scott A. Meiklejohn ’77, Mark D. Nozette ’71, Barry J. Small ’76, and Edward M. Werner ’71. All four, each in his own special way, served �鶹Porn in outstanding fashion, and I know we will continue to benefit from their engagement with �鶹Porn in the years ahead.

The board elected four new trustees to three-year terms: Eric A. Cole ’93, New York, NY, a partner at Appaloosa Management LP; Margaret A. Flanagan ’80, Cambridge, MA, who is retired from the law firm of Testa, Hurwitz and Thibeault; Andrew S. Greenfield ’74, P’12, Norwalk, CT, entrepreneur and founder of �鶹Porn’s Thought Into Action Entrepreneurship Institute; and Duncan L. Neiderauer ’81, H’13, Mahwah, NJ, chief executive officer of the New York Stock Exchange.

Looking ahead to the 2014-15 academic year, the board will meet in Hamilton on September 19-20, April 10-11, and June 5-6. In addition we will meet in Miami, Florida, January 24-25 as part of our annual effort to meet alumni, parents, and friends in different parts of the country and develop connections with guidance counselors who are important resources for attracting talented students.

The 2013-14 year was a vibrant one for �鶹Porn, and the many accomplishments are a tribute to the efforts of the talented faculty and staff who are dedicated to providing a high-quality educational experience for our students. We witnessed evidence of your success at Commencement 2014 and throughout Reunion Weekend, when school spirit and alumni engagement were so palpable. The board joins me in thanking each and every one of you.

Please contact me at dfcronin@colgate.edu if you have any questions or suggestions. Best wishes for a wonderful summer.

Best regards,
Denis F. Cronin '69, P'09, P'10

Dear �鶹Porn Colleagues and Friends,

�鶹Porn’s Board of Trustees met on campus March 27-29, 2014 and it is a pleasure to provide this report to you.

On Thursday evening, March 27, we joined many faculty and friends at the �鶹Porn Inn where Douglas Johnson, associate professor of psychology, received the Jerome Balmuth Award for Teaching for 2014. This award, funded by Mark S. Siegel ’73 to honor Jerome “Jerry” Balmuth, Harry Emerson Fosdick professor of philosophy and religion emeritus, is the highest award given to members of our faculty. The dinner provided a wonderful setting for trustees and faculty to connect, and we were inspired by Doug’s remarks. He clearly is committed to excellence in teaching, scholarship and engaging students in the discovery of knowledge.

We devoted four hours on Friday to the subject of implementing �鶹Porn’s Strategic Plan, 2014–2019: Living the Liberal Arts in our Third Century. As I reported in my communication that followed our January meeting, the board approved the plan. At this session President Jeffrey Herbst; Douglas Hicks, provost and dean of the faculty; Brian Hutzley, vice president for finance and administration; Suzy Nelson, vice president and dean of the college; and Gary Ross, vice president and dean of admission, provided the board with the goals of the plan and the appropriate financial model for revenue, debt, and cost controls to generate the financial resources it requires. Our discussion was part of an ongoing process that will continue as the implementation steps are further considered.

We are delighted that elements of the plan related to internationalization are already underway. Over the next several years we will focus our attention on upgrading the residence halls and implementing a Residential Learning Community model. We will also use our success in raising funds for financial aid as a foundation for generating the funds required to meet our need-blind admission policy goal.

Our lunch on Friday was with faculty and students involved in pilot Residential Learning Communities (RLC). We enjoyed meeting 25 students involved in the RLC Annex program at 49 Broad Street, the Open Society, and the inaugural Sophomore Residential Seminar program. We learned about this promising initiative from remarks by Suzy Nelson; David Dudrick, professor of philosophy and director of the SRS program; and Nicole Halper ’15, co-president of the Open Society. It was very evident that the program is off to a strong start. The board also was briefed about the relationship of the RLCs to the “Living the Liberal Arts” theme of the Strategic Plan and the new student residences to be constructed as part of the Campus Master Plan.

On Friday afternoon the board also met with Michael Sciola, associate vice president for the Office of Advancement and director of Career Services; Vera Chapman, associate director for career development; and Teresa Olsen, director of operations and strategic planning. We received an update about their initiatives and strategic goals and learned about plans that are emerging for a new Center for Career Services building, which is needed to accommodate the high levels of student use at every grade level. The university is fortunate that a generous trustee has made a lead gift commitment to launch a fundraising effort that may be completed as soon as this summer.

A highlight of the weekend was the launch of an Academic Ambassadors program that connects each trustee with an . The program will enable trustees to develop an understanding of the nature and substance of the work of the faculty, and the issues they face, and for the faculty to learn about the board and provide feedback and observations. The conversations were lively, informative, and provided a wonderful foundation for continued dialogue. They were held in settings across the campus and continued into the evening at a Faculty Tunk in Merrill House. A number of trustees, faculty, and staff took periodic breaks during the Tunk to watch the men’s ice hockey NCAA playoff game against Ferris State. Although we lost in a close contest, we were proud of the achievements of the team and Don Vaughan’s recognition as for 2013–2014.

During the board’s formal business session on Saturday morning, we reviewed and approved the budget for fiscal year 2014–2015. The board also approved recommendations for faculty appointments as well as salary recommendations for 2014–2015. We reviewed and approved funds in support of three building projects that are core elements of the Strategic Plan: the remaining work for the Hurwitz Admission Center, the next phase of architectural design work for the Center for Art and Culture by David Adjaye and Associates, and the renovation of McGregory Hall that will include the construction of our new Center for International Programs. We also heard reports from trustees about the conversations they had with faculty during the Academic Ambassadors program.

The board remains most grateful for your efforts in support of our students. Please contact me at dfcronin@colgate.edu with any comments, questions or suggestions.

Best regards,
Denis F. Cronin '69, P'09, P'10

Dear �鶹Porn Colleagues and Friends,

The Board of Trustees met in New York City January 24-25, 2014 for meetings that were very productive thanks to the efforts of so many in the campus community who participated in the strategic planning process. The board approved �鶹Porn’s Strategic Plan, 2014-2019: Living the Liberal Arts in our Third Century, and it is a pleasure to provide this report summarizing that decision and other actions taken.

The Museum of Modern Art provided a wonderful setting for our first gathering, allowing us to reconnect with a number of trustees emeriti and alumni. We are grateful to Lisa Millman ’96, the museum’s director of development, for her assistance. President Herbst provided guests with an important overview of the Strategic Plan, a document that, as many of you know, can be referenced along with associated materials on the �鶹Porn website. This event connected well to the Plan’s goals of raising funds for a new Center for Art and Culture and forming a task force to develop a concept for new performing arts facilities.

As referenced in my reports over the last two years, throughout the strategic planning process the board received regular updates so we understood the range of ideas and considerations behind the Plan’s focus on four key strategies: A Need-Blind Admission Policy, A Dynamic Curriculum, A Residential Liberal Arts Education, and A Campus for �鶹Porn’s Third Century. In advance of our meeting in New York City the board was invited to provide feedback about the final draft that the faculty endorsed at its November 4, 2013 meeting.

At our meetings we thanked and congratulated President Herbst, members of the President’s Staff, Advisory and Planning Committee and Campus Master Plan Committee who were with us for identifying the opportunities and challenges facing �鶹Porn and liberal arts colleges, and for the focus on the four “big ideas” described above to advance �鶹Porn over the next five years. We devoted a significant amount of time discussing the Campus Master Plan report that was presented by Sasaki and Associates, proposed residential life communities, and the curriculum. The board requested that President Herbst take the next steps to consider the construction of a new dormitory on the hill, improvements in vehicular and pedestrian traffic, and a hydrology plan for Taylor Lake and Payne Creek.

The largest amount of time was spent on the issue of a need-blind admission policy. The concept of moving towards a need-blind admission policy was approved, but the details of that policy will require further discussion. It is clear the Plan’s goals are ambitious, and will require appropriate budget discipline as well as success in fundraising. Decisions for action on specific implementation steps will be made at future meetings as progress is made in these areas. No declaration of the adoption of a need-blind admission policy will be made until the administration and the board are satisfied that all of the necessary conditions for that policy have been met.

We move forward with a sense of purpose and enthusiasm because �鶹Porn has long demonstrated its ability to not just meet but surpass ambitious goals, including the $480 million “Passion for the Climb” campaign and the more recent December 13, 2013 “�鶹Porn Day” challenge.

The Audit and Budget Committees also met separately and each took important steps to ensure that we continue our discipline of strong fiscal management. The Audit Committee interviewed three finalists to conduct the university’s annual audit and selected KPMG as our new auditor. The Budget Committee did not take any formal action, but did review information provided by the administration about the status of the 2014-2015 budget process and a five-year budget forecast. Other board actions included the approval of a new soccer field so that the New Athletic Facility can be built on Van Doren Field, a plan to renovate the third floor of McGregory Hall and funds to install energy-efficient windows in James B. �鶹Porn Hall.

The board unanimously approved a resolution granting promotion to associate professor and continuing tenure to seven members of the faculty and promotion to full professor for five colleagues. Both President Herbst and Provost Hicks noted that these cases were the first to be considered under the new process for promotion and tenure approved by the faculty last spring. The board also approved two resolutions that will allow �鶹Porn to offer retirement incentives to eligible faculty. Provost Hicks will provide more detail on the programs at the next faculty meeting.

The next board meeting will be held in Hamilton March 27-29, 2014 and will include a number of important meetings and events. We look forward to attending the annual Balmuth Teaching Award dinner and will launch an “Academic Ambassadors Program,” whereby each trustee will be linked with an academic department or program area to gain a better understanding of our academic programs. We will also receive the first of regular reports about the progress of the Strategic Plan.

The board remains most grateful for your efforts in support of our students as we move forward with an exciting Strategic Plan with a timeline that will bring us to a signature moment in �鶹Porn’s history, our bicentennial celebration in 2019.

Please contact me at dfcronin@colgate.edu with any comments, questions or suggestions.

Best regards,

Denis F. Cronin ’69 P’09, P’10
Chair, �鶹Porn Board of Trustees

Dear �鶹Porn Colleagues and Friends,

Members of the Board of Trustees participated in a series of informative sessions and events October 3–5, 2013, the first of four board meetings in 2013–14. I write to provide information about our activities and discussions with members of the faculty, staff, and students.

On Thursday evening, October 3, many trustees attended a dinner at Merrill House in conjunction with �鶹Porn’s Living Writers Series. They joined professors and students who had attended the event with acclaimed novelist and essayist Zadie Smith. Other trustees attended the Peter C. Schaehrer Memorial Lecture where Erica Chenoweth, assistant professor at the University of Denver’s Josef Korbel School of International Studies, spoke on the topic, “Why Civil Resistance Works: Unarmed Struggle in the Past and Future.” Both events were informative and provided a good forum for trustees to experience the vibrant nature of campus events.

On Friday, October 4, the following board committees met: Academic and Faculty Affairs; Audit; Budget, in the form of a joint meeting with the on-campus Budget Committee; Capital Assets; Office of Advancement; and Student Affairs. Many of these sessions focused on aspects of the strategic planning process including the Teaching and Learning Working Group report and the Campus Master Plan. A highlight of the day was a luncheon with four international students who provided enthusiastic and insightful perspectives about their �鶹Porn experiences. Board members also attended the inaugural event for the Lampert Institute for Global and Civic Affairs, which featured a lecture by former U.S. Food and Drug Administration head, David A. Kessler, MD. We were delighted to be joined by Edgar A. Lampert ’62, and his wife Robin, who have provided leadership funding of the Institute.

Friday evening’s dinner deserves special reference. The board dined with more than 30 members of the faculty and a program titled “Global Perspectives at �鶹Porn” formed the basis for several presentations and discussions throughout the evening. Provost and Dean of the Faculty Doug Hicks also introduced new members of the faculty who briefly described their fields of study and the reasons they came to �鶹Porn. Following dinner we heard wonderful presentations about study groups and approved programs abroad, language study, and faculty and student research. The meal and conversations confirmed the value of strong trustee and faculty connections and the importance of reinvigorating a project that was piloted several years ago whereby each trustee was connected to an academic department. The purpose and value of this program, which will begin in the spring 2014 semester, is to provide trustees with a better understanding of the important work of the faculty and the issues and opportunities they face.

On Saturday, October 5, the board conducted its formal meeting, devoting the majority of time to discussion of the preliminary draft of the Strategic Plan. The board has received updates throughout the planning process and appreciates the efforts of so many in the campus community to develop a plan that will provide the strategic direction for �鶹Porn in the years ahead. President Herbst was joined by faculty and staff members of the Advisory and Planning Committee (APC) and trustees contributed their insights and comments about the plan. President Herbst also presented data from the senior class survey and U.S. News and World Report rankings data, as well as a set of “dashboard indicators” developed to track university progress in a variety of areas. The board actions included the approval of the New Athletic Facility and the approval of a resolution for the renovation of the admission lobby in James B. �鶹Porn Hall. The board also approved the 2013 Student Organization Relationship Statement that provides clarity about the structures and forms of support for all student organizations in the context of the goals of “Living the Liberal Arts.” The board also held its annual open session, which provides an opportunity for members of the university community to share perspectives and/or make requests to the board.

At the next meeting, which will be held in New York City January 23–25, 2014, the board will consider for approval the Strategic Plan, which will be further refined by the APC after incorporating the feedback that members of the campus community will provide in the coming months. As the two-year planning process comes to a close, the board looks forward to working with President Herbst and members of the �鶹Porn community to adopt and implement the Strategic Plan in order to achieve its appropriately ambitious objectives.

The board remains most grateful for your efforts in support of our students. Please contact me at dfcronin@colgate.edu with any comments, questions or suggestions.

Best regards,

Denis F. Cronin ’69 P’09, P’10
Chair, �鶹Porn Board of Trustees

Dear �鶹Porn Colleagues and Friends,

�鶹Porn’s Board of Trustees met on campus June 7-8, 2013, the last of our four meetings for the 2012-13 fiscal year. It is a pleasure to provide this post-board meeting report to you.

Our sessions on Friday, June 7th were structured as updates and, with 34 of the 35 trustees present for our meetings, there was strong and very positive board engagement with the faculty and staff who presented or participated. The Office of Advancement Committee conducted the first session that focused on our ongoing institutional identity project. We met with Mark Edwards, Chairman and Founder, and Maria Kadision, President and CEO, of Edwards and Co., the leaders of the firm hired to support the initiative. Edwards and Co. works exclusively with colleges, universities and independent schools to develop institutional identity strategies for marketing and communications. We were joined by Kim Reid, Vice President of Maguire and Associates, a firm that is conducting market research related to the project. The initiative is being coordinated by a 28 person campus committee, and the product of the initiative will be to sharpen our communications in the years to come. Another update on this effort will be given at the October 2013 board meeting.

The Capital Assets Committee met with Ricardo Dumont, Principal, and Gregory Janks, Principal, from Sasaki and Associates, who presented a preliminary draft of the Campus Master Plan. They were joined by three faculty members of the Campus Master Plan Committee: Bob McVaugh, Professor and Chair of Art and Art History, Dan Monk, George R. and Myra T. Cooley Professor of Peace and Conflict Studies and Professor of Geography, and Bruce Selleck, Harold Orville Whitnall Professor of Geology and former Provost and Dean of the Faculty. Our session was similar to ones you may have attended, and board members were invited to ask questions or make observations about the various ideas being considered. The Sasaki team has compiled a significant amount of data and the board looks forward to reviewing a final version of the Campus Master Plan at its October 2013 meeting.

The Academic and Faculty Affairs Committee session connected board members with faculty who illustrated the various ways technology is being used in teaching today at �鶹Porn. We received an overview from Doug Hicks, Provost and Dean of the Faculty, and brief presentations from six members of the faculty: Tom Balonek, Professor of Physics and Astronomy (Video Narratives), Karen Harpp, Associate Professor of Geology (Variety of Mapping Applications), Robert Garland, Roy D. and Margaret B. Wooster Professor of the Classics (VisLab & Murder on the Ides), Doug Johnson, Associate Professor of Psychology (Using Clickers to Engage Students in the Classroom), Jacob Mundy, Assistant Professor of Peace and Conflict Studies (Virtual Debates Using Adobe Connect), and Aisha Musa, Assistant Professor of Religion and Middle Eastern Studies and Islamic Civilization (Wikipedia Student Authoring). We benefited from the support of the Information Technology staff, including Kevin Lynch, Chief Information Officer, and Ray Nardelli, Manager, Digital Media and Interim Director of Academic Technologies, and were introduced to the members of the Collaboration for Enhanced Learning group. This session provided very useful insights as the board looks ahead to its October 2013 meeting that will include a report from the “Learning and Teaching” Working Group as part of the Strategic Plan.

Our last session on Friday was an informal conversation about the Class of 2017 that will enroll in August. The board congratulated Gary Ross, Vice President and Dean of Admission, and his staff for their efforts that yielded the strongest academic class, and the most diverse, in �鶹Porn’s history. We discussed the steps being taken to support the growing number of students enrolling from states across the country and our preparedness if the trend in attracting and enrolling increasing numbers of international students continues.

During our formal business session the board acted on several recommendations, including:

Recommendations of the President Regarding Faculty Appointments
Authorization to amend the �鶹Porn Investment Policy Statement
Approved expenditures to renovate James B. �鶹Porn Hall to create the Admission Welcome Center, contingent upon successfully securing gift funding for the full project cost
Approved expenditures to install new fume hood monitors and alarms
Approved expenditures to purchase 59.18 acres of land near the �鶹Porn campus.

In addition, the board approved resolutions of appreciation for four trustees whose terms of service ended at the June meeting. The resolutions followed a wonderful dinner on Friday evening that gave us an opportunity to recognize the service of Emily H. Bradley ’10, Eric A. Cole ’93, Mark G. Falcone ’85 and John C. Shaw ’76. All four, each in their own special way, served �鶹Porn in outstanding fashion and I know we will continue to benefit from their engagement with �鶹Porn in the years ahead.

That evening we also recognized the outstanding years of service and effort by David B. Hale ’84. Dave’s 20 years of employment at �鶹Porn included 12 years of service as Treasurer. The board joins the campus community in congratulating Dave, his wife Ingrid and their family for all that they have done to enhance the quality of �鶹Porn and the Hamilton community. We extend our very best wishes as they transition to Richmond, Virginia.

The board also elected four new trustees to three-year terms: Kathleen A. Dill ’89, New York, NY, Vice President, CIB Business & Executive Communications Group, J.P. Morgan; Christine Cronin Gallagher ’83, New York, NY, Managing Director, SunTrust Robinson Humphrey; Daniel L. Rosensweig P’15, P’17, Woodside, CA, Chief Executive Officer, Chegg Inc., and Safwan B. Shabab ’10, Chicago, IL, Associate, Cressey and Company.

Looking ahead to the 2013-14 fiscal year, the board will meet in Hamilton October 4-5, 2013, March 28-29, 2014 and June 6-7, 2014. In addition, we will meet January 24-25, 2014 in either New York or Miami.

As we near the end of a busy and productive 2012-13 I want to express my gratitude to each of you for your efforts in support of our students. Your commitment to their well-being was evident at Commencement 2013 when I visited with graduates and their families and heard them express appreciation for their academic, residential and extracurricular experiences. The many successes of this past year, when coupled with the thoughtful and creative ideas emerging from the working groups of the strategic planning process that will be completed this fall, form a wonderful foundation for �鶹Porn’s future success. Your continued commitment will be critical as we face the challenges of a complex, dynamic and competitive world and my fellow board members join me in looking forward to working with you in the year ahead.

Please contact me at dfcronin@colgate.edu if you have any questions or suggestions.

Best regards,

Denis F. Cronin ’69 P’09, P’10
Chair, �鶹Porn Board of Trustees

Dear �鶹Porn Colleagues and Friends,

I am delighted to share with you my report on the spring Board of Trustees meeting and participation in university events. Board members were on campus April 4-6 and enjoyed multiple opportunities to experience the energy and commitment of inspiring faculty, dedicated staff, and talented students. We also gained insights and perspectives from two wonderful outside speakers while also connecting with alumni and parents engaged in the Entrepreneur Weekend.

On Thursday evening, April 4th, we joined many faculty and friends at the �鶹Porn Inn to see Margaret Maurer, William Henry Crawshaw Professor of Literature, receive the Jerome Balmuth Award for Teaching for 2013. This award, funded by Mark S. Siegel ’73 in honor of Professor Emeritus Jerome “Jerry” Balmuth, recognizes the excellence of our faculty. Margaret’s remarks displayed the talent, grace, humor and commitment that has led to her high esteem and endeared her to so many during her �鶹Porn career. It was especially gratifying to see many of her former students join in the celebration.

Friday morning’s schedule began with a meeting of the Audit Committee which included representatives from PricewaterhouseCoopers, who reviewed plans for conducting �鶹Porn’s annual fiscal audit, discussed ideas for the development of document retention and destruction policies, and reviewed the administration’s report on enterprise risk management issues. That meeting was followed by a presentation by Brian Lemanski ’14 describing a joint project with fellow student Srikar Gullapalli ’13 on religiousness and pollution in the Ganges River in India, completed with support from �鶹Porn and the National Geographic Society. Srikar, one of two �鶹Porn students who earned a prestigious Watson Fellowship this year, was in San Francisco for a conference. It was an impressive demonstration of the scope and quality of our students’ academic interests and the support they receive from �鶹Porn’s faculty and administration.

Board members attended the Academic and Faculty Affairs Committee and Student Affairs Committee meetings that reviewed the current drafts of two strategic plan working group reports. Associate Professor of Religion Eliza Kent and Associate Professor of Economics Nicole Simpson provided insights about the “International and Global Initiatives” working group. Associate Professor of Religion and Jewish Studies and Director of Jewish Studies Lesleigh Cushing and Associate Professor of Psychology Spencer Kelly summarized the efforts to date of the “Living the Liberal Arts” working group. The board was not asked to act on the initiatives but members affirmed the strategic direction emerging from both reports. These reports, together with the reports to be received by the board in June on “Teaching and Technology” and “Campus Master Planning” and the reports previously received on “Academic Excellence,” “Athletics,” and “Rightsizing,” will be considered as a whole by the board in June, over the summer and at the October board meeting.

The Capital Assets Committee met to review the current architectural plans for the proposed Center for Art and Culture. No formal action was required but board members endorsed the design ideas that were presented and the university will continue to take the necessary steps, including important work with the Village of Hamilton, to make this project a reality. The committee also reviewed plans for summer renovations in the Frank Dining Hall, Lawrence Hall and the Keck Center. The committee’s recommendations to authorize funds to support those projects, as well as the repair of a major campus steam line, were approved by the full board on Saturday.

Sheryl Sandberg, COO of Facebook, Inc., visited with the board on Friday in advance of her public address in Cotterell Court. Our conversation focused on women in the workplace and on how the use of advancing technologies and social media continue to be of interest and importance to �鶹Porn. That evening board members enjoyed dinner and casual conversation in four faculty homes. We are grateful for the hospitality of Scott and Ellen Kraly, Antonio and Pilar Barrera, Carolyn Hsu and Christopher Henke, and Brendt and Nicole Simpson. They all provided great food and convivial settings for trustees and faculty members to get to know each other and to discuss campus issues.

The board meeting on Saturday, April 6th, began in a special way. Trustee Jim Smith ’70 arranged for the Sojourner’s, �鶹Porn’s Gospel Choir, to open the meeting with an inspirational song performed as the opening prayer. A member of the group, Rebekka Ward ’13, was also recognized as a new Watson Fellow.

During our formal business session, the board reviewed and approved the budget for fiscal year 2013-14 and approved the expenditures for capital projects referenced earlier. It also received brief reports from the various board committees and an update on admission results. We also laid out topics to be discussed at our next board meeting on June 7-8 in Hamilton.

Following the meeting several board members attended the programs associated with the Entrepreneurial Weekend, including a luncheon with the keynote speaker, Hamdi Ulukaya, the founder and chief executive officer of Chobani, Inc. Mr. Ulukaya was an excellent speaker, and his yogurt company now employs approximately 1500 people in the region. �鶹Porn will present him with an honorary degree at Commencement 2013.

In addition to �鶹Porn’s always lively atmosphere, the weeks leading up to our next meeting will attract hundreds of visitors to campus to attend such major events as the Global Leaders Lecture Series (April 13), Commencement (May 19) and Reunion 2013 (May 31-June 3). On behalf of the board, I express enthusiastic thanks for all of the efforts of every member of the �鶹Porn community who manage such events. But even more importantly, we thank you for everything you do to support our students and our academic mission throughout the year.

Please contact me at dfcronin@colgate.edu if you have any questions, comments or concerns. Thank you. Best wishes from �鶹Porn.

Best regards,

Denis F. Cronin ’69 P’09, P’10
Chair, �鶹Porn Board of Trustees

Dear �鶹Porn Colleagues and Friends,

The Board of Trustees met in Los Angeles, California, January 31- February 2, 2013 and, like our winter 2012 meeting in Palo Alto, California, we had a very informative and productive session. California is home to increasing numbers of alumni and is about to become the second largest feeder state of students to �鶹Porn (after New York). The conversations and presentations we enjoyed underscored the value of meeting there. We were joined by faculty and staff who were important partners in conversations about the challenges and opportunities facing �鶹Porn.

Our opening session Thursday evening featured Michael Lynton, chief executive officer, Sony Corporation of America and Sony Entertainment, Inc. A Harvard College graduate in history and literature with an MBA from Harvard Business School, Mr. Lynton stressed the value of a liberal arts education. He also described how a rapidly changing world will require our graduates to possess knowledge, skills, and the proper tolerance for risk taking in an increasingly uncertain, complex, and technologically driven society.

On Friday morning, we heard from Patricia Gándara, professor of education in the Graduate School of Education and Information Sciences at UCLA. Dr. Gándara has been recognized internationally for her knowledge of the Latino population within the United States through her study of demographic data and leadership in programs that support access and educational opportunities for Latinos. She provided insights about steps �鶹Porn can continue to take as it seeks to further attract and support a more diverse community of students, faculty, and staff.

Chris Silbermann, founding partner, ICM Partners, served as our luncheon speaker on Friday. He traced his career from the mail room to his leadership of one of the top talent and literary agencies in the fields of television, motion pictures, publishing, music, theater, corporate marketing, and the new media. Mr. Silbermann, a trustee of the University of California Berkeley Foundation, provided helpful insights about the entertainment business and set the stage for our afternoon session, a panel discussion with four recent �鶹Porn graduates. Organized by Michael Sciola, associate vice president and director of career services, the session was titled “Living the Liberal Arts in L.A.” The diverse backgrounds of the panelists reaffirmed the special nature of our �鶹Porn community and their gratitude for their �鶹Porn education.

Some might assume that a winter meeting in a city enjoying great weather would be structured with plentiful free time, but that was not the case. We continued in session for most of Friday afternoon, including a board conversation with members of the President’s Staff on the subject of the long-term viability of the financial model of private liberal arts colleges. We had a healthy, informal dialogue about a very complex subject. The session was not intended to make any decisions; yet the economic climate and public discourse about the cost of higher education will keep this as an important and continuing topic for us to consider over the long term.

Friday evening featured one of the best �鶹Porn events I have ever attended. The board benefited from a unique opportunity to host a reception and dinner at the Getty Center, courtesy of the invitation and support by Mark Siegel ’73, who serves as chair of the board of the J. Paul Getty Trust. The setting was magnificent, and Mark gave us the opportunity to exclusively view the museum’s remarkable exhibits, most notably “Florence at the Dawn of the Renaissance,” featuring the most works by Giotto on wood ever to be displayed outside of Italy. Approximately 160 alumni, parents, and friends attended. There was also a group of guidance counselors from area high schools, whose knowledge and understanding of �鶹Porn and its people are very important as we seek to attract the best students from the greater Los Angeles area. The setting facilitated a very important conversation about the arts at �鶹Porn, one especially timely given emerging plans for a proposed Center for Art and Culture at �鶹Porn.

On Saturday, February 2, the board conducted its formal meeting, and several very significant building projects were reviewed with the following approvals of expenditures:

A renovation to the 2nd floor of McGregory Hall, projected to be completed this summer.
A renovation of the university’s heating plant, which will stretch from summer 2013 through the summer of 2014. Of course, campus steam generation powered by the heating plant will not be interrupted during this time period and when complete, natural gas will replace oil as the plant’s secondary fuel source used in conjunction with the primary source of wood-chip boilers.
The purchase of the Chenango Nursery School property and associated expenditures to renovate and expand the building. The property will be leased back to the Chenango Nursery School organization so that the number of community children cared for by CNS may be increased.

In a related action, the board approved the issuance of borrowing and debt financing to provide a source of funds for these and future building projects during a period of historically low interest rates.

Notably, the board discussed at length a set of recommendations advanced by President Herbst regarding plans for a new athletic facility that would replace our 53-year-old Starr Rink and provide important new space for our men’s and women’s ice hockey, lacrosse, and soccer programs. The board reviewed three alternative plans, their respective programmatic benefits, and the associated construction and operating costs of each option. The board also recognized the generosity of donors, whose commitments totaling over $20 million provided a strong base of funding. A decision was made to proceed with the development of plans for construction when the fundraising goal of $25 million is reached. The board also endorsed the administration’s plan to construct the facility at a cost not to exceed $37.8 million, as well as the plan to reduce the impact of construction and operating costs by generating additional sources of revenue and charitable gift support.

As we closed our session, I reminded the board that our next two meetings, April 5-6 and June 7-8, would focus on the remaining elements of the strategic planning process and how they address the academic and pedagogical challenges and opportunities �鶹Porn faces now and in the foreseeable future.

Thank you for your efforts in support of our students, and please contact me at dfcronin@colgate.edu if you have any questions or suggestions.

Best regards,

Denis F. Cronin ’69 P’09, P’10
Chair, �鶹Porn Board of Trustees

Dear �鶹Porn Colleagues and Friends,

The vibrant energy of the campus community was very apparent throughout the time members of the Board of Trustees were on campus October 11-13, 2012. We met with students and faculty in a variety of settings and received important updates about the operations of the university. This was our first of four meetings scheduled for the 2012-13 academic year and it is a pleasure to provide a report about our session.

Many board members were able to arrive in time either to meet Ms. Azar Nafisi, author of Reading Lolita in Tehran and lecturer in �鶹Porn’s Living Writers program, or Dr. Joy Gordon, author of Invisible War: The United States and the Iraq Sanctions, who delivered the annual Peter C. Schaehrer Memorial Lecture. One group of trustees dined with Dr. Gordon, students and faculty in Merrill House and another group of trustees, students and faculty were hosted by Doug Hicks, Provost and Dean of the Faculty, and his wife Catherine Bagwell, Professor of Psychology, for a dinner with Ms. Nafisi in their home.

On Friday, October 12, the following board committees met: Budget, in the form of a joint meeting with the on-campus Budget Committee; Audit; Office of Advancement; Capital Assets; and Academic and Faculty Affairs. In each session the board received a brief status report about programs or projects that are in process. Among the topics covered in these sessions were: 1) the academic and intellectual issues and opportunities in �鶹Porn’s strategic planning process, 2) the fiscal considerations of the university as it begins the process of preparing the 2013-14 budget, 3) the timetable that will be followed for a project that will serve as a foundation for future institutional identity efforts, and 4) an overview of considerations for the proposed Center for Arts and Culture, including a presentation by David Adjaye, Architect and Principal Director of Adjaye Associates. I want to make special mention of the Audit Committee meeting, which included a review of �鶹Porn’s financial statements for the 2011-12 fiscal year. Our auditors complimented �鶹Porn’s financial management processes and it is a tribute to the staff involved in our financial reporting and accounting operations that �鶹Porn received such a clean audit report from the university’s external auditors, PricewaterhouseCoopers.

Friday’s schedule also included the opportunity to participate in the dedication of the Shaw Wellness Center located in the Cutten Complex. The board followed that event with a luncheon with students organized by the Presidents’ Circle. There was a large contingent of alumni who participated in the lunch and other sessions that were structured to assist students with their career plans. Following our afternoon committee meetings the board received a wonderful presentation about the very exciting capabilities of the Anita Grover MD ’74 and Tom Hargrove P’14 Digital Learning and Media Center located in Case Library and Geyer Center for Information Technology. That evening we dined with a broad cross-section of students who were queried about how to make the �鶹Porn experience a better one.

On Saturday, October 13, the board conducted its formal meeting and received an overview of a variety of data from the senior class survey, U.S. News and World Report rankings and a set of “dashboard indicators” developed to track university progress in a variety of areas. The board very much valued the reports provided by Doug Hicks and Suzy Nelson, vice president and dean of the college, as newcomers to the �鶹Porn community and to the strategic planning process.

The Committees on Athletic Affairs, Endowment Management and Finance, Hamilton Initiative, Legal Affairs and Insurance, Nominating and Trustee Development, and Student Affairs also provided reports about their efforts and/or plans for the year ahead. We also held our annual open session at which members of the university community are invited to share perspectives with, and often make requests to, the board. We heard from two groups: the student leadership of the Blue Diamond Society and a leader from the local organization, MAD Art, Inc. The board actions included approval of academic personnel appointments, approval to purchase property on Route 12B south of the campus, a resolution of appreciation for Ralph F. Verni ’64, who served as a member of, and advisor to, the Endowment Management and Finance Committee for nearly 18 years, and approval of the consolidation of governing documents for �鶹Porn’s retirement pension plan. There were no changes to the pension plan; this was simply an action to allow for more efficient oversight of the plan.

The next board meeting will be held in Los Angeles, California January 31-February 2, 2013. As �鶹Porn continues its efforts to attract students from distant locations and diverse backgrounds, we will use this session to better understand demographic trends, connect them to the institutional identity project, and will also host a dinner at The Getty Center. Last year’s winter meeting in Palo Alto, California was very successful and we look forward to a productive session in Los Angeles as well.

On November 5th Rob Kindler ’76, board vice chair, Dan Benton ’80, chair of the board’s Academic and Faculty Affairs Committee and Jung Pak ’96, committee vice chair, will join me for a discussion with the �鶹Porn faculty at a faculty forum. Dan and I met with the faculty last November and look forward to this additional opportunity for further dialogue with them.

The board remains most grateful for your efforts in support of our students. Please contact me at dfcronin@colgate.edu with any comments, questions or suggestions.

Best regards,

Denis F. Cronin ’69 P’09, P’10
Chair, �鶹Porn Board of Trustees

Dear �鶹Porn Faculty, Staff, and Students,

I write to share an update to the campus from the �鶹Porn Board of Trustees meetings that took place Thursday, January 25 through Saturday, January 27, 2024.

Members of the board, together with senior administrators and faculty members, engaged in meaningful discussions about some of the most pressing issues about higher education that have been much in the nation's consciousness for several months: free speech and discourse, campus policies, and the potential impact of artificial intelligence on college and universities. I’d like to thank the faculty members who joined and significantly enriched our discussions.

One of the key outcomes of our discussions, with respect to the first topic, was that the trustees and the faculty members saw the continued strength of our Statement on Academic Freedom and Freedom of Expression, and the trustees called upon the administration and faculty to consider meaningful ways to make this statement both more known on the campus and a resource to all as we seek to continue our commitment to free academic inquiry and the needs of our community.

Friday evening, President Casey hosted a panel on artificial intelligence, technology, and the liberal arts at The Times Center. of that event.

The board heard about the considerable progress on the Third-Century Plan and the Campaign for the Third Century that included updates on continued planning for the Lower Campus Initiative, village housing, campus improvements, and the extension of the �鶹Porn Commitment. Of particular note, the trustees were updated about the progress on the two new academic centers that will be open later this year.

In addition to the progress on the Third-Century Plan, President Casey shared that �鶹Porn received more than 20,000 applications for the Class of 2027. This year’s applicant pool continues �鶹Porn’s trend of attracting some of the most academically talented students.

Trustees were also pleased to hear that year-end fundraising has produced record-breaking results for the University. The total amount raised in the campaign to date is $565,534,902. Since July 1, 2023, the University has received over $50 million in new gifts and commitments. The year-end challenge strengthened the �鶹Porn Fund.

The board discussed the AY24-25 budget, and the administration is on track to present the final recommendations for the budget at the May meeting of the Board. Senior Vice President J.S. Hope offered the very good news that Standard & Poor’s (S&P) affirmed �鶹Porn’s AA rating in its annual review of the institution’s financial health.

Specific actions of the board were taken in the formal session, which included recognizing new gifts to the endowment. Among the highlights of new gifts were the following donations to �鶹Porn:

$25,000,000 bequest intention from an anonymous donor for endowed financial aid support for first-generation students;
$4,000,000 from J. Christopher Clifford ’67, H’11, P’93 and Caroline M Clifford ’93 for numerous elements of the Third-Century Plan;
$2,500,000 from Eric J. Andersen ’87 and Pamela S. Andersen ’88, P’16, ’22, ’23 for the athletics capital plan for football;
$1,000,000 from Toby Bozzuto ’96 and Robin Bozzuto to establish the Toby and Robin Bozzuto Scholarship Fund in support of the �鶹Porn Commitment;
$1,000,000 undesignated bequest intention from James P. Digan ’87;
$1,000,000 from an anonymous donor for endowed financial aid in support of the �鶹Porn Commitment; and
$1,000,000 from an anonymous donor for endowed financial aid in support of the �鶹Porn Commitment.

The board expressed great interest in how �鶹Porn is communicating progress on Third-Century Plan initiatives to regional and national communities as well as to campus constituents and alumni. With two major academic buildings opening this year, we need to ensure that we are not shy about our leadership position in higher education.

The trustees wished to express their gratitude to all members of the �鶹Porn community for their continued work in service of the University’s academic mission and for all the progress made to meet the ambitions of the Third-Century Plan.

Best regards,

Michael J. Herling ’79, P’08,’09,’12
Chair, �鶹Porn Board of Trustees