Kent State Trustees OK Strategic, Spending Plans
KENT, Ohio – Kent State University’s Board of Trustees voted Tuesday to endorse a six-year capital spending plan and the university’s “Strategic Roadmap for a Distinctive Kent State.”
In alignment with the roadmap, the board approved a six-year state capital-spending plan that focuses on academic program requirements, upgrades campus infrastructure and addresses the backlog of deferred maintenance.
Some of the 26 projects in the capital plan include:
- Improving and maintaining the Kent State University Airport.
- Replacing 60% of campus fire alarm systems.
- Replacing the roof on the Liquid Crystal Institute.
- Rehabilitating the greenhouse attached to Cunningham Hall.
- Upgrading HVAC systems.
- Modifying areas to meet Americans with Disabilities Act standards.
The roadmap includes five major priorities and 16 initiatives that will promote innovation and learning, advance academic and research excellence, drive regional and global impact and strengthen organizational stewardship, the university says. Among them:
- Students First. Provide an inclusive and engaged living and learning environment where all students thrive and graduate as informed citizens committed to a life of impact.
- A Distinctive Kent State. Drive innovation, idea generation and national distinction through top-tier academic and research programs including the recruitment and support of talented faculty and staff.
- Globally Competitive. Advance Kent State’s impact and reach as an international university.
- Regional Impact. Serve as the innovative engine and engaged partner to meet community needs and enhance quality of life in the region and state.
- Organizational Stewardship. Ensure a culture of continuous improvement and the efficient stewardship of university resources and infrastructure.
Board members also shared their appreciation and praise for Kent State President Beverly Warren’s first year in office, highlighting the university’s continued growth, academic successes and increasing graduation rates. The board set Warren’s 2015-16 salary at $459,000, representing a 2% increase similar to what other employees were given.
“I am pleased that the board is happy with the strides we have made in my first year as president and grateful for the trustees’ continued support,” Warren said. “I plan to donate the raise toward scholarships to help our hard-working students reach their goals and earn a Kent State degree.”
Copyright 2024 The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.
