Last week the Board of Governors’ Executive Committee had its regularly scheduled meeting. I wanted to update you on several actions the board took which make sense in a reduced-budget environment and which we believe will help grow revenue.
Encouraging growth
First, the board approved a new master of science in computer science program. This is an important program for the university as it will fill a need in our state by producing more computer science graduates, and it will produce more revenue than it will cost to operate by year two since many of the students will be international.
Second, the board awarded a contract for the renovation of Hass-Darr Hall on the West Plains campus. This project will drive enrollment on the West Plains campus, and is being funded through a combination of state bond proceeds, private contributions and university reserves. No ongoing money is necessary for this project to be completed; thus the West Plains budget is not impacted by this project.
Finally, the board instructed us to move forward with plans to construct a new residence hall. For the first time in our history, we are exploring a public-private partnership in order to reduce the construction cost. Through this arrangement, the new residence hall will have positive cash flow. Our current residence halls have reached their capacity, and this new residence hall will allow Missouri State to continue to grow its incoming freshman classes for years to come.
One of our guiding principles for managing the university’s budget in the coming year is that the university must continue to invest in programs, facilities and technology that will grow enrollment and increase revenue while continuing to align with accreditation requirements. I am pleased to report that our board took significant action last week to do just that by making investments to grow enrollment and revenue.
Thanks for all you do for Missouri State!
- Clif’s Notes for April 23, 2024 - April 23, 2024
- Clif’s Notes for April 16, 2024 - April 16, 2024
- Clif’s Notes for April 9, 2024 - April 9, 2024
- Clif’s Notes for April 2, 2024 - April 2, 2024
- Clif’s Notes for March 26, 2024 - March 26, 2024
- Clif’s Notes for March 19, 2024 - March 19, 2024
- Clif’s Notes for March 5, 2024 - March 5, 2024
- Clif’s Notes for Feb. 27, 2024 - February 27, 2024
- Clif’s Notes for Feb. 20, 2024 - February 20, 2024
- Clif’s Notes for Feb. 13, 2024 - February 13, 2024