WSU Board of Regents | Committee Meetings | Spokane | 1.22.2026

The Washington State University Board of Regents convened committee meetings on January 22, 2026, covering a broad range of topics including strategic planning, academic affairs, finance, and administration. Key procurement-related discussions included approval and updates on capital projects such as the $18 million Tree Fruit Research and Extension Center facility and the $82 million Schweitzer Engineering Hall project, both involving state funding and philanthropy. The board reviewed financial statements for fiscal year 2025, noting a clean audit opinion but highlighting challenges with operating expenditures exceeding revenues, tuition discounting, and deferred maintenance of facilities. Tuition rate adjustments for professional and self-sustaining programs were proposed, generally aligning with inflationary costs, with specific considerations for programs like pharmacy and veterinary medicine. Student fees for housing, dining, and health services were discussed with proposed increases to maintain operations and bond payments. The board also discussed internal audit updates, risk management, and legislative advocacy efforts related to budget cuts and funding. Additionally, the meeting addressed the impact of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) initiatives on athletics funding and competitiveness, including partnerships with third-party organizations to support student-athletes. Several action items, including program discontinuations and fee allocations, were scheduled for votes in the subsequent meeting. Overall, the meeting emphasized financial stewardship, strategic investment in facilities and programs, and maintaining competitive positioning in higher education and athletics.