June 17th Kansas Board of Regents

The Kansas Board of Regents held its June 17th meeting focusing on various higher education initiatives and administrative matters. Key procurement-related discussions included approval of state university tuition and fee proposals for fiscal year 2027, which involved targeted increases paired with internal budget cuts. The board also approved capital improvement requests and five-year plans for fiscal year 2028, encompassing both funded and aspirational projects, with a notable $348 million in capital infrastructure improvements at Pittsburg State University. Additionally, the board approved updated regulations for the Kansas Nursing Service Scholarship Program to expand eligibility to part-time students and those enrolled in fewer than 12 credit hours. A naming request for the end zone facility at Pittsburg State University in recognition of Freeman Health System's donation was approved. Policy discussions included adoption of a new policy on awarding credit for ACT WorkKeys credentials and approval of a pilot policy for reduced credit baccalaureate degrees. The board also addressed compliance with House Bill 2513 by defining DEI CRT content and related policies. Presentations highlighted university economic development efforts, AI initiatives, and data quality awards. The meeting concluded with delegation of authority to the board chair to appoint an interim president due to the ongoing CEO search.