Oct 9, 2026 Special Board Meeting

At its Oct. 9, 2026 special meeting, the Kansas Board of Regents considered and approved an amendment to Board Policy Chapter II, Section D.9, concerning university-affiliated corporations and athletics-related private equity or venture capital arrangements. The amendment requires a university to notify the Board chair and the KBOR president and CEO once discussions become material about a proposed transaction that would convey an ownership interest, governance right, or equity stake arising from the university’s intercollegiate athletics program; related contracts and agreements must receive Board approval before execution. Exceptions include coaching transactions, conventional banking and lending, debt holdings without equity or participation rights, charitable and university-affiliated organizations, and ordinary commercial counterparties such as vendors, sponsors, broadcasters, and service providers. The Board approved the amendment by voice vote, with no opposition heard.

Discussion focused on when discussions become “material,” how long-term arrangements could affect university control and finances, and the need to preserve flexibility for institutions with different circumstances. Members noted that Board approval allows consideration of deal duration and other terms, and discussed confidentiality protections while recognizing that records remain subject to the Kansas Open Records Act. The Board president and CEO suggested a follow-up call with university leaders to gather feedback on a workable process or framework. No specific dollar amounts, vendors, or contract awards were identified.