Board meetings, strategic plans, and buyer signals from Ben Kjar’s organization
May 8, 2026·BoardMeeting
Board
Board of Visitors Meeting Minutes
The Board of Visitors meeting included a report on a recent cyberattack affecting the Canvas platform and its implications for the university, a brief update on legislative matters and enrollment figures, and a discussion regarding a significant cost increase for the theatre project due to electrical and HVAC work, which will require an application for additional funding. Furthermore, the Board approved the conferring of graduate and undergraduate degrees for candidates completing their requirements, reviewed logistical arrangements for the upcoming commencement ceremony, and received an update on the university's Strategic Action Plan.
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The meeting included comprehensive reviews of faculty handbook updates regarding promotion and tenure procedures, the approval of a new Master of Science in Counseling program, and the authorization of a Name, Image, and Likeness policy for student athletes. Discussions covered the status of the state budget and its impact on university tuition and fees, progress on campus construction projects including the new theatre and accessibility improvements, and updates on the UMW Foundation and internal audit activities. Additionally, the Board addressed personnel matters, resolutions of appreciation for student and university contributors, and received liaison reports from university councils and student government.
Feb 9, 2026·BoardMeeting
Board
University Of Mary Washington Public Debate
The event was a public debate titled "UMW Should be an AI University," moderated by the provost. The discussion focused on whether the University of Mary Washington should adopt an "AI University" identity. The affirmative side argued for the workforce imperative and the necessity of liberal arts partnership for responsible AI development. The negative side countered that universities should prioritize human flourishing, emphasizing that process matters as much as outcomes and that institutional purpose endures beyond current technologies. The debate format included opening speeches, cross-examination, audience engagement, rebuttals, and closing remarks.
Jan 1, 2026·StrategicPlan
Board
Strategic Action Plan 2026-2031
This document outlines the implementation process for the UMW Strategic Action Plan, focusing on a comprehensive nine-month planning phase starting September 2025. The plan is built upon a 2022-2027 strategic vision and aims to develop detailed roadmaps for four strategic priorities: revolutionizing the liberal arts for the AI era, serving regional and Commonwealth workforce needs, cultivating community and belonging, and building modern campus infrastructure. The overarching goal is to prepare students with adaptive capacities, drive economic vitality, enhance institutional vitality, and establish a 21st-century learning environment.
Extracted from official board minutes, strategic plans, and video transcripts.
