Arkansas Tech University Board of Trustees Sets Course for a Transformative Future at June Meeting

The Arkansas Tech University Board of Trustees gathered for their regular meeting on June twentieth, two thousand and twenty-four, where they deliberated on a range of critical issues and initiatives poised to shape the university’s future. From greenlighting a massive student union project to fine-tuning financial policies and recognizing the contributions of departing faculty, the board left no stone unturned in their commitment to enhancing the ATU experience.

A Hub for Student Life: The Ferguson Student Union Takes Center Stage

In a move sure to excite students, faculty, and alumni alike, the board enthusiastically approved the construction of the highly anticipated Ferguson Student Union. This ambitious project, with an impressive guaranteed maximum price tag accepted from Kinco Constructors, signifies a major investment in fostering a vibrant and engaging campus community.

Imagine this: the outdated Administration Building and Tomlinson Hall will make way for a sprawling, sixty-eight thousand square foot facility designed to be the beating heart of student life. The Ferguson Student Union will be the spot to be, offering everything from comfy lounges perfect for catching up with friends to trendy fast-casual dining options that’ll satisfy those late-night cravings.

But wait, there’s more! Gamers, rejoice! The union will boast a cutting-edge e-sports gaming lab where you can show off your skills and connect with fellow enthusiasts. And for those who prefer a more traditional court, the union will have basketball courts for some good ol’ fashioned hoops. Need to borrow some camping gear for that weekend adventure? No sweat! The union’s got you covered with an outdoor recreation gear checkout. And if you’re serious about your fitness, you’ll love the state-of-the-art cardiovascular and strength training areas.

Mark your calendars, folks, because construction is set to kick off in Summer two thousand and twenty-four, with an anticipated grand opening in two thousand and twenty-six. The buzz around campus is electric, and rightfully so! This game-changing project promises to redefine student life at ATU.

But the Ferguson Student Union isn’t just about bricks and mortar; it’s a testament to the enduring legacy of Jimmy Ferguson, a beloved ATU staff member who dedicated his career from nineteen seventy-five to nineteen ninety-four to enriching the student experience. Mr. Ferguson’s impact on ATU extended far beyond campus. He served as assistant vice president and dean of students, president of the Arkansas College Personnel Association, chairman of the board for the National Association for Campus Activities, and lent his expertise to the Arkansas Governor’s Advisory Council on Volunteerism. Talk about a rockstar! Naming the union in honor of Mr. Ferguson and his family is a fitting tribute to his unwavering commitment to ATU and its students.

Navigating Finances and Refining Policies: The Board Gets Down to Business

Moving beyond the excitement of the Ferguson Student Union, the board tackled a number of crucial financial and policy matters with their signature blend of pragmatism and foresight.

First up, the board gave a resounding thumbs-up to a balanced operating budget of – get ready for it – a whopping… well, let’s just say it’s a substantial figure that reflects ATU’s commitment to fiscal responsibility and strategic resource allocation. This budget will be instrumental in supporting the university’s key priorities in the upcoming fiscal year.

Next on the agenda was a review of the non-resident tuition waiver policy. Recognizing the importance of attracting talented students from diverse backgrounds, the board sought to clarify eligibility requirements for incoming undergraduate students seeking to benefit from this waiver. After careful consideration, the board landed on a clear and equitable approach: To be eligible for the non-resident tuition waiver, students must demonstrate U.S. residency, possess an appropriate visa, or have established a strong connection to the state by residing in Arkansas for a minimum of three years and graduating from an Arkansas high school or obtaining a GED. This revised policy ensures that the waiver program remains both sustainable and accessible to those who truly call Arkansas home.

Contracts, Agreements, and a Touch of Legal Ease: Ensuring Smooth Operations

No board meeting would be complete without delving into the nitty-gritty of contracts, agreements, and other essential legal matters. And let’s be real, this is where things can get a little dry. But fear not, dear reader, because we’ll spice things up with a dash of humor and a sprinkle of wit!

First up on the contract carousel, the board selected Environmental Enterprise Group Inc. as their go-to for all things environmental engineering. Think of them as the environmental superheroes, swooping in to save the day whenever ATU needs assistance navigating the complex world of environmental regulations and best practices. From conducting environmental assessments to ensuring compliance with ever-evolving regulations, Environmental Enterprise Group Inc. will be ATU’s trusted partner in maintaining a sustainable and eco-friendly campus.

Engineering Expertise on Speed Dial: ATU Assembles its A-Team

But what about those pesky pipes, flickering lights, and the occasional crack in the sidewalk? Have no fear, ATU has assembled a crack team of engineering firms to tackle any challenge that comes their way! The board, in their infinite wisdom, selected not one, not two, but three firms for on-call mechanical, electrical, and plumbing services: Insight Engineers, Brown Engineers, and Petit and Petit Engineers. Talk about an embarrassment of riches! These engineering gurus will be on hand to ensure that ATU’s facilities are running like well-oiled machines (or at least as smoothly as possible in the world of aging infrastructure).

And let’s not forget about the roads we travel, or in this case, the sidewalks we stroll! For all things civil engineering, ATU has entrusted the experts at Crafton Tull Engineers. From designing new walkways to keeping existing infrastructure in tip-top shape, Crafton Tull will be instrumental in ensuring that ATU remains a pedestrian-friendly campus.

Last but not least, the board gave a nod to Entergy’s request to relocate a utility easement on the southwest corner of the Russellville campus. Now, we know what you’re thinking: “A utility easement? How thrilling!” But trust us, dear reader, even the most mundane of legal matters can have a ripple effect on campus operations. This easement relocation will pave the way (pun intended!) for future development and ensure that ATU’s utility infrastructure can keep pace with the university’s ever-evolving needs.

Academics Take Center Stage: From Degree Programs to Parking Permits

Now, let’s shift gears and delve into the exciting world of academia! Okay, okay, we get it, “exciting” might not be the first word that comes to mind. But trust us, there’s plenty happening in the hallowed halls of ATU to pique your interest.

First up, the board gave their seal of approval to the athletic operating budget for fiscal year two thousand and twenty-four – two thousand and twenty-five, ensuring that ATU’s student-athletes have the resources they need to compete at the highest level. And in a move that’s sure to please aspiring communicators, the board also greenlighted the online offering of the Bachelor of Arts degree in communication. This forward-thinking decision will provide students with greater flexibility and accessibility in pursuing their academic goals.

However, not all programs are destined for long-term success. The board made the difficult decision to discontinue several degree programs, including: the Bachelor of Arts in Fine Arts, the Bachelor of Arts in World Language in Spanish, the Master of Science in Electrical Engineering, and the Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering. While these decisions are never easy, they reflect the university’s commitment to aligning its academic offerings with student demand and workforce needs.

Parking, Fees, and a Touch of Nostalgia: The Board Covers it All

Next up, the board turned their attention to matters that are near and dear to every student’s heart (or at least their wallet): fees! The board approved proposed fees and fines for Division of Student Affairs operating areas for two thousand and twenty-four – two thousand and twenty-five, ensuring that these essential services have the resources they need to continue serving students effectively. And in a move that’s sure to spark some lively debate, the board also gave the green light to new parking regulations for the Russellville campus, including a modest increase in the annual parking permit fee from forty-five to fifty-five dollars. We know, we know, nobody likes a price hike, but this small increase will go a long way in maintaining and improving parking facilities on campus.

In a nod to ATU’s rich history and athletic tradition, the board made the decision to retire the “Distinction in Intercollegiate Athletics” category from the ATU Hall of Distinction, replacing it with the ATU Athletics Hall of Fame. This change will provide a dedicated space to honor the university’s most accomplished athletes and coaches, ensuring that their legacies continue to inspire generations to come.

And finally, in a move that’s sure to please agriculture enthusiasts, the board announced that a future academic facility will be named the Farm Credit Agriculture Building. This state-of-the-art facility will provide ATU students with cutting-edge resources and learning opportunities in the field of agriculture, further solidifying the university’s commitment to this vital industry.

Personnel Matters: Welcoming New Faces and Bidding Farewell to Valued Colleagues

No board meeting would be complete without recognizing the contributions of the faculty and staff who make ATU such a special place. The board approved the hiring of twenty new full-time employees, injecting fresh talent and perspectives into the ATU community. They also approved changes in assignment for eighteen employees, reflecting the university’s commitment to providing professional development opportunities and recognizing the evolving needs of its workforce.

The board also accepted resignations from seventeen employees, bidding farewell to colleagues who have made their mark on ATU. Among those departing is Dr. Debra Hunter, associate professor of accounting, who retired on May eleventh, two thousand and twenty-four, after a distinguished career spanning over a decade. Dr. Hunter’s dedication to her students and contributions to the field of accounting will be greatly missed.

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for ATU

As the board meeting drew to a close, it was clear that ATU is on the cusp of a transformative era. From the construction of the state-of-the-art Ferguson Student Union to the implementation of new academic programs and the recognition of outstanding faculty and staff, ATU is well-positioned to continue its legacy of excellence in education, research, and community engagement.