ETSU President Brian Noland told the Board of Trustees at its final meeting of the semester that the university’s goals for the upcoming Tennessee General Assembly include helping Gov.-elect Marsha Blackburn with her transition. He also cited the potential for Tennessee Lottery Scholarship changes during the session because of the influx of online sports betting.
Noland also presented updates on enrollment, campus services and housing. He noted the largest incoming freshman class ever, explored issues such as gender gaps in Appalachian education, announced that ETSU’s Sodexo food services are the top-ranked in the world and shared the 1.5% salary enhancement instituted across the university.
He also mentioned the need for more beds on campus.
“In February, we hope to bring you plans to deepen our investments in Housing and Residence Life,” Noland said.
Board members also reported on what their committees have been doing since the previous meeting. Janet Ayers brought information about the expansion of ETSU’s engineering curriculum and programs.
“ETSU is strategically positioned to expand its engineering programs to meet growing workforce demands and support regional economic development,” Ayers said.
ETSU is attempting to build biological and construction engineering programs. The university is investing across campus by spending around $2.4 million on equipment and is requesting funding for a new academic building from the General Assembly.
“I’m struck by just how much has happened across our university since the last time we met. This has been a busy and productive season,” said Melissa Steagall-Jones, chair of the board.
Steagall-Jones cited some of her favorite events, such as Founders Week and ETSU Elevates, as well as upcoming events like fall commencement and the Holiday Lights Celebration.
SGA President Shelby Koerten also spoke about the events and opportunities on campus that she has seen make change.
“One of the things I’ve particularly enjoyed seeing is how our university has embraced the opportunity to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary,” Koerten said.
This year, ETSU homecoming was themed Red, White, Blue and Gold, and Mountains to Monuments trips were led to Washington, D.C., for America 250.
The meeting ended with board members’ enthusiasm for what is next for ETSU students, especially those pursuing prestigious awards, such as the two Rhodes finalists.
