Board of Visitors Summary of Actions and Discussions

The James Madison University Board of Visitors met by electronic communications on Tuesday, July 7, 2020, at 1 p.m. The following is a summary of actions taken by the board and key areas of discussion at the board meeting:

Was told by President Alger during his President’s Report:

• Welcomed new board members, Chris Falcon and John Lynch;
• One responsibility this summer is to ensure that we review and amend our Title IX policies and procedures on sexual harassment and assault to comply with new federal regulations that are scheduled to take effect on August 14;
• After 32 years of service to JMU, Vice Provost Marilou Johnson is retiring
• Cynthia Bauerle, will serve as interim Vice Provost for Faculty and Curriculum and Samantha Prins will become Interim Dean; and,
• Provided an update on the thoughtful reexamination of the naming of three buildings on campus named for Confederate leaders.

Took the following action on building names:

• Approved the removal of the names of three buildings (Jackson, Ashby and Maury halls) on JMU’s Quad and for temporary, non-honorific designations to be provided for these buildings.

Received reports related to the university’s COVID-19 response:

• President Jonathan Alger shared that the University has been working diligently to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic and to plan for the re-opening of campus in the fall;
• In accordance with state guidance, a plan was submitted yesterday to the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia that outlines these efforts;
• The plan, which must be dynamic and flexible, is available on JMU’s website;
• It has been announced that JMU will need to postpone the August commencement ceremonies that were planned for the Class of 2020. JMU must comply with the most recent Executive Order, #67, which prohibits in-person public gatherings of more than 250 people, whether indoors or outdoors;
• A report was provided by Charlie King to cover issues related to technology, facilities and Human Resources;
• A report was provided by Jeff Bourne to talk about current plans regarding Athletics;
• A report was provided by Heather Coltman to discuss plans for teaching and learning; and,
• A report was provided by Tim Miller to discuss issues related to student life, including residence halls and medical preparations.