The James Madison University Board of Visitors met on Friday, January 16, 2015, in the Board Room of the Festival Conference and Student Center.

The following is a summary of actions taken by the board and key areas of discussion at the board meeting:

• Approved the minutes of the September 26, 2014 full board meeting and the November 1, 2014 executive committee meeting;
• Accepted committee reports from the Advancement, Athletics, Audit, Education & Student Life, and Finance & Physical Development committees;
• Approved the creation of an executive leadership MBA program within the College of Business;
• Approved tuition and fees for summer 2015:

• Received a presentation on JMU’s Career and Academic Planning program by its director, Ms. Mary Morsch;
• Received an update on the governor’s budget proposal to the General Assembly by Mr. Charles King, Senior Vice President for Administration & Finance.
• Approved the purchase of real property at 40 East Fairview Avenue for $371,000.

During President Jonathan Alger’s report, the board was:

• Told more than 800 students graduated at the December commencement in the Convocation Center where Secretary of the Commonwealth and JMU alumnus Levar Stoney was the featured speaker;
• Updated on state and federal efforts to improve higher education costs and outcomes;
• Updated on the Madison Vision tour events;
• Briefed on the implementation of the new Engaged University Council;
• Updated on the university’s efforts to combat sexual assault;
• Briefed on the launch of the Valley Scholars program;
• Shown a video of the Marching Royal Dukes participation and performance in Rome and at the Vatican;
• Informed of the latest university achievements, rankings and recognitions.