There were none.

T. Mercadante made a motion to approve the minutes from the Fitchburg State Foundation University Board meeting on October 4, 2017. S. Foster seconded the motion. The Foundation Board VOTED to approve the motion.

President Lapidus expressed the desire to have the meeting at the Landry Arena so both boards could see the newly renovated space. He asked for the Exercise and Sports Science and Athletics Departments to present at this meeting as the facility will play a significant part of their program moving forward.

Dr. Danielle Wigmore, Chair, Exercise and Sports Science Department introduced herself. She provided background on what line of work students get into when they graduate. The department wanted to provide students a more in depth program in Strength and Conditioning. The Landry Arena is now a place to train these students. Dr. Wigmore stated that she is excited about the collaboration with Athletics.

Dr. Godin, Associate Professor, and Head Strength & Conditioning Coach presented a power point. He provided background on how he came to work at Fitchburg State. He provided history on the progression of the Exercise and Sports Science Department. (Attached) The department is thankful to have a space to create meaningful preparation for its students. Fitchburg State alums have done well in this program and have secured impressive jobs in their respective fields. The university now has the fitness technology software found at top schools.

Ms. Sue Lauder, Director of Athletics, introduced herself. She stated the Landry Arena would allow university teams to practice in a space that is specific to their needs. She explained how the space would be used by Athletics. In the event of inclement weather, the different sports teams would be able to practice indoors.The Recreation Center has been overused by the Athletes which displaced other students. Fitchburg State now has an advantage as none of our sister schools have in indoor facility like this. It is believed that this uniqueness will provide recruiting advantage. Ms. Lauder stated that the Athletics and Exercise and Sports Science Departments have a great relationship. She next introduced James McGuire, Assistant Strength & Conditioning Coach.

James McGuire expressed his gratitude to present at this meeting. He explained what they do specifically in Strength & Conditioning. He presented a power point. (Attached) He talked about three software programs that students will use that are state-of-art.

There was a discussion on student injuries, equipment, coaching staff, and measuring success. There will be an opportunity for Board members to tour the facility and to use the equipment in the future.

Chris Hendry presented a quick overview of the Alumni Association. He presented a power point. (Attached) He said that a majority of our alumni live a few hours from Fitchburg State University. He presented and discussed statistics. He discussed the importance of a strong Alumni program. Alumni engagement really helps with fundraising he said. A Student Government Association liaison sits on the Alumni Board to help us understand and connect with students. He explained a recent meeting at Endicott College to review their Alumni mentoring program. The university is excited to see how we can get an Alumni mentoring program here. He stated he would be remiss if he did not ask Board members to consider a gift to the institution. The university coaches do a great deal of fundraising, and they need help. The Alumni Office had planned a day of giving in collaboration with Sue Lauder and Athletics that was successful.

The personnel actions were presented for informational purposes.

President Lapidus said the semester started smoothly and uneventfully. Enrollment continues to look good but, is slightly down, typical of spring semester. The university has a diverse array of programming scheduled for this semester.

Collective bargaining contracts are still being negotiated. The Presidents  met and have encouraged teams to expedite the process. It is hoped that progress on all three contracts will be forthcoming.

The Winter Commencement held in December was a great evening despite the weather challenges. The President encouraged the Board to participate in the future ceremonies.

The president discussed the Theatre Block event to be held on January 31 with Secretary Ash and collaborators with the city.

There are a number of searches going on.

The annual DHE Trustees conference will take place again this year in Westborough. He encouraged all Board members to attend.

The news articles were included for informational purposes.