Tim St. John provided an overview of student life, highlighting its robustness and student-driven nature.

• He reported over 600 registered events by 50 clubs and organizations.
• He highlighted the successful "Grand Royal Suarez" event, a collaborative cultural celebration with over 350 attendees. The event's size raised considerations about using the recreation center for such large events.
• Future initiatives focus on intentional inclusion of graduate students, adult learners, international students, and veteran students.
• Two new clubs were mentioned: the Indian Student Association (approved) and a Student Veterans Organization (internally approved, going to SGA).
• Existing student life efforts include reserving trip tickets for graduate students and providing commuter passes for dining hall events.
• Tim St. John emphasized the focus on the student experience and offered to answer questions.

Discussion on the Process for Approving New Student Groups:

• Sheila King-Goodwin inquired about the process for approving new student groups.
• Tim St. John explained the internal process involving a constitution, letter of intent, 10 student signatures, and a faculty/staff advisor, followed by SGAA approval.
• President Hodge added the importance of including non-traditional student groups and the collaborative effort with SGA to establish a process for graduate student organizations, citing the Indian Student Association as an example. The aim is a total student experience from enrollment to graduation.

Matt Lechter provided a housing update.

• Spring semester occupancy is 919 students.
• The returning student housing selection process has 625 students participating.
• New student housing applications are ahead of last year.
• Efforts are underway to encourage commuter students to live on campus.
• Updates on on-campus projects with MSCBA include the Townhouse 5 lounge renovation and Herlihy Hall phase three, which is popular and allows for more premium single rooms.
• A formal signing of an MOU with Mount Wachusett Community College to house their students at Fitchburg State was announced, aiming for seamless transfer and increased campus vibrancy.
• Discussion followed regarding a summer bridge program (not specific to Mount Wachusett) and articulation agreements.

Update on Vendors and Campus Partners (Matt Lechter):

• The focus shifted to vendor contracts, specifically dining services with Chartwells.
• Positive feedback on Chartwells' service was noted.
• An RFI (Request for Information) is planned to assess the broader marketplace for dining services before a potential RFP, as the current Chartwells contract ends in June 2026.
• An update on the bookstore announced a new agreement with eCampus (online) and University Gear Shop (in-store) starting in the fall, following a collaborative state bid. This aims for efficient textbook delivery (3-day shipping) and potential cost savings, with temporary digital access. Communication about the transition is planned.
• President Hodge elaborated on the bookstore transition, noting the shift to a three-day delivery model directly to students, eliminating the need for extensive on-site inventory. Temporary digital access to textbooks will be available. The Council of Presidents collaborated on this initiative.
• The importance of a thoughtful approach to the dining services RFP was emphasized to avoid disruption while aiming for improved service and student success.
• The communication plan for the bookstore transition is still under development, with informing the board as a first step.
• Sheila King-Goodwin congratulated the committee on the bookstore agreement.

Questions and Discussion:

• Shane Rodriguez inquired about online purchasing options for alumni and others unable to visit the UGS store.
• President Hodge confirmed an e-commerce shop for gear will be available, with potential for customization based on campus needs. The physical store will focus more on gear than books, addressing inventory cost concerns.
• President Hodge announced a new large campus event on September 3rd, including matriculation of new freshmen and faculty in regalia, a president's address, and a community picnic.

• Matthew Burke highlighted the Men's Ice Hockey program's championship win in the MASCAC Conference and their participation in the NCAA tournament.
• An update was given on the transition of club sports from Student Development to Athletics and Recreation to better support students with waivers, physicals, equipment, and scheduling.
• Growing interest in club sports was noted, including successful programs in cheerleading, men's lacrosse, men's volleyball (recent club champions), and a developing women's ice hockey club.
• The transition aims to enhance student experience and potentially aid enrollment.
• President Hodge added that student safety and consistent branding were additional rationales for the transition, ensuring athletic trainers are present at club sport events.
• Matthew Gill inquired about budget support for club sports under the Athletics Department.
• Mr.  Burke stated that funding sources are still being worked on, including student dues, fundraising, and potential baseline budget allocation from the university, pending a cost assessment.
• President Hodge indicated that existing budgets would likely shift to athletics, with potential for SGA to fund specific student-wide requests.

• Carolyn Stimpson shared positive feedback from an adult learner regarding the increased activity and sense of pride at FSU.
• Sheila King-Goodwin echoed the positive sentiments.