The first day of the Board of Trustees meeting has come to a close. Board members discussed topics ranging from expanding academic programs to massive restructuring of the tuition process. Here are the top five things to take away from the meeting:
5) A New President: This was University of Oregon’s President Michael Schill’s first meeting with the board. The meeting began with a round of applause for the new president.
4) ASUO Opposition: During the public comments section, ASUO members vehemently opposed a new tuition proposal that would guarantee a set level of tuition for four years of college. After a lot of discussion, the board emphasized that the plan is just a consideration.
3) Tentative Labor Agreement: The Service Employees International Union came to a tentative agreement with the university last night. Two SEIU members spoke about the disrespect they felt during negotiations.
2) Expanding Faculty: Schill and Senior Vice President and Provost Scott Coltrane outlined a plan to hire 80 to 100 new tenure track faculty members in the next four years. Coltrane said that a search for 40 new faculty members is already underway.
1) The President’s Vision: Schill outlined his three major goals for the university:

• Increase tenure track faculty and enhance the university’s academic research profile.
• Maintain and enhance affordability for current and potential students.
• Create a great educational experience for students.

The board will reconvene tomorrow at 9 a.m. to vote on new buildings, discuss board member conduct and hear Governor Kate Brown’s vision for higher education in Oregon.