NW Missouri Times

Northwest Missouri State University’s Board of Regents, during its regular meeting on Thursday, unanimously approved the University’s 2024-25 budget. The budget comprises the Education and General Budget and Auxiliary Services Budget, totaling approximately $118.6 million.

The budget includes strategic investments aimed at increasing enrollment and sustainability. These investments cover enrollment management, recruitment services, and online professional academic advising. Additionally, the University plans to enhance its scholarship model by improving merit-based scholarships and expanding eligibility.

Northwest will also allocate funds to improve the student experience and support employees through cost-of-living adjustments and health and retirement benefits. The budget reflects projected enrollment increases and state appropriations approved by the Missouri legislature. The Board's approval follows an estimated 4.2 percent rate increase.

In other business, the Board of Regents approved several measures as Northwest progresses with a construction project this summer. Vice President of Finance and Administration Stacy Carrick shared that the University plans to use a construction management at-risk procurement method as outlined in RSMo Section 67.5050. Selection criteria for this method include qualifications such as project experience, project management, team organization, safety, financial stability, and project costs.

Per its bylaws, the Board conducted its election of officers, electing Mel Tjeerdsma as chair and Stephen Coppinger as vice chair. Diane Hargrave was reappointed as secretary of the Board, while Carrick was reappointed as treasurer.

During recognitions at the start of Thursday’s meeting, Northwest President Dr. Lance Tatum honored longtime employees Mitzi Marchant and Dr. Mike Steiner who are retiring this summer.

To Marchant, Tatum said: “We want to congratulate you on your legacy at Northwest. It is truly a legacy. Your fingerprints can be found throughout this institution, and we are proud of your accomplishments at Northwest.”

Addressing Steiner, Tatum added: “I’ve observed Mike work through policy interpretations and development. I’ve watched him work through curriculum review... my confidence in Mike Steiner is that whatever decision or outcome he’s working toward is in the best interest of the academic enterprise that is the University.”

The Board is responsible for sound resource management of the University and determining general educational and financial policies.

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