The University of Akron Board of Trustees
The University of Akron's Board of Trustees is the governing body for The University of Akron, pursuant to Ohio Revised Code 3359.01. The Board is composed of nine voting members and two nonvoting student members, all appointed by the Governor of Ohio with the advice and consent of the State Senate. Trustees are appointed to nine-year terms, with the exception of the Student Trustees, who are appointed to two-year terms.
The Board of Trustees has been charged by the Ohio Legislature (Ohio Revised Code 3359.03 and 3359.04) with:
- selecting and appointing the president;
- setting the operating budget;
- approving personnel appointments;
- granting all degrees awarded by the University, including honorary degrees;
- establishing tuition and fee rates;
- approving contracts; and
- approving all rules, regulations, curriculum changes, new programs and degrees at The University of Akron.
Board meeting schedule
See the Board's meeting schedule.
Principal Goal Statement
In 2019, the Board adopted a Principal Goal Statement.
The principal goal of The University of Akron Board of Trustees is to achieve sustainable financial stability within three to five years. To reach this goal, the Board is requesting the development of a strategic plan – led by the President and administration in conjunction with the full University community – which the Board will then consider and approve.
The plan is expected to contain the following elements:
- Installing stable University leadership, including the president, executive vice president/chief academic officer and college deans
- Attracting, retaining and graduating students into productive careers
- Significantly increasing donations for student scholarships and endowed chairs
- Increasing the perception of UA as a university of distinction and choice
- Focusing research in areas of strength and opportunity
- Working closely with regional business, community and political leaders to strengthen our local economy
- Effectively managing expenses
Earlier, similar actions
- In 2012, the Board of Trustees Statement of Mission, Values, and Expectations was adopted.
- In 2011, the Board adopted Rule 3359-1-10, thereby creating the position of Advisory Trustee and enabling the Board to add up to three non-voting members in that position, in addition to the 11 governor-appointed individuals.