This weekend marked the annual October meeting of the Board of Trustees. The Board was happy to return to Blagoevgrad for two full days of productive meetings and fruitful discussions.
“We look forward to continuing working together with all of you on building and fulfilling our goals for a bigger and better AUBG,” said the Chair of BoT Michael D. Marvin.
Here are some highlights from the discussions that took place over the weekend:
Strategy
Under President Ensign’s guidance, AUBG’s five-year strategic plan was refocused to align the mission with our purpose and objectives. While the plan’s main direction remains, this refinement centers on educating democratic, ethical leaders, and fostering motivation across AUBG constituencies for the plan’s execution. The president will continue her work with the community to fine-tune the details of the plan and the board is expected to officially approve it at the January meeting in the U.S.
Educational Policy
AUBG is actively advancing strategic academic initiatives. These include the Sofia Semester and the Environmental Sustainability Initiative. Looking ahead, AUBG is set to undertake a comprehensive review of the general education program and foster deeper collaboration within the OSUN network. Crafting strategies for graduate and certificate programs development will be another focus in the next few months.
Center for Information, Democracy, and Citizenship
CIDC will soon expand its efforts and outputs by expanding its personnel. And, to enhance its community engagement work, the CIDC will collaborate with other institutions and NGOs to support joint courses and exchange programs.
Financials
We are pleased to report a strong financial performance for Fiscal Year 23 (July 2022-June 2023). Our external auditors from Deloitte are currently conducting the audit of AUBG’s FY’23 US GAAP Financial Statements and we anticipate the issuance of a clear audit opinion.
Development
At the close of FY23, AUBG received $3.6 million in donations. Our sincere gratitude goes out to all those who have supported the institution. Additionally, the Development team is actively working towards completing the $1 million ABF matching grant challenge by December 31. And to help secure the resources for fulfilling our strategic goals, we plan to bring in an external consultant with vast experience in large-scale fundraising in the U.S.
Skaptopara III
The plans for the construction of the Skaptopara III B and C wings are well underway. The leadership team is diligently working on securing funding as well as the necessary construction permits. If all progresses as anticipated, construction is scheduled to start in May 2024.
Admissions
The Board noted the Admissions Office’s work in attracting the largest class in AUBG’s history. Recruitment for Fall ’24 is now well underway and we believe the new efforts and initiatives will allow us to bring in even more talented young people.
Internal Communications
It is our goal to improve communication across all levels of the institution and allow for transparency on information by reviewing our processes and introducing a dedicated position.
“Thank you to all who joined us at the town hall meeting on Sunday. It was great to hear your questions and see your commitment to the success of the university,” said the Chair of the BoT, Michael D. Marvin, and the AUBG President, Dr. Margee Ensign. “Speaking on behalf of all trustees, we want to extend our deepest appreciation for your unwavering dedication. Wishing each and every one of you a successful academic year ahead.”
More about the work of the Board of Trustees
