The St. Mary’s College of Maryland (SMCM) Board of Trustees convened on October 11 and 12, reviewing a wide-ranging agenda and approving several significant items. The meeting resulted in key updates to the institution’s governance and policies, including changes to the Faculty Bylaws, Title IX policy, and a new Freedom of Expression policy. The Board also signed off on the 2024 Performance Accountability Report, revised the Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25) operating budget, and reconciled the FY24 plant fund budget.
“These are truly exciting times for St. Mary’s College of Maryland, as we continue to build momentum in the final year of President Tuajuanda Jordan’s remarkable tenure as president,” said John Bell, SMCM Class of 1995 and current chair of the Board of Trustees. “Her leadership, coupled with the efforts of past board chairs and trustees, has placed the College in a strong position to continue to prosper.”
This meeting marked Bell’s first as chair, making him the first SMCM alumnus to hold this position. Under his leadership, the Board moved forward with several important initiatives that will influence the college’s future operations and infrastructure.
Key Approvals
Among the major items discussed, the Board revised the Faculty Bylaws to better reflect the institution’s commitment to shared governance, a foundational principle at SMCM. These updates were part of an ongoing review led by the Faculty Senate, ensuring that policies remain aligned with the evolving needs of the college community.
Federal compliance requirements also drove updates to the Title IX policy. The Board sought to ensure that the College’s procedures on addressing sexual harassment and discrimination met the latest regulatory standards.
The newly approved Freedom of Expression policy consolidated existing policies, providing clarity on the institution’s stance amid growing national discussions around free speech on college campuses. This policy reflects a broader trend across higher education to ensure that all viewpoints can be expressed in a manner that upholds the community’s values.
Additionally, the Board approved the 2024 Performance Accountability Report, which outlines the College’s achievements and strategic goals for the coming year. They also reviewed and revised the FY25 operating budget and reconciled the FY24 plant fund budget to account for financial changes and upcoming projects.
Engagement with Students and Staff
As part of the two-day session, the Board participated in a student lunch that allowed for candid dialogue between students and Trustees. The lunch provided the Board an opportunity to hear directly from the student body about concerns and priorities, ensuring that their voices were part of the decision-making process.
In addition to interacting with students, the Board was briefed by staff and committee chairs on a variety of topics, including the upcoming reaffirmation of accreditation by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Accreditation is a critical process for the College, ensuring that its academic and administrative practices meet established standards of excellence.
Other briefings focused on essential aspects of the College’s future, including finances, student recruitment, retention, and campus safety. The Board also discussed planned capital projects, such as residence hall upgrades, and received updates on the ongoing search for SMCM’s next president. These discussions emphasized the College’s commitment to maintaining its strong financial footing while improving campus facilities to enhance the student experience.
Remarks from President Jordan
As President Tuajuanda Jordan enters her final year at the helm of SMCM, she took time to reflect on her tenure and the progress the College has made during her leadership.
“In the final year of my presidency, I note the strong sense of community that permeates the campus, embodied by the St. Mary’s Way,” said Jordan. “I also highlight the strong financial position the College is in, with positive enrollment growth and a renaissance in facilities that continues with planned renovations to Montgomery Hall and important improvements to our residence halls.”
Jordan’s remarks emphasized the College’s focus on fostering a cohesive community and ensuring the institution’s long-term financial health, with a particular focus on improving facilities for both academic and residential purposes.
Looking Ahead
The Board’s approval of these policies and budgets represents significant steps in ensuring that SMCM continues to thrive. The College is poised for continued growth, with a strong financial position, an increase in student enrollment, and a comprehensive campaign that has met with great success. Planned renovations to facilities like Montgomery Hall and residence halls further demonstrate the College’s commitment to enhancing both the academic and residential experience for its students.
As the College begins the search for its next president, these efforts, alongside the leadership of Bell and the trustees, set a strong foundation for SMCM’s future.
