Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees makes policy and provides oversight for the institution’s operations. It consists of 11 members, nine of whom are appointed by the governor. These nine serve four-year terms, and at least two live in Gunnison County. The other two are elected by university faculty and students, who each elect one non-voting representative to serve on the board.

Meet the Board

Kara Buckley

Board Chair

Re-appointed January 2026 - Term Expires December 2029. Kara Buckley, a full-time resident of Crested Butte, has spent three decades in education, as a high school teacher, a graduate lecturer, a college professor and a department chair.

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Dave Wiens

Board Vice Chair

Appointed January 2023 – Term expires December 2026. Dave Wiens is a resident of Gunnison, who currently serves as the Executive Director of the International…

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Kristen Blessman

Board Member

Re-appointed January 2024 - Term expires December 2027. Kristen Blessman is the President and General Manager of PBS12, Impact Media for Colorado, and was formerly the President and Chief Executive Officer...

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James C. Pribyl

Board Member

Re-Appointed January 2023 – Term expires December 2026. James C Pribyl provides public policy management services specializing in natural resource and communications issues. During his…

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Chelsea Carver

Board Member

Appointed January 2025 – Term Expires December 2028. As Chief Strategy & Development Officer for Mile High United Way, Chelsea oversees both the strategic priorities…

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Millie Hamner

Board Member

Re-Appointed December 2023 – Term Expires December 2027. Dr. Millie Hamner is a Summit County resident. She is currently the Senior Policy Director of the…

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Danielle Henry

Board Member

Appointed January 2026 – Term expires December 2029 Danielle Henry is a proud Western Colorado University Graduate, class of 2005. She is a public service…

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Kelly Nordini

Board Member

Appointed January 2026 – Term expires December 2028 Kelly Nordini, Chief Executive Officer, Conservation Colorado: Kelly has been at the forefront of Colorado politics and…

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Scott Ehrlich

Board Member

Appointed April 2026 – Term Expires December 2029 Scott Ehrlich is a lifelong resident of Greeley, Colorado, with a 40 year career as an owner…

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John Mason

Faculty Trustee | Professor of Physics

Re-appointed July 2025 - Term expires June 2027. John Mason discovered Western years ago while considering a career as a college professor and thinking about where to live and teach...

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Hannah Brown

Student Trustee | SGA President

Appointed July 2026 – Term expires June 2027. Hannah Brown is a fourth-year student pursuing a degree in Biology and Psychology with a minor in Chemistry. Originally from Colorado Springs, she came to Western to join...

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Schedule

Meetings, Agendas, and Minutes

Proposed Meeting Agenda

January 7, 2026
1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

CAVEA Theater at MSU Denver

Meeting Minutes

Time	Agenda Item
1:00	I. Call to Order
1:05	II. Attendance
1:10	III. Approval of the Agenda
1:15	IV. Executive Session Description: To consider personnel matters in accordance with § 24-6-402(3)(b)(I), C.R.S.
3:00	V. Adjournment

Proposed Meeting Agenda

February 5, 2026

10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

The Sonesta Downtown, Denver

Meeting Minutes

Time	Agenda Item
10:00	I. Call to Order
10:05	II. Attendance: Oath of Trusteeship—Trustee Henry, Trustee Nordini
10:10	III. Approval of the Agenda
10:15	IV. Approval of Minutes for the December 11, 2025 Board of Trustees Meeting and the January 7, 2026 Special Meeting
10:25	V. Review of Action Items from BOT Meeting of December 11, 2025
10:30	VI. Oral Reports A. President B. Board Chair C. Student Trustee D. Faculty Trustee E. Faculty Senate Chair F. Administrative Leadership Council Chair G. Attorney General / Legal Report H. Legislative Report
11:30	VII. Action Items A. Personnel Action and Information Items B. 2026–2027 Board of Trustees Meeting Schedule and Administrative Calendar C. Proposed Curriculum Changes for 2026–27 D. FY2026–27 Tuition, Fees, Room and Board Rates; Budget Overview and Initial Budget Scenarios E. Updates to Trustee Policy Manual, Section 3.10: Background Checks
12:30	Lunch and Appreciation / Recognition of Departing Trustees
1:30	VIII. Discussion Topics A. Elevate Western Campaign and Advancement Update B. FY2024–25 Financial and Compliance Audit C. Financial and Capital Construction Report D. Enrollment Report
2:30	IX. Public Comment
2:40	XI. Set Next Meeting Agenda: March 26, 2026
2:50	XII. Other Business
3:00	XIII. Adjournment

Proposed Meeting Agenda

March 26, 2026

8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Virtual Meeting

Zoom Link: https://western.zoom.us/j/83113252618

Meeting Minutes

Time	Agenda Item
8:00	I. Call to Order
8:05	II. Attendance
8:10	III. Approval of the Agenda
8:15	IV. Approval of Minutes for the Board of Trustees Meeting of February 5, 2026
8:25	V. Review of Action Items from BOT Meeting of February 5, 2026
8:35	VI. Oral Reports A. President B. Board Chair C. Student Trustee D. Faculty Trustee
9:00	VII. Executive Session Description: To consider legal advice and personnel matters in accordance with § 24-6-402(3)(a)(II) and § 24-6-402(3)(b)(I), C.R.S.
9:30	Break
9:40	VIII. Action Items A. Personnel Action and Information Items B. Updates to Trustee Policy Manual, Sections 3.7 and 3.8: Drug and Alcohol Policies C. Provisional Approval of State Land Board MOU
10:15	IX. Discussion Topics A. Draft FY2026-27 Current Fund Budgets (hand carry) B. Undergraduate Enrollment Report C. Elevate Western Campaign and Advancement Update
11:35	X. Written Reports A. Financial and Capital Construction Report B. Campus Updates
11:45	XI. Set Next Meeting Agenda: May 8, 2026
11:50	XII. Public Comment
11:55	XIII. Other Business
12:00	XIV. Adjournment

Proposed Meeting Agenda

May 8, 2026

9:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

University Center, Western Colorado University

Zoom Link: https://western.zoom.us/j/88439642434

Meeting Minutes

Time	Agenda Item
9:00	I. Call to Order
9:05	II. Attendance
9:10	III. Approval of the Agenda
9:15	IV. Approval of Minutes for the Board of Trustees meeting of March 26, 2026
9:25	V. Review of Action Items from the Board of Trustees meeting of March 26, 2026
9:30	VI. Oral Reports A. President B. Board Chair C. Student Trustee D. Faculty Trustee E. Faculty Senate Chair F. Administrative Leadership Council Chair G. Athletic Director H. Attorney General/Legal Report I. Legislative Report
10:30	VII. Executive Session Description: To consider details of specialized security arrangements or investigations under Colorado Revised Statute section 24-6-402(3)(a)(IV) and to receive legal advice, as necessary, under Colorado Revised Statute section 24-6-402(3)(a)(II)
11:00	VIII. Action Items A. Personnel Action and Information Items B. FY2027-28 Capital and Controlled Maintenance Requests C. Election of Officers for 2026-27: Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary, and Treasurer D. Updates to the Handbook for Professional Personnel, Section 2.08: Emeritus Status
12:00	Lunch with newly tenured and emeritus faculty/staff
1:00	VIII. Discussion Topics A. Undergraduate Enrollment Report B. Elevate Western Campaign and Advancement Update
2:00	IX. Written Reports A. Campus Updates
2:10	XI. Public Comment
2:15	XII. Set Next Meeting’s Agenda: June 25-26, 2026
2:20	XIII. Other Business
2:30	XIV. Adjournment

Proposed Agenda

Board Business Session

June 25, 2026

11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Crested Butte Center for the Arts

King Community Room

Zoom Link: https://western.zoom.us/j/87670839913

Time	Agenda Item
11:00	I. Call to Order
11:05	II. Attendance: Oath of Trusteeship—Trustee Ehrlich
11:10	III. Approval of the Agenda
11:15	IV. Approval of Minutes for the Board of Trustees Meeting of May 8, 2026
11:25	V. Review of Action Items from BOT Meeting of May 8, 2026
11:35	VI. Oral Reports A. President B. Board Chair C. Faculty Trustee D. Faculty Senate Chair E. Administrative Leadership Council Chair F. Athletic Director G. Attorney General/Legal Report
12:30	VII. Discussion Topics A. Attorney General’s Office Training (hand carry)
1:00	Lunch
1:45	VII. Discussion Topics (continued) A. 2023-2028 Strategic Plan Update B. Undergraduate Enrollment Report C. Elevate Western Campaign and Advancement Update
3:00	VIII. Action Items A. Personnel Action and Information Items B. FY2026-27 Current Fund Budgets
3:35	IX. Public Comment
3:40	X. Set Next Meeting’s Agenda: September 24, 2026 (Homecoming)
3:45	XI. Other Business A. Resolution of Appreciation—Dr. Jessica Young B. Logistics for Thursday Evening, Friday, and Saturday
4:00	XII. Adjournment

Proposed Agenda

Board Seminar

June 26, 2026

9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Crested Butte Center for the Arts

King Community Room

Zoom Link: https://western.zoom.us/j/87670839913

Time	Agenda Item
9:00	I. Call to Order
9:05	II. Attendance
9:10	III. Approval of the Agenda
9:15	IV. Seminar Topics A. State Budget and Ballot Initiative Overview: Presented by Henry Sobanet B. Board Operational Review/Assessment
12:00	V. Working Lunch
12:55	VI. Other Business
1:00	VII. Adjournment

Revised Proposed Meeting Agenda

December 11, 2025
9:00 a.m. – 1:15 p.m.

Aspinall-Wilson Center, Western Colorado University

Meeting Minutes

Time	Agenda Item
9:30	I. Call to Order
9:35	II. Attendance
9:40	III. Approval of the Agenda
9:45	IV. Approval of Minutes for October 9, 2025, Board of Trustees Meeting
9:50	V. Review of Action Items from Prior Meetings
9:55	VI. Oral Reports President Board Chair Student Trustee Faculty Trustee Faculty Senate Chair Administrative Leadership Council Chair
10:30	VII. Action Items Personnel Action and Information Items FY2025–26 Compensation Budget Amendments Updates to the Handbook for Professional Personnel related to compensation, part-time faculty workload, and leaves of absence
11:30	Lunch
11:45	VIII. Discussion Topics (Continued) Draft 2026–2027 Board of Trustee Meeting Schedule and Administrative Calendar Undergraduate Enrollment Report Legislative Agenda
12:45	IX. Written Reports Department of Higher Education Budget Request Campus Updates
1:00	XII. Set Next Meeting Agenda: February 5, 2026
1:05	XIII. Other Business
1:10	XIV. Public Comment
1:15	XV. Adjournment

Proposed Meeting Agenda

October 9, 2025
10:00am – 3:00pm
University Center, Western Colorado University

Meeting Minutes

10:00 I. Call to Order

10:05 II. Roll Call/Attendance

10:10 III. Approval of the Agenda

10:15 IV. Approval of Minutes for the Board of Trustees Meetings of June 26–27, 2025

10:20 V. Review of Action Items from prior meetings

10:25 VI. Oral Reports

President
Board Chair
Student Trustee
Faculty Trustee
Faculty Senate Chair
Administrative Leadership Council Chair
Athletic Director
Attorney General/Legal Report
Legislative Report

11:15 VII. Action Items

Personnel Information and Action Item
Roll Call Vote on Support for W.A. “Tex” Moncrief, Jr. Petroleum Geology Programper Rady Agreement
Nursing Program Curriculum

12:00 Lunch with students

1:00 VII. Action Items (Continued)

Graduate Education Course Fee
Updates to the Trustee Policy Manual and Handbook for Professional Personnel

TPM Section 2.1: Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Policy
TPM Section 2.2: Discrimination, Harassment, and Retaliation Policy
TPM Section 3.4: Policy Prohibiting Violence and Weapons
TPM Section 3.5: Policy Prohibiting Sex Discrimination and Sex-Based Harassment
TPM new section: Policy Regarding the Release of Personal Identifying Information
and Access to Non-Public Areas of Campus
TPM new section: Digital Accessibility Policy
HPP: various section updates related to affirmative action

1:35 VIII. Discussion Topics

Financial and Capital Construction Report
Savage Library Renovation Project Overview
Elevate Western Campaign and Advancement Updates

2:15 IX. Written Reports

Enrollment Report
Campus Updates

2:30 X. Set Next Meeting Agenda: December 11, 2025

2:40 XI. Other Business

2:50 XII. Public Comment

3:00 XIII. Adjournment

Proposed Meeting Agenda
Board Business Session

June 27, 2025
9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Crested Butte Center for the Arts
King Community Room

Meeting Minutes

9:00 I. Call to Order

9:05 II. Attendance

9:10 III. Approval of the Agenda

9:15 IV. A Time for Learning and Reflection

Led by Kristin Hultquist (CEO, HCM Strategists) and Demi Michelau (President, Western Interstate
Commission on Higher Education), we will explore current trends, challenges, and opportunities in
higher education. The session aims to identify key issues such as demographic shifts, enrollment
patterns, financial constraints, and political dynamics, and brainstorm actionable strategies to address them. The discussion will focus on how the Board can support the university in navigating these challenges, enhancing student success, forming industry partnerships, integrating technological advancements, and strengthening community relationships to build a resilient institution.

12:00 V. Lunch

1:00 VI. Adjourn

Proposed Meeting Agenda
Board Business Session

June 26, 2025
9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Crested Butte Center for the Arts
King Community Room

Meeting Minutes

9:00 I. Call to Order

9:05 II. Attendance

9:10 III. Approval of the Agenda

9:15 IV. Approval of Minutes for the Board of Trustees meeting of May 9, 2025

9:25 V. Review of Action Items from the Board of Trustees meeting of May 9, 2025

9:35 VI. Executive Session

Description: To receive legal advice under C.R.S. 24-6-402(3)(a)(II), to consider
employment negotiations under C.R.S. 24-6-402(3)(a)(V), and to consider personnel
matters under C.R.S. 24-6-402(3)(b)(1).

10:15 VII. Action Items

Presidential Contract (hand carry)
Updates to the Trustee Policy Manual related to Presidential Performance
Personnel Action and Information Items

10:45 VIII. Discussion Topics

School of the Arts
Compensation Plan Overview

11:45 Lunch

12:30 VIII. Discussion Topics (continued)

Undergraduate Enrollment Report
Elevate Western Campaign and Advancement Update
Housing Project Update
Attorney General’s Office Training (hand carry)

1:40 IX. Oral Reports

President
Board Chair
Student Trustee
Faculty Trustee
Faculty Senate Chair
Administrative Leadership Council Chair
Athletic Director
Attorney General/Legal Report

2:35 X. Public Comment

2:40 XI. Set Next Meeting’s Agenda: June 26 and 27, 2025

2:50 XII. Other Business

Logistics for Thursday evening and Friday
Passing of the Gavel

3:00 XIII. Adjournment

Proposed Meeting Agenda
May 9, 2025
9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
University Center, Western Colorado University

Meeting Minutes

9:00 I. Call to Order

9:05 II. Attendance

9:10 III. Approval of the Agenda

9:15 IV. Approval of Minutes for the Board of Trustees meeting of March 27, 2025

9:25 V. Review of Action Items from the Board of Trustees meeting of March 27, 2025

9:30 VI. Action Items

Personnel Action and Information Items
FY2025-26 Current Fund Budgets
FY2026-27 Capital and Controlled Maintenance Requests
Election of Officers for 2025-26: Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary, and Treasurer

10:30 VII. Executive Session

VIII. Action Items

President’s Contract Renewal (hand-carry)

11:30 VIII. Discussion Topics

Enrollment Report

11:50 Lunch with newly tenured and emeritus faculty

1:00 VIII. Discussion Topics cont.

Elevate Western Campaign and Advancement Update

1:20 IX. Written reports

Campus Updates

1:25 X. Oral Reports

President
Board Chair
Student Trustee
Faculty Trustee
Faculty Senate Chair
Administrative Leadership Council Chair
Athletic Director
Attorney General/Legal Report
Legislative Report

2:35 XI. Public Comment

2:45 XII. Set Next Meeting’s Agenda: June 26 and 27, 2025

2:50 XIII. Other Business

3:00 XIV. Adjournment

Proposed Meeting Agenda
March 27, 2025
8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Zoom link: https://western.zoom.us/j/93932259745
Meeting Minutes

8:00 I. Call to Order

8:05 II. Attendance

8:10 III. Approval of the Agenda

8:15 IV. Approval of Minutes for the Board of Trustees meeting of February 6, 2025 and the Special Meeting of March 14, 2025

8:25 V. Review of Action Items from BOT Meeting of February 6, 2025 and the Special Meeting of March 14, 2025

8:35 VI. Oral Reports

President
Board Chair
Student Trustee
Faculty Trustee

9:00 VII. Executive Session

Description: To consider legal advice and personnel matters in accordance with § 24-6-402(3)(a)(II) and §24-6-402(3)(b)(I), C.R.S.

9:30 Break

9:40 VIII. Action Items

Faculty and Staff Housing: Bond Financing
Personnel Action and Information Items
Western Watershed GE Program

11:00 IX. Discussion topics

Enrollment Report
Elevate Western Campaign and Advancement Update

11:30 X. Written reports

Financial and Capital Construction Report
Campus Updates

11:45 XI. Set Next Meeting Agenda: May 9, 2025

11:50 XII. Public Comment

11:55 XIII. Other Business

12:00 XIV. Adjournment

Special Meeting Proposed Agenda

March 14, 2025
9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Zoom link: https://western.zoom.us/j/97696380911
Meeting Minutes

I. Call to Order

II. Attendance

III. Approval of the Agenda

IV. Action Item

FY2025-26 Tuition, Fees, Room and Board Rates

V. Discussion

Long Term Housing Update: Bond Financing Overview
Vice President of Advancement / Executive Director of the WCU Foundation

VI. Adjournment

Western Colorado University Board of Trustees (BOT)
Proposed Meeting Agenda
February 6, 2025
10:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m..
The Sonesta Downtown, Denver
Meeting Minutes

10:00 I. Call to Order

10:05 II. Attendance: Oath of Trusteeship—Trustee Carver and Trustee Vasquez

10:10 III. Approval of the Agenda

10:15 IV. Approval of Minutes for the December 5, 2024 Board of Trustees Meeting and the January 2, 2025 Special Meeting

10:25 V. Review of Action Items from BOT Meeting of December 5, 2024, and the January 2, 2025 Special Meeting

10:30 VI. Oral Reports

President
Board Chair
Student Trustee
Faculty Trustee
Faculty Senate Chair
Administrative Leadership Council Chair
Attorney General/Legal Report
Legislative Report
Athletic Director

11:30 VII. Action Items

Personnel Action and Information Items
FY2025-26 Board of Trustees Meeting Schedule and Administrative Calendar
FY2024-25 Current Fund Budget Amendments (hand-carry)
2024 Affirmative Action Plan

12:15 Lunch with Former Trustee Szczurek

1:00 VII. Action Items Continued

Proposed Curriculum Changes for 2025-2026
Update to Information Security Policies
Updates to Title IX Policies

1:45 VIII. Discussion Topics

Elevate Western Campaign and Advancement Update
FY2023-24 Financial and Compliance Audit
Long Term Housing Update: Bond Financing Overview

2:50 Break

3:05 VIII. Discussion Topics Cont.

FY2025-26 Tuition, Fees, Room and Board Rates and Initial Budget Assumptions
Enrollment Report
Board of Trustees- Individual Action Plan Updates
Economic Impact Study

4:15 IX. Set Next Meeting Agenda: March 27, 2025

4:20 X. Other Business

4:25 XI. Public Comment

4:30 XII. Adjournment

Western Colorado University Board of Trustees (BOT)
Special Meeting Proposed Agenda
January 2, 2025
3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Zoom link https://western.zoom.us/j/98823514514
Meeting Minutes

I. Call to Order

II. Attendance

Welcome to Trustee Carver

III. Approval of the Agenda

IV. Presentation

Undergraduate Recruitment and Enrollment Process and Strategies

V. Adjournment

Western Colorado University Board of Trustees (BOT)
Proposed Meeting Agenda
February 8, 2024
10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
The Oxford Hotel, Denver, Colorado
Meeting Minutes

10:00 I. Call to Order

10:05 II. Attendance

10:10 III. Approval of the Agenda

10:15 IV. Approval of Minutes for the December 7, 2023 Board of Trustees Meeting

10:25 V. Review of Action Items from BOT Meeting of December 7, 2023

10:30 VI. Discussion Topics

Elevate Western Campaign and Advancement Update
2023-2028 Strategic Plan: Metrics and Targets

11:30 VII. Action Items

FY2024-25 Tuition, Fees, Room and Board Rates and Initial Budget Assumptions
Proposed Curriculum Changes for 2024-25

12:30 Lunch

1:30 VII. Action Items (Cont.)

Personnel Action and Information Items
FY2024-25 Board of Trustees Meeting Schedule and Administrative Calendar
Lease Agreement: 120 N. Iowa Street, Gunnison, CO

2:30 VIII. Oral Reports

A. President
Board Chair
Student Trustee
Faculty Trustee
Faculty Senate Chair
Administrative Leadership Council Chair
Attorney General/Legal Report
Legislative Report
Athletic Director

3:30 IX. Public Comment

3:35 Break

3:45 X. Written Reports

Enrollment Report – Undergraduate Admissions
Financial and Capital Construction Report
Campus Updates

3:50 XI. Set Next Meeting Agenda: March 21, 2024

3:55 XII. Other Business

4:00 XIII. Executive Session

Description: To consider matters required to be kept confidential by federal or state law in accordance with §24-6-402(3)(a)(III),C.R.S., to consider details of specialized security arrangements or investigations in accordance with §24-6-402(3)(a)(IV), C.R.S., and/or to receive legal advice in accordance with § 24-6-402(3)(a)(II), C.R.S.

5:00 XIV. Adjournment

March 21, 2024
10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
University Center, Western Colorado University
Meeting Minutes

10:00 I. Call to Order

10:05 II. Attendance

10:10 III. Approval of the Agenda

10:15 IV. Approval of Minutes for the Board of Trustees meeting of February 8, 2024

10:25 V. Review of Action Items from BOT Meeting of February 8, 2024

10:35 VI. Oral Reports

President
Board Chair
Student Trustee
Faculty Trustee
Faculty Senate Chair
Administrative Leadership Council Chair
Athletic Director
Attorney General/Legal Report
Legislative Report

11:25 VII. Public Comment

11:30 VIII. Executive Session

Description: To consider personnel matters in accordance with §24-6-402(3)(b)(I)

12:00 IX. Action Items

Personnel Action and Information Items

12:15 Lunch with ALP Students

1:00 IX. Action Items (Cont.)

Revised FY2024-25 Board of Trustees Meeting Schedule
Trustee Policy Manual and Handbook for Professional Personnel: Revisions Regarding Personnel Policies
Proposed Curriculum Change: Sport Management Certificate
FY2023-24 Reserve Spending

1:55 X. Discussion Topics

FY2022-23 Financial and Compliance Audit
Housing Update
Academic Program Innovation
Trustee Policy Manual Revisions: Chapter 5, Academic Affairs

3:30 XI. Written Reports

Elevate Western Campaign Update
Enrollment Report-Undergraduate Admissions

3:45 XII. Set Next Meetings Agenda: May 3, 2024

3:50 XIII. Other Business

4:00 Adjournment

May 3, 2024
9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
University Center, Western Colorado University
Meeting Minutes

9:00 I. Call to Order

9:05 II. Attendance

9:10 III. Approval of the Agenda

9:15 IV. Approval of Minutes for the Board of Trustees meeting of March 21, 2024

9:25 V. Review of Action Items from BOT Meeting of March 21, 2024

9:30 VI. Action Items

Personnel Action and Information Items
FY2024-25 Current Fund Budgets
FY2025-26 Capital and Controlled Maintenance Requests
Trustee Policy Manual Revisions: Chapter 5
Resolution of Appreciation- Hand Carry
Election of Officers for 2024-25: Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary, and Treasurer

11:10 VII. Discussion Topics

Alternative Funding Sources and Unique Programs
Enrollment Report

12:10 Lunch with newly tenured and emeritus faculty

1:00 VII. Discussion Topics (Cont.)

Elevate Western Campaign and Advancement Update

1:20 VIII. Written Reports

Campus Updates

1:25 IX. Oral Reports

President
Board Chair
Student Trustee
Faculty Trustee
Faculty Senate Chair
Administrative Leadership Council Chair
Athletic Director
Attorney General/Legal Report
Legislative Report

2:35 X. Public Comment

2:40 XI. Set Next Meeting’s Agenda: June 27-28, 2024

2:55 XII. Other Business

3:00 XIII. Adjournment

Proposed Agenda
Board Business Session
June 27, 2024
9:00am – 3:00pm
Crested Butte Community School Library
Meeting Minutes

9:00 I. Call to Order

905: II. Attendance

9:10 III. Approval of the Agenda

9:15 IV. Approval of Minutes for the Board of Trustees meeting of May 3, 2024

9:25 V. Review of Action Items from BOT Meeting of May 3, 2024

9:35 VI. Oral Reports

President
Board Chair
Student Trustee
Faculty Trustee
Faculty Senate Chair
Administrative Leadership Council Chair
Athletic Director
Legislative Report

10:40 VII. Public Comment

10:45 VIII. Action Items

Personnel Action and Information Items
Proposed Revisions to the Handbook for Professional Personnel
Delegation of Authority to President to Approve Interim Policy Updates to the Trustee Policy Manual
Resolution of Appreciation for State Funding Increase

11:45 Lunch and Presentation of Resolution

12:15 IX. Discussion Topics

Attorney General’s Office Training (hand carry)
Enrollment Report (hand carry)
Elevate Western Campaign Update
Foundation/University MOU Annual Review
Housing (hand carry)

2:30 X. Written Reports

Financial and Capital Construction Report

2:40 XI. Set Next Meeting’s Agenda: September 20, 2024 (Homecoming)

2:50 XII. Other Business

Logistics for Thursday evening and Friday

3:00 XIII. Adjournment

Proposed Agenda
Board Seminar
June 28, 2024
9:00am – 2:00pm
Crested Butte Community School Library
Meeting Minutes

9:00 I. Call to Order

9:05 II. Attendance

9:10 III. Approval of the Agenda

9:15 IV. Discussion Topics (Working Lunch)

Development of Board Members Individual Action Plan for Implementation of Western’s 2023-2028 Strategic Plan
1. Overview of Board of Trustee Roles and Responsibilities per State Statute and Trustee Policy Manual
2. 2023-2028 Strategic Plan Review
3. Facilitated Workshop for Creating Individual Board Member Action Plans

1:00 V. Adjournment

Proposed Meeting Agenda
September 19, 2024
10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
University Center, Western Colorado University
Meeting Minutes

10:00 I. Call to Order

10:05 II. Attendance

10:10 III. Approval of the Agenda

10:15 IV. Approval of Minutes for the Board of Trustees Meetings of June 27-28, 2024 and the September 10, 2024 meeting

10:20 V. Review of Action Items from prior BOT Meetings

10:25 VI. Oral Reports

President
Board Chair
Student Trustee
Faculty Trustee
Faculty Senate Chair
Administrative Leadership Council Chair
Athletic Director
Attorney General/Legal Report
Legislative Report- Special Session

11:15 VII. Action Items

Personnel Information and Action Item
Roll Call Vote on Support for W.A. “Tex” Moncrief, Jr. Petroleum Geology Program per Rady Agreement
Updates to the Trustee Policy Manual
Campus Free Expression Policy

12:00 Lunch with SGA Leadership

12:45 VIII. Discussion Topics

Career Services Presentation
Board of Trustee Job Description and Individual Action Plans
Student Enrollment Report
Elevate Western Campaign and Advancement Updates
Long Term Housing Update

2:35 IX.Written Reports

Financial and Capital Construction Report
Campus Updates

2:45 X. Set Next Meeting Agenda: December 5, 2024

2:50 XI. Other Business

2:55 XII. Public Comment

3:00 XIII. Adjournment

Proposed Meeting Agenda
December 5, 2024
9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
University Center, Western Colorado University
Meeting Minutes

9:00 I. Call to Order

9:05: II. Attendance

9:10 III. Approval of the Agenda

9:15 IV. Approval of Minutes for the September 19, 2024 Board of Trustees Meetings

9:20 V. Review of Action Items from BOT Meeting of September 19, 2024

9:30 VI. Oral Reports (3 min report; 2 min Q&A)

President
Board Chair
Student Trustee
Faculty Trustee
Faculty Senate Chair
Administrative Leadership Council Chair
Attorney General/Legal Report
Athletic Director
Legislative Report

10:30 VII. Action Items

Personnel Action and Information Items
2024 Affirmative Action Plan and Progress Report on 2023-2025 Program for
Affirmative Action Strategies

11:00 VIII. Discussion Topics

2023-2028 Strategic Plan Update
Board of Trustees Job Description and Individual Action Plan Updates
Draft 2025-2026 Board of Trustee Meeting Schedule and Administrative Calendar

12:00 Lunch with WCU Drum Line

12:45 VIII. Discussion Topics Continued

Housing Update
Elevate Western Campaign and Advancement Update
Enrollment Report
Financial and Capital Construction Report
Legislative Agenda

2:10 IX. Written reports

Department of Higher Education Budget Request
Campus Updates

2:20 X. Executive Session

Description: To consider legal advice and personnel matters in accordance with § 24-6-
402(3)(a)(II) and §24-6-402(3)(b)(I), C.R.S.

3:40 XI. Action Items

Updates to the Trustee Policy Manual: Section 3.4 – Policy Prohibiting Violence and
Weapons

3:45 XII. Set Next Meeting Agenda: February 6, 2025

3:50 XIII. Other Business

3:55 XIV. Public Comment

4:00 XV. Adjournment

Western Colorado University Board of Trustees (BOT)
Ad Hoc Committee on Efficiencies, Bylaws, and Policy (Policy Committee)
January 13, 2023
2-3:30 p.m.
Virtual Meeting via Zoom. To join, click HERE.
Meeting Minutes

I. Call to Order

II. Attendance

III. Additions to Agenda, if any, and Approval of the Agenda

IV. Approve Minutes from 11/2022 Policy meeting

V. Discuss Trustee roles / behaviors in TPM

VI. Other Business – Other Policy Committee Suggestions and Discussion

VII. Thanks and Adjournment

Western Colorado University Board of Trustees
February 2, 2023
10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
The Oxford Hotel, Denver, Colorado
Meeting Minutes

10:00 I. Call to Order

10:05 II. Attendance

10:10 III. Approval of the Agenda

10:15 IV. Approval of Minutes for the December 8, 2022 Board of Trustees Meeting

10:25 V. Review of Action Items from BOT Meeting of December 8, 2022

10:40 VI. Oral Reports

President
Board Chair
Student Trustee
Faculty Trustee
Faculty Senate Chair
Foundation Executive Director
Attorney General/Legal Report
Legislative Report

11:20 VII. Public Comment

11:30 VIII. Action Items

Sabbatical Proposals and Report
FY2023-24 Board of Trustees Meeting Schedule
Proposed Curriculum Changes for 2023-24

12:00 – Lunch

1:00 VIII. Action Items (Cont.)

Ad Hoc Committee on Policy
FY2023-24 Tuition, Fees, Room and Board Rates (Hand Carry)

1:45 IX. Discussion Topics

Budget Overview and FY2023-24 Initial Budget Assumptions
FY2021-22 Financial and Compliance Audit
Housing Update
Elevate Western Campaign Update

3:00 X. Written Reports

Enrollment Report
Financial and Capital Construction Report
Campus Updates

3:30 XI. Set Next Meeting Agenda: March 23, 2023

3:40 XII. Other Business

3:45 XIII. Executive Session

Description: To consider personnel matters in accordance with §24-6-402(3)(b)(I), C.R.S. and to receive legal advice in accordance with §24-6-402(3)(a)(II), C.R.S.

5:00 XIV. Adjournment

Western Colorado University Board of Trustees (BOT)
Ad Hoc Committee on Efficiencies, Bylaws, and Policy (Policy Committee)
March 14, 2023, 12:00-1:30 p.m.
Virtual Meeting via Zoom. To join, click HERE
Meeting Minutes

I. Call to Order

II. Attendance

III. Additions to Agenda, if any, and Approval of the Agenda

IV. Approve Minutes from 1/13/2023 Policy meeting

V. Discuss Conflict of Interest, Confidentiality, Code of Ethics, and DEI in TPM

VI. Other Business – Other Policy Committee Suggestions and Discussion

VII. Thanks and Adjournment

Western Colorado University Board of Trustees
March 23, 2023
10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
University Center, Western Colorado University
Meeting Minutes

10:00 I. Call to Order

10:05 II. Attendance

10:10 III. Approval of the Agenda

10:15 IV. Approval of Minutes for the Board of Trustees meeting of February 2, 2023

10:25 V. Review of Action Items from BOT Meeting of February 2, 2023

10:35 VI. Oral Reports

President
Board Chair
Student Trustee
Faculty Trustee
Faculty Senate Chair
Administrative Leadership Council Chair
Foundation Executive Director
Athletic Director
Attorney General/Legal Report
Legislative Report

11:25 VII. Public Comment

11:30 VIII. Executive Session

Description: To consider personnel matters in accordance with §24-6- 402(3)(b)(I), C.R.S. and to receive legal advice in accordance with § 24-6- 402(3)(a)(II), C.R.S.

12:15 Lunch (SAAC)

1:00 IX. Action Items

Personnel Action and Information Items
Master Lease Agreement for Faculty/Staff Housing – Hand Carry
Ad Hoc Committee on Policy

1:45 X. Discussion Topics

Colorado Trustee Network Overview
2023-2028 Strategic Plan Draft
Weapons Policy and Campus Safety Update
Elevate Western Campaign Update
FY2023-24 Draft Current Fund Budgets – Hand Carry

3:30 XI. Written Reports

Enrollment Report
Campus Updates

3:45 XII. Set Next Meeting’s Agenda: May 5, 2023

3:50 XIII. Other Business

4:00 XIV. Adjournment

Western Colorado University Board of Trustees (BOT)
Ad Hoc Committee on Efficiencies, Bylaws, and Policy (Policy Committee)
April 21, 2023, 9-10:30 a.m.
Virtual Meeting via Zoom. To join, click HERE
Meeting Minutes

I. Call to Order

II. Attendance

III. Additions to Agenda, if any, and Approval of the Agenda

IV. Approve Minutes from 3-14-2023 Policy meeting

V. Discuss TPM topics

Section 3.3 of TPM — Clarify if BOT approval is needed
Section 5.2 of TPM — Degree and Sub-major Programs. Add a 1.12 section explaining the market need, expected enrollment, competition, and other factors to build a business case for this program.
Section 1.3, ARTICLE IV — Committees — Discuss the need for any Standing Committees including Audit Committee
Chapter 1: discuss Board and Individual Trustee Evaluations
Chapter 1: discuss Board on-boarding
Review Section 2.0 of the TPM and the online DEI statements
Meeting Efficiency — discuss sample board meeting agenda Appendix B, timing of reports, and other suggestions

VI. Other Business — Other Policy Committee Suggestions and Discussion

Other business?

And items to be taken up by Policy Committee when appropriate:

consider intellectual property policies in Section 5 in line with faculty recommendations
consider additional updates from Academic Affairs to Section 3.0 and others
consider / review changes suggested by faculty to the Handbook for Professional Personnel
consider changes to TPM relevant to Title IX, once federal changes are approved
other matters assigned to the committee from the Chair and recommendations from the Policy committee members

VII. Scheduling Next Policy Committee meeting

VIII. Thanks and Adjournment

Proposed Meeting Agenda
May 5, 2023
9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
University Center, Western Colorado University
Meeting Minutes

9:00 I. Call to Order

9:05 II. Attendance

9:10 III. Approval of the Agenda

9:15 IV. Approval of Minutes for the Board of Trustees meeting of March 23, 2023 and April 21, 2023

9:25 V. Review of Action Items from BOT Meeting of March 23, 2023

9:35 VI. Discussion Topics

2023-2028 Strategic Plan Update 1 hour
2023-2028 Strategic Plan Update 1 hour
Updates to Trustee Policy Manual Section 3.2 and The Handbook for Professional Personnel Section 2.03 regarding employee contracts 15 minutes

11:20 VII. Action Items

Personnel Action and Information Items 10 minutes
FY2023-24 Current Fund Budgets 20 minutes
FY2024-25 Capital, IT, and Controlled Maintenance Requests 20 minutes
Affirmative Action Program 20 minutes

12:30 Lunch with newly tenured and emeritus faculty

1:15 VIII. Action Items (continued)

Ad Hoc Committee on Policy 15 minutes
Curriculum Approval: Bachelor of Science in Psychology 10 minutes
Election of Officers for 2023-24: Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary, and Treasurer 10 minutes

1:50 X. Written Reports

Enrollment Report 10 minutes
Emergency Response Protocols and Planning 10 minutes
Elevate Western Campaign Update 10 minutes
Campus Updates 5 minutes

2:25 XI. Oral Reports

President
Board Chair
Student Trustee
Faculty Trustee
Faculty Senate Chair
Administrative Leadership Council Chair
Foundation Executive Director
Athletic Director
Attorney General/Legal Report
Legislative Report

3:30 XII. Public Comment

3:40 XIII. Set Next Meeting’s Agenda: Board Retreat June 22-23, 2023

3:50 XIV. Other Business

4:00 XV. Adjournment

Western Colorado University Board of Trustees (BOT)
Ad Hoc Committee on Efficiencies, Bylaws, and Policy (Policy Committee)
Agenda
May 16, 2023

2:00–3:30 p.m. MTN
Virtual Meeting via Zoom. To join, click HERE
Meeting Minutes

I. Call to Order

II. Attendance

III. Additions to Agenda, if any, and Approval of the Agenda

IV. Approve Minutes from 4/21/2023 Policy meeting

V. Continued Discussion of Topics from Last Meeting

Committees, Board evaluation, Board evaluation. While some discussion has taken place, further exploration is needed before the Policy Committee can make a recommendation about committees, board evaluations, board on-boarding, etc. Theresa has talked to a Adams State University trustee and reviewed AGB materials. Natalie will further review inputs from other AGs. Other Policy committee members may also review materials and bring in their thoughts to the next Policy meeting.
Board member skills
Board member indemnification
Directors and Officers Insurance

VI. Other Business – Other Policy Committee Suggestions and Discussion

Review outstanding action items from2023 Policy Committee work plan and determine approach / timeline to finishing our work.

The WCU Policy Committee established its 2023 work plan in January 2023:

Explore a possible trustee Conflict of Interest (COI) statement
Explore a possible trustee non-disclosure (NDA) statement
Review/Update Section 2 of the TPM and ensure it is consistent with DEI statements (and make sure those DEI statements on the website are updated)
Consider intellectual property policies and other items in Section 5 in line with faculty recommendations
Consider additional updates from Academic Affairs to Section 3.0 and others
Consider / review changes suggested by faculty to the Handbook for Professional Personnel
Consider changes to TPM relevant to Title IX, once federal changes are approved
Other matters assigned to the committee from the Chair and recommendations from the Policy Committee members

VII. Set Next Meeting

VIII. Thanks and Adjournment

Western Colorado University Board of Trustees (BOT)
Ad Hoc Committee on Policy
Agenda
June 7, 2023
1:00-2:00pm MTN
Virtual Meeting via Zoom. To join, click HERE
Meeting Minutes

I. Call to Order

II. Attendance

III.Additions to Agenda, if any, and Approval of the Agenda

IV. Approve Minutes from 5/16/2023 Policy meeting

V. Continued Discussion of Topics from Last Meeting

VI. Other Business — Other Policy Committee Suggestions and Discussion

VII. Set Next Meeting

VIII. Thanks and Adjournment

Proposed Agenda
Business Session
June 22, 2023
10:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Crested Butte Community School Library
Meeting Minutes

10:00 – I. Call to Order

10:05 – II. Attendance

10:10 – III. Approval of the Agenda

10:15 – IV. Approval of Minutes for the Board of Trustees meeting of May 5, 2023

10:25 – V. Review of Action Items from BOT Meeting of May 5, 2023

10:35 – VI. Action Items

Personnel Action and Information Items 10 minutes
2023-2028 Strategic Plan 1 hour
WCU/WCU Foundation MOU and Staffing Update (hand carry) 45 minutes
Ad Hoc Committee on Policy 10 minutes

12:30 – Lunch

1:00 – VII. Discussion Topics

Elevate Western Campaign Update and Public Launch 30 minutes
Attorney General’s Office Training (hand carry) 30 minutes

2:00 – VIII. Written Reports

Enrollment Report 15 minutes

2:15 – IX. Oral Reports

President
Board Chair
Student Trustee
Faculty Trustee
Faculty Senate Chair
Administrative Leadership Council Chair
Athletic Director
Attorney General/Legal Report

3:15 – X. Public Comment

3:20 – XI. Set Next Meeting’s Agenda: September 28-29, 2023

3:25 – XII. Other Business

Logistics for Martens property tour, Friday June 23rd

3:30 – XIII. Adjournment

Proposed Meeting Agenda
September 28, 2023
9:00am – 4:00pm
University Center, Western Colorado University

9:00 I. Call to Order

II. Attendance

III. Approval of the Agenda

IV. Approval of Minutes for the Board of Trustees Meetings of June 22-23, 2023

V. Review of Action Items from BOT Meetings of June 22-23, 2023

9:15 VI. Oral Reports

President
Board Chair
Student Trustee
Faculty Trustee
Administrative Leadership Council Chair
Athletic Director
Attorney General
Dean of Students

10:00 VII. Action Items

Personnel Information and Action Item (10 minutes)
Roll Call Vote on Support for W.A. “Tex” Moncrief, Jr. Petroleum Geology Program per Rady Agreement (20 minutes)

10:30 VIII. Discussion Topics

2023-2028 Strategic Plan: Implementation Planning – hand carry (60 minutes)

11:45 Lunch with SGA Leadership

12:30 IX. Discussion Topics contd.

Student Enrollment Update and Admissions Overview (40 minutes)
Elevate Western Campaign and Advancement Updates (30 minutes)
DEIJ+ Educational Session (25 minutes)

2:05 Break

2:15 X. State Demographer Presentation (50 minutes)

3:05 XI. Discussion Topics contd.

Strategic Resource Allocation Implementation Update (15 minutes)

3:20 XII. Written Reports

Campus Updates

3:25 XIII. Executive Session (30 minutes)

Description: To consider personnel matters in accordance with §24-6-402(3)(b)(I).

3:55 XIV. Set Next Meeting’s Agenda: December 7, 2023

End of Year Celebration: December 8, 2023

XV. Other Business

XVI. Public Comment

4:00 XVII. Adjournment

Proposed Meeting Agenda
December 7, 2023
10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Zoom Link: https://western.zoom.us/j/99365398375
Meeting Minutes

10:00 I. Call to Order

10:05 II. Attendance

10:10 III. Approval of the Agenda

10:20 IV. Approval of Minutes for the September 28, 2023 and November 28, 2023 Board of Trustees Meetings

10:30 V. Review of Action Items from BOT Meeting of September 28, 2023

10:40 VI. Oral Reports

President
Board Chair
Student Trustee
Faculty Trustee
Faculty Senate Chair
Administrative Leadership Council Chair
Attorney General/Legal Report
Legislative Report
Athletic Director

11:25 VII. Public Comment

11:30 VIII. Action Items

Personnel Action and Information Items
Trustee Policy Manual: Posthumous Degrees
Colorado Re-Engaged (CORE) Initiative

12:30 Lunch Break

1:00 VIII. Action Items (cont.)

2023 Affirmative Action Plan and 2023-2025 Program for Affirmative Action Strategies
Multi-Unit Lease Agreement- Phase II

1:45 IX. Discussion Topics

Cybersecurity Briefing
2023-2028 Strategic Plan: Metrics and Targets
Enrollment Report

2:45 Break

3:00 IX. Discussion Topics (Cont.)

Legislative Agenda Overview
Elevate Western Campaign Update
Draft 2024-25 Board of Trustees Meeting Schedule and Administrative Calendar

3:45 X. Written Reports

Department of Higher Education Budget Request
Campus Updates

3:50 XI. Set Next Meetings Agenda: February 8, 2024

3:55 XII. Other Business

4:00 XIII. Adjournment

Policy & Governance

Western Colorado University (Western) Board of Trustees Statement on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Drafted by: BoT, commented and revised by DEI Committee and Student Leaders

On behalf of the President and the Board of Trustees of Western Colorado University (Western), in partnership with Western’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity (DEI) Committee and Campus Student Leaders

Western recognizes that systemic, structural, institutional, and interpersonal forms of racism throughout the history of the United States of America have targeted and discriminated against People of Color, and continue to do so.

Western condemns racially motivated violence.

Western affirms that Black lives matter.

Western actively rejects racism and discrimination in all forms; and affirms higher education leadership that prioritizes the elimination of racist and discriminatory practices across campus.

Western recognizes that the current national events and violence targeted towards the Black Community have continued to emphasize the historic inequities and injustices suffered by People of Color in the United States of America.

Western will actively work to condemn racism, improve the reporting transparency of hate crimes on campus, and build a culture that reinforces these stated values by holding student, faculty, and all staff accountable on every institutional level.

Western will annually commit, allocate, and invest funds and resources to ensure DEI-related efforts, evolving practices, and successful outcomes that support the entire campus.

Western, currently a Predominantly White Institution, commits to increasing the representation of nonwhite/minority individuals among faculty, staff, administrators, students, and guest speakers.

Western recognizes that those privileged to work or study at Western bear special responsibilities to be consistently upheld as we move towards our goal of becoming a campus of Inclusive Excellence, as defined by the Association of American Colleges & Universities (AAC&U).

Western affirms the principle of learning and educating, through listening.

Western pledges to actively engage our campus and the Gunnison community in dialogue, training, and programs which will enhance: our individual and collective understanding of how racism targets People of Color, as well as other marginalized communities; our understanding of our role in systems that enable discriminatory practices; and the ways in which we can actively work to correct systemic injustices committed against People of Color.

Contact and background information on Western’s DEI may be found here.

Western’s Faculty Senate authored and adopted a statement on diversity and inclusivity, endorsed by the President and Board of Trustees, that may be found here.

Information pertaining to AAC&U’s Inclusive Excellence may be found here, as well as here.

Section 2.3: Campus Free Expression Policy

A. Authority

This policy is promulgated by the Board of Trustees of Western Colorado University pursuant to C.R.S. § 23- 56-102(1).

i. Policy Statement

The First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States assures that “Congress shall make no law … abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble,” Western acknowledges the rights of its faculty, staff, students, its constituents (together the “Western Community”), and members of the public to engage in free speech and peaceful assembly.

Western Colorado University recognizes that its educational mission can only be met—both inside and outside of the classroom—through an environment that encourages both freedom of thought and expression in order to meet its mission “to promote intellectual maturity and personal growth in its students and prepare them to assume constructive roles in local, national and global communities,” as well as to support its civic role as a public institution of higher education in a democratic society. These highest goals of the university and society should be met in a context of respect for the rights and privileges of others and for the university’s ability to accomplish its mission.

The purpose of this policy is to advise the Western Community and members of the public of the procedures and standards of conduct that must be observed while availing themselves of the use of University campus and facilities in the exercise of those rights. Hence, the primary use of Western’s property and facilities is for activities that are directly related to Western’s educational mission and purpose, including teaching, research, preparation of scholarly material, student activities or campus support operations. Consistent with the Constitution and applicable law, Western may impose reasonable and content-neutral time, place, and manner restrictions on the use of its property and facilities and restrict or limit use that disrupts or interferes with academic mission, business operations, or regular functions of the University. Western also prohibits unlawful activity that endangers the safety of the campus community, University property or facilities. This policy both facilitates free expression and exchange of ideas and protects the institution.

Members of Western’s community are encouraged to recognize the virtue of listening with empathy and intellectual humility. Civil dialogue becomes possible when students, faculty, and staff work to sharpen their skills of moral discernment, self-criticism, and respectful listening, all of which can improve a community’s ability to deliberate collectively and inclusively. Part of Western’s investment in civic education is to nurture norms of respect and curiosity and to create opportunities for practicing respectful dialogues about difficult social, ethical, and political issues.

I. Definitions For the purposes of this policy, the following definitions shall apply:

A. Free Expression Activities. “Free expression activity or activities” means any lawful verbal or written activity by which individuals may communicate ideas to one another, including all forms of peaceful assembly, protests, speaking verbally, holding signs, circulating petitions, and distributing written materials. Expressive Activities include voter registration activities, but do not include activities that are primarily for Solicitation. Nothing within this policy grants any person the right to engage in expressive activity or conduct that is not protected under the First Amendment of the United States Constitution or Article II, Section 10 of the Colorado Constitution.

B. Literature. “Literature” is defined as any written matter, photos and/or artwork that is not predominantly advertising or commercial in nature.

C. Solicitation. “Solicitation” is defined as approaching another person to communicate a commercial message, including but not limited to communication through the following means: offering information about services or sales; soliciting an email address, phone number or other contact information for commercial purposes; and distributing any sales flier, coupon book, sample, promotional item, coupon, or similar item. Solicitation of charitable donations is considered commercial speech. Solicitation may be regulated by Western to a greater extent than other free expression activities. Western is under no obligation to make any areas or facilities available for solicitation.

D. Unprotected Speech. “Unprotected speech” means expressive activities that are not protected by Constitution or law such as communicating in a manner that is defamatory, incites violence or unlawful action, constitutes harassment, is obscene, or consists of fighting words or threats of physical harm.

E. Sale. “Sale” is defined as any transaction that involves the exchange of money for an item.

II. Use of University Grounds, Buildings and Facilities

A. Outdoor Areas on Campus For purposes of engaging in free expression activities. Western will provide its students, faculty, staff, other members of the Western Community, and the public access to all public and open outdoor areas on Western’s campus on a non-discriminatory, content-neutral basis, with the understanding that activities held or reserved by the Western Community shall have priority over the activities of other users. Western will not designate any area as a free speech zone or otherwise limit free expression to a predetermined and designated area of campus. Generally accessible outdoor areas on the campuses shall be available to members of the university community for free expression in accordance with campus policies authorized by this section.

B. Use of Indoor Facilities by Western Community. In addition, Western will provide its enrolled students access to non-academic and publicly accessible indoor facilities that have traditionally been made available to enrolled students for purposes of free expression activities, subject to the limitations set forth in this section and relevant student and faculty policies.

C. Use of Facilities by Members of the Public Except for outdoor area use in conjunction with free expression activities. Any member of the public or outside organization seeking to use Western’s restricted outdoor campus spaces, indoor facilities, equipment, office, laboratory, or parking space or lots, must register the activity and obtain the approval of the VP for Student Affairs or his/her designee. Additionally, a member of the public or outside organization will be required to enter into the appropriate Facilities Use Agreement or appropriate facility rental agreement with Western specifying the terms and conditions under which the requested campus resources may be utilized.

D. Distribution of Literature. Distribution of free literature is permitted outside buildings, provided that such distribution does not disrupt or interfere with normal or previously scheduled activities of a particular place or building, and does not impede ingress and egress to and from campus buildings and pedestrian or vehicular traffic on campus walkways, sidewalks, and streets. Unless otherwise provided in this policy, distribution of free literature that is not part of the teaching, research, or other official functions of the University or not otherwise sponsored by the University or any of its academic or administrative departments, divisions or units is not permitted inside any campus building or any enclosed or special purpose area (such as the stadium), or in any campus residential areas, including University residence halls, campus apartment complexes, and other student housing facilities. The publisher, editor, author or distributor of any literature distributed on campus must be clearly identified on the material distributed. The sale of literature is prohibited without University authorization.

E. Time,Place, and Manner Restrictions

Event Amplification. Amplified sound is generally prohibited on campus, but may be permitted for official University and registered student organization events with the prior approval of the VP for Student Affairs or his/her designee. Amplification must take place during the normal office hours 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., unless otherwise authorized. Sound levels are not to exceed 80 decibels at any time. Due to the proximity of classrooms, offices, laboratories, and the library, a Facilities Services staff member will monitor the sound level and may require lower sound levels when necessary to avoid undue disruption of others.
Campus Postings.Postings by members of the general public are limited to designated bulletin boards in common areas. Students, faculty, and staff may also post to these bulletin boards. Obscenity and libelous material are prohibited. No materials posted on designated bulletin boards may be posted more than two weeks. Posted materials that violate these restrictions are subject to immediate removal.Posting on all other bulletin boards and surfaces on campus is limited to Western academic or administrative departments, divisions, or units, or affiliated organizations or groups. All posted materials must clearly identify the sponsoring organization or group. Obscenity and libelous material will not be approved for campus posting. With the exception of internal postings by Western academic or administrative departments, divisions or units, no materials may be posted on campus more than two weeks, unless the VP for Student Affairs expressly permits an extension of this posting period. Failure to meet these requirements will result in immediate removal of the posted material and may subject the sponsoring organization or group to disciplinary action or prosecution. Chalking is allowed only on the horizontal concrete ground (not on steps, paving stones, buildings or walls) and must be at least 15 feet away from any building entrance. To prevent property damage, only washable chalk may be used; no spray chalk, paint, or similar materials may be used on University property. Violators may be charged for the cost of cleanup and/or prosecuted.
Campus Solicitation. Any activity that competes with an existing campus business (such as the bookstore) or businesses with which Western has entered into an exclusive contract (such as food service and beverage/snack vending services) and the solicitation, sale or vending of credit cards, alcohol, illegal drugs and drug paraphernalia, cigarettes or other tobacco products, and any item, product, or service prohibited by state or federal law are prohibited.
Other Restrictions. Any event, demonstration, meeting, assembly, or expressive activity, as well as any persons in attendance, must comply with the applicable rules and policies of the University, including applicable law and University policy regarding restrictions on the consumption and service of alcohol. Any act that unreasonably interferes with the rights of others to peaceably assemble or to exercise the right of free speech, disrupts the normal functioning of the University, damages property, or endangers health or safety is specifically prohibited. No person may attempt to, nor actually interfere with, impair or impede the institution’s regularly scheduled classes, events, ceremonies, or normal and essential operations. The University is required by law to provide and maintain reasonable access to, and exit from, any office, classroom, laboratory, or building. This access must not be obstructed at anytime. Vehicular and pedestrian traffic cannot be impeded by demonstrations or gatherings. The provision of medical care cannot be impeded by demonstrations or gatherings. The normal operations of the University (classes, scheduled meetings, events, ceremonies, or other educational purposes) must not be interfered with or disrupted.

F. Activity Registration. Activity held on Western’s campus must be registered with the University by filling out and submitting an Event Request Form to the VP for Student Affairs, Facilities Director,Director of Business Operations, and Director of Security seven (7) days in advance of the proposed activity if the activity has any of the following characteristics:

100 or more people are expected to attend or participate;
A member of the public seeks access to Western’s indoor facilities for free expression activities;
A member of the Western Community seeks access to academic or publicly inaccessible indoor facilities that have traditionally not been made available for purposes of free expression activities for such activities;
Authorized University officials determine that the event is likely to significantly affect campus safety and security, or significantly affect normal University operations, including but not limited to providing usual and customary services to students, faculty and staff, classes and educational activities.

The following information, at minimum, will be required:

Contact information for the person organizing the activity;
Nature and type of activity planned;
Desired date, time, and duration of the activity;
Estimated number of people expected to participate in the activity; and
The type of sound amplification devices, if any, that will be used. This coordination is required so as to prevent disruption of normal University educational activities, coordinate competing requests for the same venue, and avoid endangering the health or safety of persons and damage to property. In exigent circumstances, Western may waive the seven (7) day requirement for advance registration for activities meeting one of the four above characteristics. Such circumstances include where the organizer could not have reasonably anticipated the activity in advance. In such a circumstance, the Event Request Form should be submitted to the VP for Student Affairs, Facilities Director, Director of Business Operations, and Director of Security with the required information and a brief statement regarding the exigent circumstance, and will be reviewed as soon as reasonably practicable.

G.Activity Priority. Priority to use Western’s campus and facilities for free expression activities will be given as follows:

Western Community members with an approved Event Request Form
Other individuals or groups with an approved Event Request Form
Western Students without a registered activity on a first come, first serve basis.
Other individuals or groups without a registered activity on a first come, first serve basis.

H.Objections to Free Expression Activities. The University recognizes that individual or groups may be opposed to certain Expressive Activities or speakers. Disagreement with different opinions is acceptable. Sustained or repeated noise made in a manner that substantially interferes with another speaker’s ability to communicate his/her message is not acceptable. Nothing within this policy grants any person the right to materially disrupt previously scheduled or reserved activities or to engage in expressive activity or conduct that is not protected under the First Amendment ofthe United States Constitution or Article II, Section 10 of the Colorado Constitution.

I. Response to Violations of Policy and Disruptive Activities. Violations of this policy may result in removal from Western’s campus, police arrest, and criminal charges. In addition, members of the university community are subject to discipline or consequences based under the applicable student or employment disciplinary policies. No disciplinary action may be taken against a student for expressive activities that are otherwise permitted by this policy based upon the content or viewpoint of the student’s expression or the reaction or opposition by listeners or observers to such expression.

III. Freedom of Expression by University Faculty

A. When engaged in teaching and research, faculty enjoy the associated rights and observe the associated responsibilities of academic freedom. Western can engage in content-based evaluation of faculty who are operating within the professional educational context, as long as this evaluation is based on professional standards or peer assessments of the quality of scholarship or teaching.

B. University faculty are members of our Community and members of a learned profession. When university faculty speak or write as citizens, not in furtherance of their university duties or in the course and scope of their university employment, on matters of political, academic, artistic, or social concern, the university shall not censor their expression, initiate disciplinary action against them, or otherwise subject the faculty members to adverse employment actions because it disapproves of the substance of their expression.

C. When university faculty speak or write in their personal capacities, not in furtherance of their university duties or in the course and scope of their university employment, they must make every effort to indicate that their expression is their own and does not represent the opinion or position of the university.

D. The freedom of expression recognized in this section does not grant university faculty the right to refuse to perform official duties, to materially disrupt the university environment or university activities, or to disregard applicable standards of ethical conduct, including but not limited to those expressed in Western’s Handbook for Professional Personnel and Trustee Policy Manual.

IV. Freedom of Expression by University Staff

A. All staff of the university are members of our Community. When staff of the university speak or write in their personal capacities, not in furtherance of their university duties or in the course and scope of their university employment, on matters of political, academic, artistic, or social concern, the university shall not censor their expression, initiate disciplinary action against them, or otherwise subject the staff members to adverse employment actions because it disapproves of the substance of their expression.

B. When staff of the university speak or write as citizens, they must make every effort to indicate that their expression is their own and does not represent the opinion or position of the university.

C. The freedom of expression recognized in this section does not grant staff of the university the right to refuse to perform official duties, to materially disrupt the university environment or university activities, or to disregard applicable standards of ethical conduct, including but not limited to those expressed in Western’s Handbook for Professional Personnel and Trustee Policy Manual.

V. Freedom of Expression by University Students

A. When engaged in educational activities, university students enjoy the associated rights and observe the associated responsibilities of academic freedom.

B. University students are members of our Community. When university students speak or write in their personal capacities on matters of political, academic, artistic, or social concern, not in furtherance of their studies or in the course of their academic duties, the university shall not censor their expression, initiate disciplinary action against them, or

otherwise subject the students to adverse academic actions because it disapproves of the substance of their expression. C. The freedom of expression recognized in this section does not grant Western students the right to materially disrupt the university environment or university activities or to disregard applicable standards of conduct, including but not limited to those expressed in Western’s approved Student Handbook and Trustee Policy Manual.

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