The Kansas Board of Regents convened on January 15, 2025, to discuss significant fiscal matters, including the ongoing renovation of Cessna Stadium at Wichita State University. The meeting highlighted the importance of proper funding and oversight for university projects, particularly in light of recent audits and regulatory scrutiny.

Regent discussions emphasized the need for adequate financial resources to support the internal audit processes and ensure compliance with new standards. Concerns were raised about the board's oversight capabilities, prompting a commitment to revisit these issues in future meetings.

A major focus of the meeting was the Cessna Stadium renovation project, which has been in planning since 2022. David Miller from Wichita State provided an update on the project, which aims to modernize the stadium originally built in 1946. The total budget for the renovation has been set at $78 million, with the first phase of construction already underway. This phase includes the demolition of the east side of the stadium and the construction of new bleachers and facilities, with a budget of approximately $11.8 million.

Miller outlined the timeline for the project, noting that the second phase, which will involve significant upgrades to the west side of the stadium, is projected to begin in the summer of 2026. The estimated cost for this phase is around $53.9 million, and the board is seeking legislative authorization to bond up to $60 million to fund it. This request includes a portion of funding for the second phase and a contingency for inflation.

Regents expressed the importance of securing firm commitments for donations and local partnerships before proceeding with the construction of the second phase. They reiterated that no general use funds or tuition dollars would be utilized for this project, ensuring that financial commitments would not impact other university programs.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the necessity of legislative support for the stadium project, as well as a commitment to maintain transparency and accountability in the funding process. The board plans to follow up on these discussions in future meetings, ensuring that all financial aspects are thoroughly reviewed and addressed.