ETSU Board approves AI policy and student success initiatives for 2025

East Tennessee State University (ETSU) is set to implement significant policy changes regarding the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in academic settings, following a recent Board of Trustees meeting held on February 21, 2025. The Academic Research and Student Success Committee approved a new policy that will guide the use of AI technologies for instructional and assignment purposes. This policy is expected to be fully developed and communicated to the campus community by June 1, 2025, marking a proactive step in adapting to evolving educational technologies.

In addition to the AI policy, the committee authorized the president to notify state education committees about the adoption of a new institutional research security policy, which aims to enhance the safeguarding of research and development activities at ETSU. This decision reflects the university's commitment to maintaining high standards in research integrity.

The meeting also highlighted the university's impressive growth in student enrollment and the establishment of a proposed Student Success Center. This center aims to provide comprehensive support for at-risk and underserved students, furthering ETSU's mission to enhance educational access and success.

Financial discussions were also prominent, with the Finance and Administration Committee announcing no increase in tuition for the College of Medicine for the upcoming academic year, demonstrating a commitment to affordability amidst rising costs. However, housing and meal plan rates will see increases ranging from 5% to 8.7% as part of a two-year plan to align with market values.

The Audit Committee reported a significant achievement, noting that ETSU's financial audits have shown no findings for the past two years, a notable accomplishment for the institution. Additionally, the ETSU police department received accreditation from the Tennessee law enforcement accreditation program, enhancing campus safety and security.

Overall, the meeting underscored ETSU's dedication to academic excellence, financial responsibility, and student support, setting a positive trajectory for the university's future. The board's decisions are expected to have lasting impacts on the institution and its community, as ETSU continues to adapt to the changing landscape of higher education.