The East Tennessee State University (ETSU) Board of Trustees meeting held on April 21, 2023, featured a comprehensive overview of the ETSU State of the University survey, presented by Dr. Mike Hock. The survey, conducted from November 2 to December 19, 2022, gathered 2,935 unique responses from faculty, staff, and students, providing valuable insights into the campus community's sentiments.

Dr. Hock highlighted several key findings from the survey. Notably, 62% of respondents reported a sense of belonging at ETSU, while 70% believed the university is moving in the right direction. An impressive 90% expressed optimism about the institution's future. The survey also revealed that 95.5% of participants felt ETSU is fulfilling its mission to improve the lives of people in the region.

Housing satisfaction was noted, with 74% of on-campus residents expressing contentment, although there remains room for improvement. Additionally, while 92% of respondents felt equipped to address their physical health needs, only 76% believed the university adequately supports mental health services, indicating an area for growth.

Dr. Hock emphasized the importance of transforming passive supporters into active promoters of ETSU, as reflected in the Promoter Score, which stood at 21. He noted that 84% of respondents would choose to attend ETSU again if given the chance, underscoring the institution's positive impact on its community.

In addition to the survey results, Dr. Hock announced plans to enhance transparency by developing an electronic dashboard for ongoing access to institutional data. This initiative aims to keep the board and the campus community informed about key performance indicators and strategic goals.

Following Dr. Hock's presentation, President Nolan provided an update on broader trends in higher education, emphasizing the financial stability of ETSU compared to other institutions. He noted that while many university presidents feel their institutions are currently in a better position than before the COVID-19 pandemic, there are concerns about future challenges.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue engaging with the campus community and addressing areas for improvement, particularly in mental health services and housing satisfaction. The board expressed appreciation for the survey's insights and the ongoing efforts to enhance the university experience for all stakeholders.