Trustees approve clearer rules, annual financial reporting for system centers and institutes

The University of Alabama System Board of Trustees approved proposed amendments to Board Rule 503 Feb. 7 to clarify procedures for creating, reviewing, modifying and closing campus centers and institutes and to implement an annual financial reporting process for all active centers and institutes.

Senior Vice Chancellor Tunjanita Johnson told trustees the amendments "seek to add clarity and expand on the existing process for reviewing campus centers and institutes," and that the proposed financial review would begin at the April board meeting if approved.

Why it matters: The rule changes standardize how centers and institutes are inventoried, reviewed and, where necessary, closed or substantially changed. The new annual financial reporting requirement is intended to present accurate financial data on active centers and will be included in board materials as an information item.

Discussion and context: Johnson said the proposal includes updates to the inventory review process and expectations for addressing closure or substantial modification of centers. She noted the system will begin the financial review process with the board’s April meeting. There were no substantive objections recorded in committee discussion.

What happens next: With board approval, the system office will implement the amended Board Rule 503 and begin annual financial reporting at the April board meeting. The system inventory maintained by the Office of Academic and Student Affairs will be updated to reflect approved changes.