Charter of the Board of Trustees

Approved March 22, 2017

Purpose:

The Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities (Minnesota State) has adopted the following mission statement:

The core commitments of Minnesota State Colleges and Universities are to ensure access to an extraordinary education for all Minnesotans, be the partner of choice to meet Minnesota’s workforce and community needs, and deliver to students, employers, communities, and taxpayers the highest value/most affordable higher education option.

Authority and Duties:

By statute, the board possesses all powers necessary to govern Minnesota State and all related property including prescribing conditions of admission, establishment of fees and tuition, approval of courses of study, approval of the award of degrees and certificates, contracting and the adoption of policies for the institutions comprising Minnesota State.

The board is the governing body responsible for: setting the long-term strategic direction and policy (in consultation with management); overseeing adherence to policy; monitoring progress in meeting strategic goals; appointing the chancellor and assessing his/her performance; appointing the presidents, vice chancellors, and director of Internal Audit; setting the operating budget and making legislative requests (in consultation with management); approving labor contracts and other contracts in excess of $1 million; and ensuring processes are in place for maintaining the integrity and reputation of Minnesota State and reinforcing a culture of ethics, compliance and risk management.

The basic responsibility of the trustees is to exercise their independent judgment to act in what they reasonably believe to be the best interests of Minnesota State in pursuit of its educational mission.

The board has delegated to the chancellor full authority and responsibility for leadership, management, and operation of the system.

Board Structure:

The Board of Trustees of Minnesota State consists of 15 members appointed by the governor with the advice and consent of the senate. The officers of the board consist of a chair and a vice chair, elected from and by the members of the board for a one-year term. The board has created six standing committees: Executive, Finance and Facilities, Human Resources, Academic and Student Affairs, Audit, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. The Executive Committee’s responsibilities include governance.

Meetings:

The board shall have an annual meeting held in June for the election of officers and establishment of the dates and times for monthly meetings. The meetings are held in conformance with the Minnesota Open Meeting Law.