September 30, 2022
Dear Colleagues:
I write to share a few highlights from today’s meetings of the Board of Trustees.
During the meeting, the Board approved our recommendation not to increase health and dental premiums for current employees and retirees in 2023. This decision means that the premiums that you pay currently will remain in place until December 2023.
We recognize the impact of the current environment of high inflation on our employees and your families, and so I hope this decision eases some of the financial burden that has resulted from this difficult time.
Our ability to keep premiums flat in the coming calendar year is the result of our strong financial stewardship and our long-standing practicing of managing our resources conscientiously. The 2023 Benefits Open Enrollment period will be October 25-November 10, 2022; more information about plan options will be available later this Fall.
The Board also approved my decision to transfer—at no cost—approximately 12 acres of land owned by our University to the Muncie Redevelopment Commission. The land, located east of the Farmington subdivision and south of Riggin Road, is zoned for residential use and is surrounded by other residential neighborhoods.
The Board agreed with my assessment that this site is best used to construct approximately 40 homes, which can provide vital property tax revenue that benefits the City of Muncie and Muncie Community Schools. Ball State had no long-term plans for the site, so we decided to make it available to the City for free.
The Board also heard a presentation from Seth Beckman, dean of the College of Fine Arts, about enrollment trends, curricular innovations, and campus and community partnerships.
At the end of the Board meeting, I made a few comments. If you would like to read my remarks, please visit the website.
It is a privilege to serve with you, and I am grateful for your encouragement and support.
