New financing approach centers on philanthropic funding, redirects current budget toward mission investments
Following more than 18 months of study and review, the Board of Regents approved during a special meeting today recommendations to retain the U of M’s historic Eastcliff residence. The Board resolution directs a shift of much of the operating and capital costs for the property to private philanthropy.
This new approach ensures continued use of the property as the official residence of U of M presidents — as it has been for more than 60 years — and as a venue to recognize significant accomplishments by the University community and build key relationships on behalf of the University. The action also redirects resources currently dedicated to Eastcliff toward high-priority systemwide goals.
The Board reviewed the recommended plan at its July 10 meeting. During that discussion, the Board considered how the plan balances Eastcliff’s historic significance with the desire to align the University’s budget with mission-oriented activities that directly support U of M students, faculty, staff, researchers and the state. This outcome not only aligns with Board policy, it is also consistent with an initial recommendation reviewed by the Board in December 2022.
As outlined in the Board-approved plan, the University will partner with the University of Minnesota Foundation over the next five years to raise funds for needed capital investments, including renovations and repairs to the 100-year-old home and gathering space, as well as the majority of Eastcliff’s annual operating costs. The plan was informed by a feasibility study conducted by the Foundation, which showed philanthropic support exists to cover most operating and capital expenses. Remaining operating costs will be covered by the University.
Eastcliff was built in 1922 by Edward Brooks, Sr., and was donated to the University by the Brooks family in 1958. The property has provided a home for U of M presidents since 1961, one that is easily accessible to the Twin Cities campus. The property is designated on the National Register of Historic Places.
Updates to University policies related to sex discrimination
The Board also approved changes to several Board and University administrative policies, pending an appeal of a recent federal court injunction. The amendments, which the Board reviewed at its July 10 meeting, update University policies, procedures and rules to comply with new federal Title IX regulations.
The Biden administration issued final regulations in April 2024, and universities are required to implement changes to comply with these regulations no later than August 1. The regulations specify how institutions must respond to reports of sex discrimination that are covered by Title IX.
The U.S. Departments of Education and Justice are currently enjoined from enforcing the new regulations against the University following a recent federal court decision — both agencies are appealing the injunction. If their appeal is successful, the University’s policies and procedures would be required to comply with the new 2024 regulations.
The Board’s approval positions the University to implement the policies at such time the injunction is lifted, keeping the University in compliance with the new federal regulations. The Board delegated authority to President Cunningham to swiftly implement the amended policies and rules when it is permissible to do so under law and Department of Education policy.
The Board of Regents is scheduled to meet next on Sept. 12-13. Visit regents.umn.edu for more information.
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