University of Minnesota strengthens government, community partnerships

The University of Minnesota Board of Regents today heard an overview of the University’s commitment to engage with all levels of government to position the organization for long-term success in a rapidly evolving and increasingly complex public policy environment. 

Vice President for Government and Community Relations Erin Sexton provided an overview of how the University advances its legislative agenda, demonstrates statewide relevance and connects with elected officials at the Board’s February meeting. The University’s Government and Community Relations team’s work spans four integrated areas — federal relations, state relations, local government and community relations, and advocacy.

“We are sharing the University's work to solve some of the most challenging issues facing our state — whether that is addressing workforce needs or advancing new discoveries,” Sexton said. “When we are proud of our mission and clear about our goals, the University becomes a more powerful, credible force for good.”

The presentation was timely as the Minnesota House and Senate will convene on February 17 for the 2026 legislative session. The University’s capital request, approved by the Board of Regents this past fall, outlines state funding for three capital investment projects: $84 million for a new St. Paul Campus Center, $100 million for dentistry clinical renovations, and $100 million for Higher Education Asset Preservation & Replacement projects across four campuses. 

The Board also:

• Received an update on the University’s plan to align and maximize the success of the University’s five-campus system by ensuring effective enrollment strategies. University and individual campus enrollment plans are expected to be finalized by June 2026.  
• Reviewed the fiscal 2027 annual operating budget framework, one of multiple steps the Board takes during the year to review the University’s budget before taking action on the final version in June.
  Discussed the University of Minnesota Rochester’s connection to Mayo Clinic’s Destination Medical Center, and campus plans to expand in multiple DMC districts to accommodate continued enrollment growth, given pressing workforce needs in the sectors served by its graduates.
• Approved the University’s annual performance and accountability report, which includes traditional metrics, such as graduation rates and annual research expenditures, as well as new benchmarks for ongoing priorities such as faculty tenure, institutional impact, philanthropy and sustainability.
• Approved the Elevate Extraordinary 2030 metrics, which outline success measures for the University of Minnesota’s strategic imperatives and priorities.

The Board’s Virtual Forum accepts audio, video and written input, which is shared directly with Regents and included in the Board’s public materials. The public is encouraged to visit the Virtual Forum to submit their comments.

The Board of Regents is scheduled to meet next April 9-10, 2026. Visit regents.umn.edu for more information.