CBHE conducts March meeting, discusses upcoming budget challenges and potential impact of AI on postsecondary education

On Wednesday, the Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development (MDHEWD) hosted the Coordinating Board for Higher Education (CBHE) for its March board meeting, featuring two guest speakers whose expertise helped frame key discussions about Missouri's higher education and workforce landscape.

Dan Haug, Missouri's State Budget Director, briefed the board on the state's fiscal landscape, offering essential context to support the board's work to plan, coordinate, and make informed recommendations concerning Missouri's higher education system. Haug's overview helped guide the board as it reviewed Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 budget updates and FY 2028 draft budget instructions.

Building on the fiscal overview, Susan Heegaard, President of the Midwestern Higher Education Compact (MHEC), provided a comprehensive look at regional trends in postsecondary enrollment, affordability, interstate student enrollment, and workforce needs. Her data-driven presentation underscored the value of collaboration across Midwestern states and highlighted opportunities for Missouri to strengthen educational pathways and economic vitality.

Dr. Bennett Boggs, Commissioner of MDHEWD, updated the board on Governor Mike Kehoe's Executive Order 26-02, noting the importance of equipping Missourians with the skills to succeed in an AI-driven economy while also confronting fiscal constraints.

"At a time when colleges and universities across Missouri and the broader Midwest are navigating budget challenges, they are responding with strategic partnerships and innovative program models while expanding student opportunity," Dr. Boggs said. "This is about building a future-ready workforce and reaffirming that Missouri is a place where talent, technology, and opportunity thrive. Higher education and workforce leaders have a defining opportunity to collaborate and help equip Missourians with the skills that power innovation, strengthen our communities, and drive high-wage, high-growth careers."

During the March 4 meeting, the board approved Fast Track Workforce Incentive Grant programs and academic programs. Board vice chair Allen Brooks announced that each of the CBHE Committee Chairs will continue to serve in their respective roles: Dudley McCarter, Audit Committee; Allen Brooks, Budget and Financial Aid Committee; Anne-Marie Clarke, Academic Affairs and Workforce Needs Committee; and Phil Hoffman, Strategic Planning and External Affairs Committee.

The board also received updates on the following:

• 2026 Legislative session
• MDHEWD strategic plan and proposed updates
• High school graduate performance

Established by constitutional amendment in 1972, the nine-member CBHE oversees MDHEWD, which serves as its administrative arm. The department is led by Commissioner Dr. Bennett Boggs. For more information about the coordinating board, including the March 4 board book, visit dhewd.mo.gov/cbhe/.

Photos from the March meeting are available on the department's Flickr page.

About the Missouri Department of Higher Education & Workforce Development:The department works to empower Missourians with the skills and education needed for success. More information about MDHEWD can be found at https://dhewd.mo.gov or by following MDHEWD's social media accounts.