cautioned the Board that it will probably take 4-6 years to see significant increases in graduation rates.

Regent McFayden inquired as to whether the University is tracking or could track the number of students who transferred or converted to part-time status, which he believed were two factors that might affect six-year graduation rates. President Burse responded that the University cannot track graduation rates for students who transferred out of the University and that the University does not “get credit” for the graduation of those students.

Regent Reddy inquired as to the biggest factors in the lack of success for the students in the Cohort who did not graduate. President Burse stated that the two biggest factors were financial issues and college-readiness upon entry to the University.

Regent Henry again inquired as to whether the number of students who transferred to other institutions is considered in calculating graduation rates. President Burse stated that it is not considered.

Regent Guarnieri inquired as to the effect of low graduation rates on accreditation. President Burse stated that there is no effect. In response to a question from Regent Reddy about the effect of graduation rates on funding to the institution from the state, President Burse stated that it has no effect on current funding but it could affect performance funding in the future.

2010 Cohort Report: Dr. Downing reported there were 477 students in the 2010 Cohort and 49 of those students had actually graduated, resulting in a “persistence rate” of approximately 10%. She stated that the final count for graduation rates will not be complete until the end of summer 2016.

Discussion ensued from Regent Whitehead and Regent Guarnieri as to the probable number of students who would graduate by the end of Summer 2016. Dr. Downing could not answer and stated that not enough analysis had been completed to date to make a valid prediction. She stated that she expected to have a better projection by the end of December 2015. President Burse stated that a significant number of students in the 2010 Cohort have completed 90 hours or more and have zero balances but were not currently enrolled in school. He stated that contacting those students and making sure they enroll for Fall Semester is a priority.

2011 Cohort Report: There were 464 students in the 2011 Cohort and 54 of those students had graduated as of May 15, 2015. Of students eligible to return to school, approximately 111 are on track to graduate within 6 years of entering school, based on the fact that those students have 60 hours or less to complete before they can graduate. Dr. Downing stated that there is an emphasis on