Discussed anecdotal reports of bee venom therapy and local honey for allergies and noted the need for rigorous medical research and collaboration with the School of Nursing and health sciences to study such claims responsibly.
Dr. Webster noted that Kentucky State likely has more bee-related activity than all other Kentucky institutions combined and that the university is often the only institution represented at beekeeper meetings. He welcomed the Board’s support for expansion of research and graduate programs in this area.
To conclude the presentation, Dr. Bernard and the team shared jars of honey produced from Kentucky State hives as a “parting gift,” noting that the honey is typically reserved for collaborators, landowners who host hives, and others who support the program.
ACADEMIC AFFAIRS AND ENROLLMENT MANAGEMENT UPDATE
Presenters: Provost Dr. Michael Dailey; Dr. Stephanie Mayberry, Vice Provost of Student Affairs; and Ms. Jameelah Means, Director of Admissions
Provost Dr. Michael Dailey framed the update by emphasizing that enrollment, retention, and graduation are intertwined and shared responsibilities across the university. He noted that President Akakpo has set a clear goal of reaching 3,000 students, with a longer-term target of 3,500 students by Fall 2026, and that student success must be driven by collaboration among Academic Affairs, Student Affairs, Enrollment Management, Financial Aid, the Bursar's Office, and campus life.
Enrollment Funnel and First-Time Freshmen/Transfers
Dr. Dailey and Dr. Mayberry, presented a snapshot of Fall 2025 enrollment:
The university admitted a robust pool of first-time freshmen and transfer students, of whom more than 600 enrolled, contributing significantly to overall headcount.
An updated enrollment funnel now tracks prospective students from name purchases through application, completed application, intent to enroll, orientation, and final registration.
A weekly Enrollment Management Team meeting—co-led by Dr. Dailey and Dr. Mayberry and including Deans, Department Chairs, Student Success, Student Affairs, Admissions, Career Services, Adult Education, Transfer and International staff, and Dual Credit—coordinates recruitment and retention strategies and works to eliminate duplication of effort.
Ms. Jameelah Means, Director of Admissions, described aggressive recruitment tactics at the top of the funnel:
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