University Information

Student Right to Know

The Higher Education Opportunity Act of 2008 requires universities participating in federal student aid programs to make certain disclosures to enrolled and prospective students, parents, employees, and the public. In an effort to assist students and their families in making informed decisions, Future Generations University has developed this page to serve as a central point for obtaining consumer information about the institution.

Academic Policies
Future Generations University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, the largest and oldest accrediting body in the United States. This quality assurance by a federally-recognized body also meets requirements necessary for the institution to receive and manage federal financial aid funds. The accreditation process also provides a periodic opportunity and incentive for the institution to review, assess, and advance the quality of its educational and financial operations.

The Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, IL 60604
inquiry@hlcommission.org
Phone: 1-800-621-7440 | 312-263-0456 Website:https://www.ncahlc.org/

 

Future Generations University Credit Hour Policy

According to the U.S. Department of Education, institutions receiving Title IV Federal Student Aid must demonstrate the assignment of credits in compliance with commonly accepted practice.

Federal Definition of the Credit Hour (34CFR 600.2):

A credit hour is an amount of work represented in intended learning outcomes and verified by evidence of student achievement that is an institutionally-established equivalency that reasonably approximates not less than:

  1. One hour of classroom or direct faculty instruction and a minimum of two hours of out-of-class student work each week for approximately fifteen weeks for one semester or trimester hour of credit, or ten to twelve weeks for one quarter hour of credit, or the equivalent amount of work over a different amount of time, OR
  2. At least an equivalent amount of work as required outlined in paragraph 1 of this definition for other activities as established by an institution, including laboratory work, internships, practica, studio work, and other academic work leading to the award of credit hours.

Future Generations University Compliance:

Future Generations University operates under a 16-week semester system, offering the following modalities within this system:

  1. 16-week 3-credit courses using online platforms, face-to-face Zoom meetings, and community-based labs
  2. 2-week field residential courses, in which 1 credit is offered per week, with a third credit is offered for completing an optional lab following the conclusion of the course
  3. Independent study/independent project/internship for 1-5 credits, depending on the size/scope of the project

The 16-week courses combine the use of the online platforms of Moodle LMS and Zoom Video-Conferencing with field-based application and some regional face-to-face meetings.  All courses require synchronous class sessions via Zoom as well as completion of online and Community Lab work. Further explanation follows:

  • 16-week courses (3 credits) – Weekly synchronous 75-minute Zoom classes, and 7-8 hours per week spent on online assignments and Community Lab activities.
  • Field residential courses (2 credits) – Two to three hour-long pre-travel synchronous Zoom classes followed by face-to-face learning in the field, 8-10 hours per day of community engagement, classroom time, peer learning, and reflection. An optional community lab based on learning and experience derived from the course and applied to the student’s home community earns an additional credit.
  • Independent study/project/internship for which a student works with a Future Generations University faculty member and/or local mentor to complete a project in their community. The student, in consultation with faculty, outlines the proposed time to be spent on the project, with 48 hours for 1 credit up to 240 hours for 5 credits. At the end of the project, the professor assesses the work and confirms that it meets the required standard.

The Dean’s Council, in its curriculum oversight capacity, ensures that the University complies with the Credit Hour Policy.

Future Generations University Credit Assignment Procedures

The Master of Arts in Applied Community Development degree is a minimum of 32 credits. Most students will earn the degree by taking eleven 3-credit courses for a total of 33 credits. Students have the option of taking fewer taught courses and making up the difference by taking one or more residential courses and/or working on an independent study/independent project/internship. Total earned credits must equal a minimum of 32; there is no maximum number of credits for the degree.

Courses are assigned 3 credits according to the University Credit Hour Policy. Faculty design their courses, and the Chief Academic Officer reviews those courses to confirm that they conform to the Credit Hour Policy requiring 9+ hours of work per week/144 hours per semester.

Approved by Dean’s Council on 6/14/2019.

Download Future Generations University's Credit Hour Policy
Future Generations University ensures equal educational opportunities for students who qualify as a person with a disability under the applicable laws (Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and Section 504). Many students who were under an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or a 504 Plan during high school will qualify for services, as will many other students who did not receive any specialized services during their K-12 education. It is the students responsibility to email our disability services representative at disabilityservices@future.edu to register for services. Documentation may be required and approved accommodations are determined on an individual basis. It is the students responsibility to inform faculty via letter from our office of the necessary accommodations each semester in order to receive accommodations throughout the semester. Professors are under no obligation to provide academic accommodations until they receive and discuss the accommodation letter with the student requesting accommodations. When a student has asked for disability related accommodations without an accommodation letter, a referral is appropriate and necessary. Faculty or students who encounter problems regarding accommodations are asked to notify Disability Services immediately. We encourage students to communicate with faculty at the start of each semester, but there are no deadlines to register for disability services. Students may disclose a disability to our office anytime during their education at the institution. Faculty may be approached by a student with an accommodation letter anytime during the semester. Though a student may approach a faculty member late in the semester with an accommodation letter, accommodations are not retroactive; that is, the accommodations do not apply to work completed before the students submission of documentation and the determination of necessary accommodations.
Our faculty, students, and alumni are all working toward local education and empowerment so that future generations can enjoy a livable, locally-owned and collectively-grown future. When change takes root through empowerment, more people on the ground are excited to get involved, and changes are more effective and long-lasting. That’s because local leaders assume responsibility, and projects benefit from local knowledge, resources, and innovation. We are proud to say that the Future Generations United States Federal Student Loan Default Rate is zero. Click here To Learn More About Financial Aid.

Future Generations University is committed to protecting your privacy. Any information you voluntarily provide to us through a Future Generations University website such as email address, name, or phone number will never be sold or traded to other colleges, universities, nonprofit organizations, or businesses. Future Generations University might use this information to inform you of changes to that website or to provide you other news and information about that site that we believe would be of interest to you. At your request, Future Generations University will remove any contact information you provided from its files

Information gathered automatically

Unless you take steps to browse the Internet anonymously, or opt-out, Future Generations University, similar to most institutions and organizations on the Internet, tracks web browsing patterns to inform understanding of how our sites are being used. Generic information is collected through the use of “cookies,” which are text files placed on your computer, to evaluate usage patterns so that we can improve both content and distribution. You may refuse the use of cookies by selecting the appropriate settings on your browser, however, doing so may prevent you from using the full functionality of all of our websites. The generic information we collect is based on IP address, which is the location of a computer or network, and is not linked to your specific email address in any of the reports or other material compiled by Future Generations University. Future Generations University will not associate your IP address and web usage data with any other information held by Future Generations University that can specifically identify you unless required to do so by law.

Some sections of Future Generations University owned websites use Google Analytics, a web analytics service provided by Google, Inc. Google Analytics uses cookies to help us analyze how users use our sites. The information generated by the cookie about your use of the website includes your IP address. This information will be transmitted to and stored by Google on its servers. Google will use this information for the purpose of evaluating your use of the website, compiling reports on website activity and providing other services relating to Internet usage. Google may also transfer this information to third parties where required to do so by law, or where such third parties process the information on Google’s behalf. Google will not associate your IP address with any other data held by Google. By using this website, you consent to the processing of data about you by Google in the manner and for the purposes set out above.

Please visit the following pages for more information on Google Analytics terms of use and Google’s privacypractices. Google Analytics gathers information based on an individual user’s activities on Google websites and other websites within their network. Google then determines the age, gender, and interests of the user. In order to review and edit this personal information please visit Google’s ad settings page.

Future Generations University has implemented Remarketing with Google Analytics to help personalize its advertising efforts online. Such analytics allow third party vendors, including Google, to show personalized ads on sites across the internet. Future Generations University and third party vendors, including Google, use first and third party cookies together to inform, optimize, and serve ads based on a visitor’s past visits on any Future Generations University websites. In other words, AdWords remarketing will display relevant ads tailored to you based on what parts of the Future Generations University’s websites you have viewed, by placing a cookie on your machine. This cookie does not in any way identify you or give access to your computer. Google AdWords Remarketing allows us to tailor our marketing to better suit your needs and deliver a more personalized experience by only displaying ads that are relevant to your specific interests. In order to prevent data collected by Google Analytics, users can install the Google Analytics opt-out browser add-on. Please visit Google’s support page for information on how to disable Google Analytics. It is important to remember that that many of Google’s services may not function properly if your cookies are disabled.

Information you provide to us

To communicate effectively with visitors to our website, we may ask you for personally-identifiable information that can include, by way of illustration, name, email address or phone number. Future Generations University will never sell or trade personally-identifiable information you voluntarily provide to us such as name, email address or phone number, to other colleges, universities, nonprofit organizations, or businesses unless one or more of the following conditions apply:

  • We have your consent to share the information.
  • We are sharing such information in response to subpoenas, court orders, or legal processes

External links

Some Future Generations University websites may contain links to external websites not owned by, or officially affiliated with, Future Generations University in any way. Future Generations University is not responsible for the privacy practices or the content of such websites.

Changes to this policy

When we make changes to this policy, the changes will be highlighted on the top of this page for one month before going into effect. The highlights will then remain on top of the page for three months to keep you informed of the change.

Contact information

If you have any questions about this privacy statement or the practices of this website, you can contact:

Future Generations University

Office of Admissions

(304) 358-2000

A grievance is a complaint by a student who alleges that he/ she has been adversely affected in his/her professional or educational activities as a result of an arbitrary or capricious act, or failure to act, or a violation of a University procedure or regulation by one of his/her advisors, a faculty member, or other administrator or administrative body. A grievant is a student currently enrolled in the University who brings a grievance according to this procedure.

This sets forth a procedure whereby a student may grieve an adverse action or failure to act, or for a violation of University policy.

Typically complaints or disputes are brought to the attention of the Chief Academic Officer, and are resolved through informal discussion. If the complaint concerns the Chief Academic Officer, the Chief Operating Officer shall replace the Chief Academic Officer in the grievance procedure. The formal procedure set forth below is not meant to replace attempts at resolving complaints through informal means. When at all possible, complaints and disputes should be settled through informal discussion, though there are no circumstances under which a grievance must be settled informally. The procedures presented here apply only after every effort has been made to settle disputes informally.

Whether settled informally or formally, the grievance process should move expeditiously without sacrificing the integrity of the process. Nothing in this document should be construed to impinge upon the responsibilities of any office and/or regularly constituted body of the University. Moreover, no action may be taken with respect to a grievance that would conflict with or modify any policy approved by the Board of Trustees of the University, any policy of the University, any federal, state or local law or regulation, or any contract to which the University is a party.

As needed, the Chief Academic Officer of the University will convene a committee including himself or herself, a rotating member of the Dean’s Council, and another faculty or staff member to serve on the Grievance Committee. This Committee will hear any grievance.

The following points provide clarification as to what may be considered under this grievance procedure:

  • Complaints alleging discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, age, sexual orientation, national or ethnic origin, disability, marital status, or veteran status are to be referred to the Chief Operating Officer, and are not addressed by this procedure.
  • Disputes involving grades or other evaluation of the grievant’s academic work may be addressed by this procedure only if the evaluation is alleged to be arbitrary or capricious.

Disputes that are purely personal in nature and do not involve the grievant’s professional or educational activities are not addressed by this procedure.

In the event that informal discussion fails to resolve a dispute, the grievant may initiate formal grievance procedures. The grievant may decide to submit a formal grievance at any time while at the University. Students may also file a grievance within one year of degree completion.

  • The formal grievance must be submitted as a signed and dated written statement, and should include the following:
    • A factual description of the complaint or dispute resulting in the grievance;
    • The name of the person(s) against whom the grievance is initiated;
    • A brief description of all informal attempts at resolution; and
    • Any other information that the grievant believes to be relevant or helpful. The grievant should attach to the written complaint a copy of any relevant documentation in his/her possession.
  • The grievant should bring the case directly to the Chief Academic Officer, though he and she may consult with the Chief Operating Officer in preparing the documentation.
  • All grievances will be handled as confidentially as possible. The grievant is cautioned that the initiation of a formal grievance is a serious matter and must not be undertaken in bad faith or over trivial matters. If a formal or informal grievance is found to have been maliciously motivated or based on false evidence, the Chief Academic Officer may take appropriate disciplinary action against those responsible. If the formal grievance, however incorrect or unsupportable, is initiated in good faith, no retaliatory or disciplinary action will be taken against the grievant, and appropriate measures will be taken to protect the grievant from retaliation. Throughout any informal or formal grievance process, the grievant may consult with a faculty member, or a fellow student of his/her choice as an advocate and for guidance or support. The advocate may participate in the process with the grievant, provided the grievant has so notified the Chief Academic Officer.
  • Upon receipt of the grievance statement, the Chief Academic Officer will review the matter and consider whether informal attempts at resolution should be initiated or reinitiated. If the Chief Academic Officer finds that attempts at informal resolution have been exhausted and/ or are unlikely to lead to resolution, the Chief Academic Officer will inform the grievant that the grievance is under consideration, and refer the grievance to the Grievance Committee. The Grievance Committee will decide whether the grievance statement raises a grievable issue under this policy. If it finds the grievance statement does not raise a grievable issue, the Grievance Committee will so notify the grievant, stating the reasons for the Committee`s decision.
  • If there is a grievable issue, the Grievance Committee will notify the person(s) against whom the grievance is filed, and will provide a copy of the grievant’s statement. The Grievance Committee will assemble all relevant documentation and facts. It may interview and take statements from witnesses, request information in writing from the grievant and respondent(s), convene a hearing, and/or invite the grievant, respondent, and/or other witnesses to come before the panel at a hearing. On the basis of the assembled information, the Grievance Committee will attempt to identify a resolution of the grievance in a manner appropriate to the circumstances. The grievant must receive a summary of the Grievance Committee’s findings and an opportunity to provide the Grievance Committee with additional information prior to the panel’s report being forwarded to the Chief Academic Officer. Dissenting views within the Grievance Committee are to be noted in the report.
  • The Chief Academic Officer will issue a written determination of the grievance within ten days of receipt of a recommendation from the Grievance Committee. The decision of the Chief Academic Officer will be the final University action in this matter, unless the grievance is against the Chief Academic Officer, in which case the President will make the final determination. When the Chief Academic Officer (or President) deems it appropriate, he/ she may inform the grievant about actions taken arising from the decision.
  • If a student decides to file an appeal, it must be filed with the Chief Academic Officer within ten (10) business days of the written determination being sent to the student. The student should include a personal statement and justification for an appeal to the Grievance Committee’s decision. Additional information may be requested from the student. The CAO determines if they, or the President, is the appropriate person to review the appeal. Within ten (10) business days, the reviewer issues a final and binding decision to the student.

For complaints regarding Future Generations University processes, you may contact our accrediting agency, the Higher Learning Commission, at 230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500, Chicago, IL 60604 (phone: 300-621-7440 or email: info@hlcommission.org), OR our state authorizing agency, the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission, at 1018 Kanawha Boulevard, East – Suite 700, Charleston, WV 25301 (phone: 304-558-2101, complaint process here.)

By-Laws

Future Generations University

The following constitutes the Amended and Restated Bylaws of Future Generations University (the “University”).

Article I – NAME AND OFFICES

The name of the University is Future Generations University. The principal office of the University shall be located at 400 Road Less Traveled, Franklin, West Virginia 26807. The University may also have offices at such other places as the Board of Trustees may from time to time determine or the operations of the University may require.

Article II – PURPOSE AND NONPROFIT STATUS

The University is organized and shall be operated exclusively for charitable, scientific, or educational purposes within the meaning of § 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (hereinafter referred to as the “Code,” which shall include any subsequent corresponding code of federal tax law). More specifically, the purposes of the Corporation are as follows:

  1. Promote research, learning and action toward inclusive and sustainable change worldwide.
  2. Future Generations University was chartered to extend SEED-SCALE scholarship. It conducts research relating to how communities can enhance an enduring planet and promote equity between peoples. It provides higher education degree programs as well as nonformal education to extend to communities, especially lessons from its research and demonstrations. It implements community-based action programs.
Article III – Membership

The University shall have no members. All authority for the direction and governance of the University is vested in the Board of Trustees in accordance with these Bylaws.

Article IV – Board of Trustees

All corporate powers shall be exercised by or under the authority of, and the affairs of the University managed under the direction of, its Board of Trustees (the “Board”).

The business and affairs of the University shall be managed under the direction of the Board. All corporate powers of the University shall be exercised by or under the authority of the Board, except as otherwise provided by law or the Articles of Incorporation. The Board of Trustees is charged with effective governance of the University and with ensuring that the University’s mission is carried out in a manner consistent with applicable laws, regulations, and accreditation standards. In addition to any specific powers and responsibilities provided elsewhere in these Bylaws, the essential duties of the Board include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Mission and Strategy: Upholding the University’s mission and purpose and engaging in strategic planning to ensure the University’s long-term sustainability and relevance. The Board sets the University’s overall mission and strategic direction, and monitors progress on strategic goals.
  • Appointment and Oversight of the President: Selecting and appointing the President (Chief Executive Officer) of the University, setting the President’s compensation, and evaluating the President’s performance on a regular basis. The Board shall support the President and ensure that a competent administrative structure is in place.
  • Policy and Organization: Establishing or approving major institutional policies (academic, financial, campus policies, etc.) and ensuring that the University’s processes and policies remain current and properly implemented. The Board may adopt such policies in a Governance Manual or resolutions, as appropriate.
  • Academic Quality: Ensuring the educational quality of the University’s academic programs and services, and preserving academic freedom. The Board may require regular reports on academic affairs and student outcomes, and it confers academic degrees and other honors based on the recommendation of the faculty and administration.
  • Financial Stewardship: Overseeing the financial health of the University and its assets. The Board approves annual operating and capital budgets, monitors financial performance, and ensures that proper fiscal controls are in place. The Board must approve any major expenditures, investments, incurrence of debt, sale or acquisition of significant assets (such as real estate), or other material financial transactions beyond what is authorized in the budget. The Board also engages in fundraising and development efforts to support the University.
  • Audit and Compliance: Ensuring the University’s fiscal integrity by commissioning an independent annual audit of the University’s financial statements and reviewing and accepting the results of such audit. The Board is also responsible for seeing that the University complies with applicable laws and regulations (including maintaining its tax-exempt status and accreditations).
  • Support and Outreach: Serving as ambassadors for the University and engaging regularly with the University’s major constituencies (such as students, faculty, alumni, donors, and the broader community) in concert with the University’s leadership. The Board helps advocate for the University’s interests and strengthen its public standing.
  • Board Self-Governance: Conducting the Board’s business in an exemplary fashion with transparency and accountability. The Board periodically assesses its own performance and that of its committees and members, and strives to follow best practices in nonprofit and higher education governance. The Board may adopt policies for trustee recruitment, orientation, and removal in keeping with these Bylaws.

All Trustees owe the University a fiduciary duty of care, loyalty, and obedience in carrying out their responsibilities (as further detailed below). No individual Trustee has authority to act on behalf of the University unless expressly authorized by the Board.

4.1       Number. The Board shall consist of between 5 and 11 regular voting Trustees (the “Trustees”) and the ex-officio members of the Board. The exact number of members shall be determined by the Board at any regular meeting. The President will serve as an ex-officio non-voting member of the Board.

4.2        Term. Trustees shall be elected for a term not exceeding 3 years. Trustees may serve 3  consecutive terms (9 years). After an absence from the Board of Trustees of at least one year, a former Trustee may be re-elected for another 3 year term, and may again, serve 3 consecutive terms (9 years).

4.3       Qualifications. Trustees shall have such qualifications as the Board may determine.

4.4       Election.  Members of the Board of Trustees are elected by a majority of the Trustees then in office at the annual meeting of the Board. Terms commence at the meeting in which a trustee was voted in and conclude at the annual meeting for which the term was so designated in the year of the term’s expiration.

4.5       Voting. Members of the Board of Trustees may vote only in person, and no proxy will be recognized. Except as otherwise provided by the laws of the state of West Virginia, the Charter or these Bylaws, a quorum of a Board of Trustees consists of a majority of the Trustees in office immediately before a meeting begins. When a quorum is present to organize a meeting, a meeting may be later adjourned despite the absence of a quorum caused by the subsequent withdrawal of any of those Trustees present. If a quorum is present when a vote is taken, the affirmative vote of a majority of the Trustees present is the act of the Board unless the laws of the State or the Charter or Bylaws require the vote of a greater number of Trustees. A Trustee who is present at a meeting of the Board of Trustees when corporate action is taken shall be deemed to have assented to the action taken unless: (i) he or she objects at the beginning of the meeting (or promptly upon his/her arrival) to holding it or transacting business at the meeting; (ii) his or her dissent or abstention from the action taken is entered in the minutes of the meeting; or (iii) he or she delivers written notice of his dissent or abstention to the presiding officer of the meeting before its adjournment or to the University immediately after adjournment of the meeting. The right of dissent or abstention shall not be available to a Trustee who votes in favor of the action taken.

4.6       Remote Participation. Any Board member may participate in a meeting of the Board by means of a conference telephone or similar communications mechanism that allows all persons participating in the meeting to hear and see each other simultaneously. Participation by such mechanism shall be equivalent to presence in person at the meeting.

4.7       Ex Officio Trustees. The Board of Trustees may include ex officio members. An “ex officio Trustee” is an individual who holds their position on the Board by virtue of some other office or title that they hold. Ex officio Trustees shall not have voting rights on the Board and shall not count toward the quorum or towards the minimum/maximum Board size, unless specifically stated otherwise in these Bylaws or in the resolution appointing them. Ex officio Trustees are entitled to attend and participate in Board discussions, except that they may be asked to recuse themselves from executive sessions or discussions pertaining to their own performance or compensation (if applicable). When an ex officio member ceases to hold the relevant office or title that gave rise to their Board seat, that person’s service on the Board terminates automatically at the same time.

The President of the University shall serve as an ex officio, non-voting member of the Board of Trustees. The President’s role on the Board is to provide input and information from the administration and to serve as a liaison between the Board and the faculty/administration. However, the President (as an employee of the University) does not vote on Board matters and is not counted toward quorum.

4.8       Resignation of a Trustee. A Trustee may resign at any time by delivering written notice to the Chair of the Board of Trustees, or the President of the University. A resignation shall be effective when the notice is delivered unless the notice specifies a later effective date. A vacancy created by a resignation that will occur at a specific later date may be filled before the vacancy occurs, but the Trustee may not take office until the vacancy occurs.

4.9       Removal of a Trustee. Any member of the Board of Trustees may be removed for any one or more of the following reasons: dereliction of duties and responsibilities incident to Board membership; an unresolved conflict of interest; mental or physical incapacity; moral turpitude; financial malfeasance; or fraudulent or illegal conduct. A Trustee whom the Board seeks to remove shall be entitled to be heard at a regular meeting of the Board of Trustees or at a special meeting called for that purpose and attended by a quorum. The notice of any meeting at which a Trustee’s removal will be considered must state that such purpose is one of the reasons for the meeting, so that the Trustee in question has notice. At least 5 days prior to such meeting, the Trustee shall be furnished with a written description of the reason(s) his or her removal is sought. Any such removal must be approved by the affirmative vote of two-thirds (2/3) of the then acting Trustees. A removed Trustee’s term of office shall terminate immediately upon the required removal vote.

If a Trustee fails to attend three (3) consecutive regularly scheduled meetings of the Board of Trustees, the Trustees in office by a majority vote may declare that this position is vacant.

4.10     Board Vacancies. A vacancy on the Board of Trustees occurs upon the death, incapacity, resignation, or removal of a Trustee, or if the Board increases the number of Trustee positions and there is an unfilled position. Any such vacancy may be filled by the affirmative vote of two-thirds (2/3) of the remaining Trustees at any regular or special meeting in coordination with the Governance and Nominating Committee. A Trustee elected to fill a vacancy shall serve for the remainder of the unexpired term of the departed Trustee. Filling an unexpired term will not count toward term limits as described in Section 4.2. If a vacancy results in the number of Trustees falling below the minimum set in Section 4.1, the Board shall make reasonable efforts to fill the vacancy as soon as practicable. The Board may continue to operate in the interim, provided a quorum of remaining Trustees is available.

4.11     Indemnification. The University shall indemnify and hold harmless each person, or his or her legal representative or successor, who has served, is serving or shall serve at any time hereafter, as Trustee of the University from and against any and all claims and liability (including reasonable attorney fees) and any judgment, decree, fine or penalty imposed on her/her for any act of omission committed or occurring while acting as such, and shall reimburse him or her for all legal and other expenses reasonably incurred by him or her in defense thereof; provided, that there shall be no obligation to reimburse, partially or wholly, such person for claims or liability arising out of his or her own willful misconduct.

Article V – Officers

5.1       Officers. Officers of the Board shall be: Chair, President of the University, Vice Chair, Treasurer, and Secretary.

The University shall have a Chair of the Board of Trustees, President, Treasurer, and Secretary. The Board of Trustees, or a duly appointed officer if authorized by the Board of Trustees, may also elect additional officers, each of whom shall have the authority and shall perform the duties prescribed by the Board of Trustees or a duly appointed officer if authorized by the Board of Trustees. The same individual may simultaneously hold more than one (1) office in the University, except the offices of President and Secretary.

On recommendation of the Board of Trustees, officers shall be elected by the Board of Trustees at its annual meeting or at any regular or special meeting of the Board of Trustees. Despite the expiration of an officer′s term, he or she shall continue to serve until his or her successor is appointed and qualified. An officer may resign at any time by delivering his or her resignation to the President of the University or the Secretary of the Board. A resignation shall be effective when delivered unless it specifies a later effective date. If a resignation is made effective at a later date and the University accepts the future effective date, the Board of Trustees may fill the pending vacancy before the effective date if the Board of Trustees provides that the successor shall not take office until the effective date. The Board of Trustees may remove any officer at any time with or without cause, and any officer or assistant officer, if appointed by another officer, may likewise be removed by such officer. The appointment of an officer does not itself create contract rights, and an officer′s removal shall not affect the officer′s contract rights, if any, with the University. An officer′s resignation shall not affect the University′s contract rights, if any, with the officer.

5.2       Term and Duties of Chair of the Board. The Chair of the Board shall preside at all meetings of the Board. The Chair shall serve for a term of 2 years or until his or her successors are elected and qualified. The Chair may not be appointed for more than 6 years but may be eligible for re-election after vacating the position for one full year. The Chair shall preside at all meetings of the Board of Trustees at which the Chair is present. The Vice Chair shall act in the absence of the Chair. The Vice Chair may not be appointed for more than 2 years but may be eligible for re-election after vacating the position for 1 full year.

5.3       Duties of President. The President shall be the executive and administrative head of the University and all departments and shall be responsible to the Board of Trustees. The President shall hold office at the pleasure of the Board. Terms of such appointment shall be included in a written contract.

As the Chief Executive Officer, the President shall sign and execute all contracts in the name of the University, when authorized to do so by the Board of Trustees; he or she shall appoint and discharge agents and employees, subject to approval of the Board of Trustees; and he or she shall have the authority to generally manage the business and affairs of the University and perform all the duties incidental to the office.

The President shall have the following duties and responsibilities:

  1. Be a member of the faculty with appropriate academic rank.
  2. With the advice and consent of the Trustees and with recommendation of the faculty through the Deans Council, have the power to regulate, and establish the mode and course of instruction and education to be pursued in the University.
  3. With the Board, meet and examine candidates for degrees, confer such degrees and grant testimonials thereof signed by the President and appropriate Board officers.
  4. Make detailed reports at each meeting of the Board, and with the cooperation of the Committee on Finance and the Treasurer, shall present a financial budget for the consideration and approval of the Board at its Annual Meeting. Copies of this financial budget, which shall be prepared in advance of the meeting and shall be sent to all members of the Board not less than 10 days prior to the Annual Meeting.
  5. Execute in the name of the University such orders, proxies, and documents as may be necessary or proper in the administration of the affairs.
  6. With the authority by and the approval of the Board of Trustees, employ and discharge all educational and administrative agents, except that no approval need be obtained in respect to minor employees.
  7. Develop and promote plans and programs for the security of gifts and bequests for the support of the University.
  8. Perform such other duties as the Board may assign.
  9. At least quarterly, submit reports on the State of the University to the Board.

The President will be an ex-officio member of all Board committees excepting when audit and presidential performance are being considered.

In the absence of the President, he/she shall designate an acting president unless the Board designates another person.

5.3.1    Presidential Evaluation and Compensation:

The President shall be evaluated, in executive session, by the Officers of the Board on or before the yearly anniversary of appointment, according to written objectives, specific and general, developed by the President, discussed with the Board Chair and presented to the Board before the outset of each academic year.

The Officers of the Board shall serve as the President’s Compensation Committee and based on the annual evaluation, meet in executive session to review the President’s compensation package.

A summary of the President’s compensation package shall be made available to the full Board of Trustees.

5.4       Duties of the Secretary. The Secretary may serve without term limit and be elected annually. The Secretary shall keep the minutes of the meetings of the Board of Trustees; he or she shall authenticate records of the University; he or she shall attend to the giving and serving of all notices of the University as required by him or her; he or she shall have charge of the minutes and such other records of the University as the Board may direct; he or she shall attend to such correspondence as may be assigned to him or her and perform all duties incidental to the office. The Secretary shall have custody of the University seal and attest the signature of the Chair of the Board, the President of the University, the Treasurer, or the Chief Financial Officer, where such attestation is needed on documents signed by them on behalf of the University. The President, with the affirmation of the Board, may designate an administrative staff member to assist with this function.

5.5       Term and Duties of Vice Chair of the Board. The Vice Chair shall serve for a term of one year or until his or her successors are elected and qualified. The Vice Chair may not be appointed for more than 2 years but may be eligible for re-election after vacating the position for 1 full year. The Vice Chair acts in the absence of the Chair.

5.6       Duties of the Treasurer. The Treasurer shall be a member of the Board, may serve without term limit, and elected annually. The Treasurer shall have the following duties and responsibilities:

  1. Custody of the funds of the University.
  2. Cause the funds to be deposited in such banks as may be selected from time to time by the Board of Trustees or any member thereof and the President.
  3. Provide oversight of the debt of the University.
  4. Provide oversight of the investments of the University.
  5. See to the implementation of the financial policies established by the Board of Trustees.

A Chief Financial Officer shall be assigned by the President of the University to service the Treasurer. The Treasurer serves as the Chair of the Finance Committee.

5.7       Board and Administrative Responsibilities. The Board has responsibility for securing adequate financial resources for the operation of the University, establishing long range goals, and setting policies. Once policies are adopted by the Board, the administration, under the supervision of the President of the University, is charged with responsibility for implementing them within the broad framework established by the Board.

Article VI – Meetings

6.1       Meetings. The Board shall meet at least quarterly, with one meeting designated as the annual meeting.  Each meeting shall be held at such place and at such hour as the Chair of the Board of Trustees shall designate.

6.2       Special Meetings. Special meetings of the Board may be called by the President of the University, or any 2 trustees, or by the Chair of the Board of Trustees, and shall be held at such time and place as the notice of said meeting specified. The special meeting notice must be given two (2) days/(24 hours) before a Special Meeting is held and the notice must state the meeting’s purpose.

6.3             Action Without Meeting. Action required or permitted to be taken by the laws of the State of West Virginia at a meeting of the Board of Trustees may be taken without a meeting. If all the Trustees consent to taking such action without a meeting, the affirmative vote of the number of Trustees that would be necessary to authorize or to take such action at a meeting shall be the act of the Board. The action must be evidenced by one (1) or more written consents describing the action taken, signed by each Trustee in one (1) or more counterparts, indicating each signing Trustee′s vote or abstention on the action, and included in the minutes or filed with the corporate records reflecting the action taken. Action taken under this section shall be effective when the last Trustee signs the consent, unless the consent specifies a different effective date. A consent signed under the section shall have the effect of a meeting vote and may be described as such in any document.

6.4       Notice of Meetings. Written notice of all meetings shall be given by the Secretary to each Trustee not less than ten (10) days before said meeting, and two (2) days/(24 hours) before any Special Meeting. A quorum shall consist of 50% of the trustees then serving. Unless otherwise specified in these Bylaws, all actions shall be taken by majority vote of those present.

6.5       Executive Session. Should there be a need for a confidential conversation to take place amongst the Board of Trustees, any member can call for an executive session to take place. Only voting members of the Board of Trustees are to attend the Executive Session along with any invited guests. In the Executive Session no minutes are recorded, and no motions can be taken.

Article VII – Committees

7.1 Standing Committees. The Standing committees are as follows: 

  • Investment Committee
  • Governance Committee
  • Nominating Committee

The Board may establish and remove committees, both standing and ad-hoc. The powers, responsibilities, and membership of each committee will be determined by the Board and as permitted by law. Committee charters will be listed in the Governance Manual and reviewed by the Board with regularity. Written reports on the activities and agenda of each committee should be included in a President’s Report to the Board. All Board committees should report to the Board at each Board meeting. Any committee recommendations should be brought to the Board for formal action, except where the Board by resolution expressly delegates a decision (and such delegation is permitted by law).

Committees shall consist of the number of members necessary for the conduct of work delegated to the committee. At least three (3) members of the Board of Trustees shall be appointed to each standing committee. The Board of Trustees shall appoint all committee Chairs. The size, term, and composition of the committee shall be decided by the Board. All members of the standing committees may or may not be members of the Board of Trustees. Committees including non-Trustee members function in an advisory capacity and cannot exercise the full authority of the Board. The President of the institution shall be an ex officio, non-voting member of all committees. Each committee shall have an officer of the institution or administrative staff member, designated by the President, to assist with its work. A majority of the committee’s voting members shall constitute a quorum.

7.2 Investment Committee. The Investment Committee will have responsibility for managing the endowment and other institutional investments. The committee will develop, maintain, and follow Board-approved Investment Policy Guidelines and engage a professional fund manager. Endowment funds are to be handled in endowment accounts and are not to be co-mingled with institutional operating funds. At each Board meeting, the Committee will report changes in the investments for the preceding period. The Investment Committee will also have the responsibility for identifying long-term strategy, opportunities and risks associated with the institutional investments and endowments. The committee will meet quarterly and more frequently as desirable. The investment committee may include other Board approved external experts to support the decisions around investments, reinvestments to support the institution.

7.3 Governance Committee. The Governance Committee will be responsible for the development and review of Board governance procedures including the Governance Manual. This committee is tasked with the assessment of board performance and ensuring board compliance with policies.

7.4 Nominating Committee. The Nominating Committee will be responsible for the development and review of Board governance documents as well as identifying candidates for the Board of Trustees to fill vacancies on the board or to grow the Board of Trustees. The Committee will be responsible for establishing the requirements for Board membership and will reach out to prospective trustees as necessary. The committee will also be responsible for onboarding new board members including maintaining and updating onboarding documents and process, which will be housed in the Governance Manual. The committee will meet at least twice a year and more frequently as desirable.

7.5 Vacancies. In the event of vacancies occurring in elected committee positions, the Chair of the Board may make interim appointments to fill said vacancies until the next meeting of the Board, at which time the Board shall have authority to fill the vacancies.

Article VIII – Faculty

The University shall maintain complete and accurate financial records, minutes of Board and committee meetings, and other records required under West Virginia Code §31E and federal law. The University shall make available for public inspection its Articles of Incorporation, Bylaws, IRS Form 990, and any other documentation required by applicable law.

Article IX – Amendments

The repeal or replacement of these Bylaws, mission and/or vision require two consecutive votes, amendments or alterations require only one vote, of a majority of the trustees then in office at any regular or special meeting of the Board, provided that written notice of such proposed change is given to each trustee at least 7 days before the meeting.

Article XI – Indemnification

To the fullest extent permitted by West Virginia law, the University shall indemnify any current or former trustee, officer, employee, or agent who was or is involved in any action, suit, or proceeding by reason of the fact that they acted on behalf of the University. This indemnification shall not apply in cases of gross negligence, fraud, or intentional misconduct.

Article XII – Fiscal Year

The fiscal year of the University shall be from July 1 to June 30, unless otherwise determined by resolution of the Board of Trustees.

Article XIII – Records and Reports

The University shall maintain complete and accurate financial records, minutes of Board and committee meetings, and other records required under West Virginia Code §31E and federal law. The University shall make available for public inspection its Articles of Incorporation, Bylaws, IRS Form 990, and any other documentation required by applicable law.

Article XIV – Amendments

The repeal or replacement of these Bylaws, mission and/or vision require two consecutive votes, amendments or alterations require only one vote, of a majority of the trustees then in office at any regular or special meeting of the Board, provided that written notice of such proposed change is given to each trustee at least 7 days before the meeting.

Article XV – NONDISCRIMINATION AND ETHICAL CONDUCT

The University shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law in its operations, hiring, admissions, or governance. Trustees and officers shall maintain the highest standards of ethical conduct consistent with the University’s mission and public trust.

These Bylaws shall supersede all other Bylaws heretofore adopted by this University, the same being hereby repealed.

Statements of Compliance

Clery Act and Institutional Security Policies

In order to meet compliance with the federal regulations concerning institutional security policies and crime statistics under the Clery Act, a copy of the current year’s Annual Security and Fire Safety Report may be requested. Statistics in the annual report will cover the federally mandated period of January 1 through December 31 for the previous three calendar years.

This institution of higher education complies with the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VI, Section 601). The Act provides that “no person in the United States shall, on the grounds of race, color, or national origin, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.” Inquiries concerning the School’s obligations under this Act may be addressed to the Executive Director. Any student or applicant who believes that Future Generations has failed to comply with this Act may file a written complaint with the Office for Civil Rights, Department of Health, Education and Welfare, Washington, D.C.

In accordance with the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988, the University hereby notifies all faculty, staff, administrators, and students that the unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession, or use of a controlled substance is prohibited on campus. Any campus member found to have violated this prohibition may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including dismissal, or be required to satisfactorily participate in a drug abuse assistance or rehabilitation program as a condition of continued employment. The drug abuse assistance/rehabilitation program shall be one that has been previously approved for such purposes by a federal, state, or local health, law enforcement, or other appropriate agency. The imposition of such disciplinary action or requirement to satisfactorily participate in a drug abuse assistance/rehabilitation program is premised solely upon a violation of this prohibition and does not require a criminal conviction.

The University complies with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (Section 438 of the General Education Provisions Act, Title II of Public Law 90-247), as amended. This Act provides that students attending any post-secondary educational institution that receives federal funds are entitled to access their education records kept by the institution in order to inspect and review those records. Students are entitled to request the amendment of any information in their records which they feel is inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of their privacy or other rights. Copies of the complete Statement of Policy and Procedures in compliance with this Act may be obtained from the Registrar’s Office. Any student who believes that this institution has failed to comply with the provisions of this Act has the right to file a complaint, in writing, with The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Office, Department of Health, Education, and Welfare, 330 Independence Ave. S.W. Washington, D.C. 20201.

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 restricts access to and disclosure of information from students’ educational records without the written consent of the student, except in certain instances permitted under the Act. “Directory Information” (as defined by FERPA) will be disclosed without prior written consent unless a student notifies the Records Office to restrict the release of that information.

Directory information includes:
  • Student’s name
  • Address
  • Telephone listing
  • Date and place of birth
  • Major field of study
  • Participation in officially recognized activities
  • Dates of attendance
  • Degrees and awards received
  • Community profile
  • The most recent educational agency or institution attended by the student

Future Generations University is committed to the protection of the rights and welfare of human subjects in all research, class projects, and relative activities. The Institutional Review Board (IRB) upholds the standards of government agencies (Federal Regulations Title 45, Code of Federal Regulations, and Part 46).

Future Generations University admits students of any race, gender, religion, creed, and national or ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students enrolled in the program. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, creed, and national or ethnic origin in administration of its education policies, admissions policies, financial aid, and other related programs.

Future Generations does not discriminate on the basis of handicap in the recruitment and admission of qualified students, the recruitment and employment of faculty and staff, and the operation of any of its programs and activities, as specified by federal laws and regulations.
Future Generations University, in compliance with the Student Right-to-Know Act, makes available to any enrolled or prospective student its completion or graduation rate. This information is available in the Office of the Registrar upon request.
Recent figures include:
  • Graduation Rate, 2020-2022*:  82.6%
  • Fall 2023 to Fall 2024 Retention Rate:  92%
  • 2020-2023 Persistence Rate**:  85%
  • Average Months to Complete Degree:  27.3
* Percentage of students who started between 2020 and 2022 who have graduated
**Percentage of students who started between 2020 and 2023 who either have graduated or were still students at the end Fall 2024 semester

This institution complies with the regulations established to effectuate Title IX of the Higher Education Amendments of 1972, as amended by Public Law 93-568. We adhere to the letter and spirit of the law with a policy of nondiscrimination on the basis of sex. This policy applies to our educational program and activities, and extends to employment, admissions, and recruitment of both students and employees.