The Board also approved a bioinformatics option within the master’s degree program in biology. Students will take 26 hours of biology and computer science courses at EKU and then become visiting students at the University of Louisville for the final 12 hours of the program. The option will allow them to work on research projects at U of L during their semester there.

Bioinformatics is an emerging area of study and research that crosses the disciplines of both biology and computer science.

James Street, director of the Division of Facilities Services, updated the Board on several projects. He said:

• The first $1.8 million electrical renovation project is “substantially complete,” and the design documents for the final portion of the project, estimated at $7 million, are under review by Facilities Services staff. “Because of recent problems with our electrical system, design work on this project has accelerated, and a late April or early May bid date is anticipated,” Street said. Additionally, work has begun on the bond sale that will provide financing for the project.
• The new Southeast Regional Postsecondary Education Center in Corbin is “very near substantial completion,” with the official completion date set for March 31.
• Work continued indoors on the fitness and wellness center, which is expected to open by late April.
• The Business and Technology Center will bid March 4. Construction is expected to take 17 months.

Also at the meeting, the Board re-elected Fred Rice as chair.