The University of Colorado Board of Regents approved renaming the Institute of Behavioral Science the “Jessor Building" and the CU Real Estate Center the “Michael A. Klump Center for Real Estate.”

The board also heard preliminary fall enrollment estimates.

Board approves renaming: CU’s Institute of Behavioral Science Becomes ‘Jessor Building’

The Board of Regents was asked to approve renaming the Institute of Behavioral Science at CU Boulder as the “Jessor Building” in honor of Professor Emeritus Richard Jessor. Jessor, a World War II veteran and founder of the institute, served as its director for over 20 years and significantly contributed to its success, even donating $1.15 million of his salary to fund a new building. This naming honors his extraordinary service and legacy at CU Boulder as he approaches his 100th birthday.

Regents name CU Real Estate Center, now the ‘Michael A. Klump Center for Real Estate’

Alumnus and philanthropist Michael Klump has donated $15 million to CU Boulder to enhance real estate education and student wellness. The gift allocates $13 million to expand the Michael A. Klump Center for Real Estate at the Leeds School of Business, endowing faculty positions, scholarships and innovative programs. The remaining $2 million will support student mental health and wellness initiatives in the College of Arts and Sciences. Klump's investment highlights the transformative impact of philanthropy on education and student well-being.

Preliminary fall enrollment estimates

CU Boulder shared preliminary projections, which are subject to change, for fall 2024 census data with the regents. Total enrollment is projected to be 3.5% over fall 2023, or 1,305 students, due to increased retention. Data also projects a 1.5% reduction in first-year students. Final census data will be available next week.

Other business

• The board was scheduled to vote on changes to Regent Policy 1.D, which concerns guidelines on personal expression in university-controlled digital spaces, but deferred to consider this motion at a future meeting after more discussion.
• The board approved a utility infrastructure project in the North Boulder Creek (NBC) neighborhood, which will provide energy-efficient utilities for the under-construction student housing facility Residence One, as well as future housing in the area. The project, which is projected to last from November 2024 to April 2026, will provide medium-voltage power, hot water heating and chilled water to the NBC neighborhood. 
• On Friday, discussions focused on the transformative potential of AI across various fields, emphasizing the importance of preparing students for future jobs that don't yet exist and of preparing students to be able to “learn, unlearn and relearn.” The board also discussed the need for the university to develop clearer guidelines on AI use and education for students, given the potential opportunities and risks associated with AI.

The next regular board meeting will be held Nov. 7–8 on the University of Colorado Colorado Springs campus.