Page 33 - 2025 April Report

Grant Program Committee minutes (draft) (7)
8. DisadvantagedPrograming a. Linkage Report
David’s Linkage Report on Sonoma State University had been circulated.
Bobby shared that David had been in communications with Mark Stapp about a report showing 14 scholarships awards. Mark explained that was a typo and there were actually 40 scholarships.
Bobby was asked for background clarification regarding Sonoma State University. He explained that their last President had been fired. Enrollment is about 38% below their all-time high in the early 2010s. They have eliminated their athletics programs. They are projecting a budget shortfall of $20 - $22 million for the 2024/2025 academic year. There have been significant budget cuts from the State of California. The wine industry as a whole is experiencing difficulties causing some of the school’s major funders to reduce financial support. It is worth noting that they made the decision not to build the endowment which had been a part of the Foundation’s grant with them.
b. Existing and potential grantees
David’s spreadsheet had been circulated. There was no discussion.
9. DiscoveryProjectupdate
Bobby reported that the second cohort of Discovery Associates had met in Tampa in January for orientation. They have agreed to serve for two years as “the eyes and ears of the Johnson Scholarship Foundation”. The Consultants continue to feel this is a worthwhile project.
10. Communications and Social Media
The marketing and communications report had been circulated. Hannah shared that the 2024 Annual Report, which had been circulated to the Directors, is being printed for hard copy distribution as well as electronic distribution to the monthly newsletter contacts.
With the advent of a new design/graphics partner, Hannah expressed that we have a chance to bring the 2025 Annual Report to the next level in design, theme and content. She envisions using more metrics to underscore the impact of the work the Foundation is doing.
Another goal this year will be to refresh the language in our reports, newsletters and the website to give greater clarity about the Foundation. This will be a phased approach. It will also be an opportunity to assure Discovery Associates and Consultants have the right language to use in their conversations.
When asked, she responded that we are looking at a short list of potential new designers and intend to make a decision by early April. This will be an opportunity to streamline our processes.
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