THEC representative says bridge plan keeps TSU eligible for state consideration

Jason Cavender, identified on the call as a Tennessee Higher Education Commission representative and the commission’s CFO, participated in the discussion to explain THEC’s role in capital project review. Cavender told trustees that THEC reviews submissions for compliance and previously requested that TSU prepare a bridge plan to consider certain projects for state funding.

Radford told the board that once a project is approved by the board it proceeds to THEC for review; historically THEC ranked and scored projects but now focuses on compliance review before a governor budget recommendation. Cavender said the bridge plan as presented focuses on facilities and two proposals that THEC would consider: the Jackson Hall renovation and the Lab Science Building. The exchange clarified that further project‑level approvals and THEC review are prerequisites for any state funding recommendation.