A new budget, improved off-campus facilities and other issues of growth were on the agenda for the Fresno Pacific University Board of Trustees March 7-8.

The budget for 2003-2004 was set at $27.4 million, up from $25.3 million in 2002-2003. The board also looked at ways to aid the university’s off-campus centers.

“We’re happy in these times to be able to grow and reach out to more students in more places,” said President D. Merrill Ewert. “We have the classes, the programs and the facilities to serve the Valley.”

A seasoned professional with a range of experience and an understanding of the academic mission is the new vice president for business affairs at Fresno Pacific University.

John Ward began January 1, 2003. He will work with the president and others to set financial goals and have day-to-day responsibility for the university’s budget of over $20 million. He will also oversee several departments, including the business office, human resources, information services, auxiliary services and facilities management.