Bladen Community College

Key discussions during the meeting included the swearing-in of the new Student Government Association (SGA) President and introductions of new college employees. The agenda adoption was approved, and the SGA President provided a report detailing collaboration on fall festival events and plans for a spring fling. The Faculty and Staff reports were presented. The BCC Foundation reported strong end-of-year fundraising appeal results and announced an upcoming event featuring the 82nd airborne. The Academic and Student Affairs Committee reported on college grants received for FY 2024-2025 and sought approval for two new programs: Aviation Management and Air Traffic Control (ATC), the latter being potentially the first of its kind in the state. The Fiscal Affairs Committee reviewed the Second Quarter Financial Reports and approved changes to BCC Policy Number 2.03 regarding Regular Pay Procedures, specifically addressing lost or stolen payment methods. The President's Report highlighted a significant million-dollar gift, partnerships for medical school expansion, and support for student emergency funds and textbook costs. New business addressed annual trustee self-evaluations, economic interest form deadlines, and scheduling a new trustee orientation session.

The meeting included discussions on ethics awareness, roll call, invocation, the Pledge of Allegiance, and the announcement of new employees. Updates were provided by the Student Government Association, Faculty Senate, Staff Council, and the BCC Foundation. Reports were given on academic and student affairs, building/facilities/grounds, fiscal affairs, and personnel. The Booker T. Washington Facility update was discussed, as well as financial matters and foundation investments. The President's Report included notes on expanding AI students, cybersecurity, and collaborations with county and public schools. The meeting also touched on challenges related to the cost of living and economic issues.

The meeting included the swearing in of college trustees, ethics awareness discussions, roll call, invocation, and the Pledge of Allegiance. New employees were announced. The Student Government Association (SGA) provided a report, including the introduction of its members. Faculty and staff reports were given, along with a BCC Foundation update. The Spring 2025 enrollment report was reviewed, and the termination of the Public Safety Administration Program was discussed. Upgrades to campus-wide security and bridges were addressed. Financial reports for 2024-2025 were presented, and the Foundation Investment Committee provided an update. The President's report included recognition of award recipients and years of service. Committee assignments for 2025-2026 were also discussed.

The meeting included discussions on personnel matters, particularly the recommendation and approval of Dr. Lisa DeVane as VP for Instruction. The BCC Foundation report highlighted fundraising efforts, including a Back to School Blast and renovations to the auditorium, supported by a generous donation. New business included a discussion on the Board of Trustees Governance Committee and potential changes to reappointment processes.

The meeting focused on student success, community and business partnerships, employee satisfaction, and institutional advancement. Key discussion points included recruiting and retaining students, aligning with employee demand, benchmarking retention and turnover rates, and enhancing community engagement. The board also discussed trends in higher education, childcare on campus, artificial intelligence, short-term credentials, mental health challenges, succession planning, accreditation, and Bladen County trends. The board also discussed trustee by-laws update, approval of trustee meeting dates for 2025-2026, and election of officers for FY 2025-2026.