Billi Jo Thomas

This Strategic Framework outlines the long-term direction for Northeast Texas Community College, with a mission to provide personal, dynamic learning experiences that empower students to succeed and a vision to be the 'College of Choice' for Northeast Texas. The framework is guided by a North Star statement focusing on being a nationally recognized, community-rooted college where care drives innovation and real-world preparation transforms lives. Key strategic priorities include Community and Workforce Engagement, Academic and Technological Innovation, Student Success and Belonging, Institutional Growth and Effectiveness, and fostering a Culture of Collaboration and Excellence.

The board meeting featured a recognition ceremony and the administration of the Oath of Office to newly appointed and re-elected trustees. Key discussions included a program spotlight on Communities In Schools, the President's report covering commencement statistics, athletic accomplishments, recent grant awards, and updates on state-level funding challenges. The board reviewed the NTCC 2030 strategic plan, discussed policy updates, approved the release of staff from employment contracts due to retirement, and authorized the extension of the College President's contract. An executive session was conducted to address real estate, personnel, and security matters.

The board meeting included a presentation of funds from the Titus County Appraisal District and a student spotlight highlighting a Phi Theta Kappa International President. The President's report covered staff recognitions, community events such as East Texas Giving Day and an upcoming baseball anniversary, and institutional planning. Additionally, the board reviewed a third-party economic impact study, approved the contract for a college auditor, accepted a trustee resignation, appointed a new board member, and finalized personnel appointments and employee contracts for the upcoming year.

The board meeting featured a student spotlight on international student-athletes and a comprehensive President's report covering student academic achievements, research publications, workforce alignment efforts, and campus updates. Administrative approvals included revisions to summer nursing course fees, the maintenance of current tuition and fee rates for the upcoming fiscal year, and the authorization to solicit services for the Business Technology building roof replacement. Additionally, the board approved a privately funded project for an athletic complex pavilion and the release of a staff sergeant from his employment contract. The meeting concluded with a discussion on the annual board evaluation survey outcomes, a presentation on program review models, and the resignation of a long-standing board member.

The Board meeting included a student research presentation on fish parasites, the President's report covering student and administrator awards from Phi Theta Kappa, recognition of the institution's 40th anniversary, and updates on nursing program accreditation. Enrollment trends for the spring semester were reviewed, highlighting growth in dual credit and specific workforce programs. The Board approved the 2026-2027 Academic Calendar, voted to cancel the May 2026 Trustee Election for unopposed candidates, and accepted the financial report. Additionally, the Board authorized a property insurance renewal, granted a temporary access easement to AEP SWEPCO, and made several personnel appointments. An annual board evaluation survey discussion was tabled, and the Board conducted an executive session regarding property, personnel, legal consultations, and security measures.