Brendan Gray

The retreat focused on reviewing the 2022-2026 Strategic Plan, evaluating its priorities of access, opportunity, and excellence, and discussing the development of the 2026-2029 Strategic Plan. Key discussion areas included teaching and learning, workforce development, student access, completion rates, transfer initiatives, and leadership capacities. Additionally, a demonstration of the new Ellucian Insights Dashboards was provided to illustrate how data will inform decision-making, and the timeline for future board updates was established.

The Board of Trustees met to discuss and approve several key items, including the adoption of the 2026-2027 fiscal year budget and millage rates. Administrative reports provided updates on federal and state grants, including initiatives for adult learners and student success centers. The board authorized various financial matters, such as the amendment of the 2025-2026 budget, the issuance of requests for proposals for security services, the approval of a sole source contract for gym water piping repairs, and the procurement of high-fidelity training equipment. Additionally, the board approved an amendment to a service agreement with Grand Valley State University, an extension of the media buying contract, and finalized a base salary increase and stipend adjustment for the college president following a closed session evaluation.

The meeting featured a presentation on the Completion Focus Area, outlining objectives for degree and certificate completion, graduation rates, and academic performance, as well as a review of recent campus Safety and Security Survey results. Financial reports indicated that enrollment exceeded budget projections and identified a projected reduction in the operating fund deficit. The board approved contracts for food services with Creative Dining Services, testing services with ExamSoft, staff training through InsideTrack, and a technology bundle with Ellucian. Additionally, the board certified appointments to the Michigan Community College Association Board of Directors and authorized the reissuance of an RFP for a high-fidelity manikin.

The board discussed the operating millage restoration campaign, focusing on strategy, messaging, and community outreach targeting various demographics. Key topics included the campaign timeline, the necessity of a future special meeting to finalize ballot language after obtaining Headlee Rollback figures, and the development of educational materials including a frequently asked questions document and website. Additionally, legal recommendations regarding the duration of the proposed millage were reviewed.

The Board of Trustees discussed and approved the resolution and ballot language for the Operating Millage Restoration. This proposal seeks to increase the millage by 0.2705 mills for 30 years to restore the total levy to 2.4 mills, supporting learning environments, safety improvements, infrastructure upgrades, and academic support. Additional topics included public announcements regarding upcoming community events and college activities.