Bryan Benz

The meeting agenda includes the organization of the committee through the election of a Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary. Key business items include the presentation of the 2026-27 President's Budget Message, discussions on budget changes, budget deliberations, and the consideration of motions to approve the proposed fiscal year budget and imposed taxes. Public engagement is accommodated through both written and oral comments.

The agenda for this Board of Education meeting included several key items. New Business featured a resolution (Resolution No. 5) to approve the use of an interstate cooperative procurement agreement for roof maintenance and replacement contracts for the Ford Childhood Enrichment Center and Athletic Complex Gym Roof, estimated up to $950,000.00. The Board was also requested to accept the Annual Federal Awards Audit Report for FY2024-25. Another action item was Resolution No. 6, seeking approval to increase the appropriation by $299,881 from carryover funds in the Workforce Ready: Innovation in Workforce Programs grant for equipment purchases supporting dental, emergency medical, and fire science programs. Invited Reports included an update on the Learning Man conference reflections and takeaways, and Standing Reports covered association updates, the President's Report, and the Chair's Report.

The agenda for the regular meeting included a Work Session focused on Facilities Planning. Key reports scheduled covered an update on the recent Explore UCC event, an overview of the State Growth Management Component proposal from the HECC, and the Financial Report for FY 2025-26. Standing reports were anticipated from the Association Representatives, the President, and the Chair. New Business items involved a first reading of Board Policies 2345 (Public Participation at Board of Education Meetings) and 2350 (Speakers), and a resolution authorizing negotiation for a Ground Lease Proposal with Maple Corner Montessori for College-owned land to construct a sports court.

The report details recent accomplishments and updates for the college. Key discussions included receiving a challenge coin from the Roseburg VA Health Care System in appreciation for the partnership with Veterans. The college was awarded a $3.15M federal appropriation sponsored by Congresswoman Val Hoyle, Senators Merkley and Wyden, designated for the renovation of the original post office building and the final student housing project building. Updates from Athletics highlighted the Women's Wrestling team taking 3rd at the National Dual Meet Championship and the Men's Basketball team being tied for 1st in the Southern Region. The college celebrated the opening of two newly remodeled facilities: the Advanced Manufacturing and Forestry Building and the Woolley Center Downtown (new home of the SBDC). The report also noted successful engagement events, including the High School Connections annual meeting and the Healthcare and Public Safety event, and industry tours highlighting student preparedness in CTE programs. The UCC Foundation welcomed a new board member. Upcoming events include the Future Natural Resource Leaders (FNRL) event in March 2026, featuring competitions in various tracks.

Umpqua Community College's Strategic Plan aims to transform lives and enrich communities by serving as a model for educational innovation, empowering students with confidence, competence, and compassion for a diverse world. Adopted in 2023, this plan guides the institution's direction and aligns with its new accreditation cycle, supported by comprehensive plans for academics, student support, technology, and facilities.