Cheryl Bermani-McCann

The committee discussed the implementation of a new system-wide policy for volunteers to establish consistency, ensure safety through mandatory background checks, and centralize management under the Human Resources department. Additionally, the committee reviewed updates on professional development initiatives, highlighting widespread system participation in AI training workshops and plans for upcoming compliance and ethics programs.

The committee discussed standards and expectations, postponed the release of the student survey to the second week of October, and provided updates on student connection and engagement initiatives including the creation of a committee email and an Instagram handle. The committee also discussed the postponement of executive committee elections to the September meeting and reviewed the preparations for a joint presentation to the Board of Regents, including the collection of campus-based slides and presentation logistics.

The meeting focused on the implementation of the Acme initiative and its impact on developmental education. Members expressed concerns regarding administrative oversight, the lack of transparency in the initiative's development, and the potential negative outcomes for students who require additional support. Discussions also included updates on employment contracts for various faculty unions, the legislative process for these contracts, and the need for further data analysis on student success in developmental versus co-requisite courses.

The committee discussed updates on the banner implementation project, noting that all five projects are currently in progress. The discussion focused on the contract structure, specifically the fixed-price versus time-and-materials components, and addressed project delays caused by provisioning issues. The committee also examined the discovery phase and the process for managing non-standard objects, emphasizing a focus on standardization and shifting from on-premises to a software-as-a-service model. Additionally, the committee began reviewing a report on the Charter Oak AI project, which was initiated following a review by the finance committee regarding the use of reserves.

The committee discussed the formation and progress of the Dual Credit Advisory Council, highlighting their focus on tuition and fees for enrollment programs and a commitment to rapid expansion. Additionally, the committee reviewed academic updates including the launch of a new strategic plan, preparations for upcoming accreditation, and the establishment of an AI and academics task force. A significant new initiative for an electric vehicle technician certificate was introduced to address the industry demand for high-voltage skill sets, with discussions on improving accessibility for students, including those with language barriers, through credit for prior learning.