Christopher Austen

The board meeting covered several critical items, including the nomination of Thomas Pennell for the NYCCT Distinguished Alumni Award, a comprehensive treasurer and CFO report detailing the fiscal year 2026-27 operating and capital budget, and updates on Middle States accreditation preparations. Additionally, the meeting included discussion on the Family Health Network partnership, the posthumous degree policy, ongoing faculty search processes, and a resolution of appreciation for Loren Sparling's service as the TC3 Foundation Board Liaison. Reports were also presented by the Student Trustee, administrative departments, and college senate representatives, alongside updates from county liaisons.

The committee reviewed audit progress, specifically addressing delays in financial statement preparation and potential staffing needs to meet regulatory deadlines. Discussions included a report on health insurance cost increases and a decline in concurrent enrollment chargebacks. The committee received a presentation on student fees and tuition, focusing on the demographics of the student body. Additionally, the committee authorized the President to participate in a feasibility study for a community college insurance consortium and reviewed an informational flyer regarding the 2026-27 SUNY budget request, covering topics such as program enrollment, deferred maintenance, and IT systems.

The board meeting agenda covers administrative reports from the President and Vice Presidents, including updates on the Middle States accreditation preparations, finance and budget reviews, and institutional effectiveness. Key agenda items include the chair's report on presidential evaluation, the treasurer's report on college financials and audit status, committee and affiliate reports, and the consideration of a resolution regarding the college's posthumous degrees policy. Additionally, the agenda features updates from county liaisons and information on various campus initiatives, workforce development programs, and future calendar items.

This strategic plan details Scholarship America's long-range objectives to enable post-secondary education for all students. The plan aims to assist 750,000 students in completing their education with manageable debt by 2025, focusing on four key areas: transforming Dollars for Scholars chapters to emphasize multi-year scholarships and debt reduction, expanding the Dreamkeepers program for emergency financial aid, enhancing Scholarship Management Services, and establishing a new national scholarship fund. The overarching goal is to increase college completion rates, reduce student debt, and contribute to national economic growth and global competitiveness.

The agenda for the meeting includes several key areas for discussion and action. The Chair's Report features a resolution to posthumously recognize Regina Grantham as the 2026 Friend of the College and discussion regarding Tompkins and Cortland County Liaisons. The Treasurer/CFO will provide a Finance and Budget Update. The President's Report will cover updates from Vice Presidents, and the meeting is scheduled to include an Executive Session. Committee and Affiliate Reports cover updates from the New York Community College Trustees (NYCCT), College Senate, and TC3 Foundation. The meeting agenda is followed by several reports detailing past month activities (January 2026 Minutes and various VP reports). Key topics from the January 2026 minutes included the presentation of the Annual Emergency Plan Update, approval of eight program discontinuations (including Biotechnology Certificate and Broadcast Production A.A.S.), and updates on the State budget and Academic Portfolio Review, which involves evaluating program health based on workforce demand and sustainability.