Darlene Benzenberg

The meeting included a special presentation on the Marketing Strategy for 2021-2025 and future directions, detailing research, messaging focus on affordability and success, platform utilization, and setting Key Performance Indicators with revenue as paramount. Another presentation covered Grant Successes for 2024-25, noting 38 grants totaling $6 million over two years, with goals to increase this funding. The President's Report focused on the Facilities Master Plan, outlining a three-phase approach beginning in 2026, funded partly by a $30 million county contribution for the first phase covering science, technology, education, and criminal justice programs. A task force was proposed to explore electronic board book platforms to reduce paper usage. Updates included confirmation that no resolution is needed for Veteran's Tuition for Spring 2026, discussion on Senate Bill S4685 regarding faculty/staff inclusion on the board, planning for legislative breakfasts in January 2026, recognition of an accepted conference presentation on the implementation of Orange Connect, approval of the DSP III micro credential curriculum for Spring 2026, recognition of the Department Chair for English as an Accessibility Allies and Advocates Fellow, and the reaffirmation of the Business Department's accreditation for 10 years by the ACBSP. The Student Trustee reported on advocacy for the Bronson bill and the common hour initiative. Committee reports included updates on financials for November and the status of the Bronson bill, and discussion on clarifying the language of the policy for posthumous award. New Business involved the approval of BP6.14 Posthumous Award of Degree or Certificate.

The meeting included the approval of the Consent Agenda, covering minutes from the previous meeting, financial statements, appointments, and retirements. The President's Report detailed SUNY enrollment growth, the integration of the TRIO program with the Department of Labor regarding workforce alignment, progress on the Facilities Master Plan proposal, and an update on Athletics, noting the men's basketball team ranked #20 nationally. Several faculty and staff received awards and recognitions. The Student Trustee reported on activities including resolutions passed at the SUNY general assembly and participation in the ACCT Annual Conference. Discussion focused on the Bellwether Award finalist status for the math department's innovative placement process. Committee reports previewed a new Program Fee resolution and an upcoming policy on Posthumous Award of Degree. New business saw the unanimous approval of the transition from course-based fees to program-based fees and the approval of the BP2.49 Recreational Device/Equipment Operation. Old business involved a lengthy discussion on Board Bylaws and Committee Charters, debating the effectiveness of existing committees like Enrollment and Retention and exploring the need for new advocacy groups.

The meeting included discussions on the President's report, which highlighted a press event and its coverage, updates from the NYCCAP meeting in Albany, and athletic achievements including volleyball, men's soccer, and cross country. The Chairman shared social media strategies to build support and the importance of communication for advocacy efforts. The board also held an executive session and a workshop on board committees and advisory groups.

The meeting included a special presentation on the Mastodon Discovery, with details and photos of the mastodon teeth found in Orange County. There was also a FoodTec update that highlighted the program's success in creating curriculum for workforce programs, issuing industry-recognized certificates, and establishing on-the-job training opportunities. The President reported on Governor Hochul's announcement of Funding Free Community College in High-Demand Occupations. The Provost provided enrollment updates, including increases in winter headcount, credit hours, and FTEs. The VP for Administration & Finance reported positive feedback on the AI keynote and the upcoming launch of a new AI chatbot. The VP for Workforce, Strategy & Innovation discussed the ESD grant for the Choice Films Production Tech program and the progress of the Paramedic program. The Governance President thanked the Foundation for their support of the AI keynote, and the FCCC Report covered SUNY staffing updates and upcoming searches. The Student Trustee introduced the new Student Senate President, and the Foundation Board discussed fundraising efforts and potential scholarship awards.

The meeting included the presentation and acceptance of the Trustees Slate of Officers for the academic year 2025-2026. There were discussions around preliminary fall 2025 enrollment figures, which showed an increase in overall headcount and growth in both full-time and part-time enrollment. The launch of a 12-month accelerated Paramedic Training Program in partnership with CUNY LaGuardia was announced, along with efforts to comply with new federal Title II ADA compliance regulations. Committee reports covered academic and student services, audit and finance, enrollment and retention, governance and nominating, and policy matters. The board also discussed a potential AI policy and received updates on accreditation approvals, the SUNY Reconnect program, and various capital projects and facility updates.