Dawn Birkland

The Board meeting included the recognition of an alumnus for personal and professional achievements and celebrated various faculty and staff service milestones. During the meeting, the Board transitioned to a closed session to deliberate on personnel matters, collective bargaining, and litigation. Public comments covered several topics, including the transition of the student leadership council, concerns raised by the student body regarding transparency and due process surrounding the handling of a faculty member's administrative leave, and a formal request for increased access to mental health resources and counseling services for students.

The meeting included a comprehensive presentation on the FY2027 General Fund revenues, covering major revenue sources such as real estate taxes, state government funding, and tuition and fees. The committee reviewed property tax forecasts, key assumptions regarding the Property Tax Extension Law Limit, and the financial impact of student financial assistance and state appropriations. Additionally, the committee analyzed tuition and fee rates, enrollment trends, and revenue strategies for both the Education Fund and the Operations and Maintenance Fund.

The meeting included presentations on marketing and communications strategy, the aviation program's growth and industry trends, and the facilities master plan analysis. Financial information, including investment reports, budgetary status, and grant reports, was provided for information. The board approved several contracts, including facility rental agreements, printing services, construction and renovation projects, and remote proctoring services. Additionally, the board approved an increase to an existing lease agreement and established tuition and fee rates for the upcoming academic term.

The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance and a roll call confirming a quorum. Key agenda items included several recognitions: a student success story featuring Princess Safa, who transferred from College of DuPage (COD) to DePaul for a journalism degree and later returned to COD in hospitality roles; recognition of the COD Chaparrels football team for winning their fifth consecutive NJCAA Division 3 National Championship; recognition for Black History Month, with discussions focusing on shared human heritage, cultural awareness, social understanding, unity, and intentional belonging, led by David Swope and Professor Thomas Hardy; and faculty and staff service milestone recognitions, honoring employees for 5 to 25 years of service, including several staff members reaching 25 years. The board concluded the open session by moving into a closed session to discuss matters related to appointment, employment, compensation, litigation, and review of lawfully closed meeting minutes.

The Budget Committee meeting included presentations regarding the FY2024 General Fund: Revenues, led by the Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer and the Budget Manager. Key discussion points during this presentation included Board action on Student Tuition, Property Tax Levy, Out of District / Out of State Student Tuition, Elasticity of Tuition, and Outside cost containments. The committee also reviewed the next meeting date, scheduled for April.