Dina Gross

The committee reviewed and approved the fiscal year 2026-2027 budget totaling $1,083,953.25. Additionally, the committee authorized several technology-related acquisitions, including Dauntless aviation mechanic software, a multimeter trade and transfer kit for automotive training, and various hardware for the PSE program comprising Dell All-in-One computers, Dell towers with displays, and Microsoft Surface Pro laptops with accompanying accessories.

The committee reviewed several requests for technology funding. Key items included the approval of equipment for the Automotive Training Center Diesel Shop 2, which involves high-end projection and audio/camera hardware for classroom demonstrations. Additionally, the committee approved the renewal of a technical support subscription for heavy equipment simulators and an upgrade of hardware and software for the E-TEC Recording Studio to meet current industry standards.

The Baton Rouge Community College Strategic Plan for 2023-2028 outlines a roadmap focused on four key pillars: Student Success, Employee Success, Financial & Operational Sustainability, and Quality Communication. The plan aims to ensure students are highly skilled and prepared for high-demand employment, cultivate a supportive and engaging environment for employees, achieve financial stability through innovative investments and diversified revenue streams, and foster transparent and effective communication with all stakeholders. The overarching mission is to position the college as the preferred provider of talent for the global marketplace, providing excellent value to students, partners, and the community.

The meeting primarily focused on the Student Technology Fee Committee (STC) budget for the fiscal year 2025-2026, which was discussed in detail regarding line items and multi-year agreements. Approvals were sought and granted for several technology acquisitions, including the STC budget itself, two Dell All-in-One computers (AIOs) for the new Disability Services area, three Dell AIOs for the Sonography program in the new Nursing building, eighteen Dell AIOs for the nursing station area in the new Nursing building, various data drops for cabling, emergency phones, and security cameras in the nursing building, and sixty 10' data cables for the Nursing testing lab.

The meeting addressed open issues, of which there were none, and new business items concerning technology upgrades. Key discussions involved the request to replace four Mac computers, displays, and keyboards for the film and media department's Mac lab, utilizing grant funds for 18 units and requesting assistance for the remaining four. The committee also discussed the purchase of twenty Dell AIO PCs for classroom A/V renovations in the LA building to bring its standard up to parity with other campus locations like the Cypress building. Votes were taken and approved for both technology purchases.