Elissa DeFalco

The College Council meeting included an overview of the Empire State VI's hurricane response mission, which involved aiding relief efforts in Texas, Florida, and Puerto Rico. Updates were provided on the Middle States Periodic Review Report, reaffirming accreditation and outlining future assessment requirements. Enrollment data for Fall 2017 was reviewed, along with updates on the Maritime College Foundation and Alumni Board, including the launch of a new foundation board and the approval of a memorandum of agreement for the alumni association. Finally, an update on the strategic planning initiative was given, including the final draft of the strategic plan and plans for community feedback and endorsement.

The meeting included an overview of the latest proposals for the Federal, State, and SUNY budgets, highlighting increases and decreases in funding. A review of proposed changes to the Maritime College Student Code of Conduct to comply with SUNY Sexual Violence Prevention and Response Policies was conducted. A brief on the Governor's Start-Up New York program was presented, focusing on the program's background, benefits, and the requirements for campus participation.

The council reviewed the profile of the entering cohort of students for fall 2014, noting increases in applications, accepted students, and deposits. Key data points on the student body were presented, including average SAT scores, GPA, gender distribution, residency, and major concentrations. An update was also given on the 2014-2015 Goals and Priorities, outlining five key areas: Mission, Vision, and Guiding Principles; replacing the training ship; improving retention and graduation rates; developing alternative funding sources; and enrollment management. Each area will have a lead and cross-functional focus groups to identify quick wins and establish additional goals and metrics.

The Maritime Transportation Department presented an overview of its programs, including its two degree programs, course offerings, and support for summer sea term training. Discussions included the use of small boats for training and the utilization of simulators and virtual reality technology. The Student Government Association (SGA) provided an overview of its activities for the Fall 2019 semester. The President's update covered ongoing personnel searches, recent hires, and the designation as an American Maritime Center of Excellence. Highlights from the 2018-2019 Annual Report and an update on 2019-2020 strategic actions were also presented, along with upcoming events.

The College Council meeting included updates on admissions, with highlights of increased enrollment and a strong applicant pool for the upcoming academic year. A financial update discussed the SUNY budget situation and the college's financial stability. An overview of the Summer Sea Term 2016 was presented, along with efforts to secure federal funding for a new training ship. The meeting also covered accomplishments for the 2015-2016 academic year, priorities for 2016-2017, including a revised strategic plan, and improvements to the student registration process. Proposed changes to the Student Code of Conduct, focusing on fire safety and affirmative consent, were approved. Key dates for upcoming events were announced.