Emily Bowne

The meeting began with a call to order. Key discussions included a presentation of the Ruffalo Noel Levitz Staff Survey results, which indicated several positive campus culture changes compared to previous years, though concerns were raised regarding low response rates from part-time and adjunct employees. The President's Report covered the mid-year update on Fiscal Year 2026 goals, noting a slight enrollment decrease for Spring but an overall increase for the year, and discussed the strategic integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI), including professional development sessions focused on its human side. The Board reviewed reports on Education Fund Revenue & Expenditures, Personnel, and Facilities, including updates on a drainage project. In New Business, the Board reviewed the Fiscal Year 2027 Preliminary Budget, agreeing to maintain flat enrollment projections and tuition at $160 per credit hour, noting that increased property tax revenue supports planned capital projects. Actions taken included the approval of a full-time faculty appointment, the John C. Roberts Award recommendation, and the contract for the Caukin Upper Roof Replacement. The Board also approved several Policy Manual revisions.

The Kishwaukee College Board of Trustees meeting included discussions on various topics such as updates to the policy manual, spring enrollment numbers, and the potential for solar energy projects. The board also discussed participation in the Mayo Clinic Executive Medical Testing Program, the purchase of a simulator ambulance, and an intergovernmental cooperation agreement for police services. Additionally, they reviewed ICCTA awards, travel expenses for board members, and upcoming ICCTA meetings. The meeting also covered budgetary revenues, expenditures, and the investment report.

The committee meeting included a recap of the FY25 audit process, highlighting the cooperation and collaboration of departments, particularly in financial aid. The single audit results showed no findings. Discussions covered the ACFR, independent auditors' reports, and financial internal controls, with no deficiencies found. The management discussion and analysis provided a narrative on the past year, noting a positive increase in unrestricted net position. The committee also discussed employee benefits, potential state liabilities, and the impact of pandemic relief. The auditors congratulated the college on its clean reporting and financial position.

The meeting included discussions and presentations on various topics such as K-12 data and enrollment trends, the President's report covering the Title III Grant, communication with faculty and staff, and updates on VR goggles utilization. Reports were given on personnel, employee engagement, education fund revenue and expenditures, facilities, IT, instruction, community engagement, and foundation and grants. New business included a notice of public hearing for the 2025 Tax Levy, historical operating funds, approval of the FY25 year-end transfer, historical analysis of end-of-the-year fund balances, employee health & dental plan and insurance MOUs, program advisory committees for 2025-2026, bids for the A1200-A1300 Roof and an athletics van, bid exemptions for a Metasys Upgrade, new rooftop units for ELC, and cooling tower refurbishment. Policy manual revisions were approved, and travel expenses for board members were discussed. The consent agenda, including minutes, budgetary revenues and expenditures, accounts payable recap, and the investment report, was approved.

The meeting was convened to move into a closed session for the selection of a person to fill a public office, following the Open Meetings Act. Subsequently, the session was reopened, and the meeting was adjourned.