Eric Benevides

Discussions during the meeting covered key institutional focuses, including the equity imperative aimed at bridging success gaps for Latino students using Title 5 grants and collaboration with Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities. The self-study accreditation process, which requires adherence to nine standards and assessment of institutional strengths and weaknesses, was also addressed. Operational updates included details on the Integrated Student Experience (ISE) initiative, which involves using surveys for discipline-specific and course-specific data comparison between student groups, and plans to implement focus groups. The ISE Academic Advising Model plans to centralize new student advising in the Student Success Hub and increase advising professionals in Academic Centers by August 2020. Old business included rescheduling cancelled 'Knight's Night Appreciation' events due to snow days, planning for the installation of SGA items in the Dimitry Lobby and potential provision of items for El Hefni space, authorizing the purchase of polo shirts, and deciding to set a date for the spring photoshoot during the winter retreat. The Board also discussed the concept of providing one free class as compensation for Executive Board members.

The Strategic Plan 2022-2027 for Northern Essex Community College aims to ensure 'Success for All' by fostering an equitable, affordable, and exceptional academic experience for every student, particularly focusing on low-income students and its role as a Hispanic Serving Institution. It strives to eliminate equity gaps, integrate the 'Integrated Student Experience,' and prioritize financial health, safety, and continuous improvement. The plan outlines strategic goals in Community Impact, Academic Innovation, Assessment & Informed Improvement, Student Support, and Employee Excellence, emphasizing collaborative partnerships to enhance community success outcomes.

The meeting included discussions on the All College Assembly, the Public Higher Education Network of Massachusetts (PHENOM) Advocacy Day, and issues with the shuttle schedule. The committee also discussed the Dimitry Lobby, OMO Specialties, and class compensation for SGA Executive Board members. New business included spring vision, OER signatures, SGA Office Change, February Plans, All Club Assembly, Class Gift Survey, and Removal from Office. The advisor's report included announcements about International Women's Day, candidates for the Dean of Students position, updates to the NECC website, the SGA Constitution, and educating students about joining SGA.

The Student Government Association meeting included discussions on shuttle schedules, collaboration with GSA on events, and the Valentine's Day event. The meeting addressed the SGA office relocation, the removal of a member due to absences, and planning for Black History Month, Women's History Month, and the All Club Assembly. The All Club Assembly will include workshops on fundraising, communication, and club transitioning. Upcoming dates such as New Dean of Students Interviews, Advocacy Day, International Women's Day, and OER Week were discussed.

The Student Government Association meeting included discussions on the Leading Into the Future Together (LIFT) Campaign, aiming to raise funds for Early College scholarships, and potential developments such as an expansion into downtown Haverhill and the possibility of a YMCA on the Haverhill campus. The meeting addressed the Equity Imperative, focusing on closing the student success gap between Latino and white students, and the challenges of hiring a chief diversity officer. Updates were provided on the Next Strategic Plan, based on the New England Commission on Higher Education study. The council discussed the 2021 Community College Budget Priorities packet, including the PACE program and the SUCCESS fund. Additional topics included academic centers on the Lawrence campus, future meeting schedules, the SAC meeting, and vacant SGA positions.