Erin K. Wagner

The meeting encompassed a wide range of institutional updates, including progress on the Academic Momentum initiative to improve student retention and completion rates, and an update on the comprehensive fundraising campaign. Key discussions covered enrollment trends, recent institutional research hires, grant acquisitions for infrastructure and academic programs, and ongoing campus construction and technology upgrade projects. The council also reviewed initiatives related to accessibility compliance, student life programming, athletics achievements, and financial administration updates, including fiscal sustainability strategies and financial aid process improvements.

The council discussed updates on the Academic Momentum Plan, fiscal sustainability, and enrollment trends. Capital planning initiatives were reviewed, specifically the new Mechatronics/Applied Technology Building and potential student housing options. The meeting covered workforce development, industry partnerships, campus infrastructure projects, including Wi-Fi upgrades and accessibility compliance, and advancement efforts. Staff reports provided details on student support, mental health initiatives, facilities, and legislative engagement. The council also approved revisions to the Code of Conduct hearing board composition and recognized the upcoming retirement of a council member.

Key discussions included the announcement of the Applied Technology Building for Mechatronics, with an anticipated 2030 completion, and plans for expanding alumni engagement ahead of a comprehensive campaign launch. The college is progressing with the Academic Momentum initiative focused on student retention, informed by NISS data, with a taskforce established for Fall 2026 implementation. Academic Program Optimization efforts resulted in decisions to deactivate the Park & Outdoor Recreation and Adventure Recreation programs due to sustained low enrollment, while Teacher Education Transfer and Accounting programs were consolidated for clarity. Plans are underway to offer several completion degrees as direct-entry online programs starting in Fall 2026 to expand access. Accessibility compliance is being addressed, aiming for 100% compliance with Title II by April 2026. The athletic department reported successes, including conference championships and NCAA qualifications. Sodexo continues to collaborate on student support initiatives like food pantry donations and a new coupon dining program. Financial trajectory remains stable, projecting a surplus by year-end, despite challenges with student balances over $1,000, which are being actively addressed. The Council endorsed the naming of the HVAC lab as the "Midea HVAC Technology Classroom" in recognition of a significant in-kind gift from Midea America Corp.

The College Council meeting included discussions on a fundraising campaign, strategic plan tactics, and campus values. Updates were provided on the Mechatronics building, financial sustainability, and the REDC Achieve Competition. Staff reports highlighted academic restructuring, compliance with Title II and ADA standards, and the growth of opportunity programs like ASAP and ACE. There were discussions on apprenticeship programs, prior learning assessment, and the Academic Advisement Center. The meeting also covered athletics, CADI partnership with SODEXO, counseling and health services, residence life, and the Center for Student Leadership. Updates were given on DEI initiatives, internship opportunities, and cash balance. Construction updates were provided for Evenden Tower ADA and South Hall. The meeting also touched on enrollment, marketing and communications, and the National Institute for Student Success (NISS).

The meeting included discussions and updates on various topics, including accreditation visits, the transformation of the Resnick Academic Achievement Center (RAAC), PRODiG applications, the establishment of a new faculty academy, the development of micro-credentials, and credit for prior learning opportunities. There were positive reports on the expanded orientation program, changes to dining operations, and the introduction of a new Plan B vending machine. The campus climate survey was announced, and updates were provided on Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations, a new meditation and prayer space, Title VI training, and the welcoming of international students and refugees. Progress on the fiscal stability plan was shared, along with the launch of a new OneStop shop and the hiring of new personnel. Alumni events were successful, and inauguration planning is underway. The Student Senate is active, and SUNY Delhi will be represented at upcoming conferences. The College Council endorsed the newly established strategic plan initiatives and revisions to policies regarding Title XI and Title VI.