Erin Swingler

The committee reviewed and recommended for Board approval the preliminary FY 2025 Audit report, which received an unmodified clean opinion. Discussions were held regarding the proposed migration to Ellucian's cloud-based SaaS platform to address system inefficiencies, dated applications, and data silos, with a timeline for implementation through 2027. Additionally, the committee reviewed the proposed aggregate tax levy for 2025 and analyzed the September 2025 financial statements, noting no significant concerns with revenues or expenditures.

The board conducted an organizational meeting, electing new officers, appointing the college treasurer, and approving the college's fiscal agent. Key agenda items included the approval of student government election results, a renewal of Zoom services, and revisions to several board policies concerning employee leave. Additionally, the board approved the purchase of forklift simulators, various furniture items, and an agreement with the Assessment Technologies Institute. The board also awarded a contract for an EV charger upgrade, reappointed division chairs, and addressed a past chemical removal services agreement to resolve a payment dispute. Finally, the human resources report was approved following a closed session discussion.

The Board of Trustees meeting covered organizational items, including the appointment of board leadership and the college treasurer. Key discussions included committee reports, a review of student satisfaction surveys, and updates on academic curriculum and policy revisions. Action items included the approval of bills, grants, financial statements, faculty tenure and reemployment, insurance coverage renewals, and various purchase agreements for college equipment and services.

The committee meeting covered the recommendation for the posthumous naming of former trustee Mike Sullivan for the Clem Phipps Exemplary Trustee Award and the naming of the new main entrance plaza as Sullivan Plaza. Proposed revisions to Board Policy 11.10 regarding the naming of campus buildings, grounds, and academic programs were discussed and recommended for Board approval. Additionally, the committee received updates on various capital improvement projects, including progress reports on multiple facility renovations and plans for a new athletic training facility.

The Board meeting included committee reports on legislative matters, foundation initiatives, and student government activities, alongside a presentation of the President's financial and operational updates. Key business items included the review of quarterly investments, an annual assessment report, and updates on science lab facilities and data visualization tools. Formal actions taken by the Board included the naming of the Nursing Simulation Lab in honor of HSHS St. Anthony's Memorial Hospital, the acceptance of multiple grants for adult education and motor vehicle operator training, the approval of financial statements, the setting of the 2026 meeting schedule, and revisions to several Board policies regarding naming rights and protected leaves. The Board also approved course fee updates for the upcoming academic semester, the transfer of funds for insurance purposes, the faculty seniority listing, and the appointment of a new Director of Strategic Initiatives following a closed session discussion.