Jade Gressett

The board discussed key operational and financial matters, including the approval of the 2025-2026 budget adjustment requests and the 2026-2027 fiscal year budget. The board received updates on college projects, including student housing options, property surveys, and upcoming campus construction. Academic affairs reports highlighted student retention challenges, summer semester planning, and the approval of a purchase requisition for a wind energy learning system. Additionally, the board reviewed financial reports for March and April and received updates from the Staff Senate regarding adult education graduation statistics and cohort programming.

The board meeting included the approval of the FY25/26 budget adjustment requests, the FY26/27 budget, a purchase requisition for a wind energy learning system, and financial reports for March and April. Key reports were presented, including an update on the hiring of new personnel, college athletics, student housing options, academic programs, and property surveying. Additionally, the Staff Senate provided updates on Adult Education, testing, and corrections partnerships. An executive session was held to discuss personnel matters, litigation, and real property and water rights, with no further action taken.

The Board approved the 2026-2027 academic calendar, the monthly finance report, and an NMDOT application for road improvements to the rodeo arena. The President provided updates on legislative appropriations, college accreditation status, staff hiring, and upcoming conference attendance. Other key discussion topics included student enrollment statistics, new recruiting initiatives, property procurement processes, and administrative policy updates. An executive session was held to discuss personnel matters, litigation, and real property rights, with no formal action taken upon reconvening.

The Board discussed various operational and financial reports, including the NMHED Quarterly Financial Actions Report and the January 2026 Financial Report. Key discussion topics included changing the date of the next meeting, the implementation of a Donated Leave Policy, and the approval of a Memorandum of Agreement for FY25. Reports from Academic Affairs covered recruitment efforts and student assessments, while Student Services provided updates on enrollment, financial aid, and campus facilities. Additionally, the Board reviewed administrative reports regarding roofing projects, capital outlay funds for vehicles, and updates from the Staff Senate. An executive session was conducted to discuss personnel, litigation, and real property matters with no resulting actions taken.

The key discussions and actions during the meeting involved the organization of the Board, including the appointment of the Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary/Clerk. Appointments were also confirmed for the Foundation Committee, Finance Committee, and Audit Committee. The President reported on progress towards removal from HLC probation, legislative session activities, and plans for road and rodeo house arena maintenance. Academic Affairs noted that classes began with 194 course offerings, the launch of the new Canvas LMS, and upcoming starts for welding and CDL programs. Student Services addressed the ongoing search for a recruiter and reported record registration numbers for corrections services. Furthermore, the Board discussed sports reports for rodeo, golf, and esports teams. Following an executive session covering personnel matters, litigation, and real property/water rights, the Board took action to extend the President's contract by two years. The meeting concluded with the adjournment action.