James E. Dye

The Facilities Committee meeting focused on various project updates and initiatives, including a new work order system, upgrades to Davis Hall's welding lab and Russell Hall's HVAC system, campus window replacements, and the KCC auditorium renovation. Discussions also covered campus landscaping, the campus master plan, parking lot improvements (call boxes, cameras, sealing/striping, and guardrails), an EV charging station, building repairs (Dellinger Hall, Dickenson Hall, Davis Hall), campus-wide generators, ADA sidewalk repairs, and an LED conversion project. The committee discussed adding members from various campus areas and the implementation of QR codes for reporting issues. Plans for the demolition and replacement of Buchanan Hall and Tazewell Hall were also reviewed.

The meeting covered various topics including enrollment updates, a Chancellor's retreat summary focusing on a culture of care and efficiency, fundraising challenges and strategies, upcoming workforce development tours, and a building legacies campaign. Discussions also included updates on enrollment numbers across different programs, a new CDL program, upcoming SACSCOC accreditation, and the student code of conduct. Financial updates covered emergency procedures, campus improvements, upcoming projects (gym floor removal, auditorium renovation), and the Flying Eagle Fall Festival. The threat assessment team's work, including employee well-being initiatives and food pantry support, was also reviewed. Finally, the meeting included updates on housing, fundraising efforts, scholarships, and personnel matters.

The meeting covered a range of topics including a college update highlighting strong enrollment and student success, but also challenges related to managing growth in a shrinking community and navigating external pressures. Discussions included the impact of changing dual enrollment laws, workforce development initiatives, and updates on athletics, short-term credentials, and key programs like nursing. The board reviewed and approved the M&O budget, local revenue budget, student government budget, parking plans, and a proposal for purchasing two 15-passenger buses. Reports were also given on the foundation's fundraising efforts, grant opportunities, housing occupancy, and personnel matters, including salary increases and workforce evaluations.

The meeting covered various topics including semester updates and budget concerns due to weather-related disruptions and lower-than-projected enrollment. Legislative updates discussed mandated but unfunded employee raises, funding reductions for high school courses, and the CarryForward fund. Federal compliance updates included revised DEI and affirmative action policies. The SACSCOC reaffirmation report and strategic planning process were also discussed, along with updates on the presidential search, facilities, and upcoming events. Action items included the removal of a board member due to non-attendance and fee increases for parking and student activities. Discussions also included updates on enrollment, workforce programs, a new initiative with the Wellspring Foundation, and the SACSCOC pre-visit. Capital projects, campus safety, and audits were also discussed, along with updates on housing, grants, fundraising, and upcoming events such as the annual golf tournament and Festival of the Arts. A resolution for 2025-2026 WFA Education Funding was approved, and plans for outreach visits to local high schools and collaboration with other educational institutions were discussed.

The IT Committee meeting covered various project updates, including those related to Hyflex classrooms, Wi-Fi expansion, sound system upgrades in the gym, door lock system implementation, and telephone replacements. Discussions included adding faculty to the committee, addressing the status of the cafeteria POS system, plans for new ID cards, the need for a new card printer, auxiliary codes and meal plans, and Wi-Fi printing in the library and other divisions. Issues with Jabber and cellphone service were also discussed, along with the website redesign. The committee decided to meet monthly, with both in-person and Zoom options.