James Spurlock

The Board reviewed comprehensive area reports covering academic affairs, including new technical certificates; finance, noting the midyear budget review and revenue projections; student services, covering grant programs and career coach updates; and advancement, detailing successful fundraising and industry partnerships. Operations updates included HVAC maintenance and facility improvements. Additionally, the President presented on academic planning and infrastructure bids. The Board took action to approve year-to-date financial reports, the reappointment of personnel for the upcoming fiscal year, the establishment of provisional positions, revisions to governance policies, and an ARDOT resolution.

The board discussed and approved the bid process for the administration building roof project, which involved a request to proceed with a bid exceeding the original budgeted amount.

This strategic plan outlines Ozarka College's direction from 2025 to 2030. It is built upon five key priorities: enhancing access to education, fostering student success, advancing economic development, strengthening institutional infrastructure, and cultivating strategic partnerships. The plan aims to close enrollment gaps, establish educational pipelines, improve student retention and graduation rates, amplify the college's economic impact, optimize physical and communication resources, and expand collaborations with educational and community partners.

The board meeting covered academic performance, including spring enrollment trends and a new MOU for a machining-to-gunsmithing pathway. Financial and audit reports for the college and foundation were presented with no findings. Student services updates included equipment orders for nursing and technical programs using Perkins funds and the hiring of new personnel. Advancement and workforce development highlights featured record-breaking results from foundation events, student competitions, and updates on industry partnerships and new scholarship endowments. Operations reports included updates on facility improvements, IT infrastructure, and aviation training equipment status. Additionally, the board discussed appointing a retirement plan co-fiduciary, planning for the upcoming board retreat, updates on various grant projects, and the formal approval of revised board policies.

The mid-quarter update provided information regarding college activities and accomplishments for the Board of Trustees. Key discussion points included a 5% increase in Spring enrollment headcount (3% FTE) compared to Spring 2025, noting a student mix of 55% Concurrent/High School Tech students and 45% adult learners. The college is financially strong at mid-year, having reallocated approximately $100,000 in underutilized funds to reserves for unfunded priorities, such as the Student Services Center HVAC issue. The administration is monitoring state and regional policy landscapes and coordinating with school districts on concurrent enrollment. Future action items tentatively include the reappointment of faculty and staff for the 2026-2027 Fiscal Year. Operational highlights included purchasing new equipment using surplus Perkins funds and active monitoring of security systems.