Jessica Dorantes

The Board meeting addressed several key areas, including a report on the successful start of the Spring Semester and acknowledgement of staff efforts following campus closures due to winter weather. Discussions included expanding transfer opportunities with East Texas A&M University, a Morris County leadership training session, and initiating an economic impact study for the college's 40th Anniversary. Preliminary enrollment figures indicated strong growth compared to the previous year. The consent agenda, which included approving monthly finance reports and several joint election agreements, was approved unanimously. The Board also approved the renewal of the Foundation Management liability insurance policy and unanimously approved the employment of Jennifer Hessner as College Navigator. Furthermore, the Board agreed to use the existing survey instrument for the SACSCOC-required Board evaluation and approved the Order Calling the General Election for three trustee positions. The meeting concluded with an executive session to discuss real property, personnel matters, consultation with legal counsel, and negotiated contracts for prospective gifts or donations.

Key discussions included the presentation of the annual audit for the fiscal year ending August 31, 2025, which resulted in an unmodified opinion with no findings; the audit report noted the College's net position increased significantly primarily due to state and federal allocations. The President's Report acknowledged the passing of two former Board members, highlighted service awards presented at the Employee Christmas and Service Awards Luncheon, and noted a record number of Fall graduates at the recent commencement ceremony. The Board received updates on personnel actions, including promotions, new hires, and retirements pending approval. The Board confirmed full compliance with House Bill 3834 training requirements. The Consent Agenda was approved, excluding two local policy updates related to accounting thresholds and employee conduct declarations that were addressed in a previous meeting. The Board unanimously approved the development of a new Level 1 Certificate in Industrial Technology Air Conditioning (AC) Technician, planned for a Fall 2026 launch, and approved the employment of a new faculty member in the Carroll Shelby Automotive Institute. Additionally, the Board approved the release of several employees from their contracts due to retirement. The meeting concluded with an executive session to discuss real property, personnel matters, and prospective gifts/donations.

Key discussions included the President's Report, highlighting the annual Scholarship Brunch, visits from TCCTA President, student service projects, and contest achievements. An update was provided on the development of NTCC 2030: Empowering the Future, the college's strategic plan built around five priorities. The Board received an update on the Carroll Shelby Automotive Institute, noting the search for a new Director. The consent agenda, including approval of the monthly finance report, was approved. The Board unanimously approved resolutions to cast votes for the Morris County Appraisal District and Titus County Appraisal District Boards of Directors. During executive session, personnel matters were discussed, resulting in the unanimous approval to release the Dean of Workforce Education and the Executive Assistant to the President from their employment contracts.

The Board of Trustees meeting included an overview of the Athletic Department, highlighting the Rodeo team, softball program, and men's and women's soccer teams. The President's Report covered topics such as the Rodeo team, the 40th Anniversary Community Picnic, the awarding of a Student Support Services Trio Grant, the "40 Years, 40 Stories, 40 Days" YouTube channel, and a statewide proposition on the ballot for November 4, 2025, concerning funding for the Texas State Technical College System. Additional reports were presented on the Perkins Grant and College Access and Affordability. The board also approved the consent agenda and the employment of Sydney Jones-Blakeman as Assistant Softball Coach / Assistant Housing Director.

The Board of Trustees meeting included a student spotlight on Phi Theta Kappa, where the officers introduced themselves and their achievements. The board approved naming Dr. Ron Clinton as Distinguished President Emeritus. The President's Report included updates on the Title V Grant discontinuation, Continuing Ed & Corporate Training programs, Honors Northeast Fall Round Up, Week of Welcome Back events, Texan Concours, and the Men's Soccer Team receiving the United Soccer Coaches Team Academic Award. The Fall Enrollment Report indicated a 12% increase in headcount and a 2.5% increase in credit hours. The board discussed a report on Texas Education Code, Section 51.253(c) regarding freedom from discrimination, harassment, and retaliation, and the NTCC 40th Anniversary Celebration Picnic. The board also approved releasing the Dean of Institutional Effectiveness and Innovation and the Assistant Softball Coach / Assistant Housing Director from their employment contracts. An Audit Committee was created, and the board adjourned into executive session to discuss various matters before reconvening and adjourning the meeting.