John Caffelle

The Massasoit Community College Fiscal Year 2026 Proposed Spending Plan outlines a $59.7 million budget for the period of July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026. This plan details revenue streams, expenditure classifications, and a proposed fee increase, demonstrating a direct alignment with the college's overarching Strategic Plan. Key allocations support five strategic goals: Equitable Enrollment & Student Support, Academic Renewal & Innovation, Reimagining College Identity, Equity Agenda & Community Impact, and Organizational & Employee Excellence, reflecting a concrete commitment to long-term strategic priorities.

The meeting included the Chairman's Report welcoming a newly appointed trustee. The President's Report covered support for students struggling with SNAP benefit uncertainty, the success of a recent open house, and the decision to pause the EMT program for the spring semester due to space and equipment concerns, while ensuring current students are unaffected. The Student Trustee reported on the Student Advisory Council's focus on the Hunger Free Campus Coalition and its efforts to secure funding, as well as the impact of the Bright Act. The Student Senate presentation highlighted initiatives supporting clubs, community building, food service advocacy, and future plans focusing on civic engagement. Financially, the Board approved the FY2025 Draft Financial Statements, which received an unmodified opinion. Furthermore, the Board approved a 36-month renewal and expansion of the TeamDynamix platform to support Facilities, Institutional Research, and the Business Office. The Strategic Plan Update detailed enrollment increases across various student categories and outlined ongoing work for academic program reviews, the adoption of the Lightcast analyst tool, and progress toward the 10-year NECHI report submission.

The meeting included discussions and presentations on various topics, including the college's 60th-anniversary celebration, updates from the Student Trustee regarding the Student Advisory Council and Senate, and presentations on the Truck and Heavy Equipment Technology program and the Veterinary Technology Program. The board also reviewed and approved the Fourth Quarter Fiscal Year 2025 Financial Report. Additionally, there were sabbatical presentations on supporting adjunct faculty and incorporating inclusive materials into the curriculum.

The meeting included reports from the Chair and President, covering topics such as the groundbreaking ceremony for the Science building, enrollment numbers, new staff hires, and the search for a Vice President of External Relations. Updates were provided on the Strategic Plan, focusing on equitable enrollment, academic renewal, college identity, and employee excellence, as well as preparations for the NECHE evaluation. The board also discussed the renovation of the Science building, budget considerations, and preventive maintenance work. The board approved the revised Massasoit Community College Board of Trustees bylaws and discussed President Mitchell's evaluation.

The meeting addressed several key areas including updates on the BRIGHT Act, discussions on Pell Grant reductions, and fraudulent financial aid issues. The board also reviewed the Student Trustee and Foundation reports. Approvals were granted for sabbatical leaves, an expenditure for charter transportation services, and the purchase of Technolutions' Slate CRM. Additionally, a proposed fee increase and the Fiscal Year 2026 Spending Plan were approved.