Julie Bechtold

The Board discussed various institutional reports, including student advocacy experiences and an overview of financial reports and capital reserve guidelines. Proposed project plans for office renovations on the Sugar Grove campus were presented. The Faculty Council and Student Trustee provided updates on academic support and campus developments. The President reported on commencement statistics and recent technical program achievements. Additionally, the Board reviewed and approved numerous contracts and purchases, including library database subscriptions, computer and media equipment replacements, and a multi-year fire alarm maintenance agreement.

The meeting agenda includes the recognition of the 2026 Distinguished Alumnus award recipient, an introduction of a new administrator, and institutional reports covering finance, administration, and the RISE 2030 quarterly update. Personnel reports feature new appointments, staff reappointments, separations, and compensation recommendations for the upcoming fiscal year. Financial business involves the review of payroll reports, accounts payable, the treasurer's report, and a comprehensive list of bid and purchase approvals, including software renewals, facility repairs for the Aurora Downtown campus and Erickson Hall, and temporary staffing services. Additionally, the board will consider the disposal of college property and the appointment of policy committee members.

The RISE 2030 Strategic Plan outlines a strategic direction focused on redefining community relationships, investing in academic innovation, strengthening the student experience, and enriching the employee experience.

The board meeting included the swearing-in of the newly elected Student Trustee and the introduction of the new Student Senate President. Discussions featured reports from the Vice Presidents, Faculty Council, and the President, with notable updates regarding staff retirements, community college month, facility grants, and new administrative appointments. The board conducted an executive session to address personnel, legal, and security matters. Key financial actions included the review and approval of payroll reports, accounts payable, treasurer and budget summaries, and several procurement contracts for maintenance services, software subscriptions, and network security support.

The Board of Trustees meeting covered several key institutional matters, including a sabbatical leave report, a student presentation regarding tuition rates, and administrative reports from the Finance and Provost offices. Major approvals included tuition and fee rates for the 2026-2027 academic year, professional services for a building renovation, faculty tenure recommendations, and non-tenured faculty reappointments. Additionally, the Board discussed reports from the ACCT National Legislative Summit, provided updates on policy manual revisions, and approved a wide range of operational renewals and service contracts, including financial audits, legal consulting, emergency notification systems, software subscriptions, and security services.