Julie McArdle

The committee discussed the draft proposal for 360-degree interview questions and subjects aimed at assessing leadership priorities and institutional transformation. Updates were provided on the ongoing talent search for executive roles, including the appointment of several cabinet positions and the status of searches for the CFO, Foundation Executive Director, and General Counsel. Additionally, progress regarding the McAllister Square property, including legal and infrastructure planning, was reviewed. The committee also received a status report on the ERP/SIS update strategy, a review of the balanced scorecard, and observations on the new FAFSA system efficiency.

The board meeting covered several key operational and financial updates. The President provided a report on foundation funding and the search for an executive director, while student initiatives were highlighted, including enrollment trends and engagement strategies. The Finance Committee presented a budget report showing strong performance and reviewed proposed adjustments to tuition and fees for the upcoming fall term, along with a new parking and maintenance fee. Additional reports included updates on foundation fundraising progress, engagement activities from the South Carolina Association of Technical College Commissioners, and trends regarding statewide higher-education oversight from the Commission for Higher Education.

The committee reviewed and discussed the 2028 Strategic Plan, which serves as a bridge plan to ensure organizational continuity through 2028. This plan integrates feedback from internal staff and aligns with accreditation requirements, agency head performance evaluations, and state performance funding targets. The committee approved the plan with specific delegation to finalize language for select line items to ensure compliance with state procurement guidelines. Additionally, the committee reviewed the institutional objectives for the 2025-26 performance period.

The committee reviewed the budget report for FY 2025-2026, noting that revenues are exceeding expenses and that there is a healthy general reserve. Discussions were held regarding proposed tuition and fee adjustments. The committee moved to accept a weighted-average tuition increase of 3.5%, implement a new parking and safety fee, and increase out-of-county and out-of-state credit hour fees, pending confirmation from the State Board.

The meeting included reports from the President regarding the Center for Applied AI and Cyber Resiliency, the upcoming opening of the Center for Welding and Automation Excellence, and the status of the Waggoner Building project. Financial updates focused on the implementation of a new monthly checklist system and the introduction of an incoming Chief Financial Officer. The commission delegated authority to the Building and Grounds Committee to finalize a Sanitary Sewer Easement at the Northwest Campus. Additionally, the Foundation provided updates on student assistance programs and donations, and information was shared regarding an upcoming South Carolina Association of Technical College Commissioners planning meeting.