Kayla Beckett

The Board reviewed the president's report, which covered topics such as nursing pinning, commencement, the regional convention, and the campus art show. Action was taken to approve new in-district, out-of-district, and out-of-state tuition rates, as well as specific nursing tuition rates and mandatory college and technology fees effective for the upcoming fall semester. Furthermore, the Board discussed highlights of the tentative budget for the 2026-27 fiscal year, authorized revenue estimates from property taxes and state appropriations, scheduled a truth-in-taxation hearing, and held a closed session to evaluate the performance of the college president.

The board meeting included a president's report covering faculty and student research, key performance indicators, early college initiatives, key person insurance, and a tour of student housing facilities. The board officially named the student housing building Carbonelli Villas and selected a font style for the signage. Furthermore, the board recognized the recipients of the Leslie K. Morford Faculty Recognition Award and the Outstanding Adjunct Faculty Award. Finally, the board appointed legal counsel for community college law, labor law, general counsel, and bond counsel for the upcoming year.

The board meeting included a review of financial reports and a public comment session where community guests expressed support for college initiatives in Ionia County. The President's report covered student experiences, the Ionia County Guarantee, community outreach programs, and updates on Phi Theta Kappa activities and awards. Key actions included naming recipients for the 2026 Distinguished Service Award, updating authorized bank and investment account signatories, appointing a Presidential Evaluation Committee, and approving the presentation of an honorary degree to the upcoming commencement speaker.

The Board conducted its organizational session to elect officers for the year, including Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, Secretary, and Treasurer, and made various committee and association appointments. The Board also established its schedule of regular meetings for the upcoming year. During the regular meeting session, the President provided an update on college enrollment, and a presentation regarding a website redesign was delivered. The Trustees reviewed candidates for the Stanley & Blanche Ash Distinguished Service Award, with discussion tabled until the next meeting, and received an update from the Board Policy committee. Additionally, the Board approved the posthumous award of an honorary degree to Karen Carbonelli, named Karen Carbonelli as Trustee Emeritus, and named Connie Stewart as Vice President Emeritus.

The Board reviewed financial reports and the President's report, which included updates on nursing student achievements, capital outlay tours, the Ionia County Guarantee, community support initiatives, and personnel promotions. The Board tabled action on the 2026 Distinguished Service Award and a resolution regarding bank account authorizations due to a lack of quorum. Additionally, the President's Compensation Committee was reappointed.