Kelly Heckart

The meeting agenda includes a finance report featuring the approval of monthly claims and a review of the financial status. Reports will be presented regarding Community Colleges for Iowa, human resources personnel matters, and institutional facilities. The board retreat portion will cover updates on payment plans and data, strategies for preventing fraudulent student activity, an overview of artificial intelligence capabilities for student communication, a human resources discussion, and a strategic planning work session.

The meeting includes a public hearing to adopt the FY27 budget estimate and certify college taxes. Key agenda items feature a finance report covering monthly claims, financial status updates, and further actions regarding the FY27 budget certification. The board will discuss strategies for increasing enrollment, receive reports from Community Colleges for Iowa, and vote on attendance for a conference and convention. Human resources will present personnel reports. New business includes the redemption of $670,000 Industrial New Jobs Training Certificates, Series 2019-1. Additionally, the college leadership will provide updates on facilities and the spring enrollment figures.

The meeting included a review of financial items such as the approval of monthly claims, a financial report, and the formal acceptance of a $2,009,028 transfer from the IHCC Foundation to support GO Bond Projects. Additional topics covered included the appointment of an ACCT delegate, a Community Colleges for Iowa report, a human resources personnel report, a facilities report, an employee engagement committee report, a fall enrollment report, and a discussion regarding regional selections for the Last Dollar Scholarship.

The board meeting included discussions on strategic planning, enrollment and retention, financial stability, HCC culture, technology, AI, and program development. Key themes identified were student recruitment and retention, community and industry partnerships, program development and adaptation, and HCC team culture. Board members discussed topics such as succession planning, culture and turnover, arts and sciences, and middle management. Other topics included athletic budgets and expenses, marketing and enrollment, faculty development, employee retention, and dual credit costs for students. Strategic Planning will be further discussed at the December 9th board meeting.

The 2025-2028 Strategic Plan for Indian Hills Community College focuses on energizing growth and collaboration, advancing student outcomes, optimizing operations for sustainable success, and building a skilled workforce. Key priorities include improving communication, maximizing enrollment and retention, strategically managing resources, integrating technology, and engaging businesses to meet evolving workforce demands. The plan aims to empower students, faculty, and staff, enhance the college's brand, and promote community involvement and economic impact.