Ken Hosto

The board approved several intergovernmental agreements for educational services and training with various entities including the Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, City of Tucson, and multiple school districts. Additionally, the board ratified various contracts for software, student services, and technology equipment, and approved the rescheduling of a future board meeting. Action items included the approval of Faculty Emeritus status, the 2026-2030 Plan Priorities and Integrated Planning Roadmap, a restricted gift agreement, the Capital Project Plan for Fiscal Year 2027, and employee salaries and wages for the same fiscal year. The board also authorized the publication of the Fiscal Year 2027 proposed budget in preparation for an upcoming public hearing.

The board meeting featured a public comment period where faculty members discussed salary recommendations, the importance of faculty advocacy in state funding, the Accelerate initiative and its impact on students, and concerns regarding the potential elimination of the Office of Sustainability. Additionally, representatives from the Arizona Auditor General's Office provided a presentation on audit responsibilities and fiscal year 2025 audit results.

The board held a study session to facilitate a public comment period regarding federal and state funding presentations. Faculty members shared their expertise and experiences with online teaching and instructional design, emphasizing the importance of leveraging experienced online faculty. Discussions also addressed student success in online courses, the role of online learning for students with time constraints, and the continuous evolution of online teaching tools and strategies.

The Governing Board meeting covered several operational and educational topics. Discussions included an update on the college budget and the proposed $250 million general obligation bond, a land acknowledgement statement, and legislative advocacy efforts. Board members shared current events, including professional development, community engagement, and regional partnerships. A detailed presentation was provided on the college's nationally accredited paramedic program, highlighting its capacity, various training modalities for fire departments and the Air Force, high student pass rates, and its role in supporting the Tucson Fire Department's emergency medical services system.

The board discussed and approved the official pre-approval for a new bachelor's degree program in education, intended to launch in the fall of 2026. Key topics included the shift in program delivery to a hybrid format to account for practicum and student teaching requirements, strategies for federal financial aid and Arizona Teachers Academy funding, and the expansion of future faculty recruitment. The board also reviewed the progress of transfer pathways for students transitioning from the bachelor's program to master's degree programs at four-year universities.