Laura Cates

The meeting included recognition of individuals for achievements in AI mentorship, H.I.M. program development, and athletic competitions. The board reviewed the NWACC Library's support to the taxpayer community, including access to resources and funding. There was a discussion regarding emergency presidential succession, academic updates including a CIP code change request and the development of a Surgical Technology program. The board was informed about scheduled elevator maintenance in Burns Hall, enrollment updates, and progress on the Fitness Court. The Walton Family Foundation's lack of interest in funding the Feasibility Study for the Commons was discussed, and the board explored possible models for student residential housing and workforce housing on campus. A new policy was adopted regarding board member attendance at meetings, and a provisional position was approved in response to the Adult Basic Education grant awarded to NWACC. The President reported compliance with communication and support to the board.

The planning document for Northwest Arkansas Community College outlines strategic objectives for 2024-2027, focusing on the learner, business, taxpayer, pre-kindergarten through grade 16, and college communities. Key areas include growing student enrollment, supporting community needs through programming, increasing college funding, expanding partnerships with educational institutions, and enhancing the college's brand and data sharing. The plan aims to align departmental goals with these strategic objectives to drive economic mobility and positive change.

The meeting included the introduction of the Executive Assistant to the Office of the President, updates on academic matters, maintenance of the Burns Hall Elevator, enrollment, and athletics. Discussions covered the ACCT New Orleans event, adoption of a new policy, and approval of a provisional position. The board also reviewed the ENDS Monitoring Report and Executive Limitations Monitoring Report. A presentation was given regarding the installation of a Fitness Court, which will be funded through grants, in-kind donations, and athletic fees. The President reported on a visit to Skysong to observe their AI Program and provided an update on fall enrollment.

The meeting included recognition of a new trustee and outgoing student trustee and trustee. Reports were given on partnerships, financial conditions, and the finance committee's review of the FY2026 Budget Request, which was subsequently approved. Summer enrollment figures were shared, and the NWACC Foundation Team was commended for their fundraising efforts. Discussions were held regarding campus master planning, including a feasibility study for the Commons project, workforce nursing expansion, and residential housing. Concerns were raised and addressed regarding the Alice Walton School of Medicine and potential conflicts with NWACC. An update to the Board Manual regarding professional conferences was also approved. The budget includes credible projection of revenues and expenses, separation of capital and operational items, and disclosure of planning assumption. The President proposed and set aside $4,244,157 or 7.6% of E&G fund budget of $54,867,087 in the FY2026 Operating Budget as the BOT reserve to cover potential operational costs due to natural disasters or other unforeseen emergencies.

The meeting included recognition of the Outgoing Student Trustee and Outgoing Trustee. The board reviewed and approved the minutes from the Regular Board Meeting held on April 14, 2025. There was a presentation about the Workforce Programs, including Adult Education, Certified Retail Analyst, Commercial Delivery License, Institute of Corporate and Public Safety, Contract Training and Community Development programs, Advanced Technologies, Brightwater, Health Professions, Trails Trade School and Construction Technology program. The Student Government Association (SGA) representatives are appointed in school-wide elections and are frequently invited to sit on various committees both in and out of NWACC. The board also discussed the Honorary Associate Degree Committee report and the Finance Committee report, which included a review of the FY26 Operating Budget. The President's report included updates on enrollment, the upcoming Budget Work Session, NWACC's Commencement, and the NWACC Foundation's Plant A Seed Soiree. The board also discussed an amendment to the Board Manual about attending conferences and the approval of a provisional position of Grants Coordinator for Health Professions. The meeting also covered the adoption of Act 1404 of 2001, authorizing the President's Salary.