Lauren Dorr

This document outlines the 'Grow Your Own' initiative, a concept designed to address the shortage of qualified technical educators by building a talent pipeline. The initiative aims to provide industry professionals and current students with the necessary pedagogical skills to become effective technical instructors. Key objectives include fostering excellent faculty, improving student satisfaction and retention, and establishing Kansas as a regional hub for technical education. The plan emphasizes the importance of formal training in instructional strategies for individuals transitioning from industry to teaching.

The board meeting included recognition of Ethan Sweet Bird with the Make A Difference Student Award for his life-saving actions. Enrique Villa from Cargill was introduced as a new board member. The board reviewed and ratified several employment offers. An update was provided on the university's new facility showcasing research and economic development efforts. Financials for November were presented and approved. Program revisions were discussed and approved, including changes to the Associate Degree Nurse program and restructuring of the Manufacturing Technology program. The Spring 2025 enrollment report was reviewed, highlighting trends in credit hours and headcount. An executive session was held to discuss property. The President's report included updates on a campaign, the Tech Tykes book launch, and Tech Talks.

The meeting included updates from Dr. Rick Muma, who announced the appointment of Dr. Monica Lounsbery as the new provost. Marlo Dolezal presented the financial report, highlighting tuition and fee increases, Excel and CTE revenue recognition, and a forecasted net income. Teresa Seymour discussed the new tuition fees model. Trish Schmidt introduced new programs, including a separate cyber security program and revisions to the architectural design program. Dr. Justin Pfeifer provided an update on the enrollment census. Sheree provided a legislative update, noting a cut in funding. The board also discussed the NCAT Expansion Land Lease and Bond Financing for WSU Tech's Capital improvement project.

The WSU Tech Board of Trustees held an email vote regarding potential new partnerships with Pittsburg State University and a private Career and Technical Education Center (CTEC) in Pittsburg, Kansas. The vote included the approval of program modifications to Construction Technology and Mobile Equipment Technology to accommodate the new curriculum for CTEC. The Construction Technology program will be adjusted to provide a track in Masonry, while the Mobile Equipment Technology program will adjust the curriculum to accommodate a Certificate A exit point for students in Heavy Equipment Operator.

The board meeting included recognition of a student, Jude Hickerson, for his achievements in the nursing program. Financial statements were presented, detailing revenue growth from foundation contributions and addressing concerns about underspending due to payroll expenses and staffing challenges. Updates were provided on the NCAT expansion project, including its progress and financial aspects. The board discussed and approved actions related to a land lease agreement with the Wichita Airport Authority, including the option for a lump sum payment. Potential new partnerships with Pittsburg State University and a private Career TechEd Center were discussed. The success of the Pull A Plane event, which raised funds for education and scholarships, was highlighted. An executive session was held to discuss personnel matters. An overview of TECH Hack, a new space opening in August 2025, was presented.