Leah Eberle

The meeting included a public comment segment regarding communication. The board convened into an extended executive session to discuss the performance of a public employee and legal risks associated with a proposed action or current practice. In open session, the board unanimously approved a motion to terminate the contract of Dr. Villa effective immediately. Furthermore, the board unanimously authorized Board Chair Doerner to identify a lead administrator and develop a proposal for an interim president. The Chair later stated the commitment to conduct a national search for the next president, typically taking 6-9 months, while focusing on student success.

The board convened following a public comment session regarding student impact. The board entered an executive session to review the performance of a public employee. In open session, the board unanimously approved two action items: the appointment of Dr. Mike Cogan as lead administrator until an interim president is appointed to assume delegated presidential responsibilities, and authorizing the board chair to determine the scope of responsibilities, compensation, and duration of the lead administrator's contract.

The meeting began with the introduction of a new Administrative Specialist for the President's Office and HR. The Consent Agenda included the approval of previous board and special meeting minutes, and the Skagit/Island Head Start Report. College reports covered updates from the Associated Students of Skagit Valley College (ASSVC), including efforts to improve food pantry resources through a grant and planning for a campus clothing closet, as well as the approval of two new student clubs. The Skagit Valley College Federation of Teachers reported on faculty positions being posted and discussed key legislative priorities, including fully funding Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA), repealing the Workforce Education Investment Account (WEIA) proviso, and potential Board of Trustees reform. The President reported on the 25th anniversary Champions Celebration and the SVC Foundation Holiday Party, and discussed next steps for the Guaranteed Transfer Admissions Agreement with Western Washington University. A report from the Board of Trustees/ACT attendees covered state/federal updates and legislative priorities. A study item addressed the adoption of 2020 Title IX rules to comply with a recent court ruling. Action items included approving a new date for the February 2026 meeting and approving the Board Policy Committee members. The board convened into executive session to discuss legal risks.

The meeting began with the Board convening into executive session to discuss matters related to reviewing the performance of a public employee and to discuss the legal risks of a proposed action or current practice that could result in adverse legal or financial consequences for the college. The executive session was extended once. Upon returning to open session, there was a public comment provided by the WPEA Staff Representative regarding the WPEA contract. No action items were addressed in the open session before the meeting was adjourned.

The meeting convened after confirming a quorum was present, with no public comment or introduction of guests. The Consent Agenda was approved, which included the minutes from the October 14, 2025 meeting and the Skagit/Island Head Start Report. College reports included updates on campus activities such as a Murder Mystery Dinner, Haunted Basement event, and food pantry support efforts. Faculty representation noted the re-election of the ASSVC president and progress on the faculty evaluation process and hiring. The President's report detailed planning for the SVC Centennial Celebration, which will integrate themes into existing events culminating in a Gala in September 2026, and announced the official approval for Skagit Valley College to offer a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) degree, starting in January 2027. A Trustee reported on attending an Economic Development Council meeting. Action items included the unanimous approval of the Head Start Budget Revision, the Head Start One-Time Supplemental Funding Application, the 2024-2028 Strategic Plan Reporting Matrix with edits, and Resolution 25-1 regarding Ms. Megan Scott O'Bryan. The Board then convened into an Executive Session to discuss matters that could lead to possible litigation before adjourning.