Macee Miller

The board meeting included a presentation of funds from the Titus County Appraisal District and a student spotlight highlighting a Phi Theta Kappa International President. The President's report covered staff recognitions, community events such as East Texas Giving Day and an upcoming baseball anniversary, and institutional planning. Additionally, the board reviewed a third-party economic impact study, approved the contract for a college auditor, accepted a trustee resignation, appointed a new board member, and finalized personnel appointments and employee contracts for the upcoming year.

The board meeting featured a student spotlight on international student-athletes and a comprehensive President's report covering student academic achievements, research publications, workforce alignment efforts, and campus updates. Administrative approvals included revisions to summer nursing course fees, the maintenance of current tuition and fee rates for the upcoming fiscal year, and the authorization to solicit services for the Business Technology building roof replacement. Additionally, the board approved a privately funded project for an athletic complex pavilion and the release of a staff sergeant from his employment contract. The meeting concluded with a discussion on the annual board evaluation survey outcomes, a presentation on program review models, and the resignation of a long-standing board member.

The Board meeting included a student research presentation on fish parasites, the President's report covering student and administrator awards from Phi Theta Kappa, recognition of the institution's 40th anniversary, and updates on nursing program accreditation. Enrollment trends for the spring semester were reviewed, highlighting growth in dual credit and specific workforce programs. The Board approved the 2026-2027 Academic Calendar, voted to cancel the May 2026 Trustee Election for unopposed candidates, and accepted the financial report. Additionally, the Board authorized a property insurance renewal, granted a temporary access easement to AEP SWEPCO, and made several personnel appointments. An annual board evaluation survey discussion was tabled, and the Board conducted an executive session regarding property, personnel, legal consultations, and security measures.

The Board meeting addressed several key areas, including a report on the successful start of the Spring Semester and acknowledgement of staff efforts following campus closures due to winter weather. Discussions included expanding transfer opportunities with East Texas A&M University, a Morris County leadership training session, and initiating an economic impact study for the college's 40th Anniversary. Preliminary enrollment figures indicated strong growth compared to the previous year. The consent agenda, which included approving monthly finance reports and several joint election agreements, was approved unanimously. The Board also approved the renewal of the Foundation Management liability insurance policy and unanimously approved the employment of Jennifer Hessner as College Navigator. Furthermore, the Board agreed to use the existing survey instrument for the SACSCOC-required Board evaluation and approved the Order Calling the General Election for three trustee positions. The meeting concluded with an executive session to discuss real property, personnel matters, consultation with legal counsel, and negotiated contracts for prospective gifts or donations.

Key discussions included the presentation of the annual audit for the fiscal year ending August 31, 2025, which resulted in an unmodified opinion with no findings; the audit report noted the College's net position increased significantly primarily due to state and federal allocations. The President's Report acknowledged the passing of two former Board members, highlighted service awards presented at the Employee Christmas and Service Awards Luncheon, and noted a record number of Fall graduates at the recent commencement ceremony. The Board received updates on personnel actions, including promotions, new hires, and retirements pending approval. The Board confirmed full compliance with House Bill 3834 training requirements. The Consent Agenda was approved, excluding two local policy updates related to accounting thresholds and employee conduct declarations that were addressed in a previous meeting. The Board unanimously approved the development of a new Level 1 Certificate in Industrial Technology Air Conditioning (AC) Technician, planned for a Fall 2026 launch, and approved the employment of a new faculty member in the Carroll Shelby Automotive Institute. Additionally, the Board approved the release of several employees from their contracts due to retirement. The meeting concluded with an executive session to discuss real property, personnel matters, and prospective gifts/donations.