Melissa J Laurentius

The agenda for the meeting includes the election of officers, reports from the board committees and the foundation, and a presentation on the college's mechatronics program. Action items scheduled for the meeting include multiple purchase and contract authorizations, approval of the MHEC plan for a program of cultural diversity, adoption of the FY2027 board meeting schedule and operating budget, and resolutions regarding stream restoration and a property transfer from Harford County for a regional workforce development center. The meeting concludes with a closed session to discuss a personnel matter.

The Board discussed various reports, including updates from the Chair, the Finance and Audit Committee regarding the FY2027 budget, and foundation activities, such as the Athena Leadership Awards. The meeting also included a student voice presentation, employee introductions, and an athletics program update. Key action items approved include the creation of a new Biotechnology certificate, the setting of FY2027 tuition and fee rates, a salary and benefits recommendation for the upcoming fiscal year, and a contract authorization for a 10-year Facilities Master Plan.

The board meeting covered several key administrative and operational items. Reports were presented by the Chair, Finance & Audit Committee, Policy & Governance Committee, and the Foundation regarding current budgets, audit reports, policy reviews, and fundraising initiatives. The President provided updates on student advocacy efforts, legislative advocacy for community colleges, and recent employee recognition events. Additionally, the Board reviewed enrollment updates and information regarding partnerships with public schools. An action item was approved to authorize a contract for IT staffing services, and the meeting concluded with a closed session to discuss personnel matters.

The agenda for the Board of Trustees meeting covers preliminary items including reports from the Chair, Finance and Audit Committee, Policy & Governance Committee, and Foundation. Key discussions involve the President's report, student voice segment, and monthly updates, alongside employee introductions. Information sharing includes personnel, financial, and enrollment reports, and media coverage. Action items slated for consideration include program approval for a Biotech Certificate, Board approval for FY2027 Tuition & Fees and the FY2027 General Operating Budget, and Contract Authorization for Hord Coplan Macht, Inc. The meeting will also feature a segment on Community and College Highlights focusing on Harford Community College Athletics.

The Board of Trustees meeting addressed several key areas. The consent agenda included approval of the current meeting agenda, minutes from the November 2025 meeting, and approval of purchases made by the Finance & Audit Committee, specifically a $133,228.04 flooring replacement project for Joppa Hall funded by the deferred maintenance fund. Board reports covered upcoming dates, including the start of the Spring Term and the next Board meeting. The Finance & Audit Committee reviewed the President's Authorization report, operating budget updates, and deferred maintenance funds, and recommended two action items for the Board's vote: the adoption of a Section 127 Education Assistance Program and a contract for auditing services with CliftonLarsonAllen, LLP. The Policy & Governance Committee reported on an update to the National Guard Tuition Waiver Policy. The President provided updates on enrollment (Winter 2026 headcount up 5%, Spring 2026 headcount up 5.1%), introduced new employees, and reported on events at the new Chesapeake Welcome Center. Key action items adopted by the Board included the Section 127 Education Assistance Program, the auditing services contract, and the updated National Guard Tuition Waiver Policy.