Melvin Burris

The meeting included discussions and potential actions regarding a one-time employee stipend for the fiscal year 2025-2026, intended to recognize employee efforts and improvements in performance measure standards and enrollment. Also on the agenda was the Kimbrell Fiber Innovation Center project, specifically addressing yarn spinning room connections, involving the installation of electrical and compressed air connections to textile fiber spinning machines. The estimated construction cost for the yarn spinning room connections is $285,000, funded by Proprietary Funds.

The Gaston College Board of Trustees meeting included discussions and actions on various topics. The board approved the termination of the Pharmacy Technology AAS program due to low FTE generation and the availability of in-house training by pharmacy chains. They also approved the FY 2025-26 Lincoln County and Gaston County budgets, addressing operating and capital needs, including salary increases, new positions, and utility costs. Additionally, the board approved a one-time stipend for employees in recognition of their hard work and dedication. The meeting also covered capital reports, financial audits, pension spiking, supplemental budget allocations, financial reports, and grant updates. The SGA report highlighted sponsored events and student achievements.

The strategic plan for Gaston College is centered around student learning opportunities, economic and social success, education, and care. Key areas of focus include enhancing marketing efforts and improving recruitment strategies to attract a diverse student body. The plan aims to enhance student access, success, and inclusivity in high-quality educational programs, establish strong partnerships with the community, and optimize fiduciary and operational strategies. Additionally, it focuses on continuous improvement through organizational and employee development and investing in operational infrastructure to enhance the working and learning environment.

The meeting included a special presentation recognizing the College's Men's Baseball and Women's Softball Teams' achievements. Reports were given on various aspects of the college, including the President's report highlighting awards, student achievements, and partnerships. Discussion included new employee introductions, student spotlights, and updates on the cyber-attack recovery. Instructional Service Agreements (ISAs) for Health Information Technology and 911 Communications and Operations programs were approved. Facilities updates, financial reports, student fee adjustments, and budget approvals were also addressed. The President's performance evaluation was conducted in executive session.

The meeting included a welcome and introduction of a new board member. Key discussion points included the purchase of a property at 202 College View Drive, Dallas, North Carolina; capital reports on various projects such as the Fiber Innovation Center, De-Escalation Center, Health Science Education and Simulation Center, Steam Plant Renovation Project, Burn Prop, Cybersecurity Renovations, and Sims Park Scoreboard; financial reports including the FY 2024-25 Lincoln County Budget, FY 2024-25 Gaston County Budget, and FY 2024-25 Gaston County Capital Priorities Budget; a financial audit of the Foundation; supplemental budget allocation; and SGA reports. The President's report covered various updates including program awards, new curriculum, study abroad opportunities, outreach events, and athletic achievements. The Chairman's report included upcoming deadlines, meeting dates, and event announcements.