Michael Belfiore

The President's Report highlighted the conclusion of the UNHunger to END Hunger Food Drive, the dedication and ribbon-cutting for the Health Sciences Simulation Center (SIM Lab), a successful Fall Open House with a 171% increase in attendance over Fall 2024, and recognition for the women's volleyball team's performance. Enrollment management noted the expected stability for the Winter Session, and institutional research confirmed a 3.7% increase in Fall 2025 undergraduate headcount to 9,709. Key upcoming events include the Annual Thanksgiving Dinner Distribution and the December Completion Ceremony. The Chair's Report detailed attendance at the ACCT Leadership Congress, covering topics like trustee education, federal compliance shifts (noting the renaming of the DEI Committee to the Impact and Success Committee), and the growing role of Artificial Intelligence (AI). The Governance Committee discussed the new Involuntary Leave of Absence for Students Policy, which will be voted on in December, and future approaches to the Presidential Evaluation. The Program Committee focused on AI, stressing the need for clear guidance for responsible use, possibly through a presidential task force. The Finance/Facilities Committee reviewed the Operating Forecast and Capital Projects Update, and the Board ratified a contract with Pleasantville Union Free School District and approved the 2026-2027 Capital Program. The meeting concluded with an executive session to discuss personnel matters.

The Board of Trustees meeting included discussions on various topics such as the President's report, which highlighted the UNHunger to END Hunger Food Drive, the Honors College, upcoming PTK NY Conference, SIM Lab ribbon-cutting, and the Fall Open House. The meeting also covered community engagement with Neighbor's Link, enrollment management, and SUNY Info. Committee reports included updates from the Governance Committee on the BOT Orientation Process, Presidential Evaluation review, BOT Self-Evaluation Review, and 2026 Meeting Dates. The Program Committee discussed SUNY Reconnect and the SIM Lab. The Student Trustee reported on Senate activities, a LinkedIn event, and a Career Service Initiative. The Finance committee discussed the Operating Forecast, Capital Projects Update, and Contracts. Resolutions were passed for contract ratification, Free Application Weeks, Approval of Non-Represented Managers Pay Scale, and 2026 Meeting Dates.

This strategic plan outlines the long-term direction for SUNY Westchester Community College, focusing on positioning the institution as a leader in student success, workforce development, and lifelong learning. The plan is rooted in equity, access, and innovation, and is structured around four key institutional goals: advancing excellence in teaching and student learning, enhancing the student experience and promoting student success, fostering academic innovation and aligning with market needs, and ensuring institutional sustainability and operational excellence. It aims to guide the college's work over the next five years to remain a vital gateway to education and economic mobility.

The Board of Trustees meeting included discussions on various topics such as the President's report, which highlighted SUNY initiatives, Commitment Day, WDCE Completion Ceremony, EOC Graduation, Volunteer Lunch, and SUNY ASAP/ACE Meeting. The board also discussed enrollment statistics, stewardship response team updates, and advocacy efforts. Additionally, there were reports from the Student Trustee and the Finance/Facilities Committee, including contract ratifications and a resolution regarding a Memorandum of Understanding with the WCCFT. The board also adopted a Nepotism Policy. Public comments were made by representatives from the Westchester Community College Federation of Teachers and regarding the Hankin Way proposal.

The Board of Trustees meeting included discussions on Black History Month, the dedication of a new Honors College Classroom, and the recognition of the Phi Theta Kappa chapter as a 2024 REACH Chapter. Updates were provided on federal legislation impacting the institution and enrollment statistics for Spring 2025, as well as results from the SUNY Student Satisfaction Survey administered in Spring 2024. The board also discussed committee reports, including the Finance Committee's review of the operating forecast, capital projects update, and contracts. Additionally, there was a presentation on legal perspectives for community colleges regarding executive orders, immigration law, and AI on campus. The board ratified several contracts for services such as fire alarm maintenance, generator maintenance, and affirmative action plan preparation.