Murray Hooten

The Strategic Plan for the Business, Engineering, and Information Technologies Division of Stark State College outlines its commitment to advancing student learning and success. The plan is structured around three strategic priorities: Student Access and Success, Career Success and Workforce, and Our People. It aims to provide accessible, high-quality, and market-relevant business education, foster student success and community prosperity through innovation and partnerships, and attract and retain a qualified and engaged workforce.

The meeting included the administration of the oath of office and a consent agenda covering personnel actions, the treasurer's report, and various college policies such as proctored testing, conflict of interest, mentoring, public use of outdoor areas, equal employment opportunity, financial reports, and college food services. New business featured a review of the FY25 audited financials, investment and cash management policies, and a resolution honoring a departing member for their service. The board also reviewed communications including a security report, out-of-state travel logs, and a calendar of board activity dates, followed by an executive session.

The board meeting included several key agenda items, such as the approval of adjustments to the Nader Abueteen Family Scholarship, the Stevens Family Scholarship, and the Dr. James C. and Sally K. Maloney Endowed Scholarship. Financial discussions focused on the approval of the SSC Foundation Operations Budget for the upcoming fiscal year and the distribution of endowment funds. Additionally, the Governance Committee proposed revisions to the records retention policy.

The meeting agenda included several key items addressed during the consent agenda and new business. Consent agenda items covered personnel actions and the Treasurer's Report. New business focused on the third reading of policy 15-11-02 regarding officer terms, resolution to approve the 2025 Efficiency Report, approval of the American Civic Literacy course effective Fall 2025 as mandated by Ohio Revised Code, and initial review of the draft Strategic Plan for 2026-2028. The meeting minutes from the October 8, 2025 meeting, which included budget revision approval and updates on operational efficiencies and regional compacts, were also referenced.

The meeting agenda included several key items, such as reviewing and approving Consent Agenda items, which covered minutes from a previous meeting, personnel actions, and the Treasurer's Report. New Business included the second reading of policy 15-11-02 regarding Officers' terms, and approval of Budget Revision #1. The President's Report provided updates on legislative events, enrollment in the new BSN program, the renewal of the Collegiate Purple Star designation, and ongoing partnership discussions with Youngstown State University. The Chair's Report noted the upcoming Board Retreat. The meeting concluded with an Executive Session to consider the employment of a public employee.