Nicole Cooksey

The Board meeting commenced with the approval of resolutions of commendation for two individuals. Key discussions included a presentation on the FY2024-25 Financial College Audit, a presentation on the presidential search process, legislative updates, and information sharing regarding the 2026 capital borrowing plan. Under consent items, the Board approved previous meeting minutes, various financial reports for September, October, and November 2025, two policies (one on second reading and one on first reading), and several project submissions related to state and federal grant funding. Further action items approved included the Kumm Center Student Union Remodel, the Public Safety Training Facility Simulation City and Driving Track Expansion Project, and the approval of several new registered apprenticeship and certificate programs. The Board also formally adopted the FY2024-25 Financial Audit Report and the 2026 Capital Borrowing Plan, and approved the AGB proposal pending contract finalization. The President provided updates on the Wreaths Across America event and the strategic plan refresh timeline.

The meeting included a presentation on workforce needs and reports on the Amended 2026 Capital Borrowing Plan and the Presidential Search update. The Board took action to adopt the Amended 2026 Capital Borrowing Plan. Other items approved under the consent agenda included financial reports for December 2025 and the first reading of Policy F)305 Free Speech and Public Assembly. The President's report covered enrollment, college day, and professional development updates, highlighting alignment with strategic priorities and attendance at the Achieving the Dream conference. The Chairperson reported on the upcoming District Board Association Virtual meeting and the Presidential search committee's progress.

The Open Session of the District Board meeting covered several informative and action items. Informational topics included a presentation on the Leadership Approach, a BIS Update, a Strategic Plan Update, and information regarding Artificial Intelligence. Key discussion points involved the Presidential Search Team. Action items approved via the Consent Agenda included the Minutes from the January 20, 2026 meeting and various Financial Reports for January 2026, such as Vendors Over $2,500 and Capital Projects Reports. The Board also reviewed Policy F0305 Free Speech and Public Assembly (second read) and Personnel updates (hires and retirements). Major roll call actions included adopting a resolution authorizing the issuance of $6,990,000 General Obligation Promissory Notes, Series 2026A, and adopting a resolution authorizing the redemption of General Obligation Refunding Bonds, Series 2017F.

The meeting was a kickoff for the Presidential Search Team. The agenda covered opening remarks and introductions, review of the Search Committee Charge, discussion of NDA and Legal Considerations, the Role of AGB Search, the Timeline and Search Process, and Ad and Sourcing Plans. A closed session was held to discuss potential president attribute criteria, specifically concerning the consideration of employment data for public employees and deliberating negotiations where competitive reasons require a closed session.

The meeting agenda included informational sessions and discussions on several key operational areas. Key discussion topics involved an update on Workforce Needs, deliberation on the Amended 2026 Capital Borrowing Plan, and an update on the Presidential Search. Action items approved during the meeting included the Adoption of the Amended 2026 Capital Borrowing Plan, which incorporated adjustments for over-budget bids on the Residence Hall project. Personnel matters included information on new hires, promotions, appointments, resignations, and retirements scheduled for January 2026. Financial reviews covered vendor payments exceeding $2,500 for December 2025, various financial reports for the six months ending December 31, 2025 (including General Fund/Special Revenue, Department Summary, and Enterprise Fund reports), and the second reading of the F0305 Free Speech and Public Assembly Policy.