Rachel P. Colquitt

The document details the 2020 South Piedmont Community College Commencement Celebration, acknowledging the unusual times but emphasizing growth, compassion, and resilience demonstrated by the graduating class who navigated challenges like COVID-19. Key segments included remarks from the South Piedmont Board of Trustees and the Student Government Association President, Laura Verbolito, focusing on celebrating achievements and the start of a new chapter. The event also honored several individuals: Mr. John Henley received an Honorary Degree for his significant community impact and past service as a trustee; Mrs. Angela Tabor Smith received the Excellence in Teaching Award, recognized for innovation, mentoring, and encouraging service among her students; and Keith Rogers (Director of Fire and Rescue Training) and Carl Bishop (Vice President of Academic Affairs) were jointly recognized as 2020 Staff of the Year recipients for their contributions to partnerships, innovative courses, and developing student success pathways like 'GPS for Student Success'. Finally, graduates from the School of Arts and Sciences, including various Associate degrees, were individually announced.

This strategic plan outlines the long-term direction for South Piedmont Community College, aiming to distinguish it as a nationally recognized college of excellence over the next three years. The plan is guided by core values of quality, stewardship, service, respect, and innovation, with a focus on stakeholder needs. Its five strategic goals are: ensuring equitable student outcomes, fostering economic and workforce development, optimizing student recruitment and enrollment, enhancing employee recruitment and retention, and strengthening organizational performance.

The strategic plan for South Piedmont Community College is designed to guide the college's actions for the next three years. It focuses on equitable student outcomes, economic and workforce development, focused student recruitment and enrollment, employee recruitment and retention, and organizational strengthening. Key goals include ensuring students achieve educational success regardless of background, providing education and training to meet local industry needs, attracting a diverse student body, retaining a high-quality workforce, and demonstrating performance excellence through innovation and resource maximization.

The board discussed facilities updates, including the use of Connect NC Bond funds for the Garibaldi retaining wall and the Watson building air handler. There was also discussion regarding a potential Union County bond request. Academic affairs highlighted a guest speaker from the nursing program and recognized Tai Huynh's upcoming departure. Corporate and Community Relations reported on the website launch, upcoming college events, summer camps, and the VA Coffee House. The finance department reported on the budget status and the progress of Union and Anson county budgets. The Foundation division shared updates on the Scholarship dinner, the Capital Campaign, and the upcoming Run the Course 5K. Student Services reported on the SGA's new picnic tables and the upcoming graduation ceremonies. The president's update focused on finishing the Capital Campaign, increasing enrollment, and assessing the Union County Bond package. The Planning Council Annual Assessment Report was reviewed, and strategic plan revisions were approved. The board also selected the Honorary Degree recipient and approved retirement resolutions. The meeting also included a presidential search update and a closed session to discuss the president's employment contract.

The Board of Trustees of South Piedmont Community College convened at the OCH Campus, Creech Boardroom.