Robert Burns

The Board of Governors meeting included a presentation of the Fiscal Year 2025 Audit Report and Financial Statements. The board discussed Artificial Intelligence and Eastern's hosting of the WV Connect meeting. Updates were provided on registration for the Spring semester, CTE pathway options for Hampshire High School students, and upcoming Faculty Senate meetings. The US Department of Education announced grant funding for short-term training programs, and Eastern is exploring opportunities to augment its heavy equipment program. The board was also invited to Eastern’s holiday party and the Nursing LPN to RN Pinning Ceremony.

The meeting included a presentation on the annual GLBA requirement regarding the status of cybersecurity. The Board of Governors decided to maintain a monthly meeting schedule, with a minimum of six meetings per fiscal year. There was a discussion of potential state funding cuts, deferred maintenance at the Technology Center, land acquisition progress, kitchen and fitness center updates, strong enrollment, academic program reviews, and the need for state and HLC approval for the Artificial Intelligence program. The Faculty Senate Agenda included discussions on the Advisory Counsel of Faculty, improving assessment processes, methods for attaching course learning objectives to assignments, and encouraging faculty to offer bonus points for student attendance at learning opportunities.

The meeting included discussion and professional development, including the approval of minutes from the previous meeting. Committee reports were given by the Board Chair and representatives from the Finance committee, as well as reports from college representatives for staff and faculty. Important calendar dates were noted, including the BOG Training Summit. The next scheduled meeting was also announced.

The meeting included discussions on fall 2025 enrollment numbers, IT department's development of data source pilots through AI, faculty orientation, faculty senate updates, and program assessment reviews. The president reported on positive fall enrollment growth, a grant approval for the AI program, meeting with local officials, potential budget cuts, and an upcoming AI presentation. There was also discussion about student loan debt and job prospects for students.

The 2015-2020 Strategic Plan focuses on student access and success, quality teaching and learning, community engagement, and fostering a culture of innovation. It aims to meet workforce demands, enhance economic development, and ensure fiscal stability to deliver comprehensive community and technical college education. The plan addresses transformational trends such as changing demographics, business and industry needs, and the importance of an innovative-based economy and college completion.