Ryan Tomlin

The Board discussed the Foundation's significant financial growth and its transition toward public charity status, along with scholarship endowment criteria. The meeting included approvals for the American Civic Literacy Plan and associated resolutions. Monitoring reports covered workforce education outcomes, contingency planning for presidential vacancies, financial conditions including enrollment trends and operational expenses, and new cybersecurity compliance requirements under state law. The President's Report highlighted shifts to 8-week course models, student enrollment growth, and potential regional educational partnerships. Additionally, the Board reviewed organizational structure changes and approved an audit filing extension due to departmental transitions and system updates, concluding with an executive session regarding public employee employment.

The Board discussed and approved a resolution to amend the college's alternative retirement plan to align with federal legislation. They also approved a tuition rate adjustment involving a waiver for student savings. The President's report highlighted the conclusion of a Title III grant, ongoing software system transitions, and organizational restructuring. The Board reviewed and accepted monitoring reports regarding services, ethics compliance, and financial conditions, noting record enrollment. Additionally, the Board approved a third revised budget incorporating new staff positions and increased insurance costs, reviewed governance policies, discussed plans for a future Board retreat, and held an executive session to address executive compensation.

The Board discussed new statutory requirements regarding curriculum approval authority and reviewed the current process. Key agenda items included the approval of the FY25 Ohio Department of Higher Education Efficiency Report, a rule concerning instructional workload, and a resolution on presidential merit pay. The President provided updates on the implementation of 8-week courses, recent accreditation activities, and government relations efforts. The Board reviewed monitoring reports on financial condition, budget revisions, funding, and asset protection. Additionally, the Board conducted reviews of policies related to workforce education, communication, and presidential vacancies, and received information on upcoming trustee training and ethics requirements.

Marion Technical College's Strategic Plan 2013-2018 outlines a commitment to being the community's best choice for learning, providing an enriched and personal educational experience. The plan focuses on three core strategic goals: ensuring student success by fostering a learner-centered environment; achieving community success through collaboration with partners for economic and workforce development; and strengthening institutional success by cultivating a culture of evidence and effective resource utilization. Key elements of the plan include offering accessible higher education, supporting career goals, advancing articulation, contributing to economic development, improving teaching and learning, and broadening educational access.

This Bellwether Nominee Report details Marion Technical College's strategic initiative, 'Growth through Grants,' focused on transforming the institution by leveraging external grant funding through a partnership with Columbus State Community College. The plan outlines a multi-phase approach to enhance institutional capacity, expand student support services, and make strategic infrastructure and equipment investments. The initiative aims to foster a flourishing ecosystem for student success, resulting in increased grant funding, improved student enrollment, and enhanced student outcomes.