Sherry Andersen

The board convened a special meeting to conduct an executive session for the purpose of discussing the reputation, character, physical condition, mental health, or professional competence of an individual, as well as to address potential discipline, dismissal, or complaints brought against public officers, employees, or staff members. The board also reviewed the status of past executive session minutes to determine if they should remain non-disclosed.

The board convened to discuss the appointment of an interim president for Cape Cod Community College. The meeting included the consideration of letters from faculty and staff unions requesting a delay in the appointment, which the board chair addressed by emphasizing the need for stability, integrity, and institutional repair. President Ellen Kennedy was introduced and discussed her experience, commitment to transparency, and strategies for engaging stakeholders to rebuild trust within the campus community. The discussion also covered the transition processes, the importance of maintaining continuity in flagship programs, and preparing for the upcoming NECHE self-study.

The meeting was convened following the sudden resignation of the college president. The board discussed the immediate need for leadership continuity, including the process for appointing an acting president and an interim president. Legal counsel provided guidance on Board of Higher Education policies regarding presidential search and selection guidelines, emphasizing the distinction between short-term acting and long-term interim leadership roles. The trustees deliberated on ensuring a transparent and inclusive public search process for a permanent president while considering the immediate appointment of an acting president to maintain administrative functionality.

The Board meeting included discussions on the appointment of an acting president, the upcoming search process for an interim and permanent president, and a record number of graduating students. Key operational items addressed included ADA compliance and scheduling modalities. The board also reviewed and discussed adjustments to various student program fees, noting the impact of external price deflators on fee caps, the introduction of a new voucher program for toolboxes in the Aviation Maintenance Technology program, and the elimination of redundant program fees.

The board meeting agenda focused on an executive session held pursuant to Massachusetts General Law Chapter 30A, Section 21(a)(1). The session included discussions regarding the reputation, character, physical condition, or mental health of an individual, as well as potential disciplinary actions. Additionally, the board reviewed past executive session minutes to determine if they continue to warrant non-disclosure.