Stacey Benkert

The board approved CollegeNOW agreements for the 2026-2027 academic year and reaffirmed the board meeting schedule. Key administrative and financial decisions included the appointment of a new Director of Human Resources, revisions to Human Resources job descriptions, approval of a list of part-time instructors, and acceptance of bids for several campus renovation projects, including the Fine Arts roof, the Natural Science geology lab, and the Marvin-Burt Liberal Arts Center success center. A first reading regarding tuition rate increases for the upcoming fall semester was conducted. The board also engaged in discussions regarding the feasibility study for an athletic, learning, and event center, the ongoing presidential search, and future manufacturing technology center grant opportunities.

The Board of Trustees conducted several items of business, including the approval of part-time instructor assignments and the first reading of a policy on policies and revised policy 1.03 regarding the college's mission, vision, and core values. Personnel appointments were approved for a full-time Coordinator of Multimedia Content, along with a revised job description for the Vice President of Workforce Development and a new job description for the Dean of Agriculture, Business, and Technology. Financial actions included the purchase of a 2025 Chevrolet 2500 HD pickup truck and the approval of September 2024 bills. Additionally, the Board discussed a truth in taxation notice, foundation initiatives, and the feasibility of a potential athletic, learning, and event center, noting significant structural concerns regarding the pool area roof.

The board approved several policy updates, including revised policies on the prohibition of sex discrimination, segregation of duties, and the process for presenting new policies. Personnel actions included the appointment of a Manufacturing Mentor/Coach. Financial items approved included an intergovernmental cooperation agreement for police services, the establishment of health insurance rates for the next fiscal year, a resolution to expand the Northwest Illinois Enterprise Zone with tax abatements for Savencia Fromage & Dairy, authorization for phase two construction plans for an agricultural equipment storage facility, and the payment of bills. Reports were provided regarding the Foundation's activities, student senate updates, legislative priorities concerning baccalaureate degrees, and ongoing administrative and presidential updates.

The Board approved various personnel appointments, including a new Coordinator of Online Learning and Innovation, an LMS Administrator, an Administrative Applications Administrator, and a College Access Specialist. They formally accepted the retirement of the College President and approved a contract for a search firm to assist in the recruitment of a new President. The Board also authorized planning, design, and permitting for the renovation and expansion of the Sports Building (Building S) and approved course fee changes for the Fall 2025 semester. Additionally, the Board reviewed financial reports, including the payment of bills, discussed foundation activities, student updates, and held a closed session regarding personnel and collective bargaining matters.

The board convened a special meeting to conduct a closed session regarding personnel matters, including appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance, or dismissal. No action was taken concerning the Head Coach/Coordinator for Athletic Development as the candidate declined the position. Additionally, the board discussed legislative updates regarding the potential for community colleges to offer baccalaureate degrees.