Tabitha D. Lee

The board meeting covered several key operational and strategic updates. Discussions included new employee introductions, enrollment growth statistics, the implementation of new student initiatives like Grab & Go food stations and an upcoming intramural soccer club, and partnerships with other community colleges. The board addressed facility projects such as awnings, the Howell Woods master plan, the greenhouse project, and security upgrades. Furthermore, the board ratified the STEAM Building project, reviewed the fiscal year 2023-2024 budget and expenditure reports, and received updates on foundation scholarship funds and legislative advocacy efforts. New business included the approval of an increase in the authorized travel expenditure for the President and Board of Trustees.

The board meeting included the recognition of a retiring staff member with the Old North State Award and discussions regarding enrollment forecasts and fiscal impacts of potential state and federal budget cuts. Committee reports provided updates on capital projects including the progress of the Four Oaks Advanced Manufacturing Training and Facility, various facility improvements, and campus reorganization plans. Financial reports reviewed current state and county budget expenditures. Additionally, the meeting covered a new fiber optics broadband training partnership, foundation donor communication strategies, and upcoming facility plans. The board also conducted a closed session regarding the President's annual evaluation.

The board discussed the lease agreement with the i95i40 Alliance, received a demonstration of the Element 451 AI-driven customer relationship management tool, and heard a president's report regarding organizational title changes and internal restructuring. Committee reports covered capital projects, budget updates related to state funding status, and the approval of a Memorandum of Understanding between the college and its foundation. Additionally, the board approved a slate of officers for the upcoming term and held a closed session to discuss real estate matters.

The board meeting included several ceremonial items such as oaths of office for new members, the presentation of an employee resolution, and introductions of new faculty and staff across various departments. Committee reports covered ongoing campus construction and facility projects, updates on nursing program fees, Foundation activities, and enrollment growth data. The President's report highlighted record-breaking student growth, the success of the Commissioner's Promise program, and preparations for upcoming legislative interactions. The board also convened in a closed session to discuss real estate matters.

The board meeting included the swearing-in of a new trustee and the reappointment of an existing one. Key administrative updates featured the introduction of new vice presidents for enrollment and marketing and facility services. The Buildings and Grounds Committee addressed the critical need for replacing campus chillers, leading to an emergency declaration to expedite the procurement process. Major campus projects were discussed, including ongoing paving, building improvements, and security policy development. The financial report focused on the year-end close-out. A naming opportunity was approved for a collaborative learning area. Educational initiatives included updates on the Respiratory Therapy program, a memorandum of understanding with the school system, and healthcare-related grant applications. Personnel policy updates and federal exempt salary standards were reviewed. The president provided a status report covering increased enrollment, budget considerations, summer programming, various grant-funded programs, and upcoming facility expansion efforts. Finally, the board approved an easement agreement for Howell Woods and a project related to the removal of a burn building.