Delta College

The Board meeting included discussions on the treasurer's report, staff compensation, and various capital improvement projects, including the replacement of a living wall, Hotchkiss Road, and exterior wayfinding signage. Academic changes were approved, such as the creation of a new Data Science certificate and the elimination of several other programs and certificates. The Board also approved a presidential contract for Dr. Michelle Allmendinger. A student success presentation was given regarding the Student Leadership Academy. Furthermore, the Board adopted a resolution to censure a Trustee for continued absence, lack of engagement, and failure to fulfill board duties.

The meeting featured a presentation on student success, specifically focusing on the Hope Impact Partnership and a student basic needs survey. The discussion covered findings regarding student mental health, food and housing insecurity, and childcare costs. Additionally, the Board reviewed the MiLEAP Barrier Removal Grant, which provides funding for emergency student needs. External partnerships, such as those with the University of Michigan, UWill, United Way, and Michigan Works!, were discussed as strategies to improve mental health support and community resource access. Next steps for the college include increasing the visibility of student services, establishing a resources library, and launching workshops on budgeting and life skills.

The board meeting primarily focused on the interview process for a presidential candidate, Dr. Adam Cloutier. Trustees engaged in a 60-minute interview session and provided the candidate with a 30-minute period for his questions. Board members also provided comments regarding the selection process, and the board chair discussed next steps concerning the collection of feedback from various sessions.

The board met to advance the presidential search process. Key discussion topics included a review of the search advisory committee's work, which resulted in a recommended slate of seven candidates, and a board evaluation to expand the pool to ten candidates for further consideration through video submissions. The board also reviewed and approved the specific questions to be used for these video interviews.

The Board of Trustees meeting covered several key administrative and operational items. The Treasurer's report highlighted revenue sources, noting that property tax and tuition revenue are performing well. The Board approved the estimate of property taxes and state appropriations for the upcoming fiscal year, the 2029 academic calendar, and revisions to the board policy on expressive activity. Capital project approvals included the replacement of HVAC components, L and M wing renovations, water infiltration repairs for the S-wing, and the purchase of wireless networking equipment. Furthermore, the Board authorized a five-year contract for food service management and heard reports on student success awards and various upcoming campus events.