Heartland Community College

The board meeting featured a financial education session, specifically a presentation on the annual grants report which covered the college's grant functions and data points from the fiscal year, including challenges posed by federal uncertainty. Additionally, there was a briefing on the upcoming commencement ceremony and the board's role in the event.

The board discussed the Strategic Enrollment Management (SEM) Plan 1.0, noting its successes and challenges, and introduced the goals for SEM 2.0, which include increasing enrollment in adult education, dual credit, and among students aged 25 and older. The board received an overview of the ReUp program, an initiative to recapture stop-out students, noting no financial risk to the college and positive tuition recapture results. Additionally, an update was provided regarding the status of the State SUCCESS Plan.

The board discussed the Higher Learning Commission accreditation process and quality initiatives, along with cabinet reports covering the alumni campaign, the JumpStart program, and the Behavioral Intervention Team's progress. Financial presentations included updates on project labor agreements, employee health insurance, and a preliminary audit report, as well as a discussion regarding tuition and fee recommendations. Legislative summit outcomes and student organization updates were also shared. The board moved to approve tuition and fee adjustments, various personnel actions, and tenure recommendations.

The Board Workshop covered several key topics. The Chair reviewed established Board goals, including the creation of a finance education calendar, exploring member advocacy training, and developing a district outreach plan. Trustees discussed potentially involving other elected officials in workshops. Presentations were provided regarding ACCT/ICCTA updates and the current status and timeline of the draft Strategic Plan.

The committee discussed the upcoming tuition and fees for the academic year, weighing a recommendation for a $3 versus a $5 increase to mitigate a projected deficit. An update on the preliminary audit for the fiscal year indicated no findings on compliance or federal funding, with minor procedural recommendations for financial statements. Additionally, the committee reviewed the status of a pending Project Labor Agreement and conducted a detailed discussion regarding employee benefits, specifically focusing on the coverage and financial implications of GLP-1 medications.