Mount Wachusett Community College

The meeting included the Chairperson's Report, where sympathy was expressed for a recent tragedy at Brown University. The President's Report highlighted a successful holiday event, over 20% growth in fall semester enrollment, the achievement of a gold star rating for veteran students, and successful renewal of the CNA program license from the Department of Public Health. A key discussion point was the planned change to the commencement format, likely splitting it into two ceremonies due to enrollment growth. The Board received an update on the upcoming five-year strategic planning process, which will launch in January with a focus on STEEP analysis. Administratively, the Board approved the First Quarter Trust Report for FY26. New business featured a presentation on the Legal Studies program, noting its successful transition to an entirely online format and strong retention rates. The President's FY25 evaluation was approved, and future actions included finalizing bylaw revisions and inviting the police chief to discuss security measures.

The Chairperson's report highlighted successful events, including the Hispanic festival and the first joint meeting between the Board of Trustees and the Foundation. The report also covered the success of the new Automotive Department ribbon cutting celebrating a $100K grant, ongoing bylaws updates, and the process for the president's evaluation. The President reported on the rapid integration of AI in education, announced a significant 28-30% enrollment growth, and detailed the initiation of a new strategic planning process alongside the NECHE accreditation report. Workforce Development updates included presenting strategic priorities, expansion of the MassLinks virtual adult education program, and details regarding Workforce Pell implementation. The Strategic Bridge Plan review confirmed that the mission, vision, and goals remain, while strategic initiatives were prioritized. Administrative Orders included the approval of the Fourth Quarter Trust Report for FY25 and the approval of the Audited Financial Statements. New Business involved a discussion about adjusting future meeting times to later in the afternoon.

The meeting included welcoming a new board member, recognizing achievements, and discussing the upcoming joint meeting with the Foundation board to improve collaboration. Updates were provided on federal funding uncertainties, the renewal of TRIO grants, and potential threats to state higher education initiatives. IT security compliance and the new IT strategic plan were presented, focusing on expanding training, strengthening reporting, enhancing security policies, and advancing cloud migration. The board also approved sabbatical leave for a professor and the FY26 final budget, which was developed with caution due to possible funding gaps. Sub-committees are working on bylaws and developing a survey instrument for the next evaluation of the President.

The meeting included discussions and updates on various topics. The President reported on the success of commencement, rising enrollment, staffing strains, and concerns about federal funding for programs like TRIO and GEAR UP. There was also a presentation and discussion on affirmative action, workforce diversity, and the need for cultural change. Updates were provided on the strategic plan and accreditation. The board approved the Second and Third Quarter Trust Reports for FY25, as well as the FY26 Provisional Budget, which takes a conservative approach due to state budget uncertainty.

The FY2026 Operational Plan for Mount Wachusett Community College (MWCC) focuses on five key goals: equity and inclusion, student success and achievement, equitable pedagogy, regional and economic development leadership, and institutional capacity building. The plan outlines various strategic actions and activities aimed at fostering an encouraging and inclusive environment, making education affordable and accessible, developing reciprocal partnerships, promoting academic excellence, and building institutional financial strength and sustainability. Key outcomes include increasing diversity, improving student engagement, closing achievement gaps, and enhancing the college's technological and physical infrastructure.