Reading Area Community College

This document outlines 'The Academies' program, a collaborative initiative designed to allow high school students to earn college credits toward certificates or associate degrees. It details various flexible career pathways, including business management, computer technology, mechatronics engineering, web development, and early childhood education. The program aims to prepare students for advanced education or immediate employment, facilitating seamless transfer opportunities to bachelor's degree programs while still in high school.

The committee reviewed and discussed the draft FY 2025-26 Operating Budget and Multi-Year Capital Plan, including statements from the president, an overview of the operating and capital budget, revenue sources (credit enrollment, tuition/fees, state and sponsor support, investment earnings, Bookstore commission), and expenses (compensation, benefits, contracted services, professional services, communications, utilities, advertising, fiscal support, supplies, debt service). Challenges and planning considerations were discussed, including risk sharing on federal loans, changes to Pell grants, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant, TRIO, HUD, and CDBG.

The Board of Trustees meeting included discussions and resolutions regarding various topics. Dr. Tricia Lewis was granted Assistant Professor Emerita status. The board approved a list of students who applied for graduation during the 2024-2025 academic year and will be permitted to participate in the May 2025 Commencement Activities. The board authorized the administration to enter into a three-year agreement with Student Connections for student loan default avoidance and student outreach services. Additionally, the board approved the issuance of a College Revenue Note for financing the Gust Zogas Student Union Building project. The board authorized the administration to contract with Hirneisen for the installation of an emergency generator and associated equipment for the Weitz Healthcare Pavilion Project.

The committee reviewed reports from Academic Affairs, including information on grants and the Yocum Library. Enrollment and outreach updates were provided, focusing on admissions. The Student Affairs report included a resolution regarding graduates and informational items on Accessibility Services, the Care Team, Career Services, SSSP/Advantage -- TRIO Program, KEYS Program, and the Student Government Association.

The meeting addressed several key resolutions. The Board approved revisions to the Medical Office/Health Records Specialist Certificate, Administrative Office Specialist Certificate, EHR 210 Legal and Ethical Issues in Healthcare course competencies, OFT 212 Office Procedures pre-requisite, and General Education Learning Outcomes. The board authorized the administration to enter into marketing/advertising contracts with Lamar, an agreement with Weidenhammer Systems Corporation for project management consulting services, and a contract renewal with Pathify for the myRACC portal license. Additionally, the board approved the purchase of Dell desktop computers, laptop computers, monitors, and peripheral accessories. The board authorized a contract with Burkey Construction for Construction Management services and contracts with Purcell Construction and Hirneisen Electric, Inc. for the Welcome Home Project.