Southeast New Mexico College

The Southeast New Mexico College Assessment Handbook outlines a comprehensive framework for assessing student academic achievement and institutional effectiveness. Its primary purpose is to enhance learning and teaching, improve strategic planning, and ensure efficient resource distribution through systematic, cyclical assessment processes. Key focus areas include course, program, general education, co-curricular, and institutional level assessments, supported by detailed procedures for data collection, interpretation, dissemination, and continuous feedback loops, with a specific program review cycle planned from 2025 to 2032.

The Board of Trustees meeting covered a broad range of operational and strategic topics. Key discussions included a report on the college's strategic plan and enrollment, updates on the Trades x Technologies building project, and financial considerations such as the City of Carlsbad serving as a fiscal agent. The Board reviewed and approved the 2026-27 faculty salary summary and discussed, but tabled, the CBIZ-recommended staff salary structure. Other actions included authorizing the renovation of the Engineering lab and several campus classrooms, approving amendments to the SENMC Foundation articles of incorporation, and committing to matching funds for driving range construction and equipment. Additionally, the Board authorized the purchase of a new emergency notification system, website software, and driving simulators, while also approving the discontinuation of four Auto Body programs. Finally, the session included an executive session for the President's performance evaluation.

The Board meeting included a presentation of student achievements, including Students of the Month and Student of the Year. The President provided a status report covering the strategic plan, community engagement activities, and workforce development initiatives. Key business items included the decision to host a public forum to solicit community input for a District III Trustee vacancy, the approval of the 2026-27 Strategic Plan action steps, and the acceptance of a revised Capital Projects list. The board reviewed quarterly and monthly financial reports, received an update on the faculty salary study, and heard departmental reports from executive administration staff, including updates on IT projects, HR metrics, and upcoming graduation details.

This Graduate Growth Plan for Southeast New Mexico College outlines a roadmap for institutional expansion by creating a more welcoming campus environment, developing new academic programs and facilities, and enhancing outreach, marketing, and data-driven approaches. Key strategic goals include serving more students, engaging the community, increasing learning efficiency, and promoting success for all students and employees.

The board discussed and took action on several key agenda items, including the selection of a new District III Trustee and the approval of the 2026-27 strategic plan actions. Significant financial and procurement decisions were made, specifically regarding the approval of the 2026-2027 budget, budget adjustment requests, and equipment purchases for the instrumentation controls and electrical program. Additionally, the board approved the removal and replacement of campus boilers, the acquisition of a mine hazard identification system, and a radiological control technician training system. Reports were provided on student government activities, PTK accomplishments, and various updates from the President and executive staff, including progress on the strategic plan and human resources.