Southwestern Community College

The meeting commenced with the administration of the Oath of Office to two new trustees. Key discussions included the President's Report noting the reliance on a continuation budget due to the General Assembly not passing a final budget, and highlights from successful events such as the annual Gala netting over $165,000 for scholarships. The Curriculum and Student Services Committee reported on the successful renewal of a $500k Dogwood grant and provided updates on the SACSCOC reaffirmation process, including the decision to opt out of the Quality Enhancement Plan requirement. Revisions to Policy 1.05 (Institutional Accreditation) and Policy 6.02.04 (Academic Progress) were approved, alongside the approval of new Policy 6.03.08 (Anti-Hazing). The Finance and Campus Improvement Committee secured unanimous approval for Budget Allocations and Transfers and the 2025-2026 Budget. Additionally, revisions to Policy 4.05.01 (Social Media) and new Policy 4.02.23 (Bereavement) were approved. The Facilities and Operations update detailed the status of ongoing capital projects, including the Learning Commons renovation, the Fire Rescue Training Facility burn prop completion timeline, and the nearing completion of the dental assisting/hygiene renovation. The session concluded with an annual Cybersecurity Update.

This document outlines the mission and vision for Southwestern Community College's Health Sciences Simulation Center. The mission is to positively impact healthcare in Western North Carolina by providing simulation activities that foster a safe learning environment, utilizing advanced technology for innovation, offering supportive immersive learning, and developing intentional, collaborative, interdisciplinary simulation scenarios. The vision is to become the premier institution for health science education in Western North Carolina, cultivating highly skilled healthcare professionals who provide quality, compassionate care and respect diverse communities through advanced technology and effective teaching practices.

The Board of Trustees meeting included updates such as the General Assembly's budget status, the NCACCT Legislative Seminar, and the annual Gala fundraiser. The meeting also covered a positive summer enrollment report, with Continuing Education and PSTC showing increases. The board approved policies related to institutional accreditation, substantive change, curriculum development, instructional personnel qualifications, student records, and service animals in institutional areas.

The Board of Trustees meeting included updates on the NCGA short session, the status of the annual budget, and the 3-year Presidents' Association agenda. The resignation of NCCCS President Thomas Stith and the appointment of interim President Dr. Bill Carver were announced. Jean Ellen Forrister's resignation from the Board of Trustees was noted, and the College is awaiting the Governor's appointment to the Board from the Qualla Boundary. The Fall Kick-Off event was reported as successful. Policy revisions were presented and approved, including those related to workload curriculum faculty and sex discrimination and harassment under Title IX. Budget allocations and transfers were reviewed and approved, along with revisions to policies on personal observance leave, supplemental leave, Title IX, travel reimbursement, and purchasing. Updates were provided on the Firing Range, the Fire Rescue Training Facility, and the Groves Center Expansion plans. A 3-1-P form for a proposed cell tower location on the Jackson campus was approved. The NCACCT Leadership seminar was announced, and full-time and part-time employee lists were approved. A presentation was given on the implementation and deployment of classroom and office supplies for safety situations, and personal protective equipment was distributed to the Board. The upcoming SCC Foundation Gala for Student Scholarships was promoted.

The meeting included updates on the National Park Service Seasonal Law Enforcement Training Accreditation and the Federal Law Enforcement Training Program. There was a curriculum and student services update, including revisions to policies on accountability, credibility, and self-supporting classes. Recent accreditation reports and program initiatives were reviewed, such as the Basic Skills Plus program, Macon County Job Link Career Center, Jackson County STEP program, and Career and College Promise. A local revenue analysis and state current expenses were presented, along with budget transfers and policies on tuition and fees, and tobacco use. The renewal of leases at the Swain Center with the NC Department of Commerce and Swain County for the NC Cooperative Extension was recommended. Updates were provided on the Burrell Building construction and information technology upgrades. Action items for the Burrell Building were identified, including budget reductions and the acquisition of a water tank and necessary water lines. The Presidential Evaluation packet was introduced, and Vision 2017 surveys were distributed for a focus group.