Members present: Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair; Sandra E. Moore, Vice Chair; Paula J. Darrah, J.D.; Rev. Dr. Diane R. Dixon-Proctor; Walter J. Hall; James H. Johnson, Jr., Ph.D.; Jerome W. Klasmeier; Van Mason; and Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President

I. CALL TO ORDER AND APPROVAL OF AGENDA

The public session of the Board of Trustees was called to order by Chair Ulvila at 4:00 p.m. in Cade 219.

By motion of Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor, seconded by Vice Chair Moore, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the September 10, 2019, Board of Trustees public session agenda.

II. WELCOME AND INTRODUCTIONS

Chair Ulvila introduced Ms. Tamela “Van” Mason, the new student member of the Board of Trustees for FY2020.

III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair

A. Minutes of the June 11, 2019, Board of Trustees Meeting

Dr. Johnson requested an amendment to the minutes. He requested the year to be changed from 2019 to 2018 in the fourth sentence of Section IV.E. By motion of Mr. Hall, seconded by Dr. Johnson, the Board of Trustees voted unanimously to approve the minutes of the June 11, 2019, public session as amended.

CHANGE IN THE ORDER OF THE AGENDA

A motion was made by Mr. Klasmeier and seconded by Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor to change the order of the agenda by bringing the second action item in the President’s Report, V.A.2, Approval of 2019-2020 FullTime Faculty Appointments, forward on the agenda to give the new faculty the opportunity to leave after being introduced to the board. The board agreed to bring this item forward.

Dr. Gavin asked the Board of Trustees to approve the request for 61 one-year, 15 two-year, and 9 fiveyear full-time faculty contracts. Fourteen of the one-year term appointments are newly hired faculty who are replacing retirees or filling recently vacated positions. These new faculty were hired in Biology, Cybersecurity, Networking, & Digital Forensics, English, Health, Fitness & Exercise Studies, Legal Studies, Mathematics, Nursing, and Visual Arts & Photography departments. In addition, approval for 27 tenure track, one-year appointments is requested. Of these, eight are newly awarded tenure track appointments and 19 are continuing.

By motion of Mr. Hall, seconded by Dr. Johnson, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the appointments of the one-year, two-year, and five-year full-time faculty for 2019-2020 as shown in the supporting materials to the agenda.

Dr. Michael Gavin was pleased to introduce the newest cohort of faculty: Dr. Shelley DeBlasis, Assistant Professor, English/Communications; Cory Doubek, Assistant Professor, Health, Fitness & Exercise Studies; Dr. Vennece Fowlkes, Assistant Professor, Biology & Environmental Center; Luke Fredericks, Assistant Professor, Legal Studies Institute; Zoe Friedman, Assistant Professor, Visual Arts & Photography; Dr. Danny Hoey, Assistant Dean, English, Literacy & Communications, Liberal Arts; Stacy L. Korbelak, Assistant Dean, Business, Economics & Entrepreneurial Studies, Business & Law; Dr. Anthony McEachern, Assistant Dean, Visual, Performing Arts & World Languages, Liberal Arts; Okemwa Monandi, Assistant Professor, Mathematics; Amy Nudell, Assistant Professor, Nursing/Healthcare Initiatives; Shaniqua Owens, Assistant Professor, Nursing/Healthcare Initiatives; Sara Prigodich, Assistant Professor, Visual Arts & Photography; Amylee Salamon, Instructor, Mathematics; William Seabrook, Assistant Professor, Cybersecurity, Networking & Digital Forensics; Tracetta Short, Assistant Professor, Nursing/Healthcare Initiatives; Dr. Angelo Thalassinidis, Assistant Dean, Technology, Science, Technology & Education; Mary Venters, Assistant Professor, Nursing/Healthcare Initiatives; and Kristin Weedn, Assistant Professor, Nursing/Healthcare Initiatives.

Dr. Johnson inquired if the new nursing appointments were the result of program growth or turnover of existing faculty. Dr. Gavin responded that the new appointments were the result of some turnover and reallocation of different positions in order to double the nursing program by the time the new Health & Life Sciences building opens.

Dr. Johnson commented about the diverse faculty and wondered if the diversity impacted the incoming class. Dr. Gavin responded that there was a 20% increase in diversity of Assistant Deans. He stated the rigid interview process focused on mindset. The right people were hired who just happen to be a diverse group.

Mr. Hall commented that faculty have recently retired after serving twenty to thirty years. He asked if it had been a challenge replacing those retirees with qualified individuals. Dr. Gavin responded that disciplines of health sciences and engineering are more difficult to fill due to salary, but overall the college hires qualified candidates. Dr. Lindsay added the college does not compromise the quality of faculty and staff. If the hiring pool does not have quality candidates, the college will wait and/or re-post the position until quality individuals come.

IV. BOARD CHAIR AND COMMITTEE REPORTS

A. Audit and Finance Committee – Walter J. Hall, Committee Chair

Mr. Hall reported that the Audit and Finance Committee cancelled its August 19, 2019, meeting. In lieu of the meeting, the committee received an email update on the implementation of GASB statements 84 and 87, status of the Retiree Benefits Trust, and the Information Security and Business Continuity Programs. The committee also received the Operating Budget financial status report as of June 30, 2019. The college’s fiscal year 2019 audit is currently underway and the next committee meeting is scheduled for October 10, 2019. At the October meeting, the committee will meet with the auditors to review the draft audit report and will receive a presentation on the Information Security and Business Continuity Programs.

B. Board Development Committee – Paula J. Darrah, Committee Chair

There was no report from the Board Development Committee.

C. Board Policy Oversight Committee – Vice Chair Sandra E. Moore, Board Representative and Committee Chair

Ms. Moore advised that a new state law was passed requiring institutions of higher education to develop a policy for reviewing and addressing students concerns about the institution’s athletic programs. The law requires the policy to be submitted to the Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) by October 1, 2019. The law, titled “Higher Education – Policy on Student Concerns About Athletic Programs and Activities” requires that there be a process through which students can share concerns about the institution’s athletic programs and activities with the institution’s administration. It also requires each institution to submit to the Commission on or before July 1 of each year the number of students who shared concerns under the institution’s policy during the immediately preceding fiscal year. Ms. Moore stated that the college policy responding to this legislative mandate, shown in agenda item IV.C.1, was presented for the board’s information during the summer, and upon the recommendation of the Board Policy Oversight Committee, is now being brought to the board for its approval.

Ms. Moore continued that as part of the College’s focus on equity in its strategic plan and campus climate efforts, the Board Policy Oversight Committee is conducting a comprehensive review of policies. As part of this review, it recommends that the Board have a policy on accessibility. This policy demonstrates the College’s commitment to provide an accessible environment for all students, employees and visitors. Legal counsel and AACC staff worked to develop this policy. Upon the recommendation of the Board Policy Oversight Committee, the draft policy, shown as agenda item IV.C.2, is now bring brought to the full board for information and will be brought back for approval at the October 8, 2019, public session.

Dr. Lindsay stated that the Board of Trustees is asked to approve the Policy on Student Concerns with College Athletic Programs and Activities. The development of a policy for receiving and addressing student concerns about the institution’s athletic programs is required by legislation passed by the General Assembly that became effective July 1, 2019, and there are no fiscal implications.

By motion of Mr. Klasmeier, seconded by Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor, the Board of Trustees voted unanimously to approve the Policy on Student Concerns with College Athletic Programs and Activities, as shown in Exhibit 1, to become effective October 1, 2019.

Dr. Lindsay stated that the College Accessibility Policy agenda item shown as Item IV.C.2 was presented to the Board of Trustees as an information item. The board will vote to approve it at the October 8, 2019, public session.

D. Budget Committee – Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Committee Chair

There was no report from the Budget Committee.

E. Facilities Committee – Jerome W. Klasmeier, Chair

Mr. Klasmeier reported that the Facilities Committee met on August 27, 2019, to discuss the Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades, the Health & Life Sciences building, future procurements and real estate matters. Regarding the Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades. Mr. Klasmeier reported that the foundation’s fundraising has been going well with $2 million raised in gifts and commitments for the project. Another several hundred thousand dollars of gifts are in the process of being closed, and a number of promising conversations with donors are underway. He continued that the design phase has been expedited to ensure there are no challenges with permitting at county. Gant Brunnett architects, hired by the foundation to design the building, provided an update on the schematic design of The Clauson Center. The current design reflects the input of industry representatives. The Health & Life Sciences building project continues to be on schedule and within budget, with Phase II and II(a) underway. Phase II includes site work and the updates to Ring Road. Work related to the Phase II(a) superstructure is underway with 43% of the pier and footing installation completed. Steel installation will begin later this month with planned completion by the end of December.

F. Human Resources Committee – Rev. Dr. Diane Dixon-Proctor, Committee Chair

There was no report from the Human Resources Committee.

G. Report of Trustees’ Liaison to the AACC Foundation – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair

Ms. Mason read a letter from a first generation college student who received the Teresa Denice McCarty Scholarship. The 26 year-old student, who works three jobs and is enrolled in the Radiology Program, aspires to become a certified CT technician. The student is appreciative of the scholastic award and hopes to one day pass the generous gift onto those in need.

Mr. Ulvila was pleased to report that the campaign revenue is now just over $5.65 Million. As of August 31, 2019, the fundraising total for the current fiscal year is approximately $85,000. The foundation is currently working on two significant agreements with donors in support of the Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades and looks forward to announcing those within the next month. He continued that the AACC Foundation recently received a generous gift of $50,000 from Hero’s Lacrosse, a longstanding supporter of our work. As Hero’s Lacrosse winds down after many years of service to our community, they sought to ensure continued opportunities for students at AACC through an additional investment in four endowed scholarships in memory of Kevin Haller, Gil Bellistri, Andrew Eser, and Skip Bullen. Over 70 students have already benefitted from the scholarships and this additional investment will provide many more opportunities for our students well into the future.

Mr. Ulvila reported that AACC received a grant, through the office of sponsored programs, in the amount of $673,600 from Whatcom Community College in Bellingham, WA. The project, 100% funded by the National Science Foundation, provides scholarships to veterans and individuals who have already earned a bachelor’s degree and want to pursue a government career in cybersecurity. The scholarships cover full tuition and books for up to two years, professional development, and an annual stipend of $25,000, to eight students. In addition, the grant provides funds for cybersecurity faculty to provide navigation services and mentoring to the students.

G.1. Approval of Naming Laboratory Space in the Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades #1 – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President

Dr. Lindsay stated that the Board of Trustees is asked to approve the naming of a laboratory space in the yet-to-be-built Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades in honor of The Chaney family. In accordance with the Procedures for Naming College Properties, Programs and Positions as revised on December 12, 2017 (shown as Exhibit 2), the Board of Trustees is being asked to consider naming one of the large laboratory spaces in the Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled based on monetary contribution(s) as delineated in Section II.D of the procedures for naming college properties.

Dr. Lindsay shared that since 1995, the Chaney family has made significant gifts to the AACC Foundation for the benefit of the college. Chaney Enterprises (the Chaney family business) donated the concrete for the Veterans Garden established in 2013 on AACC’s Arnold campus. In addition, the Human Resources Director at Chaney Enterprises is an active volunteer on AACC’s Clauson Center Advisory Committee. The Chaneys have been regular attendees at AACC Foundation events over the years while serving as prominent event sponsors. Over the last decade, Mr. Frank Chaney, Chairman of the Board of Chaney Enterprises, has been an advocate for higher education in our community and a leader who was often willing to meet with the college president, the executive director of institutional advancement and representatives of the AACC Foundation to learn more about college programs. If the board approves the main motion of Class Lab #3 as The Chaney Lab, the AACC Foundation will work closely with the Board of Trustees, the president, and the donors to develop a plan for a formal public announcement of this naming. There are no fiscal implications. The AACC Foundation will pay the costs associated with the purchase and installation of the building signage.

By motion of Ms. Moore, seconded by Ms. Mason, the Board of Trustees voted unanimously to approve the naming of Class Lab #3 in the Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades as The Chaney Lab in recognition of the lifetime contributions of the Chaney Family, which meet all the conditions and criteria set forth in the Procedures for Naming College Properties, Programs, and Positions.

G.2 Approval of Naming Laboratory Space in the Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades #2 – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President

Dr. Lindsay stated that the Board of Trustees is asked to approve the naming of a laboratory space in the yet-to-be-built Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades in honor of Philip and Carole Ratcliffe. In accordance with the Procedures for Naming College Properties, Programs and Positions as revised on December 12, 2017 (shown as Exhibit 2), the Board of Trustees is being asked to consider naming one of the large laboratory spaces in the Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled based on monetary contribution(s) as delineated in Section II.D of the procedures for naming college properties.

Dr. Lindsay continued that since 2003, the Philip E. and Carole R. Ratcliffe Foundation, established by Philip and Carole Ratcliffe as the primary instrument for their philanthropy — has made significant monetary donations to the AACC Foundation for the benefit of the college, providing financial support for AACC’s Entrepreneurial Studies Institute, the Hatchery, the annual Business Pitch Competition, and hundreds of AACC student scholarships. Members of the Ratcliffe family have gifted to AACC the tools and power equipment from Philip Ratcliffe’s commercial grade workshop that will outfit the lab space for Finished Carpentry in the Clauson Center. The donor’s relationship with the College began sixteen years ago, when Philip Ratcliffe met with the college president and faculty representatives to determine how he could better support students. The Ratcliffes and The Philip E. and Carole R. Ratcliffe Foundation established a positive brand from supporting initiatives that encourage entrepreneurship to expanding economic opportunity. If the board approves the main motion, the Class Lab #2 (described as the Flex Lab in early renderings of the building) will be named The Ratcliffe Lab. There are no fiscal implications. The AACC Foundation will pay the costs associated with the purchase and installation of the building signage.

Dr. Johnson expressed a need to identify that the Chaney and Ratcliffe naming opportunities were the results of new funds given to the college. Mr. Ulvila clarified that both motions were not aggregating prior gifts. The new funds for both motions are new monies in new gifts, each totaling $300,000.

By motion of Mr. Klasmeier, seconded by Dr. Johnson, the Board of Trustees voted unanimously to approve the naming of Class Lab #2 in the Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades as The Ratcliffe Lab in recognition of the lifetime contributions of the Philip and Carole Ratcliffe and The Philip E. and Carole R. Ratcliffe Foundation, which meet all the conditions and criteria set forth in the Procedures for Naming College Properties, Programs, and Positions.

V. PRESIDENT’S REPORT – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President

A. Information Items

1. College Updates – Dr. Lindsay

During the summer months, pedestrian routes were altered by construction projects which included the replacement of the Dragun Building roof, HVAC equipment upgrades in the Math Building, and repairs to the second-story pedestrian bridge between the Student Union and Student Services Center. Ring Road will reopen January 2020 with the site work continuing for the new Health and Life Sciences Building. The $117 million project – part of the college’s 10-year Facilities Master Plan – should be complete in August 2021.

In order to meet legal obligations and improve systems and processes, Dr. Lindsay advised that the college has instituted new initiatives to improve timekeeping/leave reporting and enhancements on hiring practices with greater emphasis on equity. The college also moved 2019 commencement to a more cost-effective venue and is in the process of moving towards an in-house custodial services model for cost savings and improved service.

Dr. Lindsay reported that in June, she and Chair Ulvila presented at American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) John E. Roueche Future Leaders Institute in Washington, D.C., when they explained how the college was able to create a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion and how the improved graduation rate of 5% was the result of the college’s strategic plan, Engagement Matters. Convocation was held on August 20, 2019. The keynote speaker, Executive Director Dr. Pamela Brown of Partnership for Children Youth & Families, shared research and insights on poverty and the changing demographics of the county. Faculty and staff then shared how those changes impact students and the services AACC provides to meet students where they are.

Dr. Lindsay was pleased to share that previous cohorts joined her in welcoming 13 new recipients of the President’s Opportunity Scholarship at a Welcome Reception on August 21, 2019. The scholarship is awarded to college-bound high school seniors, based on their demonstrated tenacity and dedication towards academic achievement, service and an expressed commitment to follow-through and complete educational and career goals.

In an effort to enhance leadership development for the new school year and continue academic excellence, equity, completion, Dr. Lindsay reported that the college engaged in several interactive leadership development training workshops to help manifest a culture of academic excellence while achieving goals of completion and equity. Consequently, the former learning response team is now known as the president’s cabinet. The new name aligns more with the college’s strategic initiatives.

On August 27, 2019, the college rededicated the Martin Luther King statue. It is worth noting that Maryland’s only statue of Martin Luther King Jr is housed on AACC campus, and the keynote speaker for the event was 22 year-old Annapolis Alderman DaJuan Gay, one of the youngest African-Americans ever elected in Anne Arundel County.

Dr. Lindsay was pleased to report that the college is actively engaged with county elected officials and subsequently receiving their support. County Executive Steuart Pittman and Anne Arundel delegation chair Mark Chang attended the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony of the new North County Mural at the Glen Burnie Town Center. The mural paintings were created by AACC student artists under the leadership of tremendous faculty. Councilmember Allison Pickard (District 2) supported Registration Day for Seniors (65+) at the Glen Burnie campus with a Conversation and Conversation event. Councilmember Pickard also wrote a letter request to Senator Pam Beidle for assistance to erect a crosswalk at the Glen Burnie campus for the safety of students and faculty; and in the fall, the college will be hosting a Coffee and Conversation session with Delegate Mike Rogers.

Dr. Johnson inquired if the college would be shifting to a trend to bring other outsource services in-house for cost savings. Ms. Beardmore responded that although the college has a partnership with food services, she was not aware of any other areas of the college where outsource services would be brought in-house.

2. Introduction of New Faculty – Dr. Michael Gavin, Vice President, Learning

By motion, this item was moved in the agenda to come after the approval of the minutes.

3. Monthly Update on Accreditation – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President

Dr. Lindsay reported that under the leadership of Dr. Gregory Schrader and Dr. Alycia Marshall, the steering committee met Tuesday, August 27, 2019, and determined its goals for the 2019-2020 academic year. The committee has begun to work on the plan to populate the standards and the work teams. This semester, the steering committee will continue to develop the Self-Study design and organize future logistics for the accreditation process.

4. Student Government Association (SGA) – Mitchell Santos, President

Dr. Lindsay introduced Mitchell Santos as the new Student Government Association president for this academic year. Mr. Santos reported the first SGA general forum was held on September 9, 2019. The forum was an opportunity to discuss information pertaining to each student organization and allow dialogue between the student organizations and the student government. Nominations for the 15 Senator positions and the vice president finance position also occurred during the meeting. SGA and the Campus Activities Board are collaborating to implement a Spirit Week of daily themed events the week of September 23 through September 27. Those themes included: Cultural Day, Game Day, LGBTQ+ Day, Arts Day, and Rock the Roost Sports Day. Events will take place in various locations during spirit week.

5. Academic Forum/Council – Myra Dennis, Chair – No report

6. The Faculty Organization (TFO) – Dr. Rachelle Tannenbaum, President – No report

7. Professional and Support Staff Organization (PSSO) – Sarah Earle, President

Ms. Earle was pleased to report that more than 30 backpacks were donated by the AACC community to support students from the Monarch Academy, Annapolis. Backpacks were donated to students in grades one through five. The generous AACC college community responded quickly with all bags claimed by donors within 24 hours from the call for donations.

8. Administrative Staff Organization (ASO) – Dr. Tiffany Boykin, Esq., President – No report

9. Maryland Association of Community Colleges (MACC) Activities – Dr. Dawn Lindsay

Dr. Lindsay reported that the MACC Board of Directors met on June 12, 2019, at AACC when the Honorable William Ferguson, vice chair of the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee and Chair of the Subcommittee on Education and Business Administration, presented to the MACC Board. Board Chair Mr. Lawrence Ulvila and Dr. Lindsay represented AACC at the meeting. Dr. Lindsay thanked Rev. Dr. Diane Dixon-Proctor for her service as MACC Treasurer and reported that the board elected new officers to serve on the 2020 MACC Executive Committee. Mr. Ulvila was elected to serve as Treasurer. During the August 5-6, 2019, Maryland Council of Community College Presidents (MCCCP) Retreat at Frederick College, Dr. Lindsay reported that the presidents approved the MACC Capital Prioritization List and reviewed affinity group reports and the draft legislative agenda for the 2020 session of the Maryland General Assembly. Dr. Lindsay stated that once the draft is completed, it will be brought before the Board of Trustees for approval at next month’s public session, prior to MACC bringing it before the MACC Board of Directors for approval at its October 30, 2019 meeting.

V.B.1. Ratification of Approval of Award of Contract for Adobe Higher Education Term License Agreement (ETLA) – Dr. Felicia L. Patterson, Vice President, Learner Support Services

Dr. Patterson reported that the Board of Trustees is asked to ratify its approval of award of contract for Adobe Higher Education Term License Agreement, as presented to the full board with a request for a review and vote as a Summer Agenda Item on July 26, 2019. Board members voted via email and approved the award of contract on July 29, 2019, as set forth in the main motion. In accordance with the Board of Trustees Bylaws, the Board is now being asked to ratify its approval in public session.

By motion of Dr. Johnson, seconded by Mr. Hall, the Board of Trustees voted unanimously to ratify the approval of award of contract for Adobe Higher Education Term License Agreement (ETLA) as set forth in the main motion of Summer Agenda Item No. 1.

V.B.2. Approval of 2018-2019 Full-time Faculty Appointments - Dr. Michael H. Gavin, Vice President, Learning

By motion, this item was moved in the agenda to come after the approval of the minutes.

V.B.3. Approval of 2019 Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) Performance Accountability Report – Dr. Michael H. Gavin, Vice President, Learning

Dr. Gavin provided a summary of the 2019 Performance Accountability Report (PAR). He began by stating that PAR is an annual requirement by the Maryland Higher Education Commission in conjunction with its responsibility for coordinating the performance accountability process for the state's public colleges and universities. The report itself is a combination of data and narrative that has been shared in the past through enrollment reports and strategic planning narratives.

Ms. Darrah requested an explanation of the term “unduplicated headcount” that appeared on page 6 of the report. Dr. Gavin responded that unduplicated headcount refers to the number of individual students.

Dr. Gavin reported that a significant portion of the PAR report focuses on enrollment, retention, completion and developmental education students as well as some programmatic success levels. He was pleased to share part-time students comprise 71.6% of credit students, and 56% of students work at least 20 hours a week. The following have seen increases in enrollment: dual enrollment, credit online courses, continuing education community service, and lifelong learning courses. The college has developed a strategic plan for dual enrollment by having students at each high school achieve a certificate that is aligned with their signature program. He was pleased to share that in May 2020 Chesapeake High School will have students who are on track to graduate with associate degrees before they receive their high school diploma. Dr. Gavin stressed the major focal point was enrollment improvement, as the college is focusing on having different iterations of 15, 13 and 8-week courses, along with offering more courses in the winter term. The college is also becoming more intentional with how students can access a full degree at each offsite location.

Dr. Gavin explained that the division of learning is working with Strategic Communications on advertising campaigns for online degree completion. He was pleased to share a significant rise in online clicks for online education. Retention is improving as a result of excellent faculty who are receiving on-campus professional development training. Data shows significant success in eradicating achievement gaps in Business 111 and Biology 101. As a result, more students are completing. He credited the leadership of the School of Health Sciences, including Dean Elizabeth Appel for the 100% pass rate in the EMTParamedic, Physical Therapy Assistant, Radiological Technology, and Medical Assisting programs. Dr. Gavin was pleased to report that students are acquiring jobs after completions as indicated in the 100% job attainment of recent EMT graduates.

Dr. Gavin reported a decrease in data regarding the number of contracts through Corporate Training Groups (CTG), partially due to availability of online options such as YouTube training and companies creating their own curriculum. Under the leadership of Kip Kunsman, dean of continuing education and workforce development (CEWD), the college is strategically forging, building and maintaining relationships with businesses who will support programs long-term.

Dr. Gavin concluded that the PAR report merges with the data-centric approach to strategic and operational improvements of Engagement Matters-Pathway to Completion. Through strategic enrollment management, the college is looking to enhance partnerships with transfer institutions and is working with Anne Arundel County Public Schools (AACPS) to enhance pathways for their graduates.

Ms. Darrah requested clarification on the timeframe of the data used for the annual report, as some data covered a broad range of time intervals. Dr. Gavin responded that the PAR process is iterative, adding that MHEC asks colleges to set benchmarks for PAR indicators. Special Assistant to the Vice President of Learning Kathy Bolton reported that current PAR benchmarks extend through FY2020. A statewide work group will work on the next iteration. She reported that MHEC defines the cohorts, and the length of time they must be tracked.

Mr. Klasmeier referred to page five of the report that referenced 12,000 applications for financial aid. He wanted to know how many students received financial aid. Dean of Enrollment Services Dr. John Grabowski responded that he would gladly provide the board with the exact number of students who received financial aid. He advised that all students who submit applications do not attend AACC. Students have the opportunity to send applications to six institutions at the same time. Although the college processes all applications, awards are only given to those who actually enroll.

Dr. Lindsay inquired if high schools require every student to complete a FAFSA. Dr. Grabowski responded that the State of Maryland does not require all students to complete a FAFSA.

Dr. Lindsay stated that the Board of Trustees is asked to approve the college’s 2019 PAR for submission to the Maryland Higher Education Commission.

By motion of Mr. Hall, seconded by Dr. Johnson, the Board of Trustees voted unanimously to approve the Anne Arundel Community College 2019 Performance Accountability Report (PAR) for submission to the Maryland Higher Education Commission by October 1, 2019.

Mr. Hall asked if the State of Maryland continues to publish the economic impact of community colleges. Ms. Bolton responded that MACC formerly produced the report, but the report has not been published in a number of years. She offered to research its status. Mr. Ulvila added that for every $1.00 of support, taxpayers see a $2.60 return on investment for students’ economic activity at the County level for Anne Arundel County.

NEW BUSINESS

There was no new business.

VII. NEXT BOARD MEETING

Chair Ulvila advised that the next board meeting will be October 8, 2019, at 4 p.m. in CADE 219.

VIII. ADJOURNMENT

The meeting was adjourned at 5:05 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,
Dr. Dawn Lindsay
Secretary-Treasurer

A session of the Board of Trustees was held on September 10, 2019, at 3 p.m. in CADE 228. Because the board intended to obtain legal advice, pursuant to section 3-305(7) of the Open Meetings Act, a vote was taken to close the meeting pursuant to the General Provisions Article of the Maryland Annotated Code Section 3-305(d)(2)(i)(ii). The following board members were present and voted to close the session: Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., chair; Sandra E. Moore, vice chair; Paula J. Darrah; Jerome W. Klasmeier; Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr.; and Van Mason. The meeting began at 3 p.m. and ended at 3:59 p.m.

Members present: Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair; Sandra E. Moore, Vice Chair; Paula J. Darrah, J.D.; Rev. Dr. Diane R. Dixon-Proctor; Walter J. Hall; Van Mason; and Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President

I. CALL TO ORDER AND APPROVAL OF AGENDA

The public session of the Board of Trustees was called to order by Mr. Ulvila at 4 p.m. in Cade 219.

By motion of Ms. Moore, seconded by Ms. Mason, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the October 8, 2019, Board of Trustees public session agenda.

II. WELCOME AND INTRODUCTIONS

Mr. Ulvila greeted everyone and extended a warm welcome to those celebrating Yom Kippur.

III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair

A. Minutes of the September 10, 2019, Board of Trustees Meeting

By motion of Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor, seconded by Mr. Hall, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the September 10, 2019, Board of Trustees public session minutes.

CHANGE IN THE ORDER OF THE AGENDA

Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor requested the order of the agenda be changed to move Section V.A.2 (Sabbatical Reports) to this point in the meeting. The Board of Trustees unanimously approved the change in the agenda.

Dr. Lindsay thanked the board for their support to provide and approve faculty sabbaticals. She added that sabbaticals provide professional development for faculty which ultimately benefits students.

V.A.2. Sabbatical Reports – Dr. Michael H. Gavin, Vice President, Learning

Dr. Gavin introduced the faculty members who received sabbatical leave approval from the Board of Trustees.

Dr. Paul Bushman, an animal ecologist in training, used the knowledge he gained during his sabbatical to reinvigorate a relatively dormant horticulture program at AACC. He received botanical research experience working with horticulturalists through one growing season (spring to winter) at Costal Maine Botanical Gardens in Boothbay Harbor, Maine. Constructing and organizing a new herbarium increased his knowledge of plant taxonomy which enabled him to write and teach a new sustainable horticulture course at AACC. Dr. Bushmann used what he learned in the native plant horticulture certificate to engage students in similar valuable opportunities.

Dr. Ian Wardenski reported that the purpose of his sabbatical was to compose new music and explore advanced melodic, harmonic, rhythmic, and formal techniques within a jazz vernacular for his debut CD, Collective Thoughts. Dr. Wardenski’s sabbatical enabled him to grow as a performer, composer, scholar and pedagogue while strengthening his knowledge of the music industry. He gained experience with releasing an album, selecting a publicist, promoting content, and booking concerts which is beneficial knowledge to music students at AACC. His CD has received outstanding reviews in the US and abroad. Dr. Michael Gavin added that Dr. Wardenski’s CD is also being played at faculty gatherings. Dr. Wardenski played a segment of his composition, Cycle, Stop and Cycle for the listening audience. Dr. Wardenski’s sabbatical directly aligns with an intentional effort across the divisions to showcase the talents of faculty to ensure that AACC maintains its identity as a cultural hub for the county.

Professor Jacquelyn Lyman-Thomas reported that her three-week sabbatical to Britain gave her the opportunity to research “the science of creativity,” which examines the neuroscience behind being creative. While in Britain, Professor Lyman-Thomas met with Welsh lecturer Dr. Timothy Jilg to discuss the ramifications of Brexit on the status of the Welsh language. Her experience, research and ability to capture over 1,000 photos has improved her pedagogy in the teaching of creative writing. Consequently, she revised course material for English 213 (Early British Literature), revised the syllabi for English 200 (Introduction to Creative Writing) and English 201(Fiction Workshop), and developed two cross-listed English/Gender & Sexuality courses. While on sabbatical, Professor Lyman-Thomas marketed her novel, Pentangle to 27 agents.

Mr. Hall inquired about the possibility of taking students to Britain, and if the course could be marketable there. Professor Lyman-Thomas was open to taking students to Britain and believed that the course could be a possibility in Britain.

Professor Michael Ryan reported that his sabbatical gave him the opportunity to explore how to integrate virtual reality (VR) into the architecture curriculum. His research included investigating VR technology at various sized architecture and engineering firms to determine the best VR technology suited for AACC. Architectural students accompanied him at the American Institute of Architecture (AIA) Conference where they were exposed to cutting-edge technology using headsets and various hand controls to teleport through space whereby users of a space were virtually in the space. Professor Ryan believed that integrating VR into the offerings in the architectural, construction management and interior design departments would expose students to technology that is currently used in the field. Curriculum is being changed in the architecture and interior design program to enhance the department’s reputation as being at the forefront of education in this field.

Mr. Hall commented that entertainment centers are using virtual reality experiences to generate money. As such, he wanted to know if the application would become so common whereby it would no longer generate revenue. Professor Ryan responded that VR is presently a novelty, but he surmised current technology would enable it to become more a part of life which could generate profitability.

Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor inquired if there were any medical ramifications for using the technology. Professor Ryan responded that medical release forms are needed for those suffering from vertigo, etc. He pointed out that someone else is always present in the space to monitor balance and control.

IV. BOARD CHAIR AND COMMITTEE REPORTS

A. Audit and Finance Committee – Walter J. Hall, Committee Chair

There was no report from the Audit and Finance Committee.

B. Board Development Committee – Paula J. Darrah, Committee Chair

Ms. Darrah reported that the Development Committee met that afternoon to discuss the undertaking of a board self-assessment. The assessment would review the goals that the Board Trustees established as an action item in October 2017. The committee, President Lindsay, and her staff will work with the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) to develop an electronic survey. The survey would be sent to the full board as a self-evaluation, followed by an analysis and debrief. Ms. Darrah advised that a public session is scheduled on January 14, 2020 which is a few days after the college opens from winter break. In lieu of having the public session, Ms. Darrah suggested having the half-day debrief of the board self-assessment on January 14, 2020.

C. Board Policy Oversight Committee – Vice Chair Sandra E. Moore, Board Representative and Committee Chair

Ms. Moore reported that the Board Policy Oversight Committee meets monthly to review policies and create new ones as needed. Chief Diversity Officer Dr. Deidra Dennie has joined the committee. As policies are reviewed, updated, deleted or created, the committee will be bringing this information to the board on a regular basis. As part of this review, the committee recommends that the board have a policy on accessibility. This policy will demonstrate the college's commitment to provide an accessible environment for all students, employees, and visitors. Legal counsel and AACC staff worked to develop this policy. It was presented for the board's information at the September 10, 2019, meeting and upon recommendation of the Board Policy Oversight Committee is now being brought to the board for its approval. The development of a policy for accessibility is a result of the college's focus on equity and its strategic plan in campus climate efforts. The Board of Trustees is asked to approve the Accessibility Policy as shown in the Exhibit 1. Upon approval, the effective date of this policy will be October 8, 2019.

By motion of Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor, seconded by Ms. Darrah, the Board of Trustees voted unanimously to approve the Accessibility Policy, as shown in Exhibit 1, to become effective October 8, 2019.

Ms. Moore continued that the committee’s objective is to also examine older policies to determine their relevancy and recommended updates or removals. The Writing Policy, which was approved by the Board of Trustees in March 1991, is a concept of writing that is included in the college manual and should not be a separate board policy. Therefore, it is the committee's recommendation that this Writing Policy be discontinued. This was recommended in 2013; however, no action had been taken. Upon the recommendation of the Board Policy Oversight Committee, the removal of the Writing Policy is being brought to the full bo ard for information and will be brought back for approval at the November 12, 2019, public session.

D. Budget Committee – Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Committee Chair

There was no report from the Budget Committee.

E. Facilities Committee – Jerome W. Klasmeier, Chair

On behalf of Facilities Committee Chair Mr. Klasmeier, Mr. Hall reported that the September 17, 2019, facilities committee meeting was cancelled due to a light agenda and instead a written update was emailed to the committee. The update included an updated list of future procurements and drafts of two procurements that are on tonight's agenda for board's approval. The next facilities committee meeting is scheduled for October 29, 2019.

F. Human Resources Committee – Rev. Dr. Diane Dixon-Proctor, Committee Chair

There was no report from the Human Resources Committee.

G. Report of Trustees’ Liaison to the AACC Foundation – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair

Ms. Mason read a letter from a student who was the recipient of the Mandrin Construction Company Scholarship. The student is part of the architecture and construction management program and believes the scholarship will bring him closer to his career goals. Attending AACC has been a life changing experience for the student who credits faculty and staff for helping him grow in leadership and confidence as a student advocate and leader. He is grateful for the scholarship that will advance his career in construction management.

Mr. Ulvila was pleased to report that the foundation campaign revenue is now just over $6.2 million. As of September 30, 2019, the fundraising total for the current fiscal year is approximately $643,000 in gifts and commitments. The foundation wishes to thank President Lindsay and the college Board of Trustees for holding timely votes for the naming of the two labs in the Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades. Mr. Ulvila reported that CliftonLarsonAllen has completed their work for the AACC Foundation’s fiscal 2019 audit. At the September 25, 2019, meeting the Board of Directors accepted the audited financial statements. The auditors issued a clean, unmodified report. The Foundation is pleased to report that it transferred $1.45 million to the college for scholarship and program support in FY2019. $1.1 million was provided to support student scholarships. This is the most the Foundation has ever transferred to AACC in one year. Lastly, the Office of Sponsored Programs is pleased to report that the CCAMPIS grant was renewed for a second year. This U.S. Department of Education grant provides approximately $100,000 annual to support childcare for Pell-eligible students. AACC currently has 12 parents receiving scholarships for daytime childcare and 21 students utilizing the free evening care.

G.1. Approval of Naming Laboratory Space in the Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades

Mr. Ulvila stated that the Board of Trustees is asked to approve the naming of a laboratory space in the yet-to-be-built Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades in honor of The Carol M. Jacobsohn Foundation. In accordance with the Procedures for Naming College Properties, Programs and Positions as revised on December 12, 2017 (shown as Exhibit 2), the Board of Trustees is being asked to consider naming one of the large laboratory spaces in the Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled based on monetary contribution(s) as delineated in Section II.D of the procedures for naming college properties.

Mr. Ulvila shared that the Carol M. Jacobsohn Foundation, a primary instrument for the philanthropy of Mr. Henry N. Libby and Dr. Ellen W. Libby, has made significant gifts to the AACC Foundation for the benefit of the college since 2007. These Philanthropic gifts have provided financial support for Allied Health Program equipment, renovation of two laboratory spaces in the Florestano Building, TEACH Institute programming, three AACC Foundation scholarships, and the Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades, and event sponsorships. Mr. Libby was elected to serve on the Board of the AACC Foundation since 2010, when he served as President, Vice President, Investment Committee Chair and Campaign Steering Committee Vice Chair. Mr. and Dr. Libby have established a positive brand by supporting organizations that help men and women pursue educational and developmental opportunities that lead to self-sufficiency and career success.

There are no fiscal implications. The AACC Foundation will pay the costs associated with the purchase and installation of the building signage.

By motion of Mr. Hall, seconded by Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor, the Board of Trustees voted unanimously to approve the naming of Class Lab #1 (Welding) in the Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades as The Carol M. Jacobsohn Foundation Lab in recognition of the lifetime contributions of the Carol M. Jacobsohn Foundation, Mr. Henry N. Libby, and Dr. Ellen W. Libby.

Mr. Hall reported that he received a publication in the mail regarding the AACC Foundation and its accomplishments. He congratulated the foundation and the college for the excellent work and community outreach.

V. PRESIDENT’S REPORT – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President

A. Information Items

1. College Updates – Dr. Lindsay

Dr. Lindsay was pleased to share that the college received a $1.7 million award from the Local Development Council. She pointed out the funds are not new money to the college but part of our approved operating budget for FY2020. The county uses casino revenue to fund the budget. The funds came to the college as unrestricted without the college’s total operating appropriation from the county. These funds allow the college to continue existing operations at Arundel Mills and the Center for Cyber and Professional Training (CCPT) in West County.

Dr. Lindsay reported that in September the college hosted a two-day conference for all K-12 Anne Arundel Public School counselors when leadership shared updates in the areas of learner support, learning, continuing education, placement of students and fields of interest. During the month of September, she also met with the constituency group leaders to discuss concerns, address issue and celebrate successes. These meetings align with the college’s shared governance model. On October 2, the college hosted an information session for 20-30 landscaping businesses to discuss our landscape maintenance apprenticeship program in support of our new certificate. In October, the college also welcomed St. John’s College President to campus for discussions about partnerships with the humanities and liberal arts department.

Dr. Lindsay was pleased to share how the Ratcliffe Foundation helped fund the Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades. She reported that last month, the Ratcliffe Foundation invited Board Chair Ulvila, AACC Foundation chair, and executive director of AACC Foundation to its board meeting for a check presentation. Dr. Lindsay also shared that she had the opportunity to see AACC’s musical production Sunset Boulevard and was pleased to see a faculty member in the lead role. Dr. Lindsay reported other college successes that included the Medical Assistant Program ranking third in the state in a recent survey by medicalassistantadvice.com and AACC being one of only four community colleges out of 97 institutions in the United States that qualifies as a Higher Education Excellence in Diversity Award winners, due in large part to the leadership of Chief Diversity Officer Dr. Deidra Dennie. Lastly, Dr. Lindsay spoke about the exquisite artwork mural on the Glen Burnie Town Center county building that was created by AACC student artists.

2. Agenda Item V.A.2, was moved to follow III.A.

3. Strategic Communications Update – Dan Baum, Executive Director, Strategic Communications

Mr. Baum was pleased to share new initiatives from the Strategic Communications department. He reported that Strategic Communications practices a philosophy of integrated marketing communications by using a variety of media to convey the same message visually to different audiences. The media is broken into four core categories referred to as Paid Media, Earned Media, Shared Media, and Owned Media (PESO).

To address the competitive field of paid advertising, Strategic Communications recruited a team of student volunteer “Road Hawks” who agreed to have their vehicles wrapped with AACC brand messaging. These student drive their cars to certain areas in the county serving as AACC ambassadors. Additionally, six-second video spots produced in-house in collaborations with faculty and students is a new platform for AACC advertising. (Four six-second video spots were shared with the listening audience). Mr. Baum reported that Strategic Communications has also targeted campaigns throughout the year in the digital environment.

Mr. Baum reported that earned media targets media and public relations through local, regional and national publications, newsletters, speaking opportunities and guest columns. He was pleased to share the college had been featured on the front page numerous times in the Capital which exposes the college to greater coverage in the Sun, as well as other media outlets.

In the area of owned media, Mr. Baum reported that Strategic Communications produces content and design work that includes brochures, flyers, videos, direct mail, events, signage and banners. The department has oversight of the website content, working in collaboration with subject matter experts and content contributors around the college. Additionally, Strategic Communications produces and prints Wingspan magazine, which is sent twice a year to every household in the county.

In the area of shared media, Mr. Baum advised that Strategic Communications manages the social media platforms of Facebook, Linkedin, Twitter, Instagram and Vine for social marketing. He was pleased to report the podcast, Redefine You, is a new initiative that is becoming increasingly popular. Although launched in the fall, the podcast already has three episodes. The episodes show students in the process of transforming or redefining themselves with a subject matter faculty or staff expert who shares insight on the transformation process from their respective disciplines. He was pleased to report that Senior Graphic Designer Ben Pierce created animated illustrations for each podcast – a video clip was displayed for the listening audience. A new podcast season will begin in January 2020.

Mr. Hall commented that the college’s cable television program does not appear to be as updated as the online media platforms. He inquired about its marketability. Mr. Baum advised that a team is working to enhance the content of the cable television program.

4. Monthly Update on Accreditation – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President

Dr. Lindsay reported that under the leadership of Dr. Gregory Schrader and Dr. Alycia Marshall, the steering committee met September 20, 2019, and established a timeline for planning, communication and implementation of our accreditation site visits scheduled for March 2023. The vice-presidents communicated to the committee the importance of the Strategic Plan and the Self-Study report. The committee has scheduled training to help prepare for the Self-Study design.

5. Student Government Association (SGA) – Mitchell Santos, President

Mr. Santos reported that the SGA elected its Vice President of Finance Kevin Lemus and has elected 11 senators to date. Senators facilitate communication between SGA and other student organizations. Mr. Santos stated that the SGA strives to elect 15 senator positions by the end of this academic year. He continued that spirit week occurred from September 23 – 27, 2019, and each spirit day event provided engaging events which fostered further community relations between student organizations and the SGA.

Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor wanted to know how students would start a new student organization. Mr. Santos responded a student organization could be established if no other organization existed similar in nature. The student would need ten signatures from other students approving the organization. Then, a constitution would have to be created, and the SGA President would be contacted for the organization’s approval at an SGA meeting.

6. Academic Forum/Council – Myra Dennis, Chair

Ms. Dennis reported that the Academic Forum/Council held its first meeting on September 26, 2019, when each committee chair presented goals for the academic year 2019-2020. All committee goals were provided to the Board of Trustees prior to public session.

7. The Faculty Organization (TFO) – Dr. Rachelle Tannenbaum, President – No report

8. Professional and Support Staff Organization (PSSO) – Sarah Earle, President – No report

9. Administrative Staff Organization (ASO) – Dr. Tiffany Boykin, Esq., President Dr. Boykin reported that the general body met on September 17, 2019, when the Human Resources and IDEAL Departments provided updates. A mailbox was established for suggestions and comments from ASO membership and others. The new mailbox is asopresident@aacc.edu. Dr. Boykin reported that the committee is actively working on the FY2020 goals that were submitted to the Board of Trustees prior to public session. Lastly, she reported the overwhelming number of responses for the ASO membership to participate in various campus committees. The next ASO meeting will be November 12, 2019.

10. Maryland Association of Community Colleges (MACC) Activities – Dr. Dawn Lindsay

Dr. Lindsay reported the MACC Board of Directors will be meeting on October 30, 2019, at AACC. At that meeting, the MACC Board will be voting on the approved 2020 MACC Legislative Agenda, which is on today’s public session agenda for board approval. At the MACC Board Meeting, representatives from each college vote on behalf of the college on issues that are brought forward. At the September 20, 2019, Maryland Council for Community College Presidents meeting, it was announced that MACC will not have its annual completion summit in December. On January 27, 2020, MACC will hold its annual MACC Trustee Leadership Conference and Legislative Reception at the Calvert House in Annapolis.

V.B.1. Approval of Contract for Printing and Mailing Services for the Credit and Noncredit Schedule of Classes and Wingspan Magazine – Melissa A. Beardmore, Vice President, Learning Resources Management

Ms. Beardmore reported that the Board of Trustees awarded the base year contract at its October 11, 2016, meeting for services beginning with the Winter 2016 schedule and annual options to extend through Fall 2021. This contract extension is for the printing and mailing of the credit, noncredit scheduled classes and the Wingspan magazine. Ms. Beardmore explained that the Credit Schedule of Classes is sent to current students in spring, summer and fall; the Noncredit Schedule of Classes is sent county wide in Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter; and the Wingspan Magazine is sent county wide in Spring and Fall. The college is using the same vendor Corporate Press, Inc., formally McArdle Solutions. The estimated cost decreased from the prior year extension because course description information was reduced. This resulted in fewer pages and cost savings. Ms. Beardmore advised that sufficient funds are available for this contract extension. Funding for this project will come from the Strategic Communications operating budget.

By motion of Mr. Hall, seconded by Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor, the Board of Trustees voted unanimously to approve the third of four (4) one (1) year contract extensions for the printing and mailing services for the credit and noncredit schedule of classes, and Wingspan Magazine to Corporate Press, Inc. of Lanham, Maryland in an amount not to exceed $526,514.

V.B.2. Approval of Award of Contract for the John A. Cade Center for Fine Arts Roof Replacement - Melissa A. Beardmore, Vice President, Learning Resources Management

Ms. Beardmore reported that this contract is for the John A. Cade Center for Fine Arts on the Arnold Campus roof replacement, as the roof is beyond its 20-year warranty. The contract will include the removal, repair and replacement with a new thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO ) membrane roof. The pricing is competitive and consistent with prior projects, adjusting for the scope of work. Ms. Beardmore reported a 10% contingency is included in the pricing for unforeseen conditions. The funding will come from the college’s State Funded Systemics capital budget. The State Funded Systemics capital budget currently has $1,003,877 in unencumbered funds. Therefore, sufficient funds are available for this contract.

By motion of Ms. Moore, seconded by Ms. Darrah, the Board of Trustees voted unanimously to approve the award of contract for the roof replacement of the John A. Cade Center for Fine Arts to Cole Roofing, of Baltimore, Maryland in an amount not to exceed $496,540.

V.B.3. Approval of the Draft 2020 MACC Legislative Agenda – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President

Dr. Lindsay reported that the Board of Trustees is asked to approve the draft 2020 Maryland Association of Community Colleges (MACC) Legislative Agenda as shown in Exhibit 1. This draft sets forth the community colleges’ priorities for inclusion in MACC's Legislative Agenda for the 2020 General Assembly session, along with additional initiatives. Dr. Lindsay reported that the draft MACC Legislative Agenda for the upcoming session of the General Assembly is being brought to the Board of Trustees for approval prior to the MACC presenting it to the MACC Board of Directors at the end of the month. With the board's approval of the draft 2020 MACC Legislative Agenda, an affirmative vote will be cast by AACC Board Chair on behalf of the college to approve the Legislative Agenda at the October 30, 2019, MACC Board of Directors meeting.

By motion of Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor, seconded by Ms. Moore, the Board of Trustees voted unanimously to approve the Draft 2020 MACC Legislative Agenda.

NEW BUSINESS

Ms. Darrah praised the college for its positive influence on students. In a recent social setting, Ms. Darrah had a conversation with a nursing student who raved about the nursing department’s faculty and staff who welcomed and supported her during a career transition in the latter part of her life. The feedback Ms. Darrah received was a strong indicator of the college’s impact on students.

Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor shared that on Monday, October 14, 2019, she will be attending the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) Conference in San Francisco, CA and will be representing the college on its northeast diversity committee. She intends to run for chair and will report back on the outcome.

VII. NEXT BOARD MEETING

Chair Ulvila advised that the next board meeting will be November 12, 2019, at 4 p.m. in CADE 219.

VIII. ADJOURNMENT

The meeting was adjourned at 5:05 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,
Dr. Dawn Lindsay
Secretary-Treasurer

An executive session of the Board of Trustees was held on October 7, 2019, at 2 p.m. via conference call. Because the board intended to obtain legal advice, pursuant to section 3-305(7) of the Open Meetings Act, a vote was taken to close the meeting pursuant to the General Provisions Article of the Maryland Annotated Code Section 3-305(d)(2)(i)(ii). The following board members participated in the conference call and voted to close the session: Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., chair; Sandra E. Moore, vice chair; Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Jerome W. Klasmeier, and Van Mason. Counsel was also present on the call. The meeting began at 2 p.m. and ended at 2:10 p.m.

Members present: Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair; Sandra E. Moore, Vice Chair; Paula J. Darrah, J.D.; Rev. Dr. Diane R. Dixon-Proctor; Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr.; Walter J. Hall; Jerome W. Klasmeier; Van Mason; and Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President

I. CALL TO ORDER AND APPROVAL OF AGENDA

The public session of the Board of Trustees was called to order by Mr. Ulvila at 4 p.m. in Cade 219.

By motion of Dr. Johnson, seconded by Mr. Hall, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the November 12, 2019, Board of Trustees public session agenda.

II. WELCOME AND INTRODUCTIONS

III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair

A. Minutes of the October 8, 2019, Board of Trustees Meeting

By motion of Ms. Moore, seconded by Mr. Hall, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the October 8, 2019, Board of Trustees public session minutes with Dr. Johnson abstaining due to his absence.

IV. BOARD CHAIR AND COMMITTEE REPORTS

A. Audit and Finance Committee – Walter J. Hall, Committee Chair

Mr. Hall reported the Audit and Finance Committee met on October 10, 2019, and held an audit report meeting with Ms. Christina Bowman, principal from CliftonLarsonAllen, LLP to discuss the results of the FY2019 audit. The auditors issued an unmodified, or clean opinion, with no management advisory letter, material weaknesses, significant deficiencies, control deficiencies or audit adjustments. Additionally, the auditor's report disclosed no findings or recommendations on the federal financial aid and grants audit. Mr. Hall reported that Ms. Bowman complimented the management team on their preparation, noting that all requested documentation and reports were available upon request.

Mr. Hall continued that the committee received an update on two new accounting managements. Government accounting standard core statement number 84, covering fiduciary activity, and number 87 covering leases. The college will continue to evaluate these pronouncements and will update the committee accordingly. The committee also received a presentation from Information Security Director John Williams on the college’s information and security and business continuity programs, as well as an update on the status of the other post-employee benefits. Lastly, the committee discussed the FY2020 operating budget status report as of September 20, 2019, and the anticipated annual results, noting the college is operating within existing resources.

Mr. Hall complimented the President and her team on the consistent, outstanding performance the college has been receiving over the years, with respect to its financial activities. He added the college is known for its academic performance but noted that it should be well known for its administration and fiscal performance as well.

By motion of Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor, seconded by Mr. Klasmeier, the Board of Trustees accepted the college’s FY2019 financial statements audited by CliftonLarsonAllen, LLP.

B. Board Development Committee – Paula J. Darrah, Committee Chair

Ms. Darrah reported the Development Committee has moved forward with steps to conduct a board self-assessment. The college received a proposal from the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) to work with the committee chair, board chair and college president to develop a customized self-assessment instrument for full board approval. Data will be collected, and ACCT will prepare a confidential summary analysis for the board's review in January. In lieu of the January 14, 2020, public session, a half-day board workshop will be held beginning at noon on January 14 when an ACCT consultant will provide a summary analysis for the board’s review and discussion. The committee is looking for consensus from the Board of Trustees to move forward to engage ACCT for the assessment.

C. Board Policy Oversight Committee – Vice Chair Sandra E. Moore, Board Representative and Committee Chair

Ms. Moore reported the Board Policy Oversight Committee did not meet in November, but is currently reviewing board policies, making recommendations for revisions, adding new policies, deleting and removing outdated ones or policies no longer needed from the Board Policy Manual. Ms. Moore stated the Writing Policy, approved by the Board of Trustees on March 12, 1991, is outdated and the key concepts of it are currently included in the College Manual and/or the Freedom of Teaching. Because the Writing Policy is a board-approved policy, the board is being asked to approve its deletion and removal from the Board Policy Manual. The Writing Policy was originally recommended for deletion in 2013, but was never acted upon. If the Board of Trustees approves the deletion, removal of this policy will be deleted and removed from the Board Policy Manual effective November 12, 2019. There are no fiscal implications anticipated with the removal of this policy.

Ms. Darrah, serving as a member of the board policy oversight committee, shared that the committee was not against the Writing Policy. The committee believed the policy should be removed as a board policy because the policy existed elsewhere at the college.

By motion of Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor, seconded by Mr. Hall, the Board of Trustees voted unanimously to approve the deletion and removal of the Writing Policy, shown in Exhibit 1, from the Board Policy Manual, effective November 12, 2019.

D. Budget Committee – Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Committee Chair

Dr. Johnson reported the Budget Committee met on November 1, 2019, to discuss the preliminary planning for the FY2021 budget. The committee reviewed the FY2020 Financial Status report as of September 30, 2019. While tuition and fees revenue is projected to be under budget, there are projected expenditure savings to accommodate the shortfall. The committee also discussed the guiding principles and budget priorities which included the Health and Life Sciences Building, the Expansion of the Nursing Program, and the Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades. The committee was also briefed on the preliminary projections and assumptions regarding key variables in the revenue and expenditures budget for FY2021. The FY2021 budget will be a challenge as a result of continued revenue constraints. Lastly, the committee reviewed the initial draft of the Multi-Year Budget Planning tool, which helps assess the impact of current year decision on future operations. The committee received a demonstration of a new tool that allows for real time adjustments in key variables and charting of the impact of those adjustments on the budget over several years. This tool will be used throughout the budget development process to access the budgetary implications of planned strategies and shared with the full Board at its February 2020 budget workshop.

E. Facilities Committee – Jerome W. Klasmeier, Chair

Mr. Klasmeier reported The Facilities Committee met on October 29, 2019, when Cullen Murray, AACC Foundation Board President and Mitch Krebs, AACC Foundation Board Treasurer discussed the partnership between the college and the foundation as it relates to the Arundel Mills property and The Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades. The committee then heard updates on the Health & Life Sciences building. Steel installation is scheduled to finish at the end of December; concrete slabs will be completed in January 2020; and the new Ring Road will re-open on January 6, 2020. The project continues to be on schedule, within budget and on track for LEED Silver designation.

F. Human Resources Committee – Rev. Dr. Diane Dixon-Proctor, Committee Chair

Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor reported the Human Resources committee heard updates on Employee Engagement work which includes connections across the campus by establishing programs and equitable practices that reflect the college’s values. Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor stated the current strategic plan focuses on students by increasing completion and equity. However, the same level of attention will be given to employees with a goal of increased connection and equity. Three projects are underway that focus on employee recruitment & onboarding, professional development and employee resource groups. Additional projects will be identified within the FY21–FY24 Strategic Plan. The committee also received an update on the multi-year project to update the college’s employee recruitment processes to infuse equity, diversity and inclusion into the processes while also ensuring consistency and transparency of those processes. Lastly, the committee received an update on changes made by the county to the employee health insurance program for calendar year 2020 benefits.

G. Report of Trustees’ Liaison to the AACC Foundation – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair

Ms. Mason read a letter from a student recipient of the Teresa Denise McCarty Scholarship. The student is a first-generation college student who works three jobs, one of which is at a local hospital. The student wishes to become a certified CT technician and is grateful for the scholarship to achieve that educational dream.

Mr. Ulvila was pleased to report that the foundation campaign revenue is now just over $6.56 million. As of October 31, 2019, the fundraising total for the current fiscal year is approximately $782,000 in gifts and commitments. He reported the AACC Foundation recently received a generous gift of $27,500 to establish a new endowed scholarship to support students studying accounting or bookkeeping at AACC. Additionally, Deerbrook Charitable Trust issued a $250,000 challenge grant in support of the Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades. This is a 2:1 match, with Deerbrook giving 50 cents for every dollar received. Eligible donors for the match include new supporters of the AACC Foundation as well as previously engaged supporters who make a gift or commitment 10% greater than their previous annual contributions. Lastly, Mr. Ulvila reminded board members that the Foundation Board of Directors Joint Board Reception will be on Wednesday, December 4, 2019, at 6 p.m. Executive Assistant to the Board Tracie Thomas will send additional information regarding logistics later in the week.

V. PRESIDENT’S REPORT – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President

A. Information Items

1. College Updates – Dr. Lindsay

Dr. Lindsay reported on October 9, she and Board Chair Lawrence Ulvila co-presented at the AACC John E. Roueche Future Leaders Institute conference in Washington, DC. Their presentation focused on creating a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion. The conference enabled them to provide leadership support to deans, assistant/associate deans and directors. On October 10, Executive Director of Institutional Advancement and Foundation Vollie Melson joined Dr. Lindsay at a check-signing ceremony in honor of the Chaney family for the naming of Class Lab #3 in the Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades.

Dr. Lindsay reported the college continues to engage with the county and community. On October 29, the college hosted a breakfast for high school principals of Anne Arundel County Public Schools (AACPS) to provide an overview and update of the President’s Opportunity Scholarship Program. During the breakfast, principals heard testimonials from two students currently in the program. On November 12, the college was pleased to have Delegate Mike Rogers at the Arundel Mills location and Delegate Mark Chang at Glen Burnie Town Center in support of Senior Registration and Student Veterans Day. In continuing with the college’s long-held special tradition of honoring servicemen and women, on November 12 the college hosted its annual Veterans’ Day Ceremony which was an opportunity for the college to pay tribute and publicly acknowledge the names of faculty, staff, family members and veteran students who have either served or who are serving in the military.

Lastly, Dr. Lindsay was pleased to share college successes that included five architecture students sweeping the community college award category at the Maryland American Institute of Architects (AIA) State Awards Gala in Baltimore, MD. AACC was the only community college that received awards. On October 17, a graduation ceremony was held on campus celebrating 34 students who earned their Maryland high school diplomas through AACC’s School of Continuing Education and Workforce Development’s Adult Basic Skills Program and Anne Arundel County Public Schools’ National External Diploma Program. Dr. Lindsay was pleased to share 3,173 students have passed the GED exam since July 1998 with the assistance of AACC’s GED Programs.

2. Enrollment Update – Dr. Felicia Patterson, Vice President, Learner Support Services

Dr. Patterson reported on the Systemic Enrollment Management Matrix Plan and how, in its third year, the matrix is creating initiatives to strategically and systemically impact enrollment. Some of those initiatives include admissions by territory using zip codes to include high schools, businesses, as well as community agencies to build relationships and opportunities for enrollment. The college’s partnerships with Anne Arundel County Public Schools is also strengthening dual enrollment through Math First, a program that ensures high school students are ready for college math. Dr. Patterson was pleased to share the program already has 310 students enrolled. Dr. Patterson reported zip code analytics continues to progress with a 3.5% conversation rate increase for fall 2019.

Dr. Patterson was pleased to report the Hispanic enrollment is continuously growing as the website has financial aid in Spanish and online chats are now automatically translating Spanish to English. Additionally, the first Hispanic Business Leaders Breakfast was held this year to develop relationships with Hispanic business owners. A campaign to expand text-to-chat services to all students is currently underway, as the college has approximately 24,000 online chats. In support of outreach initiatives, The Care Campaign is helping students at the 15, 13, and 8-week marker with enrollment and registration, and the college participated with Councilwoman Allison Pickard with the Glen Burnie Town Center revitalization work.

Through Student Engagement, emergency support expanded its partnership with the Maryland Food Bank for deliveries at the Arnold campus and Glen Burnie location. The Student Advisory Committees at the Glen Burnie and Arundel Mills locations are helping the college identify further enrollment opportunities; the Transformative, Ethical, Accountable & Leadership (TEAL) Campaign is being launched to focus on the mindset of enrollment and customer service through the Human Resources and Strategic Communications departments. Lastly, the college is exploring the feasibility of Esports to increase enrollment. Esports is a competitive electronic gaming for athletic and academic programs in support of the gaming industry.

Dr. Patterson reported future initiatives include business advisory meetings with the businesses around the Glen Burnie Town Center and Arundel Mills locations; intake touchpoints to guide students towards completion; and student retention connections with faculty to work with students through their entire academic journey.

Dr. Lindsay commented the work done at Glen Burnie Town Center and Arundel Mills is a collaborative effort of all three divisions to create a seamless experience for students.

Dr. Johnson wanted to know how the college would react if the advisory committee stated a particular major was no longer needed due to economic decline, particularly if the program was adequately enrolled and was a long-standing program of the college. Dr. Patterson responded if the scenario existed, the college would have discussions with the vice president of learning to determine the needs of the program and if something could be done differently. She pointed out the business advisory committee would provide feedback in those instances.

Regarding the text-to-chat initiative, Mr. Hall wanted to know if the college had any behavioral challenges with student cell phone use in the classroom and employee use outside the classroom. Dr. Patterson responded the college has general guidelines and precautions on texting. Students, faculty and staff are very thoughtful when texting. She stated the preferred communication at the college is email and added irresponsible texting has not been an issue at the college.

Mr. Klasmeier felt the Judiciary of Maryland could be a good referral source for enrollment. He wanted to know if judges were familiar with the capabilities of the college to possibly help at-risk youth. Dr. Patterson deferred the question to the Dean of the School of Business & Law Karen Cook who advised she would research and report back to the board. Dr. Lindsay commented the college offers the Woodland Job Corps program which provides culinary training to students as an alternative path.

Dr. Johnson commented on the trend of enrollment decline. He wanted to know if completion initiatives were impacting enrollment. With the increasing number of first-semester students and more students graduating, Dr. Johnson stated total enrollment is going down. He wanted to know when enrollment would flatten out. Dr. Patterson confirmed the college is doing great work to help students complete, but when students quickly complete, enrollment is impacted. She advised that she and the vice president of learning are currently discussing how a balance could be established with enrolled students matching the rate of completion.

Ms. Darrah commented that the college seems to be targeting enrollment by territory, age, sex, minority, and zip code. She wanted to know if a dashboard exists that determines the results of the targeted areas. Dr. Patterson responded the data was not included in the dashboards, but the results of the targeted areas could be provided.

Mr. Hall asked if there was a difference in the performance of students in various high schools that could subsequently impact enrollment and completion. Dr. Patterson responded the college had not tracked the performance by high schools but could provide the data. Dr. Johnson suggested zip code dashboards could be a great starting point to obtain the information. He stated territories are not the same. Thus, the same model should not be used to track data.

Ms. Mason asked how the needs of students with IEPs are being met. Dr. Patterson responded that disability support services are offered to students who request accommodations. Dr. Lindsay added faculty and staff are doing an amazing job tuning into students who need accommodations but advised that unlike the K-12 system, AACC students have to voluntarily request support services.

3. Strategic Plan Update – Dr. Michael Gavin, Vice President, Learning

Before introducing the vice president of learning, Dr. Lindsay reported the Strategic Planning Council met to discuss taking Engagement Matters Pathways to Completion to the next level. She advised that the strategic plan would be brought to the board as an information item in May 2020 with approval in June 2020.

Dr. Gavin reported the strategic planning process links the budget to goals of the college to determine improvements and measure success. With the Board of Trustees support, the college allocated funds towards strategic goals. Dr. Gavin displayed data of the college offering the same amount of degrees in 2016 as in 2019. He shared the college is now taking 100% less of an FTE to gradate students. Although eradication of achievement gaps is a goal, Dr. Gavin reported there has been a 2.1% reduction in equity gaps for students of minority status. Full-time faculty have offices to engage students. Thus, data shows 10% more full-time faculty are engaging students with 22% less release time utilized. This is the result of efficient use of course scheduling and staffing and the assistant dean and director restructure. Dr. Gavin reported the pathways for developmental math and English has been redesigned to require students less courses to receive credit level English and math. This results in less FTE and less revenue for the college because enrollment drops.

Mr. Hall wanted to know how the college would ensure the quality of education would not change with the curricular redesign. Dr. Gavin explained the college used a piloted ALP model to determine students’ pass rate and performance in the preceding course. Discussion continued about students taking courses simultaneously rather than sequentially in one semester because there is no prerequisite requirement. The content would not be reduced; it would be given during the same semester. The math redesign is self-paced with outcomes not changing. Thus, the quality of a student’s education would not change.

Dr. Gavin shared the significant work and benefit of the student planning module that was piloted fall 2019 where upon entry, students are able to see a pathway of completion with semester courses based on their academic pathway. Additionally, search filter options now help students see sections, length of courses, day of the week, time of day and special courses to foster completion. Dr. Gavin shared achieving completion is equally as important as what occurs after completion. He reported the college will continue to streamline and make enhancements to the student experience with regard to transfer. The college is working on five Umbrella Agreements to be presented to four-year institutions leading to a total of 42 pathways. Transfer credit will be awarded in four to five days of receipt of transcript.

4. Monthly Update on Accreditation – Dr. Alycia Marshall, Accreditation Liaison Officer

On behalf of Steering Committee Chair Dr. Gregory Schrader, Accreditation Liaison Officer Dr. Alycia Marshall reported that the steering committee met on October 18 and established a detailed timeline of planning, training and work team development for FY2020. The Committee has begun work on job descriptions for work team liaisons and Chairs, as well as developing reporting documentation for the work teams. Middle States progress and committee needs will be communicated to the college community and each constituency group in the upcoming months. The Steering Committee continues to obtain professional development and organizes future logistics for the accreditation process. Five members of the Steering Committee will be attending the Middle States annual conference in Philadelphia in early December.

Dr. Johnson inquired if the college was meeting its timeline targets. Dr. Marshall responded that professional development for steering committee members has enabled the college to be ahead of schedule. Dr. Lindsay added the college did not stop the process but continued its work after the last self-study. Mr. Hall asked if the college had any visits from accreditation representatives. Dr. Lindsay responded that the college has not had visits since 2013, but the college submits year-end reports. Ms. Moore expressed her appreciation for the college’s continuity to ensure accreditation standards are met on a day-to-day basis.

5. Student Government Association (SGA) – Mitchell Santos, President

Mr. Santos reported the Student Government Association (SGA) goals for the 2019-2020 academic year include holding the following events: (1) monthly tables or events from the SGA’s Outreach, Publicity and Diversity Committees; (2) one event per semester pertaining to information about student organizations; (3) one fundraiser event per semester; (4) one event that fosters collaboration between student organizations, per semester; and (5) one event centered on faculty, staff and community, per year. SGA is hosting a Gift of Education raffle from November 11-22, in which the raffle winner will receive the tuition cost of a three credit course. Proceeds from the raffle will be donated to Arundel Lodge, a non-profit that focuses on mental healthcare. Arundel Lodge partners with the college through the Service Learning Department. The SGA is also planning a week-long event between student organizations called Clubsgiving that will occur from November 18-22. Student organizations will be hosting Thanksgivingthemed tables providing information about their organization and holding giveaways in Sun Dining Hall.

6. Academic Forum/Council – Myra Dennis, Chair – No report

7. The Faculty Organization (TFO) – Dr. Rachelle Tannenbaum, President

Dr. Tannenbaum thanked the board for its long-standing support and reported on the formalized goals of the standing committees that were previously sent to the board for review. Those committees include Compensation, Adjunct Faculty Affairs, Promotion and Tenure, Grievance, and Online Policies & Practices. This year the compensation committee will advocate for a 5% pool for faculty raises and the funding of an adjunct Lecturer III rank. Additionally, an ad hoc committee will look at elements of how faculty are evaluated and tenure awarded. This ad hoc committee will likely require two years for this work due to the impact it will have on all faculty.

8. Professional and Support Staff Organization (PSSO) – Sarah Earle, President

Ms. Earle thanked President Dawn Lindsay, Vice President of Learning Dr. Michael Gavin, Vice President of Learner Support Services Dr. Felicia Patterson, and Chief Diversity Officer Dr. Deidra Dennie for their participation and willingness to answer questions during PSSO’s open forum. The PSSO Engagement Committee is achieving its goal to build community relationships as the committee hosted its first “Get to Know” event on October 17. The event was an opportunity to meet and get to know fellow colleagues playing PSSO Bingo. Approximately 40 PSSO members attended. Ms. Earle also reported that the Community Service Committee is having its annual Fall Meal Drive. This year the Meal Drive will benefit AACC students, faculty and staff in need. Donations received by November 15 will help with Thanksgiving and those received by November 27 will help with December needs.

9. Administrative Staff Organization (ASO) – Dr. Tiffany Boykin, Esq., President – No report

10. Maryland Association of Community Colleges (MACC) Activities – Dr. Dawn Lindsay

Dr. Lindsay reported during the October 11 Maryland Council of Community College Presidents meeting, updates were given about the Community College Promise Scholarship, Workforce Readiness Grant Regulations, and potential cybersecurity partnerships. Vice President of Learning Dr. Michael Gavin also presented with Dr. Rosalie Mince from Carroll Community College on the Transferability Scorecard. The goal of the scorecard is to ease the obstacles that many community college graduates face upon transfer and have the two-year and four-year institutions work together to improve the transfer experience for students. On October 30, the MACC Board of Directors held its semi-annual meeting at AACC when Board Chair Lawrence Ulvila, who is also MACC treasurer, welcomed everyone. Trustee Dr. James Johnson also attended. Among the items voted on and approved by the MACC Board was the 2020 MACC Legislative Agenda, which our board approved at last month’s public session. Student Advocacy Day will be Tuesday, February 4, 2020, when community college students from across Maryland head to Annapolis and have the opportunity to meet face-to-face with their elected officials and share their personal stories and obstacles they face to attain an education.

V.B.1. Approval of Award of Degrees and Certificates – Dr. Michael Gavin, Vice President, Learning

Dr. Gavin asked the Board of Trustees to approve the award of associates degrees and certificates to be conferred by the President upon those students certified by the faculty to have fulfilled the requirements for a degree or certificate by the end of the fall 2019 semester. If the Board approves the main motion, the associate degrees and certificates will be awarded as appropriate.

By motion of Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor, seconded by Mr. Hall, the Board of Trustees voted unanimously to approve the award of the associate degrees and certificates to be conferred by the president upon those students certified by the faculty to have fulfilled the requirements for a degree or certificate by the end of the fall 2019 semester.

NEW BUSINESS

Dr. Johnson commented that the approval of award and degrees and certificates is an agenda item that is presented every semester. As such, he suggested the board consider giving the college president authority to approve the award on behalf of the board to avoid its reoccurrence. Mr. Klasmeier stated the law might require board approval. Dr. Lindsay stated the college would research the matter and report back to the board.

Mr. Klasmeier requested permission to ask Associate Vice President for Learning Resources Management Andrew Little a question. Mr. Ulvila approved the request. Mr. Klasmeier wanted to know how many years the college received an unqualified audit.

Mr. Little responded the college has received unqualified audit for ten years or longer. Mr. Klasmeier commented on the remarkable achievement, stating the college’s ability to receive money is largely influenced by its success to account for it. He stated the audit is an indication of being fiscally responsible. Mr. Klasmeier complimented President Lindsay, Vice President of Learning Resources Management Melissa Beardmore and her team for their outstanding work.

VII. NEXT BOARD MEETING

Chair Ulvila advised that the next board meeting will be December 10, 2019, at 4 p.m. in CADE 219.

VIII. ADJOURNMENT

The meeting adjourned at 5:20 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,
Dr. Dawn Lindsay
Secretary-Treasurer

Members present: Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair; Sandra E. Moore, Vice Chair; Paula J. Darrah, J.D.; Rev. Dr. Diane R. Dixon-Proctor; Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr.; Walter J. Hall; Jerome W. Klasmeier; and Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President

I. CALL TO ORDER AND APPROVAL OF AGENDA

The public session of the Board of Trustees was called to order by Mr. Ulvila at 4 p.m. in Cade 219.

By motion of Ms. Moore, seconded by Mr. Hall, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the December 10, 2019, Board of Trustees public session agenda.

II. WELCOME AND INTRODUCTIONS

III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair

A. Minutes of the November 12, 2019, Board of Trustees Meeting

Ms. Darrah requested an amendment to the board minutes, stating the Board Development Committee Report should indicate the Board participating in a half-day workshop on January 14, 2020, rather than a half-day retreat. Additionally, Dr. Johnson requested the minutes be amended to reflect clearer language that the board concurred to engage the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) for the board assessment and subsequent workshop. By motion of Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor, seconded by Mr. Hall, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the November 12, 2019, Board of Trustees public session minutes to include the two amendments.

IV. BOARD CHAIR AND COMMITTEE REPORTS

A. Audit and Finance Committee – Walter J. Hall, Committee Chair

There was no report from the Audit and Finance Committee.

B. Board Development Committee – Paula J. Darrah, Committee Chair

Ms. Darrah reported the college has entered into an agreement with the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) to assist the Board of Trustees with its board self-assessment process. The self-assessment process aligns with the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and related standards for accreditation. On December 2, ACCT sent an online confidential assessment to each board member to be completed by December 16, and will collect and analyze the data and submit a final summary report to the full board the week of January 6, 2020. The report will give the Board the opportunity to assess goal setting and determine performance and overall contributions. On January 14, 2020, a representative from ACCT will facilitate a workshop for the board to discuss the information learned from the self-assessment.

C. Board Policy Oversight Committee – Vice Chair Sandra E. Moore, Board Representative and Committee Chair

Ms. Moore reported the Board Policy Oversight Committee met twice since the last Board of Trustees meeting to review drafts of new policies and revise existing ones. Upon review, the committee realized the Board currently does not have a policy on Academic Freedom. The committee recommends establishing a policy, as the Board fully supports academic freedom for the college faculty, staff, and students. Ms. Moore stated legal counsel and AACC staff worked hard to develop the draft policy. She complimented the three constituency groups for their time, input and commitment to establish subcommittees on this very important subject. Upon the recommendation of the Board Policy Oversight Committee, Ms. Moore reported that the addition of the Academic Freedom Policy, Agenda Item IV.C.1, is being brought before the Board as an information item and will be brought back for approval at the February 25 public session. Ms. Moore read the Academic Policy, Exhibit 1 of Agenda Item IV.C.1.

D. Budget Committee – Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Committee Chair

There was no report from the Budget Committee.

E. Facilities Committee – Jerome W. Klasmeier, Chair

There was no report from the Facilities Committee.

F. Human Resources Committee – Rev. Dr. Diane Dixon-Proctor, Committee Chair

There was no report from the Human Resources Committee.

G. Report of Trustees’ Liaison to the AACC Foundation – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair

Mr. Ulvila read a letter from a student recipient of the Thomas P. Carpenter Memorial Scholarship. The student states the TEACH Institute is an amazing asset in preparing him for future work as a teacher. He expressed gratitude for the scholarship and its positive effect on his life to acquire a valuable education.

Mr. Ulvila was pleased to share the campaign revenue for the last 30 months is now just a little over $7.1 million towards the $8 million goal. As of December 4, the fundraising total for the current fiscal year is approximately $1.3 million in gifts and commitments including a $195,000 donation received last week towards the Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades. At the December 4 meeting of the Foundation Board, the board approved the signing of contract documents with Whiting-Turner for construction and equipping the Clauson Center. The Foundation Board also approved a financing package from Howard Bank with an agreement securing a very favorable interest rate. Mr. Ulvila pointed out that the Foundation agreed to raise $4 million for the project which, as currently designed, will cost $5 million but stated the Foundation will cover the gap between total dollars raised and building costs and interest charges with unrestricted assets. He stated this was a historic board meeting for the AACC Foundation and its partnership with the college, as it will bring a much needed resource to the community.

Mr. Ulvila reported that last month a generous donor established their third endowed scholarship with the Foundation. He was pleased to share that after this donor heard about the Clauson Center, the same donor decided to establish a fourth endowed scholarship with a gift of $27,500 to support students studying welding or framing and finish carpentry. This donor now has scholarships at AACC in her name and one in each memory of her father, mother, and brother. The foundation is privileged to be part of this legacy.

Through the AACC Office of Sponsored Programs, Mr. Ulvila stated the Maryland Higher Education Commission awarded a new nursing faculty fellowship to six nursing faculty. Additionally, the Foundation recently received a generous gift totaling $200,000 from an anonymous donor to support nursing scholarships and equipment for the nursing program. Looking ahead, the college administration and Foundation staff are identifying several spaces within the Health and Life Sciences building that would be attractive naming opportunities for donors. These will be brought to the Board of Trustees for consideration early in the new year.

V. PRESIDENT’S REPORT – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President

A. Information Items

1. College Updates – Dr. Lindsay

Dr. Lindsay commended Board Vice Chair Sandra Moore for her leadership and incredibly collaborative work with faculty and staff as committee chair of the Board Policy Oversight Committee. Then, she reported that on November 20, college staff joined her for the Hard Hat Tour and Luncheon at The Hall Live! The tour provided a sneak peek of the 75,000 square foot three-story multi-use event center, which will now be the college’s commencement venue. On December 2, Dr. Lindsay and the vice presidents met with County Executive Steuart Pittman and Chief Administrative Officer Ben Birge to share the recent successes of the college’s strategic plan. On December 3, the college welcomed Senator Sarah Elfreth, her chief of staff, and a legislative aide for Delegate Alice Cain. Two AACC student ambassadors provided the campus tour.

Dr. Lindsay was pleased to share that the college has taken great strides engaging and supporting faculty and staff in a manner very similar to that directed to our students through the college's strategic plan. This engagement work will increase employee connections so deliverables are clear and tasks are accomplished by the end of the fiscal year. On November 21, Dr. Lindsay attended a Meeting of the Minds Forum titled, The Business of Politics and the Politics of Business, which provided a safe environment for students, faculty and staff to candidly dialogue on matters pertaining to business practices and ethical responsibility, all while maintaining civil discord.

Dr. Lindsay was pleased to share the launching of the Virtual Innovation Spaces at the college, stating the spaces were designed to encourage participation and feedback from faculty and staff in the areas of engaged workforce, exceptional student experience, equity, inclusion, and excellence. Sharing innovative ideas will help lead the college into the planning stages of its next strategic plan, which will be brought to the Board in May as an informational item and June for action and approval.

Dr. Lindsay reported that Nancy Lineman, a talented attorney, will join the college staff on December 16 as its new full-time federal compliance officer. This position was a recommendation that came out of the Campus Climate Survey.

Dr. Lindsay thanked the entire AACC community for another successful calendar year. She stated AACC is known as the community’s college, but pointed out that it takes a community to build a college for which she was grateful. She thanked everyone for their positive work and influence in the lives of students.

Lastly, Dr. Lindsay thanked the Board of Trustees for their commitment, reminding everyone that the Board is a group of volunteers who are appointed because of their interest in the college and belief in the school’s mission. She appreciated the Board’s continued support and thanked the entire AACC community for being change-agents for the college. She wished all a wonderful holiday season.

2. Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Update – Dr. Deidra Dennie, Chief Diversity Officer

Dr. Dennie advised that within the last two years the Office of Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Access and Leadership (IDEAL), presented at four conferences and conducted 40 workshops and 25 special request presentations. She reminded everyone that words do matter and referenced the terminology language guide provided to the Board pertaining to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). She believed using the same common language, as noted in the guide, is vital to public discourse. In an effort to bring awareness to hidden biases and eliminate unintended consequences when using certain language, Dr. Dennie advised that the campus community read, Blind Spot: Hidden Biases of Good People. This summer the community will read, White Fragility with book discussions through the spring.

Dr. Dennie was pleased to share AACC’s partnership with the county executive. She reported that the college, along with the Office of Equity for Anne Arundel County Public Schools, is working with County Executive Steuart Pittman to host a summit on campus to address racism as a public health crisis. Although the date will be late February/early March, she indicated the county executive intends to provide an update on this year’s Maryland Hate/Bias Report at the summit. Dr. Dennie was also pleased to share that the college is hoping to host training for the Racial Equity Institute. The training will address racial inequities within county agencies and institutions. Dr. Dennie stated the summit and training are opportunities for AACC to eliminate and eradicate achievement gaps while addressing issues around race equity, inclusion, diversity and a sense of belonging for faculty, staff and students. Mr. Ulvila asked if the summit date could be provided to the Board. Dr. Dennie responded she would inform the board once the date has been determined.

Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor was pleased to hear the great work the college is doing to promote diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). As Chair of the Northeast District for DEI of the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT), Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor suggested the college provide ACCT its diversity report to share the wonderful work of the college.

Mr. Hall commented that eradication of achievement gaps should be a fundamental goal of the college and expressed interest in obtaining an update in that regard. Dr. Lindsay responded a more formal report can be provided by Vice President of Learning Dr. Michael Gavin.

3. Monthly Update on Accreditation – Dr. Dawn Lindsay

In the absence of Steering Committee Chair Dr. Gregory Schrader, President Lindsay reported, the Steering Committee met November 12 and continues to work on job descriptions for work team liaisons and chairs, as well as developing the reporting documentation for the work teams. The steering committee received confirmation that the college will be able to attend the Middle States Self Study Institute in October 2020, and five committee members are currently attending the Middle States Annual Conference in Philadelphia, PA. The Middle States Progress Committee work will continue to be communicated to the college and the constituent groups. The steering committee continues to obtain professional development and organize future logistics for the accreditation process. Dr. Lindsay reminded the Board that the cycle of accreditation work does not stop, as the college is working nonstop on recommendations from the college and Middle States.

4. Student Government Association (SGA) – Mitchell Santos, President

Mr. Santos reported that presently SGA has elected all 15 of its senator positions with elected members totaling 22, a number not reached in at least five years. Mr. Santos reported a recent resignation, but stated several eager candidates are willing to fill the position. He continued that SGA held its Gift of Education charity raffle from November 11-22 and raised a total of $220. The SGA also held its ClubsGiving week from November 18-22 which enabled eleven clubs to give back to the campus community with giveaways. The event was an opportunity to recruit members.

Mr. Hall wanted to know the percentage of students who are actively engaged in SGA activities in the course of a year. Although Mr. Santos could not provide the percentage, he stated there is a great overlap between students who participate and those who are inactive because many students work. This prevents their participation in extracurricular activities at the college

5. Academic Forum/Council – Myra Dennis, Chair – No report

7. The Faculty Organization (TFO) – Dr. Rachelle Tannenbaum, President – No report

8. Professional and Support Staff Organization (PSSO) – Sarah Earle, President – No report

9. Administrative Staff Organization (ASO) – Dr. Tiffany Boykin, Esq., President

Dr. Boykin reported the ASO held its second general body meeting on November 12 when Dr. Lindsey provided an update on next year’s budget development, the Clauson Center opening, strategic planning steps, new hire announcements as well as the Board’s policy review subcommittee. Human Resources provided an update on the college’s new recruitment guide while the Compensation Committee gave an update on its recommended salary pool percentage. A robust discussion was also held to develop strategies for greater connectivity with Professional and Support Staff Organization’s (PSSO) team members.

Dr. Boykin shared ASO’s FY2020 goals. Those goals include: collaborating with the Diversity Committee and college leadership to support the college’s strategic plan through focus groups; supporting the college’s strategic direction and initiatives concerning employee relations and engagement among ASO membership; increasing total Helplink program donations among ASO membership by 10% in November through payroll deductions, gift card give-aways and food donations; and conducting a comprehensive review of the ASO Charter to ensure its language reflect current practices. Dr. Boykin reported the next ASO meeting is scheduled in February 2020 and advised that her office has additional copies of the book, Blind Spot: Hidden Biases of Good People, should board members want a copy.

10. Maryland Association of Community Colleges (MACC) Activities – Dr. Dawn Lindsay

Dr. Lindsay reported MACC is preparing for the opening of the 2020 general assembly. Members of the new general assembly will be sworn in on January 8, 2020, opening day of the 441st session. She reminded the Board that MACC will hold its annual MACC Trustee Leadership Conference and Legislative Reception on January 27, 2020, at the Calvert House from 4 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

V.B.1. Approval of Award of Contract for Carpet Removal and Installation – Melissa A. Beardmore, Vice President, Learning Resources Management

Ms. Beardmore reported the contract award is for the carpet removal and replacement at the Harold and Lillian Vanous Nutt Center for Applied Learning and Technology (CALT) and AACC at Arundel Mills. The carpet on average is about 16 years old. Exhibit 2 displays areas, primarily hallways, in the CALT building where the carpet will be replaced, while most of the existing carpet in the Arundel Mills building will be replaced. The total square yards of carpet replacement in both buildings is approximately 7,644 square yards. The carpet replacement is Class A fire retardant and warranted for 15 years, similar to carpet type in airports and heavy use retail areas. Ms. Beardmore stated the scope of work and reported the college received close bids from vendors with a differentiator of labor rates. The estimated field adjustments are 10%. If the board approves the contract, work will begin over spring break. The Campus Improvement capital budget currently has $2.7 million in unencumbered funds. Thus, sufficient funds are available for the contact with any remaining funds for emergencies.

On Exhibit 2, Dr. Johnson noticed an uncarpeted area on the fourth floor of Arundel Mills resembling a carpeted area on the same floor. He inquired about the difference. Ms. Beardmore responded the area (Room 407) is currently not carpeted because it is a science lab.

Mr. Hall wanted to know if the college had previously worked with L&R Enterprises and how long the company had been in business. Ms. Beardmore responded L&R Enterprises primarily works with Anne Arundel County Public Schools which has vetted and verified their qualifications. Mr. Ulvila agreed, stating L&R has already met all bid specifications, according to the standard bidding process. Ms. Beardmore reported that L&R Enterprises has been in business for 43 years. Mr. Klasmeier asked if the carpet and replacement job was bonded. Ms. Beardmore confirmed that it was.

By motion of Dr. Johnson, seconded by Mr. Klasmeier, the Board of Trustees voted unanimously to approve the award of contract for the removal and installation of carpeting in the Harold and Lillian Vanous Nutt Center for Applied Learning and Technology, and AACC at Arundel Mills to L&R Enterprises, Inc. t/a L&R Floors of Hyattsville, Maryland in an amount not to exceed $341,352.

V.B.2. Extension of Contact for Student Admission Application System – Dr. Felicia L. Patterson, Vice President, Learner Support Services

Dr. Patterson reported that the board is being asked to approve a 41-month extension to the contract with Ellucian for the Recruit Constituent Relationship Management (CRM) Student Admission Application System. She stated the college has used Recruit as its online credit application admissions platform since FY2012. By entering into a 41-month contract, it will co-term the agreement with the college's fiscal year and secure fixed pricing over the next three years. Ellucian Recruit provides a streamlined automated application experience for students and helps the college minimize errors that might happen when uploading student data. The online platform provides greater operational efficiency, data integrity and data security than a paper-based application.

Dr. Patterson stated negotiations began when the college received Ellucian’s initial contract renewal pricing. The college was presented with three pricing options which includes the proposed 41-month contract extension. The annualized cost of $63,130 reflects 7% increase over the previous contract. By entering into a multiyear agreement, the college anticipates a savings of $7,676 over the term of the contract when compared to the 17-month contract.

The cost for the estimated administrative license adjustments represents the estimate from Information Services for the potential of additional administrative licenses should the college expand the system use to include limited enrollment program applications. If the Board approves the contract extension, the college will enter into the 41-month contract from February 1, 2020 to June 30, 2023. Funding will come from the Information Services operating budget. Subject to continuing appropriation, sufficient funds are available for the purchase.

Ms. Darrah inquired if the projected savings were only based upon projected hypothetical increases. Dr. Patterson confirmed, stating the vendor advised the increases were expected. Ms. Darrah asked what the vendor-advised and anticipated price increase for FY2022-2023 of the 17-month contract meant. Dr. Patterson responded that the anticipated price increase would be 7%.

Dr. Johnson referred to Exhibit 1, pointing out the three cost comparisons of 17-month, 41-month and 65- month contracts synchronized with the college’s fiscal year, but stated the 65-month contract provides the greatest savings. He then wanted to know why the 41-month option was selected. Dr. Patterson responded the college was hesitant to lock in for 65 months and felt more comfortable with the shorter term should adjustments need to be made. Dr. Johnson asked if there were penalties to terminate the contract if the college found a better product. Associate Vice President of Learning Resources Management Andrew Little responded the only cancellation clause in the contract is the continuing appropriation clause. Thus, the college is committed to the full contract, subject to continuing appropriation.

By motion of Mr. Hall, seconded by Mr. Klasmeier, the Board of Trustees voted to approve the 41 month contract extension to the Ellucian Company, L.P., of Reston, Virginia for the college’s Recruit Student Application System in an amount not to exceed $221,694 with Ms. Darrah opposing the motion.

NEW BUSINESS

None.

VII. NEXT BOARD MEETING

Chair Ulvila advised the Board will have its workshop on January 14, 2020. The next board meeting will be February 25, 2020.

VIII. ADJOURNMENT

The meeting adjourned at 4:50 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,
Dr. Dawn Lindsay
Secretary-Treasurer

Members present: Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair; Sandra E. Moore, Vice Chair; Paula J. Darrah, J.D.; Rev. Dr. Diane R. Dixon-Proctor; Walter J. Hall; Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr.; Jerome W. Klasmeier; Van Mason; and Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President

I. CALL TO ORDER AND APPROVAL OF AGENDA

The public session of the Board of Trustees was called to order by Mr. Ulvila at 4:04 p.m. in Cade 219.

By motion of Ms. Moore, seconded by Mr. Klasmeier, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the February 25, 2020, Board of Trustees public session agenda.

II. WELCOME AND INTRODUCTIONS

III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair

A. Minutes of the December 10, 2019, Board of Trustees Meeting

By motion of Ms. Moore, seconded by Ms. Darrah, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the minutes of the December 10, 2019, Board of Trustees meeting.

Mr. Ulvila asked Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor to report on her activities with the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT).

ACCT Report – Rev. Dr. Diane Dixon-Proctor, Elected member of ACCT DEI Committee Northeast Region 2018-2023

Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor stated that on February 9-12, 2020, she represented the college at the ACCT National Legislative Summit on Capitol Hill in Washington DC where she and other community college trustees from across the country met to discuss and take community college legislative priorities to state senators and Congress representatives. At the summit, Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor presented the college’s groundbreaking diversity work and shared updates at the ACCT coordinators network meeting as the voice of Maryland's community college.

Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor summarized some of the hot topics that were discussed at the summit and stated it was a pleasure to represent AACC as a member of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) committee of ACCT. She explained the committee strives to define equality and impartiality in student educational outcomes regardless of race and ethnicity. The committee focuses on moving beyond issues of access by placing success outcomes to students of color at center focus. Dr. Dixon-Proctor was pleased to serve the committee and support its chair promote equality for all.

CHANGE IN THE ORDER OF THE AGENDA

Mr. Klasmeier proposed to change the order of the agenda and bring action items V.B.1 – V.B.3 to the board at this time. The board agreed to bring those agenda items forward.

V.B.1 Approval of Faculty Promotions – Dr. Michael H. Gavin, Vice President, Learning

By motion of Mr. Klasmeier, seconded by Ms. Mason, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the president’s recommendations for promotions, effective August 16, 2020, of the following faculty to the rank as listed:

• Associate Professor: Robert E. Beatty, Business Administration/Accounting; Audra H. Butler, Ed.D., Achieving College/Career Advancement; David (Forrest) M. Caskey, Academic Literacies; T. Camercon Caswell, Library; A. Mickey Dehn, Biology; Ashley D. Hernandez, Nursing; and, Shyamala Sivalingam, Ph.D., Chemistry.
• Full Professor: Garrett J. Brown, Ph.D., English; Ruimin Hu, D.SC, Computer Science; Matthew P. Klos, Visual Arts & Humanities; Wayne Kobylinski, Ph.D., English; Robert R. Lowe, III, Architecture and Interior Design; and Alice P. Stephens, Nursing.

V.B.2 Approval of Faculty Tenure – Dr. Michael H. Gavin, Vice President, Learning

By motion of Dr. Johnson, seconded by Mr. Klasmeier, the board unanimously approved the president’s recommendations for the award of tenure, effective August 16, 2020, to the following faculty: Robert T. Carp, Chemistry; Karen E. Israel, Ph.D., Biology; Theodore J. Johnson, Visual Arts; Matthew M. Patton, Ph.D., Psychology; Karen K. Phelan, Ed.D., Education; Uzma Qureshi, Ph.D., Economics; Heidi L. Rayner, Nursing; Anthony C. Santorelli, Ph.D., Physical Science; Brandi L. Ulrich, Business Management; Benjamin J. Weibell, Ph.D., Biology; Peter M. Wirig, J.D., Legal Studies; and Margaret L. Wyatt, Nursing.

V.B.3 Approval of Faculty Sabbaticals – Dr. Michael H. Gavin, Vice President, Learning

Dr. Gavin introduced the faculty member recommended for sabbatical and briefly described how the faculty member’s sabbatical would benefit students and align with the college’s strategic plan, Engagement Matters: Pathways to Completion.

By motion of Ms. Moore, seconded by Ms. Mason, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the president’s recommendations for sabbatical leave for Professor Christopher Mona, fall 2020.

IV. BOARD CHAIR AND COMMITTEE REPORTS

A. Audit and Finance Committee – Walter J. Hall, Committee Chair

There was no report from the Audit and Finance Committee.

B. Board Development Committee – Paula J. Darrah, Committee Chair

Ms. Darrah reported that members of the board previously completed a self-assessment survey. Thereafter, the board participated in a workshop on January 14, 2020, that was lead by a facilitator from ACCT. Topics discussed during the workshop included effective and best practices for boards. Future committee meetings will include reviewing existing goals and measurements, developing better methods, updating board members of progress goals and individual performances, and updating the board of its overall targets.

C. Board Policy Oversight Committee – Vice Chair Sandra E. Moore, Board Representative and Committee Chair

Ms. Moore reported that the committee met last week to review drafts of new policies and revisions to existing ones. She stated since the board currently does not have a policy on academic freedom, the committee recommends that one be established. At the December 10, 2019 board meeting, the board received a copy of the Academic Freedom Policy as an information item. Although the committee made minor edits on the policy, the content did not change. Upon recommendation of the committee, the Academic Policy is being brought to the board for approval. Ms. Moore read the policy.

By motion of Ms. Moore, seconded by Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the Academic Freedom Policy, as shown in Exhibit 1.

Ms. Moore continued to report that on May 12, 2009, the board approved and adopted an Equal Opportunity and Non-Discrimination Policy. With input from legal counsel and AACC staff, the committee recommends updating the language in the policy to reflect the current federal and state protected classes. The Equal Opportunity and Non-Discrimination Policy is being brought to the board as an information item.

Ms. Moore stated that the committee, along with legal counsel and AACC staff, also recommends the board have a policy on equity, diversity, and inclusion to demonstrate the college's commitment to embracing, fostering, and sustaining equity, diversity, and inclusion in all of its activities at the college. The policy included input and feedback from the three constituent groups on campus. Upon the recommendation of the committee, both the revised Equal Opportunity and Non-Discrimination Policy and the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Policy will be brought to the full board for approval at the March 10, 2020, public session.

D. Budget Committee – Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Committee Chair

Dr. Johnson reported that the Budget Committee met three times since the last board meeting. At the December 12, 2019 meeting, the committee discussed the FY2020 operating budget status report as of November 30, 2019 and received a presentation on the college’s strategic planning efforts emphasizing the challenges the college continues to face in funding its key principles. The committee requested information on strategic planning and the strategic allocation of resources be incorporated into the February 13 budget workshop. At the January 16, 2020 meeting, the committee discussed the financial status report and the FY2021 budget. The operating budget is balanced as estimated expenditure saving are projected to offset the projected shortfalls in tuition and fee revenue. The committee also discussed several budget scenarios for FY2021 and the assessment of those scenarios in achievement of previously agreed to guiding principles and priorities. The committee agreed to present a single scenario at the board budget workshop that best met the guiding principles and priorities within the fiscal resources anticipated for FY2021. The committee also received the proposed FY2021-2026 capital budget and approved its presentation at the budget workshop. At the January 28, 2020 meeting, the committee received a more in depth review of the multi-year projections and assumptions utilizing the projection software for planning and strategy for future years.

Dr. Johnson commented that the committee considered several guiding principles for the proposed FY2021 operating budget and that the full board reviewed the budget at the February 13 board budget workshop. He stated the budget is the fourth budget developed within the framework of the college’s strategic plan: Engagement Matters: Pathways to Completion. While revenue constraints continue to create fiscal challenges, the college is able to continue reallocations to impactful initiatives in support of key strategic priorities. The college is pleased to bring forward a budget that includes a pool of funds for compensation increases in support of the board approved compensation policy. Dr. Johnson stated the governor’s budget includes an additional $2.1 million in state funding. The college is asking for an increase of the $4 million from the county, which brings the county funding to 41% of the budget. With that additional funding, the college is able to maintain affordability for students with a moderate tuition increase of $4 per credit hour, in-county. Lastly, Dr. Johnson stated the number one priority for the proposed FY2021 Capital Budget continues to be the construction of the new Health and Life Sciences building.

D.1 Approval of FY2021 College Operating Budget

Ms. Beardmore reported that the college is focused with intentionality on equity and has laid the groundwork for strategic priorities to guide budget decisions. She stated the business model is changing to make support services to students accessible regardless of location or site. Developmental education has been streamlined toward completion with the ultimate goal of eradicating achievement gaps.

Ms. Beardmore reported in the new Middle States standards, there is an overwhelming emphasis on assessment and how goals of the strategic plan are to guide planning, budgeting and decision-making and assessment in general. She reported the college is closing the current strategic plan and building the 2021-2024 strategic plan to ensure quality service to students while remaining fiscally resilient into the future. The draft will be brought to the board in May as an information with board approval in June.

Ms. Beardmore reported the shortfalls in tuition and fees of $1.8 million have been more than offset by $2.9 million in projected saving in expenditures. She provided comparative data and measurements of fiscal management and accountability, stating the college has high budgeting standards. Those standards are evidence in the college consistently receiving awards since 2017 from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) for budget presentations and best practices. Ms. Beardmore also recognized the excellent support from the AACC Foundation in funding scholarship to students.

Mr. Hall wanted to know last year’s turnover percentage and the projected percentage in the new budget. Ms. Beardmore responded that 7.3% was the percentage in FY2020 and 7.4% is the projected percentage for FY2021 due to unprecedented retirements. She stated a large percentage of the budget is salaries and benefits but pointed out the college looks at discretionary expenditures for savings. She was pleased to report the budget includes a line item for adjunct faculty compensation. She stated a pool of funds, consistent with the compensation plan that equates to 5% of the total compensation, has been allocated in the budget, and a similar pool has been allocated for adjunct rates. All align with the board's compensation policy and recommendations from shared governance committees.

Regarding state funding, Ms. Beardmore was pleased to share that the Governor’s budget of Cade funds was included in the budget. She felt there could be a potential for more state funding. Regarding county funding, Ms. Beardmore stated the county request is $4 million, which primarily equates to compensation. The budget also includes at $4 tuition increase, mandated by state law, which is capped at 4%. She reported the tuition stabilization fund (TSF) of $5 million is below the board’s policy of the total budgeted expenditures. She was pleased to report the college has a balanced budget with an operating fund budget request of $123,633,300 and an auxiliary, enterprise and restricted fund budget request of $39,987,000.

Mr. Klasmeier wanted to know if the college knew what the percentage increase would be if state funding increased. Ms. Beardmore responded the college budgeted a $2 million increase from state but the amount is dependent on the outcome of the Maryland General Assembly. Mr. Klasmeier asked if the County Council would preempt any action from the Board of Trustees. Ms. Beardmore confirmed, stating the County Council is ultimately the appropriation authority for the college. Mr. Ulvila pointed out that the main motion to approve the budget states the Board of Trustees reserves the right to revisit the budget after the state and county amounts have been finalized.

Mr. Klasmeier asked Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor if her discussions in Washington, DC involved any increase in federal funding toward community colleges across the country. Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor responded the conversations with senators did not indicate additional money allocated to any of the 16 community colleges; however, there is more funding through the Second Chance Pell Grants for incarcerated students. Ms. Beardmore stated the amount a student can be eligible for under the Pell Award went up to $250 in FY2020 and is not scheduled to increase in FY2021.

By motion of Dr. Johnson, seconded by Mr. Hall, the Board of Trustees voted unanimously to approve the FY2021 college operating budget request in the amount of $123,633,300 and the auxiliary, enterprise, and restricted funds appropriation authority in the amount of $39,087,000 and to authorize the President to submit the request to the County Executive. The Board of Trustees reserves the right to revisit the budget after the state and county funding amounts have been finalized.

D.2 Approval of FY2021 – FY2026 Capital Budget

Ms. Beardmore advised that with respect to the proposed FY2021-FY2026 capital budget, the college’s number one priority continues to be the construction of the new Health & Life Sciences building. The budget request also includes Information Technology enhancements to maintain the technology infrastructure. Other priorities included the renovation and addition of the Dragun Science building and the Florestano renovation. The capital budget also includes requests for funding for some deferred maintenance projects, repairs, and replacements.

By motion of Ms. Moore, seconded by Dr. Johnson, the Board of Trustees unanimously voted to approve the FY2021-2026 capital budget request as presented.

E. Facilities Committee – Jerome W. Klasmeier, Committee Chair

Mr. Klasmeier reported that the committee met twice since the last board meeting. At the December 17, 2020 meeting, the committee heard an update from Kevin Miller, director of document services on the Copier Fleet Replacement Program. The project continues to save the college money while improving service to the college community. At the February 13, 2020 meeting, the committee reviewed a draft agenda item for a color production machine lease; discussed The Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades Project; reviewed a draft temporary easement agreement; and heard an update on the Health & Life Sciences building project which continues to be on schedule, within budget and on track for LEED Silver designation. The committee also heard an update on the college's plans to update the current facilities master plan, with Dr. Johnson agreeing to serve on the Steering Committee for this project. Lastly, the committee reviewed the list of future procurements and discussed matters related to real estate.

F. Human Resources Committee – Rev. Dr. Diane Dixon-Proctor, Committee Chair

There was no report from the Human Resources Committee.

G. Report of Trustees’ Liaison to the AACC Foundation – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair

Ms. Mason read a thank you letter from the recipient of the Gill Grilling Company Scholarship. The student, one of ten children, is interested in a career in the culinary field. He appreciates the flexible class times that enable him to go to school while working long hours in the food industry. He is grateful for the financial support and the super helpful professors who really care about the people in their classes.

Mr. Ulvila reported that the fundraising campaign revenue for the last 32 months is now over $7.83 million. As of February 15, 2020, the fundraising total for the current fiscal year is approximately $2.08 million in gifts and commitments, with more than $240,000 being raised from 13 generous donors for the Deerbrook Charitable Trust Challenge Match to support the construction of The Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades. Mr. Ulvila was pleased to share that the Foundation received an extraordinary gift of stock worth approximately $340,000 from an anonymous donor. The donor has requested the funds provide $100,000 in scholarships to nursing students and $240,000 in scholarships to support students who are pursuing their workforce development certifications at The Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trade. The Crosby Foundation, established by the founders of Crosby Marketing Communications, awarded a grant through the Community Foundation of Anne Arundel County to fund two new annual scholarships. Lastly, Mr. Ulvila reminded everyone that the Foundation’s 2020 Scholarship Reception is Thursday, April 16 from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. in the SUN dining hall. Formal invitations will be sent in early March.

V. PRESIDENT’S REPORT – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President

A. Information Items

1. College Updates – Dr. Lindsay

Dr. Lindsay was pleased to share all the great things that have occurred since the last board meeting in December 2019. Construction for the new Health and Life Sciences Building continues to be on schedule and within budget. Ring Road reopened on January 6, 2020, and construction will continue until May of 2021. On January 8, the college community and board joined her at the Topping Out Event to celebrate the last piece of steel being installed for the new Health & Life Sciences building. On January 14, the college presented its preliminary 2021-2026 capital program to the county’s Capital Improvement Program Committee that included new construction, renovation projects, repairs and improvements. On February 4, students joined her in Annapolis to discuss and meet legislators to advocate for state support of Maryland community colleges as part of Student Advocacy Day. The Strategic Planning Council recently approved the draft goals and objectives of the new 2021-2024 Strategic Plan. In an effort to foster a collegiate community, open forums during the month of February were held on campus and at various locations for feedback and input for the new strategic plan.

Dr. Lindsay was pleased to share college successes that included: (1) Strategic Communications receiving numerous awards in graphic design in USA’s 2019 Graphic Design national competition; (2) AACC’s Department of Public Safety receiving a unanimous recommendation for re-accreditation from the International Association of Campus Law Enforcement Administrators (IACLEA); (3) the School of Liberal Arts receiving a three-year $100,000 grant from the National Endowment of Humanities thanks to Dean Alicia Morse’s hard work; (4) the college featured as a case study of launching institutional transformation in the book Team Leadership in Community Colleges; (5) the Board of Trustees recently receiving the John W. Nason Award for Board Leadership from the Association of Governing Boards with the case study of the board’s accomplishments being featured in the May/June issue of Trustee Magazine; (6) and Dr. Lindsay’s appointment of Vice Chair for the League of Innovation.

Dr. Lindsay stated that the college will be hosting the Fall League Meeting in Annapolis. She advised that she would be attending the Spring League Meeting in Seattle, WA later in the week. It is tradition that at the end of each board meeting, the college host shares a welcome video highlighting their college and city. Under the leadership of Dan Baum, executive director of Strategic Communications, an extraordinary video of AACC and Annapolis has been created. Dr. Lindsay advised that on Saturday she would be sharing the video with the League Board of Directors and Board Representatives as a preview for the fall board meeting in Annapolis. (The video was played for the audience). Dr. Lindsay expressed gratitude for the professionalism, creativity and innovation of the Strategic Communications Department.

2. Monthly Update on Accreditation – Dr. Gregory Schrader, Chair, Steering Committee

Dr. Schrader reported the steering committee met on December 13, 2019. The committee is in the process of finalizing the work team chairs and developing the training process for the teams. The committee continues to obtain professional development to learn more about the standards and the college’s strategic plan. The committee will also be meeting with constituency groups to communicate the Middle States progress and to obtain the names of those interested in serving as work team members.

3. Student Government Association (SGA) – Mitchell Santos, President

SGA President Mitchell Santos reported the SGA held its first General Forum for the spring semester on February 3, 2020. He shared the events and initiatives that SGA is planning for the spring semester to accomplish its objectives for the 2109-2020 academic year. He reported that SGA is currently accepting nominations for its Executive Board elections for the 2020-2021 academic year. Elections will take place from April 6-10. Announcements for the newly elected Executive Board will be April 13.

4. Academic Forum/Council – Myra Dennis, Chair

Ms. Dennis reported that the committee met four times this academic year, stating most of the work is done in the committees. She summarized the accomplishments of the Educational Policies and Curriculum Committee; Nominating Committee; Teaching and Learning Committee; and the Committee on eLearner Success. Detailed summaries were provided to the board prior to public session. She stated the Academic Standards Committee continues its work on reviewing and approving petitions while an Ad Hoc Committee is being formed to develop the procedure for the Academic Freedom Policy.

5. The Faculty Organization (TFO) – Dr. Rachelle Tannenbaum, President – No report

6. Professional and Support Staff Organization (PSSO) – Sarah Earle, President – No report

7. Administrative Staff Organization (ASO) – Dr. Tiffany Boykin, Esq., President

Dr. Boykin reported that the ASO held the first of two spring general membership meetings on February 11, 2020, when the vice presidents shared updates on the strategic planning efforts, goals and objectives. Representatives from Human Resources and Strategic Communications also spoke as well as the director of faculty and staff development and the chief diversity officer to support the college’s emphasis on employee relations and employee engagement. During the meeting, the new federal compliance officer introduced herself while the college’s Red Flags representative shared critical reminders when using Outlook email. The ASO continues to collaboratively work with the Diversity Committee and college leadership to support the college's strategic direction for responding to an addressing challenges revealed through the campus climate survey and focus groups.

8. Maryland Association of Community Colleges (MACC) Activities – Dr. Dawn Lindsay

Dr. Lindsay reported that the MACC Legislative Committee continues to meet on a weekly basis to review bills and their impact on the Maryland community colleges. She stated that she recently testified in support of HB 475: Community Colleges – Students with Disabilities. The bill would provide $2.5 million in grant funding to community colleges to help provide supplemental services to students. She was pleased to share that an AACC student testified and shared his story of being a student with hearing loss and how the AACC’s transcription service really transformed his educational experience. Lastly, Dr. Lindsay stated that upon the recommendation of the Maryland Council of Community Colleges Chief Academic Officers, the Completion Summit is scheduled on October 9, 2020. It is recommended that this be referred to as a Transfer Summit.

V.B.4. Approval Academic Programs – Dr. Michael H. Gavin, Vice President, Learning

Dr. Gavin advised that the Board of Trustees is being asked to approve three academic programs: American Sign Language (Associate of Arts), Technical Studies (Apprentice, Associate of Applied Science), and Spanish (Certificate). He explained the programs were approved by the committee on Educational Policies and Curriculum and the Academic Forum in fall 2019 and spring 2020. With the board’s approval, the Maryland Higher Education Commission will be notified of the college’s intent to offer the programs beginning in the fall of 2020, or later. The programs will consist of coursework that already have faculty and other instructional resources in place.

By motion of Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor, seconded by Mr. Hall, the Board of Trustees voted unanimously to approve the Associate programs of American Sign Language and Technical Studies and the Spanish Certificate program.

V.B.5. Approval of Proposed 2020-2021 Student Academic Calendar – Dr. Michael H. Gavin, Vice President, Learning

Dr. Gavin requested to amend Exhibit 1, Proposed Student Academic Calendar 2020-2021, of this agenda item so that it reflects the Summer Term 2021 Independence Day Break to be July 3 – July 5, 2020.

By motion of Ms. Mason, seconded by Dr. Johnson, the Board of Trustees voted unanimously to approve the 2020-2021 Student Academic Calendar, as amended, to be published in appropriate college publications.

V.B.6. Approval of Award of Contract for a 60-Month Color Production Machine Lease and Maintenance Program – Melissa A. Beardmore, Vice President, Learning Resources Management

Ms. Beardmore referenced the facilities committee report stating that this award of contract continues to improve document services to the college community while saving money. She explained the contract is to lease and maintain two large high-volume color production machines that are in the print shop of the Central Services building. She stated bids of the projected annual costs between Canon Solutions America, Inc. and United Business Technologies are very close, but pointed out the combined lease payment to Canon for two new machines is less than the current lease payment for the college’s single machine. The combined reductions will save the college another $50,000 per year over the term of the lease. If the board approves the award, the college will issue the purchase order for delivery mid-March. There are sufficient funds available for this contract.

Ms. Darrah inquired if the two new machines will function in the same capacity. Kevin Miller, director of document services, responded the machines are the same model and will perform in the same capacity. Ms. Mason asked if the machines could be used in other departments like the interior design department. Ms. Beardmore responded the college has an online web submission process for high volume specialized printing, noting the print shop is extremely responsive to printing requests.

By motion of Ms. Moore, seconded by Mr. Hall, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the award of contract for a 60-Month lease and maintenance program for two Canon C910 color production machines to Canon Solutions America, Inc. of Melville, New York.

V.B.7. Approval of a Temporary Access and Construction Easement to the AACC Foundation, Inc., in Support of The Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades – Melissa A. Beardmore, Vice President, Learning Resources Management

Ms. Beardmore reminded the board that in June of 2019, the board approved with the chair’s signature, a Memorandum of Understanding for the development of The Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades. She stated the temporary access and construction easement is necessary to allow access to the back of Parking Lot C in order to construct the building. If the board approves the easement, the board chair will sign the easement and provide it to the Director of Institutional Advancement Vollie Melson to execute on behalf of the Foundation.

Mr. Hall inquired about the legal liability should an accident occur on the land. Mr. Ulvila surmised that the construction company would provide the builder’s liability. Ms. Beardmore added Whiting Turner is the construction manager during construction. Mr. Ulvila asked if the college was the named insured. Legal Counsel Martin Snider responded the college would not be the named insured but would be the additional insured.

By motion of Dr. Johnson, seconded by Ms. Mason, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the board chair to execute the Temporary Access and Construction Easement.

VI. NEW BUSINESS

None

VII. NEXT BOARD MEETING

Mr. Ulvila stated that the next board meeting is two weeks away, March 10, 2020. He advised that Vice Chair Moore will preside at the meeting in his absence.

VIII. ADJOURNMENT

The meeting was adjourned at 5:58 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,
Dr. Dawn Lindsay
Secretary-Treasurer

Members present: Sandra E. Moore, Vice Chair; Paula J. Darrah, J.D.; Rev. Dr. Diane R. Dixon-Proctor; Jerome W. Klasmeier; Van Mason; and Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President

I. CALL TO ORDER AND APPROVAL OF AGENDA

The public session of the Board of Trustees was called to order by Vice Chair Sandra Moore at 4:00 p.m. in Cade 219.

By motion of Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor, seconded by Mr. Klasmeier, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the March 10, 2020, Board of Trustees public session agenda.

II. WELCOME AND INTRODUCTIONS

In the absence of Chair Lawrence Ulvila, Vice Chair Sandra Moore advised that she would be presiding over the public session.

III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – Sandra E. Moore, Vice Chair

A. Minutes of the February 13, 2020, Board of Trustees Budget Workshop

By motion of Mr. Klasmeier, seconded by Ms. Mason, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the minutes of the February 13, 2020, Board of Trustees budget workshop.

B. Minutes of the February 25, 2020, Board of Trustees Meeting

By motion of Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor, seconded by Mr. Klasmeier, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the minutes of the February 25, 2020, Board of Trustees meeting.

IV. BOARD CHAIR AND COMMITTEE REPORTS

A. Audit and Finance Committee – Walter J. Hall, Committee Chair

There was no report from the Audit and Finance Committee.

B. Board Development Committee – Paula J. Darrah, Committee Chair

There was no report from the Board Development Committee.

C. Board Policy Oversight Committee – Vice Chair Sandra E. Moore, Board Representative and Committee Chair

Ms. Moore reported that Anne Arundel Community College (AACC) currently has a board-approved Equal Opportunity and Non-Discrimination Policy, which was adopted by the board on May 12, 2009. The committee recommends updating the language in this policy to reflect the current federal and state protected classes. Ms. Moore stated legal counsel and AACC staff have worked on revisions to be added to the existing board-approved policy. If the board approves the policy, it will become effective the same date of approval.

By motion of Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor, seconded by Mr. Klasmeier, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the revised Equal Opportunity and Non-Discrimination Policy as shown in Exhibit 1, to become effective March 10, 2020.

Ms. Moore reported that the Board Policy Oversight Committee is conducting a comprehensive review of policies and recommends that the board have a policy on equity, diversity and inclusion. She stated the board fully supports and embraces all dimensions of diversity of the faculty, students and staff and recognizes how important those differences are to the contributions of the college. She pointed out that equity and inclusion are central to the college’s strategic plan and one of the college’s core values. Legal counsel and AACC staff have developed and reviewed this policy. If the board approves the policy, it will become effective the same date of approval.

By motion of Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor, seconded by Ms. Mason, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Policy as shown in Exhibit 1, to become effective March 10, 2020.

D. Budget Committee – Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Committee Chair

There was no report from the Board Budget Committee.

E. Facilities Committee – Jerome W. Klasmeier, Committee Chair

There was no report from the Facilities Committee.

F. Human Resources Committee – Rev. Dr. Diane Dixon-Proctor, Committee Chair

There was no report from the Human Resources Committee.

G. Report of Trustees’ Liaison to the AACC Foundation – Tamela “Van” Mason, Board Liaison

Ms. Mason read a thank you letter from the recipient of the Ladies of the Elk of Severna Park Scholarship. The student, an adult learner pursuing a degree later in life, will be completing her fourth semester of AACC’s nursing program. The program’s flexible schedule enables the student to be very present with her children. She is grateful to her professors and clinical instructors for their support and is thankful for the scholarship which enables her to be closer to completing the RN program.

Ms. Mason was pleased to report the fundraising campaign revenue is just over $7.83 million. She stated on March 2, 2020, AACC Foundation Board President Cullen Murray settled the Foundation’s loan with Howard Bank for the Clauson Center project with a fixed rate of 2.83% for seven years. She stated during the Foundation Board’s March 4, 2020 meeting, the board authorized the signing of the Easement Agreement with the college to allow construction of the Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades on the East Campus in Arnold. Lastly, Ms. Mason shared the Foundation is looking forward to board members joining them as they celebrate the successes of students, while thanking generous donors, at the Foundation Scholarship Reception on April 16 in SUN dining hall.

H. Appointment of the Nominating Committee – Sandra E. Moore, Vice Chair

Ms. Moore reported that Chair Lawrence Ulvila appointed herself (Trustee Moore) and Trustee Darrah to serve on the Nominating Committee as Chair and Vice Chair.

V. PRESIDENT’S REPORT – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President

A. Information Items

1. College Updates – Dr. Lindsay

Dr. Lindsay advised that to date, the first confirmed coronavirus cases in Maryland were in Montgomery and Hartford counties. Governor Hogan has declared a state of emergency to provide additional resources. Dr. Lindsay assured the community that AACC has activated its emergency management team, which holds daily morning calls to anticipate changes, plan scenarios, and identify resources needed if college operations become impacted. The college has provided regular updates to students, faculty and staff, and has provided a dedicated webpage as a resource. Although the college does not anticipate changes to pre-spring break, Dr. Lindsay stated if the situation warrants, the college could close prior to spring break, the way it would for a weather incident. Dr. Lindsay stated she will continue to provide updates to the college community by email and on the AACC website. The board received talking points last night and will receive an update via teleconference before spring break ends.

Dr. Lindsay reported that on February 26, the college was pleased to host the Anne Arundel Bias/Hate Crime Prevention Public Forum at the Kaufmann Theatre where she provided the welcoming remarks, and County Executive Steuart Pittman talked about the reasons why the event was being held in Anne Arundel County. She was also pleased to report on March 5, AACC hosted Coppin State University for a signing ceremony and luncheon to celebrate the executed articulation agreement which provides AACC students with several benefits. The college is still actively engaging with elected officials informing them about AACC successes, the impact of the Governor’s Budget Reconciliation and Finance Act of 2020, and the elimination of the Cade funding to AACC. The college met with Councilwoman Amanda Fielder on February 27, Councilwoman Amanda Pickard on March 2, and Senator Chris Van Hollen on March 6.

Dr. Lindsay was also pleased to share that she was selected by County Executive Steuart Pittman and the Caucus of African-American Leaders to receive the prestigious newly created Michelle Obama Executive Citation for making a difference in their communities. This year marks the centennial of women getting the right to vote. In celebration of women's history month, tonight, Dr. Lindsay will be one of the 100 women honored in Annapolis for helping to make Anne Arundel County “The Best Place” for all.

Lastly, Dr. Lindsay stated the college will be completely closed for spring break beginning March 16 and will re-open March 23. She stated the importance of all buildings remaining free and clear for facilities projects and maintenance work, as well as cabling and classroom technology upgrades. She wished all students, faculty and staff a very restful, safe and enjoyable spring break.

2. Campaign and Foundation Activities – Vollie Melson, Executive Director of Institutional Advancement & Foundation

Mr. Melson reported that for several years the Foundation has been transitioning its fundraising program from an event-space model to one that builds a major gift culture. He explained a major gift culture focuses on developing long-term relationship with donors, while over time understanding what outcomes they wish to achieve in the community. A major gift culture means regularly communicating with donors to share the impact of their giving while intentionally earning their trust through authentic communications. Mr. Melson stated leaders at the college join the Foundation staff to build these types of relationships and help donors understand how their giving is extending the reach of the college, to strengthen the community. Privately funded scholarships at the college are examples of increased yield, as the foundation transitions to a major gifts culture. In FY2014, $315,000 of scholarship funds were transferred to students. In FY2019, those funds grew to $1.1 million in private scholarship support. Since transitioning to a major gift culture, the amount of money transferred to the college for students and program support has nearly tripled to $1.4 million since FY2014.

Mr. Melson reported in FY2017, the Foundation transitioned to the college’s first comprehensive fundraising campaign which resulted in a four-year $8 million Launching the Future campaign. The campaign focused largely on building a center for innovation and skilled trades. Mr. Melson was pleased to share that after 33 months, the Foundation has commitments of $7.83 million of donor support. He stated the Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades has become a powerful example of how the college can respond to community needs. He thanked the board for their responsiveness to help the Foundation secure gifts when naming opportunities surfaced over the years.

Mr. Melson was pleased to share the Institutional Advancement team is bringing in about $5 million annually. He strongly believes if they continue to align resource development into planning, the Foundation would significantly raise more funds in the years to come. The development of the college’s new strategic plan provides both the opportunity and incentive to continue to work together to build the success.

3. Monthly Update on Accreditation – Dr. Gregory R. Schrader, Chair, Steering Committee

Dr. Schrader reported the steering committee met on February 28 to develop a framework for training the work teams for fall 2020. Surveys were sent last week to obtain names of those interested in being part of the work teams. The process for finalizing the work team chairs is nearing completion and a communications committee has been established to keep the college and community up to date on the Middle States progress.

4. Student Government Association (SGA) – Mitchell Santos, President

SGA President Mitchell Santos reported the SGA has determined its Executive Board candidates by nomination for elections for the 2020-2021 academic year. This year two candidates are being considered for presidency. Campaigns for candidates will occur through the month of March with announcements of the newly elected Executive Board taking place on April 13. The SGA and Student Engagement will host the annual Honors and Awards Ceremony on May 1. Mr. Santos was pleased to share SGA hosted an Art Faculty and Staff Celebration on March 6 with approximately 55 people in attendance.

5. Academic Forum/Council – Myra Dennis, Chair – No report

6. The Faculty Organization (TFO) – Dr. Rachelle Tannenbaum, President – No report

7. Professional and Support Staff Organization (PSSO) – Sarah Earle, President

Ms. Earle reported approximately 30-40 staff attended PSSO’s February Get-to-Know event where staff shared what they loved about AACC. The realignment of PSSO’s new area structure resulted in an increased participation amongst representatives and alternates. She was also pleased to share that 81% of representatives and alternates have attended PSSO meetings which is an increase from the past two fiscal years, and 18% of those attending the meetings have been new employees.

8. Administrative Staff Organization (ASO) – Dr. Tiffany Boykin, Esq., President – No report

9. Maryland Association of Community Colleges (MACC) Activities – Dr. Dawn Lindsay

Dr. Lindsay was pleased to report that college administrators provided testimony for legislation affecting community colleges. Mr. John Williams, director of information security, accompanied the chair of the chief technology officers affinity group for Maryland community colleges, who testified at hearings to ensure the community colleges were exempted in addition to the University System of Maryland, in proposed legislation on certain provisions of the law governing protection of information by government agencies. Dr. Tiffany Boykin, dean of student engagement, recently testified in support of HB 1175: Community Colleges – Hunger-Free Campus Grant Program, a bill which provides grant funding to community colleges to address student hunger and basic food needs on campus. Dr. Lindsay thanked the board for their support when meeting and talking with senators and delegates in the community. Lastly, she thanked Vice Chair Moore, Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor and Van Mason who represented the college at the March 9 Anne Arundel County Delegation Dinner.

B. Action Items

There were no action items.

VI. NEW BUSINESS

Mr. Klasmeier commented on this month’s Public Safety Report, citing that in 2019 the college had 24 state citations and 40 state warnings. He stated the college had no warnings or citations in 2020 and wanted to know if the college was no longer issuing traffic or moving violations on campus. Ms. Beardmore responded the numbers reflect past and present pedestrian conduct on campus.

VII. NEXT BOARD MEETING

The next board meeting will be April 14, 2020.

VIII. ADJOURNMENT

The meeting was adjourned at 4:30 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,
Dr. Dawn Lindsay
Secretary-Treasurer

via Zoom Video Conferencing

Members present: Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair; Sandra E. Moore, Vice Chair; Paula J. Darrah, J.D.; Rev. Dr. Diane R. Dixon-Proctor; Walter J. Hall; Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Jerome W. Klasmeier; Van Mason; and Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President

I. CALL TO ORDER AND APPROVAL OF AGENDA

The public session of the Board of Trustees was called to order by Chair Ulvila at 4 p.m. The meeting was open to the public via Zoom Video Conferencing in which attendees could hear and observe the meeting. Chair Ulvila asked Executive Assistant to the Board of Trustees Tracie Thomas to do a roll call. All board members were present, resulting in a quorum.

By motion of Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor, seconded by Mr. Hall, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the April 14, 2020, Board of Trustees public session agenda.

II. WELCOME AND INTRODUCTIONS

III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair

A. Minutes of the March 10, 2020, Board of Trustees Meeting

By motion of Ms. Moore, seconded by Mr. Hall, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the minutes of the March 10, 2020, Board of Trustees meeting with Mr. Ulvila, Dr. Johnson, and Mr. Hall abstaining due to their absence.

IV. BOARD CHAIR AND COMMITTEE REPORTS

A. Audit and Finance Committee – Walter J. Hall, Committee Chair

There was no report from the Audit and Finance Committee.

B. Board Development Committee – Paula J. Darrah, Committee Chair

There was no report from the Board Development Committee.

C. Board Policy Oversight Committee – Vice Chair Sandra E. Moore, Board Representative and Committee Chair

There was no report from the Board Policy Oversight Committee.

D. Budget Committee – Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Committee Chair

Dr. Johnson reported the committee met via Skype on Friday, March 27, 2020, to discuss the impact of the recently approved state budget and the impact on the college’s FY 2021 operating budget. The committee also discussed options for the additional state funding and supported the college’s plan to show the additional $2.1 million in state revenue with a corresponding reduction in tuition and fees revenue. The reduction in tuition and fees revenue is a contingency for the potential impact of COVID-19 on enrollment in FY 2021. The committee supported presenting the updated numbers to the county executive at the March 31, 2020, budget presentation.

E. Facilities Committee – Jerome W. Klasmeier, Committee Chair

Mr. Klasmeier reported that the committee met via Skype on April 7, 2020, and heard an update on the Health and Life Sciences building. The project continues to be on schedule and within budget. As a result of COVID-19, Whiting Turner’s workers have four ten-hour shifts and are following social distancing. Other than pavers for the sidewalks, Whiting Turner has not experienced any supplier issues. Next, the committee received an update on The Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades project. Site development comments from the county were responded to last week, and the college has been advised that the earliest update from the county would be mid-April. The design process continues and value-engineering work is underway to bring the project within budget. The committee also heard a brief update on the status of the master plan update which is currently on hold due to COVID-19. Lastly, the committee reviewed two draft procurements, both of which are on tonight’s agenda for approval.

F. Human Resources Committee – Rev. Dr. Diane Dixon-Proctor, Committee Chair

There was no report from the Human Resources Committee.

G. Report of Trustees’ Liaison to the AACC Foundation – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair

Ms. Mason read a letter from a recipient of the National Council of Jewish Women’s Margaret Libson Scholarship. The student is enrolled in the nursing program and is grateful for the scholarship which will help reach her goal to become a Certified Register Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA).

Mr. Ulvila was pleased to share total gifts and commitments for The Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades are approximately $3.38 million and total campaign revenue is just over $7.85 million. As the community rebuilds after the challenges of COVID-19, the programs being developed in The Clauson Center will prove essential for the economic health in the community. The Foundation continues to fundraise for The Clauson Center and was recently informed of a $20,000 gift from a local family foundation to support construction. The Foundation is currently engaging their donors and donor prospects remotely, checking in with major donors via telephone calls, and planning donor prospect engagements via Skype. Additionally, the Foundation recently released a short donor stewardship video recognizing AACC students and alumni who are front-line responders during COVID-19. Regrettably, the Foundation had to cancel the 2020 Scholarship Reception originally scheduled on April 16. The Foundation will electronically distribute a booklet highlighting AACC’s students and thanking the generous donors for supporting their education. Members of the Board will receive the booklet in late April.

H. Report of the Nominating Committee – Sandra E. Moore, Vice Chair

Ms. Moore presented the committee’s report recommending Trustees Sandra Moore and Paula Darrah as nominees for chair and vice chair effective July 1, 2020. A vote will take place at the May 12, 2020, board meeting. Dr. Johnson inquired about the nominating process. Ms. Moore responded that at March’s public session, trustees interested in serving as chair and vice chair were asked to inform the committee of their nomination. Then, the full board votes at the May board meeting. She stated that aside from Trustees Moore and Darrah, no other trustees have brought their name forward as nominees for the upcoming academic school year.

V. PRESIDENT’S REPORT – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President

A. Information Items

1. College Updates – Dr. Lindsay

Despite businesses shutting down, schools pausing, and social distancing becoming the norm due to COVID-19, Dr. Lindsay stated AACC’s first priority is the health and safety of students and the college’s workforce. She thanked the vice presidents who worked nonstop before, during, and after spring break to put best business practices in place for delivery of remote classes and services. She also thanked the Emergency Management Team, essential personnel, and other staff and faculty who worked in small teams creating recommendations and solutions to address the evolving challenges faced while coordinating with local, state and federal public health authorities to ensure the ongoing health and safety of the community. She stated AACC faculty, staff, leadership, and the Board of Trustees are doing everything possible to help the college move forward through an unprecedented situation.

Dr. Lindsay reported that each Wednesday she communicates to faculty, staff and students through email updates regarding student service deliverables and campus safety and in mid-March provided a video message on the school’s website. She was pleased to share that on March 30 all employees resumed work by telecommuting with no physical access to college buildings. Faculty and staff worked behind the scenes to ensure students successfully transition to complete the term. She was pleased to report that on April 6, students returned from an extended spring break. Classes resumed with services entirely online. On April 20, new five-week courses will be introduced for students interested in picking up additional classes but who might need more time to begin. Additionally, the School of Continuing Education & Workforce Development has new online classes in culinary, health and productivity, and new online courses are being offered for seniors.

Dr. Lindsay pointed out that through adversity comes opportunity. Through the adversity of COVID-19, the college has innovatively used technology to the fullest to virtually connect on a broader scale. She was pleased to virtually see a 60% increase in attendees during the Zoom public session. Additionally, the college is harnessing and utilizing technology tools to create content for remote learning for students in all sectors, and has established access to desktops for employees to remotely work. She added the college is also using its Helplink Program to offer basic needs and emergency aid to students in need, and its Food Pantry Services to deliver non-perishables to students, faculty and staff experiencing food shortage.

Dr. Lindsay thanked the community for entrusting her as president during these challenging times and confidently stated the college will get through the challenges presented by COVID-19 and emerge even stronger.

Mr. Hall congratulated the president, faculty and staff for their terrific job handling the COVID-19 pandemic but was concerned about its impact on students. He inquired if the college experienced any fallout of students as a consequence of the changing structure to online classes. Dr. Lindsay reported that the 1,300 face-to-face classes now being converted to online courses have created an upsurge in students who have dropped courses as a result of the pandemic. She was pleased to report the college is reaching out to students and working with any concerns they may have to retain them. She stated the new five-week program could help retention.

2. Monthly Update on Accreditation – Dr. Gregory R. Schrader, Chair, Steering Committee – No report

3. Student Government Association (SGA) – Mitchell Santos, President – No report

4. Academic Forum/Council – Myra Dennis, Chair – No report

5. The Faculty Organization (TFO) – Dr. Rachelle Tannenbaum, President – No report

6. Professional and Support Staff Organization (PSSO) – Sarah Earle, President – No report

7. Administrative Staff Organization (ASO) – Dr. Tiffany Boykin, Esq., President – No report

8. Maryland Association of Community Colleges (MACC) Activities – Dr. Dawn Lindsay

Dr. Lindsay reported the Maryland General Assembly Legislative Session adjourned 19 days early on Wednesday, March 18 to curtail the further spread of the coronavirus. Of the 2,744 bills introduced in 2020 Session of the Maryland General Assembly, MACC referred approximately 145 to the MACC Legislative Committee for review. Dr. Lindsay was pleased to share that the General Assembly restored the $18.2 million reduction in the Governor’s Budget Reconciliation and Finance Act (BRFA) made to the 2021 State aid allocation to community colleges. She reported the Maryland Council of Community College Presidents will meet this week. These meetings give her the opportunity to stay connected to her colleagues as they navigate through these unprecedented times in order to best serve students.

V.B.1. Approval of Award of Contract for Careers Center Pedestrian Bridge Repairs – Melissa A. Beardmore, Vice President, Learning Resources Management

Ms. Beardmore reported the contract award is for repairs to the Careers Center Pedestrian Bridge on the east side of campus. She explained the scope of work. Last fall the college conducted an engineering study which identified significant structural issues with the bridge. From that study, the design and scope of work for the repairs was developed. She pointed out the summary of the scope of work was listed in the first set of bullet points in the agenda item, along with overall percentages for the procurement. Ms. Beardmore stated in 2019, Whiting Turner completed a similar project for pedestrian bridge repair connecting the Student Union and Student Services Buildings. Based on criteria and with the review by the Board Facilities Committee, Whiting Turner was the highest scoring firm for this project. In addition to the proposal price, there is an estimated 10% field adjustment for unforeseen circumstances. If the board approves the award, a purchase order will be issued in the amount of the proposal price of $684,276. Ms. Beardmore pointed out the main motion is for the approval of the total contract award, so the college would not have to come back to the board if the 10% field adjustment would be needed. The work will begin in May and will be completed mid-August. Funding for this project will come from the Campus Improvement capital budget which currently has $1.7 million in unencumbered funds. Sufficient funds are available for this contract.

By motion of Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor, seconded by Mr. Klasmeier, the Board of Trustees unanimously voted to approve the award of contract for the pedestrian bridge repairs located at the Careers Center to the Whiting-Turner Contracting Company, of Baltimore, Maryland in an amount not to exceed $752,704.

V.B.2. Approval of Award of Contract for West Campus Amphitheater Repairs – Melissa A. Beardmore, Vice President, Learning Resources Management

Ms. Beardmore reported the contract award is for the West Campus Amphitheater located on the west side of the Arnold location. The repairs are visibly noticeable. The agenda item will be phased due to county permitting and funding. Ms. Beardmore explained that Phase I, dating back to 1996, is the greatest area that needs repair. Based on criteria and with the review by the Board Facilities Committee, E&R Services Inc., a local MDOT certified minority firm, ranked highest for the award of contract. Funding to complete Phase 1 will come from FY 2020. If the county approves the capital budget for FY 2021 Walkways, Roads and Parking Lots, funds will be available to complete Phase II. The contract includes a 10% contingency for estimated field adjustments for unforeseen circumstances. If the board approves the award, a purchase order will be issued for Phase I for $218,852. If the college’s capital budget for FY 2021 is approved on or about June 15, a purchase order will be issued for Phase II. The work will begin in May and will be completed mid-August.

By motion of Dr. Johnson, seconded by Mr. Klasmeier, the Board of Trustees unanimously voted to approve the award of contract for the west campus amphitheater repairs to E&R Services, Inc., of Lanham, Maryland for Phase I, and subject to FY 2021 capital appropriations Phase II, in the amount not to exceed $417,770.

VI. NEW BUSINESS

There was no new business.

VII. NEXT BOARD MEETING -- Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair

Mr. Ulvila advised that the next board meeting of May 12, 2020, will more than likely be held as a Zoom meeting. Details will be provided.

VIII. ADJOURNMENT

The meeting was adjourned at 4:30 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,
Dr. Dawn Lindsay
Secretary-Treasurer

via Zoom Video Communications

Members present: Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair; Sandra E. Moore, Vice Chair; Paula J. Darrah, J.D.; Rev. Dr. Diane R. Dixon-Proctor; Walter J. Hall; Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Jerome W. Klasmeier; Van Mason; and Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President

I. CALL TO ORDER AND APPROVAL OF AGENDA

The public session of the Board of Trustees was called to order by Chair Ulvila at 4 p.m. The meeting was open to the public via Zoom Video Communications allowing attendees to hear and observe the public session. Chair Ulvila asked Executive Assistant to the Board of Trustees Tracie Thomas to do a roll call. All board members were present resulting in a quorum.

By motion of Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor, seconded by Mr. Klasmeier, and a roll call of the remaining trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the May 12, 2020, Board of Trustees public session agenda.

II. WELCOME AND INTRODUCTIONS

III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair

A. Minutes of the April 14, 2020, Board of Trustees Meeting

By motion of Ms. Moore, seconded by Dr. Johnson, with a roll call of the remaining trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the April 14, 2020, Board of Trustees public session minutes.

IV. BOARD CHAIR AND COMMITTEE REPORTS

A. Audit and Finance Committee – Walter J. Hall, Committee Chair

There was no report from the Audit and Finance Committee.

B. Board Development Committee – Paula J. Darrah, Committee Chair

There was no report from the Board Development Committee.

C. Board Policy Oversight Committee – Vice Chair Sandra E. Moore, Board Representative and Committee Chair

Ms. Moore reported the committee met on April 28, 2020. She stated the board currently has an approved Acceptable Use of Information Technology Resources Policy, which was last revised January 11, 2011. There were changes classified by legal counsel as clerical, non-substantive modifications. While these modifications do not require board approval, in the spirit of transparency and upon the recommendation of the board policy oversight committee, the revised Acceptable Use of Information Technology Resources Policy is being brought to the board as an information item (Agenda Item IV.C.1). This agenda item will be brought back to the board for approval at its June 9, 2020, public session.

Mr. Ulvila inquired if comments on the policy should be brought forward during June’s public session or directed to the committee offline. Ms. Moore responded comments can be presented offline or during discussion after the motion has been presented at the next public session. Dr. Johnson believed it would be beneficial for the committee to obtain input on the policy prior to public session. Mr. Ulvila deferred to legal counsel. Mr. Snider reiterated Dr. Johnson’s suggestion stating comments or questions brought to the committee prior to public session would give the committee time to incorporate any they felt were appropriate before presenting the policy to the full board. Mr. Ulvila yielded his participation in the May 28 committee meeting to give Dr. Johnson an opportunity to present his comments. Dr. Johnson stated he could also provide comments in writing to the committee chair.

D. Budget Committee – Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Committee Chair

Dr. Johnson reported the committee met via Skype on April 23 and via Zoom on May 7 to discuss COVID19, the CARES Act, the Administrative Services Review project, and the FY2020 and FY2021 budgets. The COVID-19 update included the health and safety of the college community with the main goal of having classes prior to October 26 delivered online. The college will re-evaluate the plan to reinstate in person class attendance for the second 8-week fall session. The emergency management team continues to meet twice per week to review current federal and state guidance, adjust the planning scenarios, and identify operation and policy issues. Regarding the CARES Act, the college is eligible for two funding resources within the act: 50% is for direct emergency aid to students related to the disruption of campus operations due to COVID-19, and 50% is comprised of institutional funds. Dr. Johnson stated the Administrative Services Review project will provide the college with recommendations to maintain current levels of service at a lower cost, enhance services, and address existing service pain points. He explained administrative services include functions outside of the classroom - it does not include activities inside the classroom or the instructional program. He further explained the scope of the project.

Regarding the FY2020 budget, Dr. Johnson reported the college will finish the year with a balanced budget and could even add a small amount to the tuition stabilization fund. The fiscal impact of COVID19 will be in FY2021. He stated the committee reviewed several scenarios for the FY2021 budget that included: flat funding from the county; a potential elimination of the increase in state funding; and, several scenarios for enrollment declines. Each scenarios provides for proposed expenditure reductions to balance to the reduced revenues. Dr. Johnson stated the college presented its FY2021 budget to the county council on May 6 and requested restoration of $1.4 million in operating funds for the college to offer the same lump sum payment to employees that the county is funding for its non-represented employees and the county library. The college also requested restoration of $1.7 million in capital funding for the college’s Information Technology project. The county council is schedule to approve the county’s budget, of which the college is a component, on June 12, 2020.

E. Facilities Committee – Jerome W. Klasmeier, Committee Chair

Mr. Klasmeier reported in lieu of the April 23, 2020 facilities committee meeting, the committee received a written update on the Health & Life Sciences building and the Moore Road property. The Health & Life Sciences building project continues to be on schedule and within budget. As a result of COVID-19, Whiting Turner continues to have workers on four ten-hour shifts and is following social distancing. Although Whiting Turner is experiencing some supplier and labor issues, none of these issues are in the critical path of the project and are not currently projected to impact the schedule. Regarding the Moore Road property, Mr. Klasmeier stated the buyer has requested an adjustment to the terms of the proposed amendment, and the college is requesting committee members’ feedback by Friday, May 15, 2020.

F. Human Resources Committee – Rev. Dr. Diane Dixon-Proctor, Committee Chair

There was no report from the Human Resources Committee.

G. Report of Trustees’ Liaison to the AACC Foundation – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair

Ms. Mason read a letter from a recipient of the Martha A. Smith Scholarship. The student works as a dental assistant and server to defray college expenses. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, she was laid off both jobs. The student is immensely thankful for the scholarship which helps tuition costs to complete her classes. AACC has given the student a great foundation to pursue a career in the medical or dental profession for which she is grateful.

Mr. Ulvila was pleased to share as of April 29, 2020, total gifts and commitments for the Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades are approximately $3.39 million and total campaign revenue is just over $7.93 million. The Foundation continues to raise funds for AACC’s Helplink program in support of students in need resulting from COVID-19. Additionally, faculty and staff donated over $3,000, and a local family foundation recently provided a $10,000 grant in support of Helplink. The Campaign Steering Committee, comprised of Trustees and Foundation Board representatives, met via Skype on April 28 to review progress to-date and to discuss fundraising strategies for the next four months. A consensus among committee members to continue donor engagement was deemed critical to achieving their goals by June 2021, the scheduled conclusion of the campaign.

H. Election of Board Officers – Sandra E. Moore, Trustee, Nominating Committee

Ms. Moore reported that at the March public session, Mr. Ulvila nominated Trustees Sandra Moore and Paula Darrah to be on the nominating committee for next year’s board officers. Solicitations for board officers were encouraged to be brought to the committee. At the April public session, Trustee Moore brought forward Sandra E. Moore as chair and Paula Darrah as vice chair as the slate of potential board officers. Ms. Moore stated the nominees were brought forth as an information item at April’s public session, and is being brought forth as an action item today.

By motion of Mr. Hall, seconded by Mr. Klasmeier, and a roll call of the remaining trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously voted to elect Sandra E. Moore as chair and Paula J. Darrah as vice chair of the Board of Trustees for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2020, and concluding June 30, 2021.

V. PRESIDENT’S REPORT – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President

A. Information Items

1. College Updates – Dr. Lindsay

Dr. Lindsay congratulated the new board officers and thanked Mr. Ulvila for his leadership as board chair during the last three years. She reported on various resources available to students, faculty and staff as the college adjusts to a virtual environment. Additionally, she stated the college is actively working to build comprehensive schedules to help students plan ahead and stay on track. All courses will be delivered remotely for the entire summer term with the fall registration period extending June 1. All fall classes with start dates prior to October 26 will be delivered online. By the first day of the fall term, the college will make a decision regarding the instructional formats for the second eight-week session that begins October 26. In response to COVID-19, this year’s commencement, originally scheduled May 21, has been cancelled. The college is exploring alternatives for a future 2020 commencement ceremony as well as other ways to honor and celebrate graduates.

Dr. Lindsay reported the college expects to finish the current fiscal year (which ends June 30, 2020) with a balanced budget for FY2020. She stated the budget for FY2021 is filled with unknowns. As such, the college may not have a complete picture until after the fall semester when tuition and fee revenues solidify and the county and state budgets evolve in response to the revised revenue estimates. The college is developing scenarios that plan for both increases and decreases in enrollment, and are proactively pursuing federal stimulus funds to support students’ needs and institutional costs associated with the transition to the delivery of instruction.

Despite Governor Hogan’s stay-at-home order, Dr. Lindsay was pleased to share innovative ways the college continues to engage and digitally connect as a college family. Through a new microsite digital hub called Riverhawksathome.com, students, faculty and staff connect and share stories of positivity. On April 22, the Academic Forum used Zoom video communications to recognize nine employees who received the John & Suanne Roueche Excellence Awards – awards given by the League of Innovation for outstanding faculty and staff in higher education. On April 27, 130 students were inducted in the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society during its Virtual Induction Ceremony. Dr. Lindsay was pleased to report for the first time in the chapter’s history, an AACC member was elected to serve as president of the Phi Theta Kappa Middle States Region.

Dr. Lindsay continued to report through Zoom many students connected to AACC’s Business Pitch Competition. She provided the welcome marks during the April 30 event. The competition, AACC’s version of ABC’s Shark Tank, enabled students to compete for money to support their business venture. Dr. Lindsay thanked its sponsor The Philip E. and Carole R. Ratcliffe Foundation for their support of this event. Lastly, Dr. Lindsay reported on April 28, the community connected through a Virtual Town Hall Meeting to discuss COVID-19’s impact on education in Anne Arundel County. The Superintendent of Anne Arundel County Public Schools and the President of Anne Arundel County School Board joined Dr. Lindsay as panelists to ensure equitable educational opportunities for students of color in Anne Arundel County. This open forum was streamed live on the Anne Arundel County NAACP Branch Facebook page.

Despite college adjustments made in response to COVID-19, Dr. Lindsay was pleased to report college successes. She shared AACC’s nursing program was recently ranked No. 1 again as the best associate degree in nursing in Maryland in a 2020 assessment by the Nursing Schools Almanac; AACC’s computer science program was recently ranked #6 in the nation as the best online associate in computer science by thebestschools.org; and on May 6-7, AACC was honored at the 26th annual Society of Human Resource Management Educational Partnership’s virtual conference as one of the 2019 Top 20 Educational Partners offering the learning system for Professional Human Resource Management.

2. Enrollment & Financial Aid Update – Dr. Felicia Patterson, Vice President, Learner Support Services and Tara Carew, Director, Financial Aid

Dr. Patterson stated it is the priority of the college to ensure students have a quality education, persist in academics, remain until completion, and move forward in their future endeavors whether through transfer or workforce. Attracting new students involves access, recruitment and outreach. Retaining them involves strengthening communications. The college has streamlined its student support by ensuring equity and access, immediate accessibility, and professional development training for faculty and staff. Dr. Patterson stated the college’s focus is to provide a premiere learning experience for students. She shared the website has been revamped for a 100% online experience. Federal stimulus funds are also available to support students. Due to the pandemic crisis, the college is making technology available to students through a loaner laptop program and expansion of Wi-Fi.

Dr. Patterson stated the college has adjusted its admissions processes to strategically focus on the virtual environment. This includes working closely with Anne Arundel Public Schools (AACPS) to connect to students by expanding the number of academic programs which can be completed solely online, updating online orientation, and streamlining the enrollment process.

Mr. Klasmeier recalled when the economy was soft and unemployment was high. He stated enrollment at the college was increasing year to year. He wanted to know if the college anticipated the same outcome given the current unemployment situation of the state and country. Dr. Patterson responded the college is hopeful. She explained when the economy is difficult, people typically return to community colleges for retooling and retraining for work support. She stated the college will ensure the community knows AACC is available to help them. Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor inquired how the transition to online classes affects students enrolled in high school and college courses. Dr. Patterson responded the college is working with AACPS through virtual information sessions to ensure students have what they need for enrollment to successfully connect to sessions.

Ms. Carew reported on financial aid. She stated during the 2018-19 school year, the college received and processed over 12,000 financial aid applications. From these applications, financial aid was awarded to 6,571 applicants. She stated the percentage of students receiving aid has remained consistent at approximately 53% over the last five years. Of the students who received aid packages, 83% of them enroll and register for classes. This has remained consistent over the last five years. Ms. Carew stated 729 students receive VA educational benefits, which included 585 students receiving Chapter 33 post 9/11 GI Bill funds. The percentage of students who receive financial aid at AACC has remained consistent over the last three years hovering right around 30%. The student profile for financial aid includes 51% of students who are dependent or living with their family, while 49% of students are independent.

Ms. Carew stated federal grants is the largest funding source, which is over $10 million. Student loans are at $6.5 million. She was pleased to share the recent draft default cohort rate came in at 7.9%, a reduction from 10.3% in 2016. Ms. Moore wanted to know the reasoning for the reduction. Ms. Carew responded the college works with a loan prevention default management company (Student Connections), and an excess debt intervention program to help students mitigate high loan debt. Ms. Moore asked if there would be implications if the default rate increased too high. Ms. Carew responded if the default rate increased, the college would disburse part of the loan at different periods of time throughout the term.

Mr. Hall asked if the default rate improvement was a result of intervention by collection agencies. Ms. Carew responded the improvement was a combination of the college working with students on campus to help them borrow in a logical fashion and partnering with the default prevention management company. Mr. Hall asked which intervention showed the greatest improvement in recent years. Ms. Carew stated it was difficult to identify which attributed to the decrease because both resources were implemented simultaneously to students.

Ms. Carew reported on Pell Grant awards. She explained in the 2020-21 school year, an AACC student receiving a full Pell Grant will receive enough funding to cover tuition, fees and books, regardless of credit hours. She reported the Pell Grant increased by $150 up to $6,345, and book charges decreased from $84 per credit hour in 2019 to $33 per credit hour in 2020. She was pleased to report The Coronavirus Aid Relief and Economic Security (CARES Act) requires the college to use 50% of the allotment of funds for emergency aid to students. These expenses are directly related to the disruption of campus operations due to COVID-19. Ms. Carew was also pleased to share that two new large scholarship were recently introduced in the state of Maryland. (1) The Maryland Promise Scholarship which enabled 119 students to receive awards in the fall of 2019 and 99 students in the spring of 2020; and (2) The Workforce Development Sequence Scholarship which enabled 31 students to receive awards in the 2019-2020 year.

Mr. Hall wanted to know what was the total government aid awarded to students as a result of COVID-19. Ms. Carew responded the college will receive about $2.1 million from the CARES Act that will go directly to students. Mr. Hall inquired how the allocation would be determined. Ms. Carew responded the Department of Education is requiring the college to use components of FAFSA to determine eligibility. She stated the need component is often identified by the expected family contribution (EFC). Ms. Carew explained the EFC for students living with parents will be a maximum of $14,000, while those who are not living with parents would be $20,000. Mr. Ulvila inquired if the guidelines for the Maryland Promise Scholarship were less restrictive as a result of the recent legislative session. Ms. Carew confirmed the guidelines eased up considerably. She explained Senate Bill 307 states service obligations are no longer tied to the Promise Scholarship; students can apply outside the two-year window after high school.

3. Strategic Plan Update – Dr. Dawn Lindsay and Dr. Michael Gavin, Vice President, Learning

Dr. Lindsay reminded the board that in June 2016, the board approved the early retirement of the Student Success 2020 Strategic Plan and supported the adoption of Engagement Matters Pathways to Completion. She stated throughout the past three years, the strategic plan has been the collaboration of all three divisions supporting the plan’s three goals of entry, retention and persistence. Despite declining enrollment, Dr. Lindsay was pleased to share the percentage of completion has increased by 4% since 2016. She explained in 2016, there were 8,600 full time equivalent (FTE) students with 2,451 awards. In FY2019, the college had 934 fewer FTEs but still awarded 2,451 awards. Dr. Lindsay was pleased to report equity gaps of minority students reduced from 6.9% in 2016 to 4.8% in 2019. The college was able to increase the percentage of minority successes in award attainment by 2.1%.

Dr. Lindsay reported the college received national recognition from the Association of Governing Boards by receiving the John Nason award for board leadership. She and Board Chair Lawrence Ulvila copresented at three national conferences specifically related to the success and the implementation of the college’s strategic plan. Dr. Lindsay reported the college was also nominated for the Aspen Prize and obtained Leader College status from Achieving the Dream. Additionally, the college was recognized by the Government Finance Officers Association for best budgeting practices, and was featured as the case study in a book by George Boggs and Dr. Christine McPhail which described transformational leadership in community colleges.

Dr. Lindsay stated the new strategic plan, Engagement Matters II (FY2021-FY2024), will maintain the three board-approved goals of June 2016, and will include employee engagement in the planning process. She stated the objectives of the new plan will include high quality education, engagement for students and employees, and innovation to ensure allocations of resources are clearly supporting the mission of the college. She thanked the strategic planning council for their work in fostering shared governance.

Mr. Hall was impressed with the reduction of equity gaps of non-white students over the past four years. As such, he wanted to know if there had been improvements of equity gaps of students entering college directly from high school. Dr. Lindsay responded the evidence of the success stems from the faculty and staff’s partnership with the K-12 system. She stated everyone is working to reduce the amount of time students spend in developmental education classes and their ability to quickly advance through sequencing.

Dr. Gavin advised the agenda item, Engagement Matters II: Excellence through Innovation (FY2021- FY2024) was an information item for board review. He explained the college embraced the idea that it could be the leaders and originators of a new paradigm for community colleges with a new strategic plan focusing on relationships. These relationships include: employee-to-employee, employee-to-student, and facilitating student-to-student relationships. He stated the college embraced the idea of completion, but recognized Amazonification of education and services. The drafting of the new strategic plan was an inclusive process that included faculty, staff and students through innovation spaces and open forums. The drafting was a year-long process involving the strategic planning council (SPC) who gathered data. Agenda Item V.A.3, includes three goals, objectives, activities, and key performance indicators of the new strategic plan. If the board has no objection, the agenda item will be brought back to the board as an action item at the June public session.

Mr. Ulvila commented on the consistent, positive feedback he receives locally and at national events about the great work of the college. He was pleased to share the college has also received honorariums to present before leadership groups. Those honorariums were given to the AACC Foundation. Mr. Ulvila complimented the college and praised the entire leadership team. He is proud to be part of the institution.

4. Monthly Update on Accreditation – Dr. Gregory R. Schrader, Chair, Steering Committee – No report

On behalf of Dr. Schrader, Dr. Lindsay reported the Steering Committee met via Zoom Friday April 12 and continues to work on job descriptions for work team liaisons and chairs. The committee is also developing reporting documentation for the work teams. The chairs for each work team have been assigned and will work with the liaisons to develop training for each of the work teams. Attendance at the MSCHE Self-Study Institute is still scheduled in October 2020. This will aid in finalizing the self-study design. The Steering Committee continues to obtain professional development opportunities and organize future logistics for the accreditation process. Dr. Lindsay commented that the college has been working nonstop on the accreditation process since 2013 when it received the last self-study. She thanked Dr. Schrader and Accreditation Liaison Officer Dr. Alycia Marshall for their leadership.

Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor commented on the phenomenal job and cohesiveness of the team. She was confident the college would have an outstanding accreditation report.

5. Student Government Association (SGA) – Mitchell Santos, President

Mr. Santos was pleased to report the elected Executive Board members for the 2020-2021 academic year are as follows: Ryan Kim, president; Mari Cruz, executive vice president; Yen Truong, vice president of finance; Victory Ho, vice president of public relations; and Calvin Marzouk, vice president of diversity, equity, and inclusion. The newly elected Executive Board will begin their term as of June 1, 2020. Mr. Santos reported the SGA and Student Engagement will be hosting their annual Honors and Awards Ceremony virtually via video segments posted on the SGA and Student Engagement social media platforms. Nominations are currently being reviewed by the Honors and Awards Committee. Video segments and email notifications will be posted and sent in mid-May. Lastly, the SGA hosted a virtual Live COVID-19 Q&A Session on April 26 which included health professionals from AACC, Johns Hopkins, and the Anne Arundel County Department of Health. The estimated attendance of all platforms was approximately 100 attendees. The recorded version of the livestream has since been posted to AACC’s YouTube channel.

6. Academic Forum/Council – Myra Dennis, Chair

Ms. Dennis reported the forum and council met six times this year. She summarized the end-of-the-year reports from each committee. The Academic Integrity Review Committee had one hearing. Data continues to be reviewed looking for patterns of potential inequities in the process. The Academic Standards Committee reviewed 873 petitions through April 2020, reviewed credit limitations and streamlined processes for students, faculty and staff related to academic standard petitions. The Educational Policies and Curriculum Committee completed 222 proposal, implemented equity and inclusion curriculum reviews for new courses, and implemented a transfer documentation form for new/modified programs. The Nominating Committee presented a motion to replace seven committee members across the college committees in the fall of 2019 and presented a motion for Myra Dennis to continue as chair for additional year. Ms. Dennis stated COVID-19 slowed the process to fill slots. As a result, an electronic vote will occur prior to the end of the spring semester. The Committee on eLearner Success established a plan to inform faculty and staff about the college’s accessibility policy and how to meet the accessibility standards. The committee continues to identify ways to decrease textbook costs to students. With support from the library, AACC was awarded a MOST Institutional grant which supports several faculty in creation/selection of OERs. The Teaching and Learning Committee created a faculty checklist/calendar to assist adjuncts, recruited faculty and staff to participate in the new Speakers Bureau, and developed criteria for the new Jill Loukides Award. The Learning Outcomes Assessment Committee assisted departments in implementing their 5-year departmental assessment plans.

7. The Faculty Organization (TFO) – Dr. Rachelle Tannenbaum, President

Dr. Tannenbaum summarized the end-of-the-year reports for each committee. The Promotion & Tenure Committee reviewed applications for sabbatical, tenure and promotion and is working to change to an electronic process resulting from COVID-19. The Compensation Committee has strongly advocated for raises for full-time and adjunct faculty and implementation of adjunct lecturer III but realizes how COVID19 has affected the economy. The committee thanks the board for their support in compensating the faculty over the years. The Online Policies and Practices Committee is making recommendations for an evaluation tool for online teaching and is working on resiliency grants using CARES Act funding. The Adjunct Faculty Affairs Committee is advocating to bring the adjunct faculty coordinator position back and for equity and inclusion for adjuncts. Dr. Tannebaum stated an ad hoc committee is working to edit the college manual. She also shared goals of other ad hoc committees. Lastly, Dr. Tannenbaum reported that she will remain as president, Dawn Bond as vice president, and Elizabeth Westman as recorder for the next academic school year.

8. Professional and Support Staff Organization (PSSO) – Sarah Earle, President – No report

9. Administrative Staff Organization (ASO) – Dr. Tiffany Boykin, Esq., President

Dr. Boykin reported the ASO had its final spring general forum meeting on April 21. At the meeting, Vice President Beardmore presented on the college’s financial future, while Vice Presidents Gavin and Patterson shared innovative practices the college is building to be a premier community college with online education and experiences. Human Resources offered a general COVID-19 update and shared information concerning performance evaluations, searches and vacancies, and resources to virtually engage team members. Dr. Boykin stated the ASO Elections were delayed. The officers will be announced at the next public session. The ASO continues to work with the Diversity Committee and college leadership to support the strategic agenda of the college. Dr. Boykin was pleased to share ASO met its goal of Helplink donations among its membership. During the first few weeks of COVID-19s campus interruption, faculty and staff donated more than $3,100. Lastly, Dr. Boykin reported ASO reviewed its Charter to ensure policies and procedures accurately reflect the ASO‘s charge and operational practices. No substantive changes were made.

Dr. Lindsay thanked the constituency group leaders for their support as members of the council advisory to the president (CAP). She appreciated their incredible work and participatory manner as leaders for the college.

10. Maryland Association of Community Colleges (MACC) Activities – Dr. Dawn Lindsay

Dr. Lindsay reported MACC recently coordinated the response to the Maryland Higher Education Commission’s request on the financial impact of COVID-19 on community colleges campuses. She stated each college is experiencing challenges that are unique to their local and regional areas of the state. The MACC Board of Directors Meeting is scheduled for June 30, 2020. As of now, the meeting is scheduled to be held at AACC. The college will determine state guidelines before hosting the event. Dr. Lindsay asked Mr. Ulvila to share his new role at MACC. Mr. Ulvila stated he has served as treasurer for MACC for the past year and was subsequently elected to serve as MACC President next year.

V.B.1. Approval of Award of Contract for the Purchase of Digital Library Subscriptions – Dr. Michael Gavin, Vice President, Learning

Dr. Gavin stated the board is asked to approve the award of the contract to Lyrasis, an agent for Maryland Digital Library (MDL), for management or digital resources and subscriptions. The subscription has been negotiated through Maryland Education Enterprise Consortium (MEEC). Given Lyrasis’s 9 excellent performance, the college anticipates it will extend the partnership with Lyrasis through 2021. If the board approves the award of this contract, the college will issue purchase orders to Lyrasis on a schedule aligned with a renewal schedule for digital resources available to MDL members. The funding for this project will come from the FY2021 Library Operating Budget. Pending the approval of the college's FY2021 operating budget, the amount allocated to this contract is $250,000. There are sufficient funds available for the purchase.

By motion of Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor, seconded by Mr. Hall, and a roll call of the remaining trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees voted unanimously to approve the Award of Contract for digital resources subscription management services to the Maryland Digital Library agent Lyrasis, a nonprofit organization based in Atlanta, Georgia, in an amount not to exceed $250,000

VI. NEW BUSINESS

There was no new business.

VII. NEXT BOARD MEETING -- Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair

Mr. Ulvila stated the next board meeting of June 9, 2020, will be held as a Zoom meeting, preceded by a closed session for the president’s annual review.

VIII. ADJOURNMENT

The meeting was adjourned at 5:45 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,
Dr. Dawn Lindsay
Secretary-Treasurer

via Zoom Video Communications

Members present: Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair; Sandra E. Moore, Vice Chair; Paula J. Darrah, J.D.; Rev. Dr. Diane Dixon-Proctor; Walter J. Hall; James H. Johnson, Jr., Ph.D.; Jerome W. Klasmeier; Van Mason; and Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President

I. CALL TO ORDER AND APPROVAL OF AGENDA

The public session of the Board of Trustees was called to order by Mr. Ulvila at 4 p.m. The meeting was open to the public via Zoom Video Communications allowing attendees to hear and observe the public session. Chair Ulvila asked Executive Assistant to the Board of Trustees Tracie Thomas to do a roll call. All board members were present resulting in a quorum.

By motion of Mr. Hall, seconded by Ms. Moore, and a roll call of the remaining trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the June 8, 2020, Board of Trustees public session agenda.

II. WELCOME AND INTRODUCTIONS

III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair

A. Minutes of the May 12, 2020, Board of Trustees Meeting

By motion of Mr. Klasmeier, seconded by Mr. Hall, with a roll call of the remaining trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the May 12, 2020, Board of Trustees public session minutes.

IV. RECOGNITIONS

A. Nason Award Recognition to Anne Arundel Community College Board of Trustees – Mr. Henry Stoever, President & CEO of the Association of Governing Boards

In partnership with TIAA, Mr. Stoever was pleased to present the John W. Nason Award to the Board of Trustees for demonstrating exceptional leadership and initiative. He complimented the board on developing and embracing new ideas and solutions to higher education’s biggest challenges, while collaboratively working closely with administration to transform the strategic plan prior to its official completion. Mr. Stoever stated AACC’s priority to bolster the strategic vision became the model for other colleges and universities nationwide. TIAA Territory General Manager Tim Rodgers complimented the college for striving to achieve equity and advance student success and completion for all students. Lastly, Mr. Deryck Henry stated he was honored to be a sponsor of the 2020 AGB Nason Award and was pleased to have served the college for ten years as its TIAA Relationship Manager.

B. Recognition of Outgoing Board of Trustees Chair Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr. – Vice Chair Sandra E. Moore

Ms. Moore recognized Mr. Ulvila as board chair from 2017-2020 and thanked him for his leadership, commitment and service to the board and college. She commended him for his faithful attendance at virtually all committee meetings in the last three years as ex officio; his support of the college as he co-presented with Dr. Lindsay at leadership conferences to embrace diversity; his active engagement in panel discussions on topics of board leadership; and his advocacy of the school when he met with county delegates. Ms. Moore stated Mr. Ulvila led the board with honesty, integrity, fairness, and equity. She was please to point out that he will continue to serve as board liaison to the Anne Arundel Community College Foundation. As Vice Chair, Ms. Moore stated she was honored to have been mentored by such a phenomenal leader. (A plaque was mailed to Mr. Ulvila in grateful recognition for his outstanding leadership as board chair.)

C. Recognition of Outgoing College Legal Counsel, Martin J. Snider, Esq. – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair

Mr. Ulvila was privileged to recognize Mr. Snider for his service and guidance as the college’s legal counsel for 36 years. Over the years, Mr. Snider was instrumental in the development and revision of multiple manuals and guidelines; expansion of the college’s footprint which included off-site locations; advised and supported trustees in the implementation of numerous policies; attended countless board meetings; and mentored many colleagues while serving under three presidents. Mr. Ulvila stated Mr. Snider’s sage counsel and calming demeanor will be sorely missed. Mr. Snider will retire at the end of the month.

D. Recognition of Outgoing Trustee Rev. Dr. Diane Dixon-Proctor – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair

Mr. Ulvila was pleased to recognize Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor for her outstanding leadership and 12-year service to the Board of Trustees. Over the years, Dr. Dixon-Proctor served as board chair, vice chair and chair of various committees. While serving as board chair, AACC won the Regional and National Equity Award in 2015. She subsequently received the Charles Kennedy Equity Award for achieving diversity, equity and inclusivity for faculty and students at AACC. Regardless of her role as a trustee, pastor, coach or educator, Mr. Ulvila stated Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor is committed to being the voice of change which empowers people to become their best. (A plaque was mailed to Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor in grateful recognition for her service and outstanding contributions to the college.)

E. Recognition of Outgoing Student Trustee Tamela “Van” Mason – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair

Mr. Ulvila acknowledged Ms. Mason for her outstanding service and valuable contributions as the student member of the Board of Trustees over the past year. He stated Ms. Mason not only brought maturity and an invaluable perspective to deliberations, she was a great advocate for the college and students. Mr. Ulvila was grateful for Ms. Mason’s service to the college and Foundation Board and wished her continued success serving residential and commercial clients in architecture and interior design. (A plaque was mailed to Ms. Mason for her outstanding service and contributions to the college.)

V. BOARD CHAIR AND COMMITTEE REPORTS

A. Audit and Finance Committee – Walter J. Hall, Committee Chair – No report

There was no report from the Audit and Finance Committee.

B. Board Development Committee – Paula J. Darrah, Committee Chair – No report

There was no report from the Development Committee.

C. Board Policy Oversight Committee – Vice Chair Sandra E. Moore, Board Representative and Committee Chair

Ms. Moore reported the Board Policy Oversight Committee met on May 28 to continue its review of board policies. She noted the Board currently has an approved Acceptable Use of Information Technology Resources Policy, which was last revised January 11, 2011. Legal counsel classified clerical nonsubstantive changes to the policy which did not require board approval. However, after the May meeting, the committee received comments which resulted in one small change to the policy, as indicated in the supporting material to the agenda. Upon the recommendation of the Board Policy Oversight Committee, this policy is now being brought to the board for approval as shown in the exhibits to the motion. Upon approval, the policy will be effective the same date. There are no fiscal implications.

Dr. Johnson commented that the college’s mode of instruction is now online in a virtual environment. As such, he believes information technology is a necessity, not a privilege as indicated in the policy. He proposed the policy be amended to reflect the removal of the word “privilege.”

By motion of Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor, seconded by Mr. Klasmeier, and a roll call of the remaining trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the Acceptable Use of Information Technology Resources Policy to include Dr. Johnson’s amendment.

D. Budget Committee – Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Committee Chair

Dr. Johnson reported the budget committee met via Zoom on May 21, 2020, to discuss topics regarding COVID-19, the CARES Act, the Administrative Services Review project, and the FY2020 and FY2021 budgets.

Dr. Johnson reported that the college transitioned from the emergency management team structure to recovery with a new team that is planning for the phased and gradual re-opening of the physical campus. He stated the college will mail 1,900 checks to students enrolled in the spring semester relative to the CARES Act, and the initial data review work of The Administrative Services Review project is completed. Dr. Johnson also reported the committee was provided with updated projections for both the FY2020 operating budget and the auxiliary, enterprise and restricted funds. He noted the current projections for operating indicate the college will finish the year with a balanced budget. COVID-19 has had a significant impact on the other funds and the estimates will continue to be refined. Regarding the FY2021 budget, Dr. Johnson reported there are no major changes to the scenarios presented at the last committee meeting. Lastly, he stated the county auditor provided only two recommendations to reduce the college’s budget. The county council is currently working on amendments to the budget and is scheduled to approve the county’s budget on June 12, of which the college is a component.

E. Facilities Committee – Jerome W. Klasmeier, Committee Chair

Mr. Klasmeier reported the facilities committee met via Zoom on May 26, 2020, to discuss topics regarding the Health & Life Sciences building, the Clauson Center for Innovation & Skilled Trades, and June procurements.

Mr. Klasmeier reported The Health and Life Sciences building project continues to be on schedule and within budget, with Whiting Turner having workers on four ten-hour shifts and following social distancing as a result of COVID-19. Although Whiting Turner is experiencing some supplier issues, Mr. Klasmeier was pleased to report none are in the critical path of the project or its schedule. Mr. Klasmeier was pleased to report that the Foundation is only $608,000 away from the $4 million goal for the Clauson Center. Whiting-Turner, the construction manager on the project, is obtaining bids for the major components and expects to have bids by the end of the month/early July. Mr. Klasmeier stated the procurements the committee discussed are on the agenda for today’s public session.

F. Human Resources Committee – Rev. Dr. Diane Dixon-Proctor, Committee Chair

Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor reported the committee received a written report in lieu of the May 27 Human Resources Committee meeting. The report provided details of the college’s efforts to engage employees in a remote environment. A new microsite called Riverhawks at Home was been created as a digital hub for non-crisis content and tagged posts on social media. Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor stated that Human Resources is also hosting weekly virtual open office hours and has created a talent share program to match employees with certain skills with needs in other offices. Human Resources has also expanded its weekly newsletter with information and tips for employees as they work in a virtual environment.

G. Report of Trustees’ Liaison to the AACC Foundation – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair

Ms. Mason read a letter from a recipient of the Ladies of the Elks of Severna Park Scholarship. The student, who is also a mother of three small children, is finishing her fourth semester in the nursing program. The student is grateful for the flexible schedule which allows her to be very present with her children. She was grateful to have developed meaningful relationships with professors and clinical instructors who are always willing to help. The scholarship will help her reach the goal of becoming a pediatric nurse at Kennedy Krieger Institute.

Mr. Ulvila was pleased to report that as of May 31, 2020, total gifts and commitments for the Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades are approximately $3.4 million and total campaign revenue is just over $8.06 million. The generosity of donors made it possible to reach the original campaign goal of $8 Million -- 13 months ahead of schedule. Mr. Ulvila was pleased to share the Heritage Harbor Women’s Club recently made a $10,000 gift to continue funding their scholarship to support AACC nursing students. Lastly, Mr. Ulvila reported on partnership meetings the college is having with AACC Foundation. The Foundation will begin its own strategic planning process to set fundraising goals to support college initiatives for FY2022-FY2024 when the campaign concludes in June 2021.

H. Approval of Board of Trustees Meeting Dates for 2020-2021 - Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair

Ms. Moore stated the college did not have much business to discuss in January 2020, after winter break. As such, January’s public session was cancelled in lieu of an educational meeting with the board. She inquired if the board would set a precedent to eliminate January’s public session in the future. Mr. Ulvila responded the decision to cancel January’s public session would be determined closer toward the meeting date. Mr. Snider did not object.

By motion of Mr. Hall, seconded by Dr. Johnson, and a roll call of the remaining trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved its 2020-2021 meeting dates as shown in the supporting material to the agenda.

I. Procedures for Approving Summer Agenda Items – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr.,

Mr. Ulvila advised the board the procedures for approving summer agenda items could be found in the supporting material to the agenda. He stated the procedures are for informational purposes. Dr. Johnson reminded the board the resolution it passed authorizing President Lindsay to quickly make decisions on pressing matters when the board did not have time to convene. He wanted to know if that resolution would impact the procedures for approving summer agenda items. Mr. Ulvila felt approvals for summer agenda items and the president’s resolution were separate items. He deferred to Mr. Snider who believed the board authorized the president to make emergency decisions based on when the Governor’s stay-at-home order was lifted. Mr. Snider stated he would double-check for clarity and report back to the board.

VI. PRESIDENT’S REPORT – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President

A. Information Items

1. College Updates – Dr. Dawn Lindsay

Dr. Lindsay was pleased to report on the college’s resiliency to navigate through an unprecedented time in history. She explained how the college was able to strive despite a national pandemic. The week following extended spring break, all AACC deliverables transitioned to online environments with faculty and staff remotely working and classes delivered 100% online; the Health & Life Sciences building project still remains on time and within budget with no delays impacting the critical path of the project; the Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades is still moving closer towards reaching its $4 million fundraising goal; A Riverhawk Recovery Planning team has been established to create the framework for the college to gradually and responsibly return to normal operations; AACC hosted a virtual interactive Town Hall Meeting on May 27 where 225 high school students and parents participated in open dialogue to learn about our programs; AACC will host an on-campus car parade on June 12 to acknowledge graduates; AACC is still being nationally recognized for its nursing, computer science and Human Resources programs; and the online attendance rate for board public sessions has increased 40% from the in-person meetings previously held in CADE 219.

Dr. Lindsay reported on the departures of Chief Technology Officer Shirin Goodarzi and Chief Diversity Officer Dr. Deidra Dennie. After 18 years of improving all aspects of technology, equipment and security for the entire campus community and innovatively using tools to virtually and quickly connect the community during a national pandemic, Ms. Goodarzi has decided to move on. Dr. Dennie, a champion of diversity and equity whose leadership enabled the college to receive multiple awards and recognitions, will be moving to the next step in her career path. Dr. Dennie has accepted a position as vice president of diversity and inclusion at Transylvania University in Kentucky. Lastly, Dr. Lindsay shared the departure of long-time advocate and friend of the college Martin Snider, Esquire. Dr. Lindsay stated the college will host a virtual Zoom party for Mr. Snider on June 16. The Zoom link was sent to the entire campus community to celebrate Mr. Snider’s retirement, share fond memories and experiences, and to wish him the very best in his retirement.

2. Monthly Update on Accreditation – Dr. Gregory Schrader, Chair, Steering Committee

Dr. Schrader reported the Steering Committee continues to meet to work on job descriptions for work team Steering Committee liaisons and chairs. The chairs for each of the work teams have been assigned and will work with the Steering Committee liaisons to develop training for each of the work teams. Attendance at the MSCHE Self-Study Institute is still scheduled in October 2020. This will aid in finalizing the self-study design. Middle States progress and committee needs will continue to be communicated to the college and each constituency group. The Steering Committee continues to obtain professional development and organize future logistics for the accreditation process.

3. Student Government Association (SGA) – Mitchell Santos, President

Mr. Santos reported the SGA and Student Engagement held their annual Honors and Awards Ceremony virtually via video segments posted on SGA and Student Engagement social media platforms. Mr. Santos advised that the SGA will now be operating under its newly elected Executive Board members for the 2020-2021 academic year. President Ryan Kim will be reporting on behalf of the SGA. Lastly, Mr. Santos thanked the board for allowing him to represent the student body.

4. Academic Forum/Council – No report

5. The Faculty Organization (TFO) – No report

6. Professional and Support Staff Organization (PSSO) – Sarah Earle, President

Ms. Earle stated the goal of the PSSO is to build community and relationships. Despite the college remotely working, she was pleased to report innovative ways PSSO remained engaged. On May 21, PSSO held a Zoom meeting when guest speaker Diane Hallila, Coordinator of Personal Care and Career Counseling, shared the importance of self-care with mental and physical wellness while working remotely. Ms. Earle was pleased to report 113 people attended the meeting, the highest PSSO attendance in three years. Although PSSO elections have been delayed, Ms. Earle reported the uncontested President for 2020-2021 will be Anne Bashore.

7. Administrative Staff Organization (ASO) – Dr. Tiffany Boykin, Esq., President

Dr. Boykin was pleased to report The Administrative Staff Organization currently has 79 members across all three divisions at AACC. She reported on committee goals which had been met for FY2020. Those goals included: (1) collaboratively working with the Diversity Committee and college leadership to support the college’s strategic direction for responding to and addressing challenges revealed through the campus climate survey and focus groups; (2) supporting the college’s strategic direction and initiatives concerning employee relations and engagement among ASO membership; (3) increasing total Helplink program donations among ASO membership by 10% in support of AACC’s campus-wide emergency support and basic needs programs and services (ASO membership contributed more than $7,000 through payroll and individual donations); and (4) conducting a comprehensive review of the ASO Charter to ensure all policies and procedures accurately reflect the ASO’s charge and operational practices. Lastly, Dr. Boykin reported that she will return next year as ASO President, and Assistant Dean Dr. Danny Hoey will be Vice President.

8. Maryland Association of Community Colleges (MACC) Activities – Dr. Dawn Lindsay

Dr. Lindsay reported that the presidents of the Maryland Community Colleges, with the support of the public relations officers affinity group, produced a video, We All Together. The message promotes support, community, safety, on-line learning, student success and how we are all adjusting to the new normal – and we will get through this together. At the May meeting of the Maryland Council of Community College Presidents, discussions continued of developing plans to re-open campuses, budget implications, and planning the summer retreat in August. The MACC Board of Directors Meeting is virtually scheduled June 30, 2020. Dr. Lindsay was pleased to share Board Chair Lawrence Ulvila will continue with MACC, but will be President of the Board of Directors.

VI.B.1. Approval of Award of Degrees and Certificates – Dr. Michael Gavin, Vice President, Learning

Dr. Gavin asked the board to approve the award of the associate degrees and certificates to be conferred by the president upon those students certified by the faculty to have fulfilled the requirements for a degree or certificate by the end of the spring 2020. He stated if the board approves the main motion, the associate degrees and certificates will be awarded as appropriate.

By motion of Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor, seconded by Ms. Darrah and a roll call of the remaining trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the Award of Degrees and Certificates as shown in the supporting material to the agenda.

VI.B.2. Approval of the Strategic Plan Engagement Matters II: Excellence Through Innovation (FY2021-FY2024) – Dr. Michael Gavin, Vice President, Learning

Dr. Gavin asked the board approve the college's new strategic plan, Engagement Matters II: Excellence through Innovation (FY2021-FY2024), attached as Exhibit 1. He explained the plan was developed through an oversight team that includes leadership from every division, members of every constituency group, and significant campus input through innovation spaces. It has been vetted through the campus, refined, revised and approved by the Strategic Planning Council on April 24, 2020. He stated if the board approves the main motion, the strategic plan will be effective July 1, 2020 through June 30, 2024. The President and Vice Presidents will charge cross-divisional teams to begin work on the objectives assigned to them. Fiscal implications will be determined on an annual basis.

Dr. Johnson inquired if the board would be notified if the Key Performance Indicators (KPI) changed. Dr. Lindsay confirmed they would be notified. Dr. Johnson asked if the attachment was a framework of the plan or it was entire strategic plan. Dr. Lindsay stated the attachment was the framework and the strategic plan will continue to be refined. Mr. Hall was concerned about the consistent enrollment decline. As such, he wanted to know what the college could do to improve performance relative to enrollment. Dr. Lindsay explained enrollment decline is at the national level, and the college is looking at multiple ways to innovatively address the issue. She explained the college has done extensive outreach to the community, as was the case when it hosted a Town Hall Meeting when 225 high school students and their families attended. She also believes the switch to online learning will improve enrollment geared towards adult learners. Further, the college expects to offer face-to-face learning as soon as it is safe that will benefit students who are not online learners.

By motion of Ms. Moore, seconded by Mr. Hall, and a roll call of the remaining trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the Approval of the Strategic Plan Engagement Matters II: Excellence Through Innovation (FY2021-FY2024), as shown in the supporting material to the agenda.

VI.B.3. Approval of Award of Contract Extension for the Learning Management System – Dr. Michael Gavin, Vice President, Learning

Dr. Gavin asked the board to approve a five-year contract with Instructure, Inc. for the Canvas Learning Management System (LMS). He explained the contract supports the development and delivery of all online, hybrid, and web-enhanced credit courses as well as non-credit and contract training courses. This purchase will be made via the Maryland Education Enterprise Consortium (MEEC) contract. He stated if the board approves this award of contract for the Instructure, Inc Canvas Learning Management System, the college will enter into the five-year contract extension from July 1, 2020, through June 30, 2025. The funding for this project will come from the annual Virtual Campus operating budget. The annual allocated budget for this contract is $150,000 or $750,000 over the five-year contract term. Pending the approval of the FY21 budget, and subject to continuing appropriation, Dr. Gavin advised that sufficient funds are available for this contract.

By motion of Dr. Johnson, seconded by Mr. Klasmeier, and a roll call of the remaining trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the five-year contract to Instructure, Inc of Salt Lake City, Utah, for the Canvas LMS license, LMS hosting fees, and technical support in an amount not to exceed $613,954.

VI.B.4. Approval of Award of Contract for the Purchase of the B-Line Medical Simcapture System – Dr. Michael Gavin, Vice President, Learning

Dr. Gavin asked the board to approve the award of contract to purchase the software and hardware for recording and managing the data captured from the student simulation exercises in the new Simulation and Health Profession labs in the Health and Life Sciences Building under construction on the Arnold Campus. He explained the contract will include delivery, complete AV installation and programming, simulator integration with all mannequins, system software, software support, system network and audiovisual connectivity, final testing and annual maintenance.

Ms. Darrah requested clarification on how the $12 million figure is being reported. She wanted to know if the numbers were sequenced or cross-referenced. Dr. Gavin explained the FY2021 purchase of $626,000 is taken from a capital-funded budget while the remainder comes from an operating-funded budget.

Dr. Johnson wanted to know what happened to the capital funding for FY2022. Mr. Little responded that it takes time to get the software installed before the maintenance contract is active. As such, for a fiscal perspective, there is no FY2022 impact because it is covered by capital funding from the initial installation portion of the contract.

Mr. Klasmeier inquired if there was certification that funds are available at the time the contract is executed versus when the board approves it. Dr. Lindsay confirmed funds were available. Ms. Moore asked how many mannequins Simcapture would need upon installation. Dr. Gavin deferred the question to Dean of the School of Health Sciences Elizabeth Appel who responded that all health science programs will be able to use the Simcapture System.

By motion of Mr. Hall, seconded by Ms. Mason, and a roll call of the remaining trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the award of contract for the purchase of the B-Line Medical SimCapture System for the new Health and Life Sciences Building to B-Line Medical LLC of Washington, DC in an amount not to exceed $1,523,636 over the five-year term.

VI.B.5. Approval of Award of Contract for Tableau License Renewal – Dr. Michael Gavin, Vice President, Learning

Dr. Gavin asked the board to approve a 3-year contract for the renewal of our existing contract with Tableau Inc. He explained that Tableau is a data visualization software the college uses to share data elements regarding its key performance targets, which include enrollment and retention. Tableau dashboards have enhanced AACC’s data-informed decision-making culture and is pivotal when AACC seeks reaccreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. He stated if the board approves this award of contract for Tableau, the college will enter into the three-year contract from July 1, 2020, through June 30, 2023. The funding for this contract will come from the annual Information Services operating budget. Pending the approval of the annual budgets and subject to continuing appropriation, Dr. Gavin advised that sufficient funds are available for this contract.

By motion of Dr. Johnson, seconded by Mr. Klasmeier, and a roll call of the remaining trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the three-year contract renewal to Tableau, Inc., of Seattle, Washington, for the Tableau Server Core Commercial License in an amount not to exceed $190,064.

VI.B.6. Approval of Award of Contract for the Purchase of Wireless Data Communication Equipment and Maintenance – HSLB – Dr. Felicia L. Patterson, Vice President, Learner Support Services

Dr. Patterson asked the board to approve the award of contract for the purchase of wireless data communication equipment and maintenance for the Health and Life Sciences Building under construction on the Arnold Campus. She explained the equipment permits all connectivity to the college’s wireless network. The equipment will provide the wireless network infrastructure for the new building, allowing students, faculty and staff to connect various devices in order to complete a variety of instructional and administrative tasks. The contract will include delivery of the wireless data communication equipment and one year of maintenance. This equipment is part of the furniture, fixtures and equipment (FF&E) budget for the capital project. Dr. Patterson reported that the college used the Maryland Annotated Code and Board Policy to solicit competitive bids, and the college received seven responses which were deemed to be responsive and responsible. The cost for the estimated field adjustments represents Information Services’ estimate (10% of the proposal price) for unforeseen building conditions and minor scope changes that may cause the need for changes or additional wireless data communications equipment. She stated if the board approves the award of contract, the college will issue a purchase order for the equipment on or after July 1, 2020, with installation to begin August 2020 and to be completed by October 2020. The funding for this project will come from the Health and Life Sciences Building capital project. The approved total funding for this project is $116,952,000. Pending approval of the FY2021 capital budget, Dr. Patterson advised $12,964,000 is available for this and other FF&E purchases; therefore, sufficient funds are available for this contract.

Mr. Hall inquired if the college would receive a guarantee on the equipment. Chief Technology Officer Shirin Goodarzi responded the college has a limited lifetime warranty on the hardware and that it pays for software maintenance.

By motion of Ms. Moore, seconded by Mr. Klasmeier, and a roll call of the remaining trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the Award of Contract for the Purchase of Wireless Data Communication Equipment for the new Health & Life Sciences Building to DSR, Inc. of Hanover, MD in an amount not to exceed $187,180.

VI.B.7. Approval of Award of Contract for the Purchase of Data Communication Equipment and Maintenance – HSLB – Dr. Felicia L. Patterson, Vice President, Learner Support Services

Dr. Patterson asked the board to approve the award of contract for the purchase of data communication equipment and maintenance for the Health and Life Sciences Building. She explained the electronic equipment permits all instructional activities and communications over the college network and the Internet. The contract will include delivery and one year of maintenance of the data communications equipment. This equipment is part of the furniture, fixtures and equipment (FF&E) budget for the capital project. Dr. Patterson reported that the college used the Maryland Annotated Code and Board Policy to solicit competitive bids. The College received a total of nine responses which were deemed to be responsive and responsible. The cost for the estimated field adjustments represents Information Services’ estimate (10% of the proposal price) for unforeseen building conditions and minor scope changes that may cause the need for changes or additional wireless data communications equipment. She stated if the board approves the award of contract, the college will issue a purchase order for the equipment on or after July 1, 2020, with installation to begin September 2020 and to be completed by November 2020. The funding for this project will come from the Health and Life Sciences Building capital project. The approved total funding for this project is $116,952,000. Pending approval of the FY2021 capital budget, Dr. Patterson advised $12,964,000 is available for this and other FF&E purchases; therefore, sufficient funds are available for this contract.

By motion of Dr. Johnson, seconded by Mr. Klasmeier, and a roll call of the remaining trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the Award of Contract for the purchase of data communications equipment for the new Health and Life Sciences Building to Daly Computers, Inc. of Clarksburg, MD in an amount not to exceed $839,847.

VI.B.8. Approval of Award of Contract for Data Communications Equipment Maintenance – Dr. Felicia L. Patterson, Vice President, Learner Support Services

Dr. Patterson asked the board to approve the award of a contract for maintenance on data communications equipment for the college. She explained this is the electronic equipment that permits all instructional activities and communications over the college network and the Internet. She stated it is critical that disruptions to the network are kept to a minimum and that when a disruption occurs, it has minimal impact with regard to the level of severity, number of students and staff affected, and time needed to restore network usability. This maintenance provides that assurance. She advised that Information Services (IS) has developed a multi-tiered support model for data communications equipment maintenance. The college requested quotes from vendors who hold a contract with Maryland Education Enterprise Consortium (MEEC). She stated if the board approves this award of contract, the college will issue a purchase order for the services to begin on July 1, 2020. The new contract will take effect July 1, 2020. The funding for this project will come from the FY 2021 Information Services operating budget. Pending the approval of the FY2021 budget, Dr. Patterson advised the budget allocated for data communications equipment maintenance is $150,000; therefore, sufficient funds are available for this contract.

Dr. Johnson inquired if the contract was for one year. Ms. Goodarzi confirmed that it was. Dr. Johnson asked why the college did not bid on a multi-year contract to avoid bidding each year. Ms. Shirin responded the college obtains better pricing annually which allows for competitive bidding.

By motion of Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor, seconded by Ms. Darrah, and a roll call of the remaining trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the Award of Contract for for maintenance of data communications equipment to CDWG of Vernon Hills, Illinois in an amount not to exceed $131,704.

VI.B.9. Approval of Award of Contract for Microsoft Volume Licensing Renewal – Dr. Felicia L. Patterson, Vice President, Learner Support Services

Dr. Patterson asked the board to approve the award of contract for the renewal of the college’s annual enrollment in the Microsoft Volume Licensing program using the Maryland Education Enterprise Consortium (MEEC) Microsoft Campus Agreement. She explained this agreement is managed through Bell Techlogix, Inc. This is the third year of a 3-year base contract with 2, 1-year optional extensions. This purchase provides all faculty, staff, and students with Microsoft online services (M365 subscriptions) and gives the college the right, during the licensed period, to download, install, access and use various Microsoft products on all college-owned desktops. She stated if the board approves this award of contract, the college will initiate the contract to renew the college’s annual license, effective August 1, 2020 for the Microsoft products as outlined in Exhibit 1. The annual license costs are $188,833 and are shown in Exhibit 1. The funding for this project will come from the FY 2021 Information Services operating budget. Pending the approval of the FY2021 budget, Dr. Patterson advised the budget allocated for the annual Microsoft licensing renewal is $195,000; therefore, sufficient funds will be available for this contract.

By motion of Ms. Mason, seconded by Ms. Darrah, and a roll call of the remaining trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the Award of Contract for the renewal of the college’s Microsoft Volume Licensing program from Bell Techlogix, Inc., of Columbia, Maryland, in an amount not to exceed $188,833 as shown in Exhibit 1.

VI.B.10. Approval of Award of Contract for Phone System Licensing and Maintenance – Dr. Felicia L. Patterson, Vice President, Learner Support Services

Dr. Patterson asked the board to approve the award of a contract for the licensing and maintenance on phone system equipment for the college. She explained this is the electronic equipment that provides phone, voice mail and e911 services to the college. She stated it is critical that disruptions to the phone system are kept to a minimum and that when a disruption occurs, it has minimal impact with regard to the level of severity, number of students and staff affected, and time needed to restore system usability. This licensing and maintenance provides that assurance. It is for a three-year term and includes software licensing, fixes, security patches, upgrades, and technical support. The college requested quotes from vendors who hold a contract with Maryland Education Enterprise Consortium (MEEC). She stated if the board approves this award of contract, the college will enter into a three-year contract from July 1, 2020, through June 30, 2023. The funding for this project will come from the annual Information Services operating budget. The annual allocated budget for this contract is $90,000 or $270,000 over the threeyear contract term. Pending the approval of the FY2021 budget, and subject to continuing appropriation, Dr. Patterson advised sufficient funds are available for this contract.

By motion of Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor, seconded by Mr. Klasmeier, and a roll call of the remaining trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the Award of Contract for licensing and maintenance of phone system equipment to Presidio Networked Solutions, LLC of Fulton, Maryland in an amount not to exceed $260,064.

VI.B.11. Approval of Award of Contract for the College’s Insurance Coverage – Andrew Little, Associate Vice President, Learning Resources Management

Mr. Little asked the board to approve the college's annual insurance policy as outlined in Exhibits 1 and 2. Consistent with prior practices, the college is bringing forward the recommendations from its broker. The contract is also being endorsed by the college's Risk Management Office which includes identifying risk across the institution and assessing the impact of that risk on operations and missions. Mr. Little stated if the board approves this contract award, the college will notify USI Insurance Services to extend the college's coverage through July 1, 2021.

Dr. Johnson inquired if the college was looking at other ways to further reduce risk through risk mitigation and risk management. Mr. Little responded the college has a Risk Management Office which qualifies the college to receive a discount. He pointed out the risk manager regularly consults with the broker to find ways to help mitigate the risk.

By motion of Ms. Moore, seconded by Ms. Darrah, and a roll call of the remaining trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the insurance coverage recommended by USI Insurance Services in an amount not to exceed $476,238 as shown in Exhibit 1.

Dr. Lindsay thanked Chair Lawrence Ulvila for his amazing leadership as board chair for the past three years.

Mr. Snider responded to Dr. Johnson’s previous inquiry (see V.I, page 4). Mr. Snider read language from the resolution which states, “the authorization shall be effective immediately and shall continue until the first to occur of termination of the state of emergency’s declaration by either the Governor of Maryland or President of the United States, or until rescinded by the Board of Trustees.” Dr. Johnson thanked Mr. Snider for the follow-up.

Mr. Hall expressed his appreciation to the Chief Technology Officer and the Chief Diversity Officer for their efforts to ensure the college is at the forefront of technology, diversity, equity and inclusion, particularly during this period of time.

VII. NEW BUSINESS

There was no new business.

VIII. NEXT BOARD MEETING

Chair Ulvila advised that the next board meeting will be September 8, 2020. He wished everyone a safe summer and good health.

IX. ADJOURNMENT

The meeting was adjourned at 6:04 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,
Dr. Dawn Lindsay
Secretary-Treasurer

A session of the Board of Trustees was held on June 9, 2020, at 3 p.m. via Zoom Video Conferencing. Because the board intended to discuss a personnel matter, pursuant to section 3-305(b)(1)(i) of the Open Meetings Act, a vote was taken to close the meeting pursuant to the General Provisions Article of the Maryland Annotated Code Section 3-305(d)(2)(i)(ii). The following board members were present and voted to close the session: Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., chair; Sandra E. Moore, vice chair; Paula J. Darrah; Rev. Dr. Diane Dixon-Proctor; Walter J. Hall; Jerome W. Klasmeier; Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr.; and Van Mason. The meeting began at 3 p.m. and ended at 3:45 p.m.