Members present: Sandra E. Moore, Chair; Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Vice Chair; Dr. Nadine Chien; Conor Curran; Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr.; A. Joyce Price-Jones; JaCina Stanton-Buttrom; and Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Absent: Dr. Irene Zoppi Rodriguez
I. Call to Order
II. Roll Call and Approval of the Agenda, Sandra E. Moore, Chair
The Board Public Session was called to order by Chair Sandra Moore at 4:00 p.m.
Ms. Moore asked for the roll call and approval of the agenda. By motion of Mr. Ulvila, seconded by Ms. Price-Jones and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the agenda.
III. Welcome and Introductions, Sandra E. Moore, Chair
Ms. Moore asked the current trustees to introduce themselves and introduced the new trustees, Dr. Nadine Chien and student trustee Conor Curran.
IV. Approval of 2022-2023 Full-Time Faculty Appointments
A. Approval of the 2022-2023 Full-Time Faculty Appointments (Action Item) – Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President for Learning
Dr. Millner asked the Board to approve the full-time faculty and tenure-track and term appointments for 2022-2023, which include thirteen total new faculty members. Funding for the requested faculty appointments will come from the Division of Learning operating budget, which has been confirmed by the Business and Financial Resources Office that the fiscal year 2023 base budget and assumptions approved by the Board contain sufficient funding for the request.
By motion of Mr. Ulvila, seconded by Ms. Price-Jones and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the full-time faculty and tenure-track appointments.
B. Introduction of New Faculty – Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President for Learning
Dr. Millner introduced the new faculty to the Board: Dr. Zoe Farquhar, Communications; Oksana Fisher, Business Administration; Dr. Christina Junker, Nursing; Melissa King, Nursing; Heidi McLean Frye, Medical Assisting; James Muscatello, Business Administration; Reham Okily, Medical Laboratory Technician; Tiffany Padgett, Mathematics; Jennifer Phipps, Nursing; Lindsay Roark, Medical Laboratory Technician; Jeffery Roberson, Architecture and Interior Design; Marandalynn Scholz, Nursing; and Dr. Edward Tucholski, Physics/Physical Science.
Ms. Moore welcomed the new faculty to the College.
V. Consent Agenda
Ms. Moore reviewed the process for the consent agenda with the trustees. The items within the consent agenda are shared with trustees in advance of the meeting and include procurement items thoroughly discussed and approved by the Facilities Committee. The purpose of the consent agenda is to provide a single agenda item at the board meeting containing items vetted and reviewed by trustees prior to the meeting. This allows the Board to move more quickly through the agenda.
Ms. Moore presented the consent agenda and asked if any item should be removed for discussion and voted on separately. No item was brought forward to be removed from the consent agenda. By motion of Ms. Price-Jones, seconded by Dr. Chien, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the consent agenda:
VI. Board Chair and Committee Reports
A. Reports for September
1. Board Chair Report – Sandra E. Moore, Chair
Ms. Moore stated that there was no Board Chair Report for the month.
2. Audit & Finance Committee – Sandra E. Moore, Ex-Officio Committee Member
The committee met on August 30 to discuss the presentation from the auditors on the planned fiscal year 2022 audit; review of the committee’s roles and responsibilities as set forth in the committee charter; accounting procedures and regulatory updates; FY 2022 Financial Status Report; Other Post-Employment Benefits Trust; and future meetings.
Ms. Christina Bowman, principal from CliftonLarsonAllen, LLP presented an overview of the planned 2022 audit including scope of services and deliverables, audit plan and timing, responsibilities and identification of the responsible parties necessary to complete the audit, and update to regulations, auditing and accounting standards.
College staff provided updates on the implementation timeline for three new accounting standards from the Governmental Accounting Standards Board, and John Williams, the College’s information security director, presented an overview of the College’s information security and business continuity programs.
The committee discussed the FY2022 operating budget status report as of August 26, 2022 and received an update on the status of the Other Post-Employment Benefits Trust, which as of June 30, 2022, has approximately $18.2 million set aside for costs associated with retiree health benefits. It was also noted that, in July, the county made a nearly $3 million contribution to the trust on behalf of the college for fiscal year 2023. This is the third county-funded contribution to the trust and another major step forward in implementing a reoccurring funding strategy to address this liability going forward.
3. Board Policy Oversight Committee – Sandra E. Moore, Chair
Ms. Moore shared that Ms. Price-Jones has agreed to serve on the committee. With a background in policy, her contributions will be welcomed.
Ms. Moore stated that the committee had not met in person, however, it did communicate via email and approved the College’s request to draft a policy for student grievances. Currently, there are procedures for addressing student grievances, but there is not a Board policy. Once drafted and vetted through the policies and procedures process and reviewed by the committee, the policy for student grievances will be brought to the full Board for approval.
The College would like to begin drafting an interim transfer credit for prior learning policy required by law as of October 1. An interim policy will allow the College to meet the effective date as there will not be enough time to move it through the full vetting process. As outlined in the Policy on the Development of Policies and Procedures, the president may request a delegation of authority from the Board to create an interim policy, and this request is supported by the committee in order to be compliance with the law.
Ms. Moore requested and received consensus from the Board for the president to move forward with drafting and adopting the Interim Transfer Credit for Prior Learning Policy.
4. Board Development Committee – A. Joyce Price-Jones, Committee Chair
Ms. Price-Jones shared that Board members completed a self-assessment, which is one of the activities listed under the Board’s goals and objectives. The purpose of the self-assessment was for the Board members to reflect upon their individual performance during FY2022 in order to enhance performance and to strengthen the Board as well as their commitment. A few suggestions for enhancing board governance, which emerged from the assessment, will be addressed at the committee’s October meeting.
The committee also requested an anonymous Board Performance Assessment for 2022 from the president and her executive team in order to provide feedback and to strengthen accountability. This assessment was overall very positive. Questions regarding the monitoring of student success and the Board’s understanding of educational programs and services have been addressed with the creation of a new committee.
Ms. Price-Jones thanked Dr. Shuang Liu and Monica Rausa Williams for their help in developing the assessments, as well as the president, her executive team and the Board for their participation in the assessments.
Ms. Moore shared that a new ad-hoc committee of the Board has been identified based on Student Success and Achievement. A formal name will be chosen at its first meeting along with a charter.
5. Budget Committee – Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Committee Chair
Dr. Johnson stated that the committee met via Zoom on June 21 and September 8. At the June 21 meeting, the committee discussed the initial planning for the $2 million in restricted funding from the County for one-time compensation adjustments in FY 2023, which is in addition to the 5% compensation pool authorized by the Board, and will be distributed to employees in September.
At the September 8 meeting, the committee discussed the Academic Portfolio and Resource Review and Tenure Expansion assessment. Katie Hagan of rpk Group provided an overview of the work her firm will be doing and stated that the committee will receive regular updates and opportunities to provide feedback as the work progresses.
The committee discussed the FY2022 Operating Budget Status Report as of August 26 (the final report for FY2022, subject to final audit adjustments), which reflected a balanced budget and the College operating within existing resources and consistent with prior projections.
The first FY2023 operating budget projection was shared with the committee with very early results and projections showing a balanced budget with a slight decline in tuition and fee revenue. The committee will continue to monitor enrollment and expenditures.
Other updates included confirmation of the County’s contribution of $2.97 million to the Other Post-Employment Benefits Trust on behalf of the College; status of the State’s Community College Facilities Renewal Supplemental Funding program providing $937,500 in support of deferred maintenance projects within the FY2023 capital budget; and an update on coordination with the County to gain formal appropriation authorization from the County Council for this new State funding.
6. Facilities Committee – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Committee Chair
Mr. Ulvila reported that the committee met via Zoom on September 6 and discussed September procurements, future procurements and received an update on campus projects.
Mr. Ulvila announced that three of the trade contractors on the Health and Life Sciences building have received Building Congress & Exchange Craftsmanship awards; the building received the Northern Virginia chapter of the American Institute of Architects Award of Merit in the Institutional category at its 2022 Design Awards; and Whiting Turner, the project construction manager, is up for the Overall Building Award from Building Congress & Exchange to be announced in October. Mr. Ulvila added that the building also received Gold LEED certification.
The Committee received an updated on the renovation planning for the Florestano and Dragun buildings. The Florestano building’s first phase is the creation of the Learning Innovation Center, which is funded using college resources. The College anticipates bringing forward an agenda item to the Board at the January meeting for the Guaranteed Maximum Price on this project. The second phase of the project is to renovate the first through third floors, which will provide a one-stop shop for students. This phase will follow the standard state process and include funding from both the state and county. Design funds for the Dragun building renovation and addition will be available as of July 2023.
7. AACC Foundation – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Lead Liaison
Mr. Curran shared a thank you letter from a student for a scholarship. Mr. Ulvila reported that the AACC Foundation Board has set a revenue goal of $2 million for FY2023, and that as of August 31, the Foundation’s fundraising total has exceeded $203,000 in gifts and commitments.
College leadership has identified three areas of focus for AACC Foundation fundraising efforts in FY 2023 which include: scholarships for the health sciences; scholarships for workforce development; and funding for diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives. Mr. Ulvila shared that the Foundation received a gift of $100,000 which was split between supporting scholarships in the health sciences ad purchasing welding equipment for the Clauson Center.
In the future, Foundation staff will participate in work groups across campus, focusing on how private scholarships can support enrollment and retention efforts. Foundation staff are also working with Dean Elizabeth Appel and her team on the Health and Life Sciences Building Open House on November 3 to combine it with a donor cultivation event.
Mr. Ulvila shared condolences on the passing of long-time AACC Board Trustee, Jerome Klasmeier who served on the Campaign Steering Committee and as Trustee Liaison to the Foundation Board.
Mr. Ulvila reminded the Board of the Joint Board Reception on September 28, at 6:00 p.m. and to RSVP to Monica Rausa Williams.
Ms. Moore also provided her condolences for the passing of Trustee Klasmeier.
B. No Reports for September
1. Human Resources Committee – JaCina Stanton-Buttrom, Committee Chair
VII. President’s Report – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
A. Information Items
1. College Updates – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay reported that this year’s Board meeting presentations will be brief and that materials for further reading are provided for the Board in advance in Diligent. In addition, a forward-facing attachment for the public, which will include the minutes and supporting documentation, will be made available. The Board packet will now also include monthly talking points for Trustees to help facilitate conversations about the work of the Board. Board requests will continue to be tracked to ensure the College follows-up. Also, in the Board packet is the AACC Workforce Dashboard, which provides an update on a monthly basis.
Regarding fall semester enrollment, Dr. Lindsay shared that enrollment is almost flat. As of Monday, September 12, enrollment is 2,730 full-time equivalent (FTE), down 0.8% from this time last year. An additional 39 FTE is needed to meet the College’s goal of 2,769 students on October 1. The Fall 2021 to Fall 2022 new student cohort retention rate is 63.1%, up from 55.3% at the same time last year.
Additional classes have been added at Arundel Mills and Glen Burnie locations, which have seen headcount increases of 489% and 813%, respectively, compared to last year. Dr. Lindsay congratulated the hard work of all faculty and staff involved that made this possible. In addition, Dr. Lindsay noted that students will be able to complete programs at the location where they started.
Dr. Lindsay stated that her monthly College Update to the Board will continue to include updates on the Academic Portfolio Review, Academic Resource Review and the Tenure Expansion Assessment as well as college accolades and announcements of upcoming events.
2. Monthly Update on Accreditation – Dr. Gregory Schrader, Steering Committee Chair
Dr. Schrader shared that the College is now in its final year of the accreditation process which began in 2018. Dr. Schrader thanked the Board for their feedback on the self-study report, which have been incorporated. The report will be submitted to Middle States around the middle of this semester. The Middle States visit to campus is scheduled for March 12 – 15, 2023.
Dr. Claudia Schrader, Middle States Site Visit Chair, is scheduled for a preliminary visit on October 11. She will meet with the Board and the College community to introduce herself, and gain an understanding of the College’s readiness for the reaccreditation process. Trustees will be provided talking points in preparation for this meeting.
Dr. Johnson added that the preliminary visit has three goals: introduce the team chair to the institution, the people and the environment; ensure that all self-study processes and documents will support a useful onsite evaluation; and to address practical preparation for the visit. Dr. Johnson reminded the Board that it has a responsibility in this process and directed trustees to the Diligent Board packet where they can find a revised presentation on the process. Also, the agenda for the October 11 preliminary visit has been updated. Dr. Johnson encourages trustees to familiarize themselves with these documents and to reach out to him with any questions.
3. Academic Forum/Council – Dr. Candice Hill, Chair
Dr. Hill shared that the first meeting of Academic Council will be on September 15 and that the bulk of the work of the Academic Council is done through its committees which have already begun to meet. The main focus of their work for the year will be on access and accessibility for students.
4. Administrative Staff Organization – Jill Bennett, President
Ms. Bennett stated that the first meeting of the Administrative Staff Organization (ASO) is scheduled for September 21. This year the ASO will be asking “How can we best support our team, faculty and students in this new hybrid work environment?” Ms. Bennett shared her positive experiences returning to campus and interacting with students, who are happy to be on campus.
5. Professional and Support Staff Organization – John Dayton, Vice President
Mr. Dayton stated that since July, the Professional and Support Staff Organization (PSSO) has been focused on developing its annual goals for FY 2023. The PSSO has developed a theme for the year, “Empathy Matters,” and hopes to help members deal with work and life changes post-pandemic. While assembly participation has been below expectations, the organization is actively ensuring that all sixteen-member areas are adequately represented
6. Student Government Association – Abigail Billovits-Hayes, President
Ms. Billovits-Hayes shared her long-term goals for the year which include: accessibility, ensuring all events are accessible to students of all abilities; creation of new clubs and organizations; and increasing involvement across campus. The SGA Involvement Fair was held today with a huge turnout and soon senators will be recruited to work with the SGA Executive Board. As budget season begins next month, the SGA is preparing and helping clubs with the development of their budgets.
7. The Faculty Organization – Dr. Nicole Williams, President
Dr. Williams reported that The Faculty Organization (TFO) met on September 8 when all standing and ad hoc committees presented their annual goals which will be voted on in October. Dr. Williams shared that a motion was presented by the Promotion and Tenure committee to create an ad hoc faculty led mentoring group which will be voted on in October. The next meeting of the TFO is its Convocation, scheduled for October 13.
8. Maryland Association of Community Colleges Activities – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay reported that the Maryland Association of Community Colleges (MACC) Board of Directors met on June 23, virtually, and reviewed the MACC annual report and strategic plan, adopted the budget, and elected the slate of officers for the upcoming year.
Dr. Lindsay stated that the Maryland Council of Community Council Presidents (MCCCP) retreat was held August 1-2 and that Guy Guzzone, chair of the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee, along with Mohammed Choudhury, the State Superintendent of Schools attended and discussed the implementation of Blueprint for Maryland’s Future. The MACC Capital Prioritization List and affinity group reports were reviewed and the legislature initiatives for 2023 were discussed.
B. Action Items
1. Approval of the 2022 Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) Performance Accountability Report – Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President for Learning
Dr. Lindsay provided a definition which the College uses for Diversity to the Board to help frame the discussion ahead.
Diversity includes all the ways in which people differ and it encompasses all the different characteristics that make one individual or group different from another, including but not limited to race, color, ethnicity, gender, sex, gender identity, age, national origin, religion, disability, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, education, marital status, language, genetic information, military or veteran status and the physical appearance. It also involves different ideas, perspectives and values.
Dr. Lindsay stated that the annual Performance Accountability Report (PAR) comes before the Board for approval every September and is due to the Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) by October 1.
Dr. Millner reminded the Board that the PAR report is a required report and includes a data summary along with a narrative report. Dr. Millner reviewed the components of the report and stated that the indicators are aligned to the goals of the 2017-2021 state plan for post-secondary education and the structure is defined by MHEC.
The data provided in the report include a series of student characteristics and 28 indicators and data requested can lag by a year or more. Last year, the College set the benchmarks for 2025. Institutions were asked to respond to two prompts: How has your institution used disaggregated data to identify equity issues in students’ educational opportunities and outcomes; and what is the biggest challenge your institution faces as it attempts to equitably meet the goals, objectives and performance measures in the 2017-2021 state plan for post-secondary education?
Dr. Millner reported that the state has not updated the state plan for post-secondary plan at this time, but any updates will be shared with the Board.
For the first prompt the College discussed its commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and anti-racism and how the College uses disaggregated data. For the second prompt, the College reported that the pandemic continued to provide challenges over last year, and how it leveraged stimulus funding for student access and success.
Student characteristics continue to show that the majority of credit students are part-time and that the student population is becoming more diverse. The pandemic has affected enrollment numbers across the board. The Enrollment, Retention and Completion Council (ERCC) continues to work on strategies to address challenges highlighted by the data.
Positive trends were seen in the success data, including data for student persister rates when students are disaggregated by race. The College, through the work of the ERCC, continues to examine student experience and seek their feedback. AACC offers 11 credit academic programs in the Health Sciences that require external licensing and or certification upon completion, that have more than five candidates in the fiscal year. Three programs had 100% pass rates in FY21 and four had 90% or more. Programs that did not match these were first time pass rates amidst a pandemic, and for most programs, second time pass rates are closer to 100%. Also, the pass rate for most programs was higher than state and national rates during FY21.
While the College is above national pass rates, there remains much that can be done. While Covid made assessing skills difficult one-on-one, more student support is being offered. The opening of the Health and Life Sciences building and on-campus labs has made more time available to programs for practice. Test prep and review along with practice exams have also been added as well. Supplemental instruction, open labs, and test taking and study skills workshops have also been added.
Continued Education and Workforce Development programs enrollment were greatly affected by the pandemic due to a significant number of classes being offered through traditional face-to-face classes.
By motion of Dr. Johnson and seconded by Mr. Curran, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the Anne Arundel Community College’s 2022 Performance Accountability Report for submission to the Maryland Higher Education Commission by October 1, 2022.
VIII. New Business
Ms. Moore shared that several trustees will be attending this year’s Association of Community College Trustees Leadership Congress, and that former Trustee Jerome Klasmeier will be recognized, in memoriam, at the meeting.
IX. Next Board Meeting – October 11, 2022
X. Vote to Close Meeting / Adjournment of Public Session
By motion of Mr. Ulvila and seconded by Ms. Price-Jones, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved closing the public session of the Board and to move into closed session for the purpose to discuss an investigation of possible criminal fraud against the College, to consult with staff consultants and other individuals regarding pending or potential litigation, and to consult with counsel to obtain legal advice on compliance issues.
The public session meeting adjourned at 5:02 p.m.
Members present: Sandra E. Moore, Chair; Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr.; Vice Chair; Dr. Nadine Chien; Conor Curran; Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr.; A. Joyce Price-Jones; JaCina Stanton-Buttrom; Dr. Irene Zoppi Rodriguez; and Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
I. Call to Order
II. Roll Call and Approval of the Agenda, Sandra E. Moore, Chair
The Board Public Session was called to order by Chair Sandra Moore at 4:00 p.m.
Ms. Moore asked for the roll call and approval of the agenda. By motion of Ms. Price-Jones, seconded by Ms. Stanton-Buttrom, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the agenda.
III. Welcome and Introductions, Sandra E. Moore, Chair
Ms. Moore commented that every trustee was present, together, and in-person, for the first time in more than two years. She thanked and welcomed all of the in-person attendees as well.
IV. Consent Agenda
Ms. Moore presented the Consent Agenda, which were the approval of the minutes. By motion Mr. Ulvila, seconded by Dr. Johnson, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the Consent Agenda:
V. Board Chair and Committee Reports
A. Reports for October
1. Board Chair Report – Sandra E. Moore, Chair
Ms. Moore shared that the Board met earlier in the day with Dr. Claudia Schrader for the preliminary site visit for the Middle States Accreditation, and that the new Student Achievement Committee met and had a robust discussion regarding what the committee should be named and the committee’s charter.
Ms. Moore thanked everyone who worked behind the scenes preparing for the preliminary site visit.
2. Board Development Committee – A. Joyce Price-Jones, Committee Chair
Ms. Price-Jones stated that the committee met on October 5, and reviewed the responses to the self-assessment surveys and discussed plans of action which include updating a document outlining roles and responsibilities; workshops; professional development; and a retreat.
The committee recommends as part of the Board’s 2022-2023 goals that trustees participate in diversity, equity and inclusion workshop in January 2023, and attend a workshop on healthy communication, which will help to deepen understanding of themselves and others.
The 2022-2023 Goal Completion Tracking form was approved by the Committee, which will be provided to all Board of Trustees Members to help track completion of goals. In an effort to welcome new Board of Trustees Members and reinforce expectations, the committee suggests a Board Retreat in August 2023.
3. Human Resources Committee – JaCina Stanton-Buttrom, Committee Chair
Ms. Stanton-Buttrom stated that the committee met on September 22 and discussed Employee Benefits Open Enrollment, new human resources systems, and new collective bargaining legislation.
Changes to college employee benefits, including rate increases and plan design, are determined by the County. For FY 2023 there are rate increases for health plans and decreases for both dental and vision. Open enrollment continues through October.
Human Resources has had two system updates to improve service to employees which include a partnership with Benelogic to automate employee benefits enrollment and management, and PageUp, a new applicant tracking system.
The committee also received an update on the College’s efforts to prepare for new collective bargaining legislation which became effective September 1.
4. Student Achievement Committee – Dr. Nadine Chien, Committee Chair
Dr. Chien stated the committee met via Zoom on September 21. As a result of the Board Assessment Survey, the Board has recommended a new ad hoc committee that focuses on understanding the educational programs and student services that affect student success and outcomes at the College. The committee discussed the committee charter, committee name and possible reports and topics to review for future meetings. The committee will be mindful to focus on policies related to student success and not the operations. The committee received a brief overview of academic affairs in the division of Learning and student affairs in the division of Learner Support Services. At the November 17 meeting, the name and charter will be finalized and the committee will discuss specific areas on which to receive updates from the College at future meetings.
5. AACC Foundation – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Lead Liaison
Mr. Curran shared a student thank you letter for a scholarship. Mr. Ulvila provided a fundraising update, stating that as of September 30, 2022 the Foundation fundraising total is just over $1.2 million towards its fiscal year goal of $2 million.
The AACC Foundation Board met on September 28 where it accepted the Foundation’s fiscal year 2022 audited financial statements, and agreed to increase the threshold for establishing a new annual scholarship at AACC from $2,500 to $5,000. The $2,500 threshold has been in place for over 20 years and recent scholarships are mostly $5,000 or greater. This change is part of the overall strategy of building a privately funded scholarship program, which can provide timely support to perspective and current students. The AACC Foundation is working to strike an appropriate balance between customization of scholarship criteria and scalable scholarships that can be awarded efficiently when current and perspective students need them the most. The Foundation currently has five general scholarships that donors can fund with any gift amount.
The Foundation is hosting a donor engagement event on November 3, from 5:00 – 6:00 p.m. in the Health and Life Sciences Building to showcase how AACC is addressing the shortage of health care workers in the community. Dean Elizabeth Appel will be conducting tours of the building for guests. Trustees should have received an invitation in the mail. If there are any perspective donors who should be invited to the event, please contact Mr. Melson.
B. No Reports for October
1. Audit & Finance Committee – Dr. Irene Zoppi Rodriguez, Committee Chair
2. Board Policy Oversight Committee – Sandra E. Moore, Committee Chair
3. Budget Committee, Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Committee Chair
4. Facilities Committee – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Committee Chair
VI. President’s Report – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
A. Information Items
1. College Updates – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay shared that it has been a busy semester and that there are many events and activities to come. The College hosted Dr. Claudia Schrader, Chair of the Middle States Commission on Higher Education Evaluation Team who visited the Arnold campus, and Arundel Mills and Glen Burnie locations. Dr. Lindsay thanked Dr. Greg Schrader, the members of the Steering Committee, and volunteers who helped plan and organize the event. Dr. Claudia Schrader was very complimentary of the work done by the College community.
The College will be hosting some high-profile events and speakers this month. Dr. Lindsay shared that Cónsul Rafael Laveaga, Chief of the Consular Section Embassy of Mexico in Washington, D.C., will be presenting a lecture for Hispanic Heritage Month, and AACC will be hosting the League for Innovation in the Community College Board meetings on October 19 and 20. All trustees, along with a guest, are invited to the dinner on October 19 at the Annapolis Yacht Club.
The AACC Open House will be October 20 on the Arnold campus. The College will also be hosting Dr. Mark Bedell, the new superintendent of Anne Arundel County Public Schools for a leadership event sponsored by Leadership Anne Arundel on October 26. She shared that she has met with Dr. Bedell and that he is very supportive of the College.
Dr. Lindsay stated that she, along with Chair Moore and Dr. Kellie McCants-Price, will be presenting at the Association of Community College Trustees Leadership Congress on October 26 – 29 on AACC’s Model Course Program, and its success in reducing equity gaps. Trustee Price-Jones will also be attending the conference.
Dr. Lindsay presented at the American Association of Community College Trustee’s Future Leaders Institute on the College’s strategic planning and equity efforts on October 7. Additional information may be found in the President’s written report on National Disability Awareness month, Coming Out Week activities, and information on a new pathway for students to obtain a doctorate of pharmacy with Howard University in six years.
2. Sabbatical Reports – Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President for Learning
Dr. Garrett Brown has been a professor of English at the College since 2011. Dr. Brown provided a presentation on his sabbatical, which he focused on designing a 21st Century American Poetry course, reimagined Writers Reading @ AACC, and reimagined his existing poetry into a new manuscript. The result is the creation of a new course, English 285, Special Topics in 21st Century American Poetry, which will be offered in fall 2023. In reimagining and reinvigorating the Writers Reading @ AACC program, Dr. Brown increased the diversity of writers in terms of race/ethnicity as well as in terms of genres and areas of interest. Dr. Brown also completed a full-length manuscript of his work titled Zenith featuring new poems which engage with topics related to technology, media, video games and computer code, and reflect his anxiety and the fragility of being part of what has been going on in the world.
Dr. Chien commented how much she enjoyed his poem Sparrow, and asked Dr. Brown to speak more about it. Dr. Brown shared the inspiration behind the poem and the thoughts and exploration it embodies for him.
Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez shared her gratitude for the work Dr. Brown had completed, and acknowledged the difficulty it takes to create it, and how the sabbatical contributed to making it happen.
Dr. Jaclyn Gambone is a professor of Education at AACC, and her work focuses on critical thinking and engagement strategies for educators. Dr. Gambone’s sabbatical focused on schools that did not use letter grades, such as Montessori, Sudbury and Waldorf schools, to understand intrinsic motivation. The result was the creation of The Mastery Project at AACC, focused on mastery teaching to help teachers teach in such a way that builds intrinsic motivation and success in students. Dr. Gambone shared that a second cohort of The Mastery Project pilot program with AACC faculty will be starting soon, and believes that this work will create a shift in how the College thinks about the assessment process.
Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez thanked Dr. Gambone for her passion, compassion and the empathy she shows. Mr. Curran stated that as a student planning to become a Spanish teacher, he appreciates her passion and looks forward to taking her class in the spring.
In regards to The Mastery Project, Dr. Johnson asked that Dr. Gambone come back to the Board to share the results of the pilot program and implementation on a broader scale.
Ms. Moore congratulated Dr. Brown and Dr. Gambone on the impressive work completed during their sabbaticals, which encourages the Board to continue its support. Dr. Lindsay stated that two more sabbatical presentations will be shared at the November meeting.
3. Strategic Communications Update – Dan Baum, Executive Director, Strategic Communications
Mr. Baum shared an overview on Strategic Communications current efforts and provided a framework for newer trustees on how Strategic Communications are approached at the College. Strategic Communications, from the perspective of the strategic plan, is focused primarily on goal of Entry, when it comes to students through integrated marketing, by creating quick recognition and encouraging enrollment.
Strategic Communications generates its message through four means: Owned Media, creating in-house content in various forms of print and digital marketing; Shared Media such as Instagram, SnapChat and TikTok; Earned Media, such as the press, where others tell the College’s story; and Paid Media when advertising. The Redefine Yourself campaign tells student stories in their own voices through different media in order to engage students in different ways. Ongoing, important information is shared and different campaigns are launched seasonally. Website users are redirected to different website pages, and an Apply Now button is more prominently featured on the website, which has resulted in an increase in traffic to the application page. Micro, or Niche campaigns, are also used and direct users to specific webpages.
Through reallocation of funds to more digital media options, Strategic Communications has been able to increase exposure without increasing its budget. Digital platforms are able to provide granular usage data which allows the effectiveness and success of these efforts to be easily measured. Success is also measured through excellence as demonstrated by the awards received. Strategic Communications recently received national awards from the National Council for Marketing & Public Relations (NCMPR) Paragons and the University & College Design Association (UCDA), as well as seven district awards from NCMPR. Most importantly, success is measured through engagement. Website traffic has increased, as measured through clicks and visits to specific pages, as well as in applications of new students.
Mr. Ulvila congratulated the Strategic Communications department on its work and continued innovation.
Dr. Johnson asked if there was an opportunity to focus on continuing students considering the number of students lost between their first and second years. Mr. Baum shared that the student journey has many factors to be considered and agreed that there is an opportunity.
Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez noted that some students may be afraid to return to the classroom and emphasized the important role that faculty can play in helping students make the decision to take an in-person class. Mr. Baum agreed that showcasing faculty can help build student excitement and motivate them to enroll in in-person classes. Dr. Zoppi Rodriquez followed up, asking which social media site is number one, to which Mr. Baum responded that it varies by audience, however, the department is able to track the performance of different messaging by platform.
Dr. Chien asked for information on the demographics and how the department targets them. Mr. Baum stated that when purchasing media, the department will share a student profile with the company and that students under age 25 are the core demographic, though information on non-traditional students is also shared. The media company will then identify appropriate forms of advertising that hit the identified audiences and can provide data can be tracked and show performance by platform. The granularity of the data allows for ease of analysis and the ability to shift resources to increase traffic and results.
Dr. Chien asked, other than age, what other demographics are tracked, to which Mr. Baum added that race, income, and location within the county are tracked, as well as others in an effort to discern data as much as possible.
Ms. Moore inquired if the percentage of students lost following their first year who do not return for a second year, include students who come to AACC intending to earn a one-year certificate. Dr. Millner stated that the percentage does include these students and that the data is provided to identify the differing reasons for student departures.
4. Monthly Update on Accreditation – Dr. Gregory R. Schrader, Chair, Steering Committee
Dr. Millner, on behalf of Dr. Gregory Schrader, provided an update on the work of the Accreditation Committee. Dr. Claudia Schrader, Chair of the Middle States Site Team, visited AACC on October 11, for a preliminary visit in preparation for the March 2023 site visit.
Dr. Claudia Schrader has received the draft of the Self-Study Report and the Federal Compliance Report and will provide feedback to the Steering Committee which will be implemented before the final review. The final report will then be sent to the Middle States at the end of the semester.
With the help of Dr. Johnson, the Board has received background materials to help guide Trustees through the accreditation process. Dr. Johnson and Dr. Greg Schrader are available to answer any questions.
The Steering Committee looks forward to working with the Board as AACC prepares for the full team site-visit on March 12-15, 2023.
5. Academic Forum/Council – Dr. Candice Hill, Chair (NO REPORT)
6. Administrative Staff Organization – Jill Bennett, President
Ms. Bennett shared that at the first meeting of the year, Dr. Dorothy Parrish Harris was elected the new member at large. In addition, goals for the year were approved and reflect a commitment to more interactive conversations during ASO general body meetings and more informal gatherings. Ms. Bennett extended an invitation to a coffee and donuts gathering scheduled in Ludlum Hall on October 12, and at a gathering at The Point on November 10 between 4:30 and 6:00 p.m.
The Committee continues to encourage service on county-wide committees and participation in mentoring and coaching. Ms. Bennett shared that five of the seven ASO officers are certified life and leadership coaches, and that there will be a friendly challenge between the divisions for the percentage of ASO members participating in AACC’s Help Link program.
7. Professional and Support Staff Organization – John Dayton, President (NO REPORT)
8. Student Government Association – Abigail Billovits-Hayes, President
Ms. Billovits-Hayes shared that the SGA hosted a General Forum where all club leaders come to hear what the SGA is planning this semester, followed by a Q&A. Budget season is wrapping up and SGA elections for the fall are underway. Ms. Billovits -Haynes shared planned events for the semester, as well, and stated that the SGA participated in the initial site visit meetings with Dr. Claudia Schrader.
9. The Faculty Organization – Dr. Nicole Williams, President (NO REPORT)
10. Maryland Association of Community Colleges Activities – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay shared that the Maryland Association of Community Colleges (MACC) Board of Directors will meet on October 25 and will be voting to approve the 2023 MACC Legislative Agenda. The MACC 10th Annual Summit, Bridging the Gap Maximizing Transfer for Students, will be Friday, November 4 at the Community College of Baltimore County, Catonsville. This event is an opportunity for colleges to share best practices. Confirmed speakers include Senator, Sara Elfreth; Maryland Higher Education Commission Secretary of Education, James Fielder; and State Delegate, Jarod Solomon.
B. Action Items
1. Approval of the Draft 2023 Maryland Association of Community Colleges Legislative Agenda – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay asked the Board to approve the Draft 2023 MACC Legislative Agenda. The agenda includes items for legislative action at the state level on issues that affect the well-being of Maryland community colleges and the thousands of students they serve.
Dr. Johnson commented that under the Facilities Renewal Grant, in the third paragraph, the first sentence is unclear. It states that “Currently, the annual appropriation is capped at either 5 percent of the Community College Capital Grant Program not to exceed $500,000 . . .” and that the word “either” indicates a second option to “5 percent,” which is not included in the sentence. Perhaps the word “either” should not be included. Dr. Lindsay responded that she will share that with MACC for clarification, but that her understanding is that the intention was to state that each of the community colleges receive an award, instead of only the eight designated colleges.
By motion Mr. Ulvila, seconded by Ms. Price-Jones and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the Draft 2023 Maryland Association of Community Colleges Legislative agenda with the provision that Dr. Lindsay share the Board’s comment about the Facilities Renewal Grant with MACC.
VII. New Business
VIII. Next Board Meeting – November 8, 2022
IX. Adjournment
The public session meeting adjourned at 5:06 p.m.
A closed session of the Board of Trustees was held on September 13, 2022. Pursuant to sections §3-305(b)(7), §3-305(b)(8), and §3-305(b)(12) 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: Sandra E. Moore, Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Dr. Nadine Chien, Conor Curran, Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., A. Price-Jones, and JaCina Stanton-Buttrom. Dr. Dawn Lindsay, Melissa Beardmore, Dr. Rick Kralevich, Dr. Tanya Millner, Dr. Felicia Patterson, Erin Parker, Andrew Little (left at 5:34 p.m.) and Monica Rausa Williams and were present as well. Topics discussed included an investigation of possible criminal fraud against the College; legal advice on compliance issues; and consultation about pending or potential litigation. The meeting began at 5:12 p.m. and ended at 6:26 p.m.
Members present: Sandra E. Moore, Chair; Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Vice Chair; Dr. Nadine Chien; Conor Curran; Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr.; A. Joyce Price-Jones; JaCina Stanton-Buttrom; Dr. Irene Zoppi Rodriguez; and Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
I. Call to Order
II. Roll Call and Approval of the Agenda, Sandra E. Moore, Chair
The Board Public Session was called to order by Chair Sandra Moore at 4:00 p.m.
Ms. Moore asked for the roll call and approval of the agenda. By motion of Dr. Johnson, seconded by Ms. Price-Jones, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the agenda.
III. Welcome and Introductions, Sandra E. Moore, Chair
IV. Consent Agenda
Ms. Moore presented the Consent Agenda. By motion of Ms. Price-Jones, seconded by Dr. Chien, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the Consent Agenda:
V. Board Chair and Committee Reports
A. Reports for November
1. Board Chair Report – Sandra E. Moore, Chair
Ms. Moore shared that on October 26-29, 2022, she, Ms. Price-Jones, Dr. Lindsay and Dr. Kellie McCants-Price attended the Association of Community College Trustees Annual Leadership Congress in New York City. At the conference, Ms. Moore, Dr. Lindsay and Dr. McCants-Price presented on the College’s Model Course Initiative. The group attended multiple presentations and networking opportunities, and highlights of the sessions they attended were shared. Attending a national conference by a minimum of two trustees is one of the Board’s goals, which were revised in January 2022, so this satisfied this goal.
2. Audit & Finance Committee – Dr. Irene Zoppi Rodriguez, Committee Chair
Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez stated that the Committee met on October 12 and at that meeting Ms. Christina Bowman, Principal, from CliftonLarsonAllen, LLP provided a presentation on the FY 2022 audit results. The auditors issued an unmodified or clean opinion with no findings, management advisory letter, material weaknesses, significant deficiencies, control deficiencies, or audit adjustments for the College’s financial statement and Federal Grants audit, also referred to as the single audit. Ms. Bowman stated that the auditors did not encounter any difficulties in the completion of their work, and that all documentation and reports were available upon request. Following Ms. Bowman’s presentation, the committee agreed to move forward with the finalization of the reports recommended for acceptance at this meeting.
In addition, the committee discussed the FY 2023 operating budget status report as of August 31, 2022, along with the anticipated annual results, noting the College is operating within existing resources. Ms. Beardmore noted that this report is updated throughout the year and has been reviewed with the Audit and Finance Committee, however, as the committee’s work is completed for the year, future reports will be provided to the Budget Committee.
By motion of Mr. Ulvila, seconded by Dr. Johnson, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously accepted the college’s FY 2022 financial statements audited by CliftonLarsonAllen, LLP.
Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez congratulated the College, and Ms. Moore shared her congratulations as well, and noted the superior work by the College over the past twenty years.
3. Board Development Committee – A. Joyce Price-Jones, Committee Chair
Ms. Price-Jones stated that the committee met on November 1 and reviewed the Board’s current expectations information document and discussed activities for 2023.
The expectations document was revised and renamed as the Anne Arundel Community College Board of Trustees Member Information document, and has been included with the board materials. If approved, this document will be included in the New Trustees Orientation packet. Current board members will also be asked to review and sign this document.
The committee believes this document provides clear and transparent expectations for the role and service of Board Trustees. Discussion on this document is welcome and it will be brought forth as an action item at the December 13 board meeting for approval.
Additional items discussed at the meeting included training and activities for 2023. The committee recommends the following for the Board:
The committee recommends that the Board’s Annual Assessment be completed by Board members in May, and that the results be presented by the committee in June. The document will then be shared at an August 2023 retreat. This retreat is recommended by the committee along with Board participation in a DiSC Survey, an assessment tool designed to help improve teamwork, communication, and productivity. The retreat will be an opportunity to welcome new Board members, reinforce expectations, and to fulfill the Board’s goal for communications training.
4. Budget Committee – Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Committee Chair
Dr. Johnson stated that the committee met on November 3. A presentation was provided by Katie Hagan, principal, from rpk GROUP on the preliminary results of the Tenure Expansion Assessment project. Dr. Johnson stated that at the request of the Board Chair, the committee will receive regular updates, and provide feedback as the work progresses until such time as a recommendation is brought forward to the full Board.
Ms. Hagan provided an overview of the research completed to date including an overview of tenure in the United States, tenure trends over the last two decades in higher education and two-year public institutions, and a summary of the College’s current practices compared to the preliminary findings. Several options were presented along with rpk’s preliminary recommendation. The committee requested additional detailed data to help the Board in its decision-making process, specifically to help in determining best options to improve outcomes. Ms. Hagan will follow up with this additional information, as well as a listing of policies and practices that are anticipated to be impacted by the final decision.
The committee received an update on the FY 2023 financial status report as of September 30. Consistent with the last report, the current projection reflects a balanced budget with expenses within appropriation authority, expenditure savings from staffing changes, general recruitment delays due to current market conditions, management of position vacancies, and general reductions in spending, which more than offset revenue decline. Fall enrollment improved slightly since the August projections, with annual tuition and revenue projected to be below budget by approximately 1% or $350,000. It was noted that the College will continue to monitor enrollment and expenditures to ensure a balanced budget.
The committee reviewed and provided feedback on the FY 2024 preliminary guiding principles and base assumptions, which will guide the development of the College’s FY 2024 budget.
The committee will meet next on December 12.
5. Facilities Committee – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Committee Chair
Mr. Ulvila stated that the committee meeting scheduled for November 1 was canceled and that in lieu of the meeting, a written update was provided to the committee.
The committee was advised that the list of awards for the Health and Life Sciences Building continues to grow with six awards received in October, including the Overall Building Award from the Building, Congress & Exchange.
A draft of the procurement item being presented for approval at this meeting was provided to the committee along with an update on the renovation of the 4th floor of the Florestano building for the Learning Innovation Center, which continues to be on schedule and within budget. The construction manager, Whiting-Turner, will begin the Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) development by obtaining proposals from vendors and subcontractors, and the College will provide the GMP to the Board for approval in January 2023.
Mr. Ulvila stated that the design process for the Florestano building 1st through 3rd floors will begin in early 2023, and that the Dragun building renovation and addition will be the next project following the completion of the Florestano building.
6. AACC Foundation – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Lead Liaison
Mr. Curran shared a student thank you letter for a scholarship. Mr. Ulvila provided a fundraising update, stating the total is just over $1.45 million in gifts and commitments toward a fiscal year goal of $2 million.
Mr. Ulvila stated that the AACC Foundation received a $200,000 gift in support of nursing scholarships from an anonymous donor, and expressed gratitude for the gift.
Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez shared how much she enjoys the students’ letters, and how scholarships impacted their lives, and appreciates the work of the Foundation.
B. No Reports for November
1. Board Policy Oversight Committee – Sandra E. Moore, Committee Chair
2. Human Resources Committee, JaCina Stanton-Buttrom, Committee Chair
3. Student Achievement Committee – Dr. Nadine Chien, Committee Chair
VI. President’s Report – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
A. Information Items
1. College Updates – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
The College hosted the League for Innovation Fall Board meeting on October 19-20. Dr. Lindsay thanked Monica Rausa Williams and her team for their work in making this a success. The College had an Open House on October 20 with over 600 students, and thanked Dean Dr. Lance Bowen for his vision; it was the largest Open House the College hosted, and that for the first time, Anne Arundel County Public School system advertised the event.
The College hosted the new superintendent for Anne Arundel County Public Schools, Dr. Mark Bedell, on October 26 who shared his vision and who is interested in a strong relationship with the College. And on October 27, over 200 graduates received their GED at the Maryland High School Diploma Graduation Ceremony.
On November 2, the College hosted the principals of the Anne Arundel County Public School system for the President’s Opportunity Scholarship Program.
On November 3, Dr. Lindsay, along with Ms. Moore, Mr. Ulvila and Mr. Curran, attended the Good Scout Award Breakfast, honoring First Lady Yumi Hogan, who is a huge supporter and former art teacher at the College. Dr. Lindsay attended the Community Foundation Luncheon to honor Live! Casino Hotel of Maryland as they received the Corporate Philanthropist of the Year Award. The AACC Foundation held a donor engagement reception in conjunction with the AACC Open House. Dr. Lindsay thanked Dean Elizabeth Appel for her leadership and the faculty and staff who facilitated tours of the Health and Life Sciences building.
Dr. Lindsay congratulated the men’s and women’s soccer teams as they leave for New York for the 2022 NJCAA Division III Championships. Dr. Lindsay also shared that the Entrepreneurial Studies Institute’s AACC Hatchery was ranked the 15th largest incubator in the state by the Baltimore Business Journal, and, that the AACC RN program has again been ranked by RegisteredNursing.org as the #1 program in Maryland based upon current and historic NCLEX-RN pass rates.
Throughout November, the College has been recognizing the sacrifices and contributions of military families through a variety of visual displays, initiatives and events. The College will gather at its Veterans Memorial Garden for a Veterans Appreciation Ceremony on November 10. Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez, retired brigadier general, will speak at the ceremony. Dr. Lindsay expressed her gratitude to Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez for her participation.
2. Revisions to College Manual – Erin O. Parker, General Counsel
Ms. Parker presented an information item to approve the revisions to the College Manual. This item will be brought forward for approval at the December Board meeting. The Board is asked to approve revisions to section IV, V, VII and VIII of the College Manual. The provost/vice president for Learning has approved the interim procedures for full-time faculty performance evaluation, and the vice president for Learning Resources Management approved the interim procedure for staff and administrator evaluations to reflect the current processes for performance evaluations. As a result, the sections on performance evaluations and procedures need to be updated to remove conflicting information in the Full-Time and Tenure Track and Full-Time Term Contract Sections of the College Manual (sections IV and V), the Administrative Staff Organization Code (Section VII), and the Professional and Support Staff Organization Code (Section VIII). Additionally, language in all of these sections has been updated to be more inclusive and all gender references have been removed.
The proposed changes are by the administration and the College has followed the process for manual revisions as outlined in Section 1.4 of the College Manual.
The College has provided the constituency groups an extension to provide any comments and feedback by November 18 and should this result in any changes, the exhibits to this motion will be updated prior to the December Board meeting, highlighting any changes that were made.
3. Sabbatical Reports – Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President for Learning
Dr. Lindsay shared the appreciation of the College for the Board’s support of sabbaticals, which are in the best interest of the faculty and students. Dr. Millner stated her appreciation for the ongoing support of sabbaticals by the Board as well.
Dr. Millner introduced Dr. Robert Hurd who has served as a faculty member since 2005 and whose instructional goals and objectives have included: adding a more diverse range of authors to literature courses; designing composition courses to address issues of social justice; learning more about best practices for accessibility in all courses; and, designing curriculum for all courses that represent oppressed and marginalized populations.
Through his sabbatical work, Dr. Hurd set out to investigate the mutual influence that written and spoken grammars of English exert on one another, and the role that dialect plays in that interchange. His purpose was to apply what he learned to make an antiracist intervention in gateway English courses which would address a specific way that structural racism manifests itself in the teaching of first year composition.
Dr. Hurd took up the mantel to solve a long-standing conundrum. On the one hand, teaching students standard American English will help them learn the language of success in academics and the job market, knowing that the standard is shaped by structural racism. On the other hand, not teaching students the standard will further disadvantage them.
Dr. Hurd used his time to gain critical insights about how language, standards and power intersect in higher education institutions, such as Anne Arundel Community College. In his presentation, Dr. Hurd shared how he examined the important intersection between public discourse and private language, and how his work will improve understanding of that intersection and its relationship to student engagement and success.
Mr. Curran thanked Dr. Hurd and shared a comment as a student taking English courses of the importance of talking about the different types of English being taught, as well as Spanish.
Dr. Johnson asked if Dr. Hurd had thought about incorporating some elements of his research in a diversity, equity and inclusion program or workshop to share the secret conversations that are happening and the importance of those with the control to understand that there are things being said that they don’t and need to understand. Dr. Hurd shared that over the summer at the Diversity Institute he shared a brief version and would like the opportunity to hold more workshops, as he believes he is not only teaching the student who attends, but that there is a ripple effect and those students teach others, as well.
Ms. Stanton-Buttrom shared that as a former AACC adjunct professor, she sees the topic as essential and expressed gratitude for Dr. Hurd’s work in this area. Dr. Chien asked if this work was published, to which Dr. Hurd stated that it has not been at this time.
Dr. Millner introduced Dr. Grace Sikorski, Professor of English who became a full-time professor at AACC in 2003. Since then, Dr. Sikorski has worked to develop expertise in contemporary literature and creative writing by studying scholarship, literary texts, the creative writing process and craft with special emphasis on contemporary creative arts, aesthetic and intellectual movements and the relationship between different modes of artistic production including fine arts, creative and analytical writing and the literature of ideas.
Dr. Sikorski has worked to design new courses in contemporary literature and creative writing that are informed by creative and critical pedagogies reflective of the diversity of a multicultural society and aligned with current QCAR standards. The purpose of Dr. Sikorski’s sabbatical was fourfold: discovery of new knowledge and skill related to creative writing; integration of knowledge between different fields of study; application of knowledge in the creation of a new novel; and development of curriculum teaching materials and pedagogical strategies.
Mr. Curran commented on the work the English Department is accomplishing with its DEIA goals and thanked Dr. Sikorski for her contributions.
Ms. Price-Jones congratulated Dr. Sikorski on her work and asked if she would share her understanding of Critical Race Theory. Dr. Sikorski shared how she applies Critical Race Theory in English 101 and 102. When teaching a novel such as Ralph Ellison’s Invisible Man, she guides students with leadership and language to provide a framework in which to discuss race as it is represented in the novel. She stated that the framework is less theoretical and more practical and invites conversation and discussion about central questions. Dr. Sikorski stated that when she thinks about Critical Race Theory, she focuses on the practical application for her students in order to meet them where they are, in order to bring them up to a more advanced conceptual level.
Dr. Chien asked Dr. Sikorski about her novel and requested if a copy of the Bodyguard could be given to the Board. Regarding her current novel, Dr. Sikorski described it as a ghost story, a historical drama which takes place after WWII between a mother and a daughter in England, who are each trying to figure out what peace means after war.
Dr. Johnson shared that these two sabbatical presentations represent the College moving to another level, that the College is seeing a return on its DEIA efforts over the past years, and that students are receiving the benefits.
Ms. Moore shared her congratulations as well.
4. Enrollment Report – Dr. Felicia Patterson, Vice President for Learner Support Services
Dr. Patterson presented the Fall Enrollment Report, noting that the data presented is as of October 1, and includes only credit enrollment.
The College experienced a decrease in headcount of 4.12%. The reported headcount of 10,192 reflects a decrease of 438 students from fall 2021. Fall FTE of 2,750 represents a decline of 60 FTE (student credit hours / 30 credits) over fall 2021. Fall headcount trends by new and returning students show that for fall 2022, there are 7,368 returning students, a decline of 6.5% or 513 students; and, 2,824 new students, an increase of 2.73% or 75 students, as compared to Fall 2021.
Looking at fall credit headcount trends by age, 11.5% of students for fall 2022 are under age 18, 27.2% are ages 18-19, 28.7% are ages 20-24, and 32.6% are ages 25 or over. Comparing full-time and part-time status, for fall 2022, full-time students make up 27.9% of enrollment and part-time students make up 72.1%.
Gender headcount comparisons for fall 2022 show that 39.6% of enrolled students are male and 60.4% are female. For fall 2022, 43.7% or 4,079 students identify as non-white. Breaking down fall headcount by race/ethnicity shows that for fall 2022, 51.5% of students identify as White, 17.6% as Black/African American, 14.8% as other or unknown, 11.3% as Hispanic/Latino, and 4.8% as Asian.
For fall 2022, 66.9%, or 6,816 students are taking at least one online course. Students taking at least one hybrid course in fall 2022 is 16.2% or 1,647.
For high school students dually enrolled at AACC there has been an increase in students enrolled in the Early College Access Program (ECAP). However, there was a decline in other dually enrolled students from 537 in fall 2021, to 227 in fall 2022. Dr. Patterson added that additional students have since enrolled in this other dual program, but these numbers were not captured in the data cutoff of October 1.
The College’s fall-to-fall retention rate did increase from 55% in fall 2021 to 61% in fall 2022. This calculation includes first time, full-time and part-time degree and certificate seeking students who attended in fall 2021 and returned in fall 2022.
Dr. Patterson shared a slide showing the zip code from which students are attending which reflected that enrollment is predominately from west, north and east counties, with fewer students enrolling from southern zip code areas.
Regarding the zip code data, Mr. Curran asked if a statewide distribution is also available for out-of-county enrollment, and regarding age trends, if there could be a further breakdown of ages 25 and over. Dr. Patterson confirmed that the data can be shared in both these areas.
Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez expressed gratitude for how accessible the data are provided and appreciation for the data on ethnicity, race and diversity. In addition, Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez expressed her interest in learning more about the Latino community and where they are coming from, stating that understanding in which zip codes different demographics come from can be helpful in developing a DEIA strategy for enrollment and allow a better understanding of socioeconomic status and other roadblocks to enrollment. Dr. Patterson stated that this can be accomplished and acknowledged the efforts of Planning, Research, and Institutional Assessment with this work.
Dr. Johnson inquired as to what the data means and what is learned from it. For example, does the location of the college campuses drive the higher enrollment numbers in zip codes in closer proximity to them? In addition, Dr. Johnson asked if there is a target for the draw rate, and is there a strategy for reaching it. Dr. Patterson stated that there are a lot of analysts of the data that helps when developing strategy, particularly regarding admissions.
Ms. Stanton-Buttrom asked for more information about the steady decrease in FTE numbers over time. Dr. Patterson noted that there are many causes, and that it is a national question. One thing AACC is looking at is a focus on continuing students, ensuring that students return to complete their education.
Dr. Chien asked if the College is trying to get back to where enrollment was 10 years ago, or is it accepting these trends. Dr. Patterson stated that while the College is not trying to get back to where it was, today’s environment and students have changed and the College is focused on how to move forward and meet the needs of today’s students. Dr. Lindsay agreed that the College is not going back and that this decline has continued over the past 11 years and represents a national trend for all colleges. The College, through its strategic planning, is focused on student engagement, completion and goal attainment while interweaving diversity and professional development throughout the work.
Ms. Moore shared her perspective of the positive changes the College and the board have seen since her time joining as a Trustee.
5. Strategic Plan Update – Monica Rausa Williams, Special Assistant to the President
i. Revisions to Engagement Matters II: Excellence through Innovation
Ms. Rausa Williams provided an update on the strategic plan, Engagement Matters II: Excellence through Innovation, beginning with a review of the three goals of the plan: entry and engagement; progress and growth; and retention and completion; and the four objectives: excellence; engagement; innovation and resources.
Ms. Rausa Williams stated that the College achieves its goals through its fourteen strategic activities, and its progress is measured through 40 key performance indicators (KPIs). A KPI interactive dashboard is available for staff and faculty to see updated data in detail. The annual Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) Performance Accountability Report, approved by the Board at its September meeting, also contains data the College reviews to track progress and benchmark. In addition, the new ad hoc Student Achievement Committee may want to review data on specific KPIs.
The goal of engagement and entry is to increase engagement with students, employees and the community. Dual enrollment, one of the KPIs, was included in the Dr. Patterson’s enrollment update along with the enrollment in online classes. Other KPIs include tracking the market share of first-time, full-time freshman, part-time freshman, and recent college bound public high school students.
The KPIs reflect actions at the unit and the department level to support the strategic plan. For example, admissions has increased opportunities for applicants to enroll by adding personal enrollment sessions, in addition to personal registration days, and the College has developed a more robust communications plan, including improved promotional materials for the Early College Access Program and adult learners, and promotional materials have been translated to Spanish. Also, the launch of a new simplified single scholarship application has resulted in a 35% increase in applications for the 2022 – 2023 academic year.
The goal of progress and growth is to increase progress and growth in the connection of students and employees. Some KPIs that measure this include credit enrollment and FTEs, licensure pass rates, and first-time students that earn 15 or more credits in a year and the percentage of first-time students that complete college level math and English in their first year.
In the previous strategic plan, Engagement Matters, Pathways to Completion, units and departments completely redesigned the student experience with intentional scaling of equity focused student success interventions including the essential work of reforming developmental education. The result was the implementation of a new system of placement measures and accelerated developmental pathways. However, just as these major reforms were gaining momentum, the pandemic hit, and all courses and services pivoted to online and remote. The College immediately focused on deploying hundreds of laptops and hotspots to students in need, and, further tutor and support services were embedded into online courses, including all math and English sections.
It is difficult to predict the long-term impacts of the pandemic, but these KPIs help the College monitor its progress. It is also important to note that Engagement Matters II has an intentional focus on employees. For each of these goals there are KPIs to help measure progress with faculty and staff, such as the number of employees enrolled in Professional Development Courses. This year, the College implemented a new DEIA training plan for all staff which includes having one DEIA professional goal for each employee.
For retention and completion, the goal is to increase the retention and completion for all students. The KPIs for this goal focus on retention rates and show the number of degrees and certificates and graduation rates. In support of current students, a major strategy of the Enrollment, Retention and Completion Council has been to create frictionless access points to services. As a result, units and departments will continue to identify and eliminate barriers to enrollment, persistence, and completion.
Ms. Rausa Williams commented on the excellent work being done by faculty and staff. There remains more work to do, opportunities for improvements, and equity gaps to be narrowed and eliminated. The strategic activities of the strategic plan help guide the unit and departmental work to help achieve our goals. The pandemic continues to disrupt the landscape of higher education and the College has had to adapt its delivery of instructional and student services and address new barriers for students, faculty, and staff, all while maintaining a focus on equity.
As a result of this dynamic environment, the president and vice presidents developed a list of priorities for the College that align with the strategic plan and for which the College is being intentional about emphasizing accessibility within its diversity, equity, inclusion and anti-racism work.
As continuous improvement is key to the strategic plan, the College is recommending revisions to the strategic activities in order to be more comprehensive and inclusive, which is the information item presented to the Board.
Further, to keep the momentum going, and to continue the great work the faculty and staff are doing to support students, the College is recommending that the plan be extended by one year, until June 30, 2025. These revisions were presented and endorsed by the College’s Strategic Planning Council, and these revisions will be brought back to Board for approval as an action item at the December 13 meeting.
Dr. Johnson asked, regarding exhibit 1, if the replacement of a bullet is an equivalent or enhancement or if it was simply replaced with a new item. Dr. Johnson stated that it would be helpful to have an explanation as to why a particular item was removed and why it was replaced with the new item. Ms. Rausa Williams stated that the rational for the changes is in place and will be presented to the Board.
Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez commented on the importance of the why when developing a strategy, and its role in predicting the need for how to prepare for tomorrow. In addition, Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez emphasized the importance of having faculty and staff that mirror the student population and attracting the best talent. Ms. Rausa Williams commented that the strategic plan is a living document, and as the College assesses its goals and objectives, the plan can be revised and be continuously improved.
6. Monthly Update on Accreditation – Dr. Gregory R. Schrader, Chair, Steering Committee
Dr. Gregory Schrader stated that Dr. Claudia Schrader, Middle States Visiting Team Chair, visited the College for the preliminary site visit in preparation for the accreditation visit in March. Dr. Claudia Schrader shared positive feedback and the visit went very well. The Steering Committee is currently implementing the changes recommended by Dr. Claudia Schrader and is on track to submit the final Self-Study report to Middle States by mid-December.
7. Academic Forum/Council – Dr. Candice Hill, Chair
Dr. Hill stated that the Academic Forum had its first meeting of the year on October 27, the first of three meetings for the year. The Academic Council meets monthly. At the October meeting, the Forum voted on the Chair’s goals for the year and approved committee goals with a focus on DEIA work and accessibility. Dr. Hill shared that additional members will be joining Academic Council, including two members from the division of Information and Instructional Technology, two students, and two adjunct members, which will bring more voices to the table.
Going forward, work will focus on eliminating tension points within the Academic Forum by ensuring clarity in processes, and responsibilities of committees and members of the forum, and that deliverables brought forward by the committees are being assessed, valued and used, and that communication is efficient.
Mr. Curran stated his appreciation for the opportunity for students to have a voice on the Academic Council.
8. Administrative Staff Organization – Jill Bennett, President (NO REPORT)
9. Professional and Support Staff Organization – John Dayton, President (NO REPORT)
10. Student Government Association – Abigail Billovits-Hayes, President
Ms. Billovits-Hayes shared that the SGA had a very successful event in collaboration with the Health and Wellness Center on safe alcohol consumption. In addition, the SGA held a leadership conference, Riverhawks Rise, on November 2 and 3.
The SGA has opened its meetings to students who are not members, so that they may express their concerns. Looking forward, Ms. Billovits-Hayes shared upcoming plans and that the General Forum will meet on December 2.
11. The Faculty Organization – Dr. Nicole Williams, President
Dr. Williams highlighted the work of the Adjunct Faculty Affairs Committee stating that there are over 700 adjuncts at the College. For adjunct faculty, the work can be isolating, and small details matter and help to ensure that they feel included.
Starting last year, the Adjunct Faculty Affairs Committee had the adjunct requirement for movement to Lecturer III of department or college service removed in order to make it more equitable.
A motion is under way regarding the promotion from Lecturer I to Lecturer II to ensure consideration of the work completed in the adjunct’s role as Lecturer I. This item will be offered as an information item at the TFO meeting, and then voted on.
Regarding access to resources for adjuncts, a list was compiled of resources throughout campus. Adjuncts were also provided a list of rooms for virtual teaching along with instructions on how to book rooms for student meetings.
Dr. Williams acknowledged Dr. Lindsay and Vice President Beardmore for helping to ensure adjunct were included in the distribution of stipends this year, as well.
Mr. Curran thanked Dr. Williams for the work in compiling the resource lists provided to adjunct faculty.
12. Maryland Association of Community Colleges Activities – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay shared that the Maryland Association of Community Colleges (MACC) Board of Directors met on October 25, and approved the 2023 MACC Legislative Agenda. Talking Points will be provided to Board Members which highlight the five key issues on the agenda.
On November 4, the annual MACC Summit was held at the Community College of Baltimore County. At the event, best practices were shared by Marcus Wright, AACC’s Director of Transfer, Articulation and Career Alignment, and Dr. Nicole Williams, professor and chair, human services and TFO president, who presented a session about Faculty Aligning Curriculum for a Successful Transfer.
Trustees were asked to save the date for the annual MACC Trustee Leadership Conference on January 23 at 3:00p.m. at the Governor Calvert House in Annapolis.
VII. New Business
VIII. Next Board Meeting – December 13, 2022
IX. Adjournment
The public session meeting adjourned at 5:46 p.m.
Members present: Sandra E. Moore, Chair; Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Vice Chair; Conor Curran; Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr.; A. Joyce Price-Jones; JaCina Stanton-Buttrom; Dr. Irene Zoppi Rodriguez; and Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Absent: Dr. Nadine Chien
I. Call to Order
II. Roll Call and Approval of the Agenda, Sandra E. Moore, Chair
The Board Public Session was called to order by Chair Sandra Moore at 4:00 p.m.
Ms. Moore asked for the roll call and approval of the agenda. By motion of Mr. Ulvila, seconded by Ms. Price-Jones, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the agenda.
III. Welcome and Introductions, Sandra E. Moore, Chair
Ms. Moore welcomed the honored guest, Rev. Dr. Diane Dixon-Proctor, former Board of Trustees Member, and invited her to introduce her guests and family who were in attendance.
IV. Trustee Emeritus Status for Rev. Dr. Diane Dixon-Proctor
Ms. Moore stated that Trustee Emeritus status is an honor granted to a prior trustee in recognition of the member’s significant and lasting contributions to Anne Arundel Community College. In order to be eligible, the trustee must have met the following criteria during their time on the Board:
Ms. Moore stated that Rev. Dr. Diane Dixon-Proctor met and exceeded these criteria in her 12 years serving on the Board from 2008-2020, having served as Chair of the Board from 2014-2015 and 2016-2017, and as vice-chair for three years. Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor served with distinction as member and chair on numerous committees including the Human Resources Committee, as lead liaison with the Anne Arundel Community College Foundation Board of Directors, and as the liaison with the Middle States Commission on Higher Education Steering Committee during the college’s self-study and reaccreditation process in 2014. She served as the treasurer of the Maryland Association of Community Colleges from 2018-2019, and testified at the Maryland General Assembly, advocating for students, faculty and staff.
Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor also served on the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee for the Association for Community College Trustees (ACCT), representing the Northeast Region, as well as presenting nationally on the importance of equity, delivering individualized resources to individualized needs, and creating a cultural shift in policies, procedures, data analysis and professional development at the college level. Her advocacy, leadership and tenacity resulted in the College receiving the ACCT Northeast Regional Equity Award and the Charles Kennedy Equity Award in 2015. Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor has made an impact on the local, regional and national level.
Dr. Johnson emphasized Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor’s activities that brought attention to AACC, such as serving on the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee for the Association for Community College Trustees, her national presentations on diversity, equity and inclusion, and the work she did towards the college receiving the ACCT Northeast Regional Equity Award and the Charles Kennedy Equity Award in 2015. All of which highlighted the work happening at the College.
The trustees shared their gratitude for Rev. Dr. Dixon-Proctor’s service and for the inspiration she provides to them.
By motion of Mr. Ulvila, seconded by Dr. Johnson, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved Trustee Emeritus status for Rev. Dr. Diane Dixon-Proctor.
V. Consent Agenda
Ms. Moore presented the consent agenda. By motion of Ms. Price-Jones, seconded by Ms. Stanton-Buttrom, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the consent agenda:
VI. Board Chair and Committee Reports
A. Reports for November
1. Board Chair Report – Sandra E. Moore, Chair
Ms. Moore shared that many hours had been focused on reviewing the rpk Group reports and educating the full Board to ensure that a well-considered recommendation can be given.
2. Budget Committee – Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Committee Chair
Dr. Johnson stated that the committee met on December 12 and discussed the Academic Portfolio and Resources Review, the Tenure Expansion Assessment, the FY 2023 Update and Budgetary Implications as well as the FY 2024 Budget. Katie Hagan and Rick Staisloff from the rpk Group, provided a presentation and discussion on the status of the Academic Portfolio and Resources Review and the Tenure Expansion Assessment Projects. At the request of the Board Chair, the Committee will continue to receive updates and provide feedback as the work progresses until such time as a recommendation is brought to the full Board. Rick Staisloff will provide a report to the Board this evening.
A summary of key takeaways from the meeting was provided and included:
The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, January 17, 2023.
Dr. Johnson invited Rick Staisloff, founder and senior partner of rpk Group to present his report.
i. Academic Portfolio and Resource Review, and Tenure Expansion Assessment Update – Rick Staisloff, Founder and Senior Partner, rpk Group
Mr. Staisloff provided a summary of the November 23, 2022 report provided to the Board of Trustees. The Academic Portfolio and Resource Reviews look at instructional efficiencies and how to ensure the College is connecting its programs portfolio to fit with student and employer demands. Currently, data collection is complete, and analysis is underway. The community is kept informed though regular updates via the internal project website, which includes a list of questions and responses. In spring 2023, a series of workshops will be held to share information with the community.
Regarding the tenure cap, rpk Group has been looking at the impacts of lifting the cap. Currently, for full-time faculty, AACC utilizes both tenure-track and non-tenure-track positions. Tenured faculty have continuous appointments subject to the fulfillment of the duties and responsibilities of a faculty member, and are protected from termination except for adequate cause and/or extraordinary circumstances due to financial exigency. The current cap at AACC for the number of faculty that can be awarded tenure is 62%. The award of tenure does not include any compensation increase or promotion in rank or title.
Currently, there is no college-wide policy on the tenure cap; it is managed at the department level. As a result, if a tenure-track position becomes available, only faculty from that department can apply. This can create an inequity in the amount of time it takes to be eligible for tenure. Faculty overwhelmingly supported the removal of the tenure cap. In addition, there is faculty support for implementing strong accountability measures to ensure tenure is synonymous with excellent teaching and service, and faculty are meeting the duties and requirements of those positions.
Mr. Staisloff stated that if the College is to continue to award tenure, it is recommended that the cap be removed once the following accountability policies and procedures to manage tenure are adopted:
Once these policies and procedures are put in place, the College would be in a position to lift the cap on tenure.
Dr. Johnson added that there are additional steps to be completed. Additional questions have been asked, which were not a part of the initial charge, but will require a response that the Board should consider as well.
3. Board Development Committee Report – Joyce Price-Jones, Committee Chair
Ms. Price-Jones reminded the Board that at the last board meeting, the revised AACC Board of Trustees Member Information document was shared as an information item, which is being brought back to the Board as an action item. The committee believes the document provides clear and transparent expectations for an AACC Board member’s role and service on the Board of Trustees. Once approved, the document will be included in the new Trustee Orientation packet and current Board members will be asked to review and sign this document as well.
Board members were reminded that there will be a 90-minute diversity, equity, and inclusion training led by Dr. Kellie McCants-Price, Interim Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer after the January public session meeting.
Dr. Johnson pointed out that under meetings, it states that trustees generally serve on a minimum of three committees. However, there is only one standing committee, and the rest are ad hoc. He recommended that the language state something like additional ad hoc committees as determined. It was agreed to add these proposed revisions to the motion.
By motion of Mr. Curran, seconded by Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the Anne Arundel Community College Board of Trustees Member Information document with the proposed revisions.
4. Board Policy Oversight Committee – Sandra E. Moore, Committee Chair
i. Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Antiracism, and Accessibility Policy
Ms. Moore stated that the committee met on November 30 to review three policy action requests for approval and three non-substantive changes for approval. The committee approved the policy action requests to develop three new policies - Transfer Credit, Disability Accommodations, and Religious Accommodations.
The Transfer Credit Policy will be drafted to comply with Transfer with Success Act of July 2021 and accompanying regulations. The Disability Accommodations Policy will be drafted to better align with the Americans with Disabilities Act, and include procedures for employees. The College currently does not have policies or procedures for applying for accommodations for religious reasons, except as it relates to COVID. The Religious Accommodations Policy will allow the College to establish a process for assessing requests for accommodations for religious reasons.
As per the Policy and the Development of Policy and Procedures, once the College has developed and vetted the draft policies, they will be reviewed by the committee, and then sent to the full Board for review and approval.
The committee reviewed three non-substantive changes for approval and per the Policy on the Development of Policy and Procedures, if the committee determines that the policy action requested is non-substantive, the committee can approve the revised policy. The committee approved two policies determined to be non-substantive: the Equal Opportunity and Nondiscrimination Policy; and the Policy on Development of Policy and Procedures.
Regarding the Equal Opportunity and Nondiscrimination Policy, there is a legal requirement under Maryland law that passed in 2020, which expands the definition of race as explicitly prohibiting discrimination on the basis of hair texture and hairstyles. This change is merely clarifying and achieves compliance with the law.
For the Policy on Development of Policy and Procedures, non-substantive edits included changing the Policy Administrator to the College employee designated by the President and Vice Presidents, and not limiting the Policy Administrator to being a member of President’s Cabinet, that the Board Policy Oversight Committee will be notified within five business days when an interim policy is established by the President, and then the Board Policy Committee Chair will notify the Board Chair of the interim policy as well. Both of these revised policies were approved and published.
A non-substantive change was proposed for the Antiracism, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Policy to include accessibility in the title as well as to include a definition of accessibility to include hair texture and hairstyles as part of the prohibition of discrimination on the basis of race. The current policy defines equity as “providing everyone with access to the same opportunities and potential for success. Equity ensures fairness by adjusting for differences in advantages and barriers.” Explicitly adding accessibility clarifies the term access and the proposed definition of accessibility mirrors the Office of Civil Rights’ definition of accessibility and aligns with legal obligations.
With respect to adding hair texture/hairstyles, as described above for the Equal Opportunity and Nondiscrimination Policy, it is a legal requirement under Maryland law that expands the definition of race. This change clarifies the definition of diversity to more specifically describe this legally protected class. All other changes were related to formatting.
While the committee believes adding accessibility to the current Board’s Antiracism, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Policy is a non-substantive edit, the committee would like to get consensus from the Board that this indeed is a non-substantive edit. A red-lined copy of the proposed Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Antiracism, and Accessibility Policy was included in the Board materials as an exhibit. If consensus is received from the Board that this is a non-substantive edit, the revised policy will be published and effective upon posting on the College’s policy webpage. If there is not consensus that this is a non-substantive edit, the revisions will be sent to the College to go through the process as outlined in the Development on Policy and Procedures. After the College has vetted the draft policy, it will be sent to the committee for review, and then submitted to the Board for review and full approval.
By motion of Ms. Price-Jones, seconded by Mr. Ulvila, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously agreed that the adding of accessibility to the current Board’s Antiracism, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Policy is a non-substantive edit.
5. Facilities Committee – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Committee Chair
Mr. Ulvila stated that the committee met on December 6 and discussed future procurements, the draft FY 2024 Capital Budget, and campus projects. No procurements will be approved at this meeting, but several will be presented to the Board in January.
The committee received an update on campus projects, particularly in regards to the planning for the renovation of the Florestano and Dragun buildings. The Florestano renovation will happen in two phases. The first phase is the creation of the Learning Innovation Center on the fourth floor and will be funded using College resources. Several agenda items regarding this project are anticipated to be on the January Board agenda. The second phase of the Florestano renovation includes the first through third floors, which will become a one-stop shop for student services. Funding for the second phase will go through standard state process and include funding from the state and the county.
The Dragun building renovation and addition will be the next project and design funds become available as of July 2023.
6. Student Success Committee – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr. for Dr. Nadine Chien, Committee Chair
Mr. Ulvila presented the Student Success Committee report on behalf of the Committee Chair, Dr. Nadine Chien. The committee met on November 17 and selected an official name and will be referred to as the Student Success Committee, as it was felt that this name demonstrates the committee’s focus on students and how the College’s strategic plan addresses student success.
The committee discussed a revised draft of the committee charter and believes it will be finalized at its next meeting. The committee discussed the need for a clear connection between the charge of the committee and the mission of the College.
The committee reviewed proposed topics for updates to be received by the committee throughout the academic year. Updates discussed include enrollment trends, overall academic performance, accreditation updates, Blueprint for Maryland’s Future and related activities, review of the Maryland Higher Education Committee (MHEC) Performance Accountability Report, and progress towards achieving enrollment priorities and strategic priorities recommended by the AACC leadership team and adopted by the Board of Trustees, such as the key performance indicators review. The College was asked to disaggregate the data for these reports by zip code. The committee will schedule its next meeting in early February.
7. AACC Foundation – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Lead Liaison
Mr. Curran shared a student thank you letter for a scholarship. Mr. Ulvila provided a fundraising update, stating the total is just over $1.56 million in gifts and commitments toward a fiscal year goal of $2 million.
Mr. Ulvila shared that the AACC Foundation received a generous donation from the family of Manu Shah to establish an endowed scholarship in his memory. Professor Shah taught at AACC as an adjunct for over 40 years. The scholarship will provide financial support for credit seeking students who aspire to academic excellence and a pursuit of success and happiness.
The Ed and Fern Hamel Family Foundation, on behalf of Hamel Builders, Inc., made a gift in honor of AACC Foundation Board Member Cullen Murray, to further fund their scholarship for students who are pursuing degrees in Construction Management and Nursing. Hamel Builders, Inc. recently hosted a luncheon for scholarship awardees pursuing a degree in construction management, offering them a chance to learn more about the industry.
At the November 16 meeting, the AACC Foundation Board of Directors awarded Director Emeritus status to Henry “Hank” Libby in honor of his leadership and work to advance the Foundation during his 12 years of service.
B. No Reports for December
1. Audit & Finance Committee – Dr. Irene Zoppi Rodriguez, Committee Chair
2. Human Resources Committee, JaCina Stanton-Buttrom, Committee Chair
VII. President’s Report – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
A. Information Items
1. College Updates – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay shared that AACC joined Fort Meade and Anne Arundel County leaders to cut the ribbon on the newly renovated Education and Resiliency Center at Kuhn Hall at Fort Meade where students will receive help with admissions and registration, placement testing, academic advising and career services.
Anne Arundel County Public Schools (AACPS) and AACC announced that starting this school year, eligible AACPS students who participate in the College’s Early College Access Program credit classes will no longer be charged tuition or fees. This is in support of recent changes in Maryland law through the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future legislation. More than 1,500 AACPS students took classes at AACC in FY 2022.
On Friday, December 2, Dr. Lindsay, along with professor emeritus and AACC Foundation Board of Director, Dr. Richard Faircloth, hosted the AACC’s Retirees Luncheon to honor the many who have given so generously to the College, and thank them for their exceptional
service to AACC.
Broadneck Park High School nominated AACC for the 2022 Partner of the Year,
sponsored by the Education Foundation of AACPS for the College’s work with students
and the drone program, which included field trips, visits and teaching at Broadneck
High School. Dr. Lindsay recognized Tim Tumelty, Instructional Specialist at AACC’s Drone Center who has enhanced the support and excitement around this program.
Dr. Lindsay shared that Department of Public Safety and Police Corporal Charles McGinniss was recognized for his dedication and service by the Northern Anne Arundel County Chamber of Commerce and received the Community Safety Award on December 2nd.
The Health and Life Sciences Building continues to be recognized for its design and
Construction and was recently recognized by the American Institute of Architects Chesapeake Bay Chapter with the Sustainability Design Award.
Dr. Lindsay shared that the relationship between AACPS and AACC continues to be strengthened with Dr. Mark Bedell, the new superintendent for AACPS. Dr. Bedell will be touring the campus on December 14, and meet the deans. In addition, Dr. Bedell will return to campus the following week to discuss the possibility of a Middle College with AACC.
On December 15, the College will have a holiday luncheon for faculty and staff before the Winter Break.
Dr. Johnson asked about the credentials required of students to participate in the Early College Access Program. Dr. John Grabowski, dean, enrollment services, commented that the best thing the student can do is meet with their high school counselor to determine eligibility.
2. Strategic Technology Roadmap Overview – Dr. Richard Kralevich, Vice President for Information and Instructional Technology
Dr. Kralevich defined the Strategic Technology Roadmap (STR) as a planning tool to map strengths, identify weaknesses, and plan the institution’s digital transformation. The STR will help the College plan and maintain fiscal discipline while making steady, continuous improvements that addresses long-term and short-term needs.
The STR is a 24-to36-month plan consisting of the following eleven initiatives:
Each initiative is comprised of a number of enabling projects in which the College is engaged across the institution with a number of divisions partnering in this work. Digital transformation is disruptive and change is hard and not all these initiatives are by choice. Dr. Kralevich expressed his gratitude for the support, patience and feedback of the community as these projects are underway.
Dr. Johnson asked Dr. Kralevich for two things the College will have at the end of the 36 months that it does not have now as a result of these eleven initiatives. Dr. Kralevich stated that purposeful domain management will create consolidation and simplify things for the institution. Also, stack modernization will address the need for an upgraded infrastructure, which will identify ways to improve the student information system, creating a better experience, and will help in mining data more effectively.
3. Monthly Update on Accreditation – Dr. Gregory R. Schrader, Chair, Steering Committee
Dr. Schrader reported that the Self-Study Report is finished, and thanked all who helped contribute to this document that accurately represents how AACC is meeting its mission and vision.
Dr. Johnson asked if the document has been submitted. Dr. Schrader responded that it is close and will be ready to submit soon.
The Steering Committee continues to plan for the upcoming March site visit and is preparing for the March 12 reception and the theme is “We are AACC: The Community’s College.” Dr. Schrader asked the Board to save the date for the reception and visit. More information will be provided.
4. Academic Forum/Council – Dr. Candice Hill, Chair (No report)
5. Administrative Staff Organization (ASO) – Jill Bennett, President
Ms. Bennett shared that ASO conducted a challenge to see which division would have the highest participation in a fundraising drive to support HelpLink and the Food Pantry. The total funds raised was $1,504.28. Ms. Bennett thanked all who participated.
6. Professional and Support Staff Organization (PSSO) – John Dayton, President
Mr. Dayton shared that during the months of October, November and December the PSSO met two of its goals.
Fifteen PSSO members were selected to serve on eight College standing and ad hoc committees. Two additional members are in the process of being selected to participate on two new committees which will bring the total number of participants to seventeen on ten committees.
In addition, the PSSO coordinated with administration for a president and vice presidents update providing members with information on current and future issues that directly affect the PSSO constituency. PSSO members were given the opportunity to submit questions in advance and have them answered by the president and vice presidents in attendance.
The PSSO, in regards to its Workplace Environment Culture/Expectations goal to foster an environment of positive communication, kindness and a healthy work life balance, held two professional development workshops, Empathy in the Workplace and Being an LGBTQ Ally. The workshops were well attended and met annual leadership and DEIA professional development requirements.
Mr. Dayton shared that the PSSO will host an in-person post winter break event on January 9 to increase membership engagement and interaction.
7. Student Government Association (SGA) – Abigail Billovits-Hayes, President
Ms. Billovits-Hayes shared that she participated in the Early College Access Program and is happy to learn that the program is now at no cost to county public school students.
This past month the SGA has had several in-person events including Music Bingo, a de-stress event before finals, and a holiday party. All events were well attended.
The SGA had a general forum that all clubs attended and provided feedback. Initiatives are under development to help clubs navigate the club procedures and process and to simplify things. Next month, the SGA will be planning the Spring involvement fair and will be planning an event for April for the Violence Against Women Act, and are looking forward to the date release for Advocacy Day and beginning the planning process.
8. The Faculty Organization – Dr. Nicole Williams, President (No report)
9. Maryland Association of Community Colleges Activities – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay reminded the trustees that the Maryland Association of Community Colleges (MACC) Trustee Leadership Conference and Legislative Reception is Monday, January 23 at the Governor Calvert House in Annapolis. The conference starts at 3:30 p.m. and the legislative reception at 6:00 p.m.
At the conference, MACC will provide an overview of its 2023 legislative agenda, and a guest speaker will provide an overview of federal issues in higher education that may affect community colleges.
At the reception, elected officials are invited to meet with the Board members and College leadership. More information will be provided soon.
The opening day of the 445th Session of the Maryland General Assembly will convene on January 11, 2023, and the MACC Legislative Committee will start meeting each week starting in January, and throughout the session, to review proposed legislation that will affect community colleges.
B. Action Items
1. Revisions to College Manual Sections IV, V, VII and VIII – Erin O. Parker, General Counsel
Ms. Parker asked the Board of Trustees to approve revisions to the College Manual, sections IV, V, VII and VIII. At the November Board of Trustees meeting, this item was presented as an information item and Ms. Parker stated that these changes are being made to remove language related to performance evaluations for full-time faculty, staff and administrators which now reside in interim procedures. Additionally, language in all of these sections have been updated to remove gender references.
Since the information item was presented, proposed edits were received from a trustee, constituency groups, and the college manual editing committee, which have been incorporated into the revised draft. These additional changes have been highlighted in the version available on Diligent. Those edits are generally grammatical and not substantive. One edit of note is that the ASO Manual stated that deans were not members of the ASO, however in practice, they have always been included, so this change was made. In addition, the word “interim” was added to the titles of the two procedures when they are referenced in the manual since those procedures are currently going through the full vetting process. The word “interim” can be removed later when the final procedures are adopted as a non-substantive change.
These proposed changes are by the administration and the College has followed the process for manual revisions as outlined in Section 1.4 of the College Manual. If the Board of Trustees approves the revisions to the College Manual Sections IV, V, VII and VIII, they will become effective immediately. No fiscal implications are anticipated.
By motion of Mr. Curran, seconded by Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the revisions to the College Manual Sections IV, V, VII, and VIII.
2. Revisions to Engagement Matters II: Excellence through Innovation – Monica Rausa Williams, Special Assistant to the President
Ms. Rausa Williams stated that the College’s Strategic Plan, Engagement Matters II: Excellence through Innovation, is a living document that guides the work to support the College’s mission. It is integrated into the College’s annual budgeting planning processes, and is how work is prioritized.
The new plan was implemented on July 1, 2020. COVID changed the landscape of higher education and the College had to change how instruction and student services were delivered, address new barriers for students, faculty and staff, all while maintaining a focus on equity.
The president and vice presidents met over the summer to establish priorities that align with the strategic plan and the opportunities for improvement and innovation in the College’s Self-Study Report, and for which the College is being intentional about emphasizing accessibility within its diversity, equity, inclusion and anti-racism work. As continuous improvement is key to the strategic plan, it is recommended that some of the strategic activities be revised and that the College extend its current plan by one year, until June 30, 2025 to keep the momentum going and to continue the great work faculty are doing to support students.
Ms. Rausa Williams reminded trustees that the three goals of the Strategic Plan are entry and engagement, progress and growth, and retention and completion, and that there are four objectives, excellence, innovation, engagement and resources. How the College achieves its goals is through the strategic activities. There are forty key performance indicators used to measure progress. The goals, objectives, strategic activities, and key performance indicators are approved by the board.
The strategic activities help guide the divisional level and unit level work. In reviewing these activities, some have been completed, and others needed to expand and become more comprehensive and inclusive of all divisions. The Strategic Planning Council reviewed and edited these activities and endorsed these changes at its last meeting in November.
The Strategic Planning Council recommends the following changes to the strategic activities:
If the Board of Trustees approves these revisions to the Strategic Plan, the updates will be made to all the publications, the website and all other associated related documents.
By motion of Mr. Ulvila, seconded by Ms. Stanton-Buttrom, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the revisions to the College Strategic Plan, Engagement Matters II: Excellence through Innovation.
VIII. New Business
IX. Next Board Meeting – January 10, 2023
X. Adjournment
The public session meeting adjourned at 5:16 p.m.
Members present: Sandra E. Moore, Chair; Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Vice Chair; Dr. Nadine Chien; Conor Curran; Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr.; A. Joyce Price-Jones; and Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Absent: JaCina Stanton-Buttrom and Dr. Irene Zoppi Rodriguez
I. Call to Order
The Board Public Session was called to order by Chair Sandra Moore at 4:00 p.m.
II. Roll Call and Approval of the Agenda, Sandra E. Moore, Chair
Ms. Moore asked for the roll call and approval of the agenda. By motion of Mr. Ulvila, seconded by Dr. Chien, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the agenda.
III. Welcome and Introductions, Sandra E. Moore, Chair
IV. Consent Agenda
Ms. Moore presented the Consent Agenda. Mr. Curran moved to approve the Consent Agenda, which was seconded by Ms. Price-Jones.
Dr. Johnson asked that the minutes reflect that although the procurement items were presented in the Consent Agenda, they were reviewed by the Facilities Committee, and followed the normal process. Mr. Ulvila, the committee chair, confirmed that the Facilities Committee had vetted every item to be approved, and discussed the process in more detail, highlighting the award of contract for the repairs to the West Campus Quad.
A roll call was taken of trustees to determine their vote, and the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the Consent Agenda:
V. President’s Report – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
A. Information Items
1. New Academic Programs and Certificates – Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President for Learning
i. Approval of Health Sciences Certificate Program
ii. Approval of Cloud Computing Transfer, Associate of Science and Certificate Programs
iii. Approval of Computer Science Transfer – Data Science, Associate of Science Program
iv. Approval of Management Information Systems Transfer, Associate of Science and Certificate, Information Technology Service Management Certificate, and Software Quality Assurance Analyst Certificate Programs
Dr. Millner presented the information items for the new academic programs. Each item includes an exhibit that includes the details of the degree and certificate programs. The new academic programs have been approved by the Educational Policies Committee, Academic Council, and Academic Forum. The items will be presented to the Board at the February 28 meeting as action items for approval.
Dr. Johnson asked that the statement “adequate capacity” be reconsidered as the question becomes “how much capacity?” When does the College need to hire more faculty and staff? That would help in anticipating the need to hire more faculty and staff if required. Dr. Millner concurred.
B. Action Items
1. Procurements for Florestano Building Renovation – Melissa Beardmore, Vice President for Learning Resources Management
i. Approval of Award of Contract for Construction Management at Risk Services for the Learning Innovation Center
ii. Approval of Contract for the Purchase of Audiovisual Equipment and Services
iii. Approval of Award of Contract for the Purchase of Learning Innovation Center Furniture
Ms. Beardmore stated that the three procurements were related to the Learning Innovation Center on the 4th floor of the Florestano building. Each procurement item has been thoroughly vetted by the Facilities Committee. This portion of the renovation will be completed by September, and will include the College’s IDEA Lab, an office suite, collaboration spaces, the Response Center, video production studios, classrooms and a computer lab.
The Florestano building is now vacant, and will be renovated consistent with the Facilities Master Plan. The renovation is part of a multi-phase approach, starting with the 4th floor, followed by the 1st – 3rd floors. The renovation will follow the normal processes and protocols required when obtaining state and county funds.
The 4th floor will serve as an incubator for new course delivery modalities, and will provide faculty help with production, and spaces to create and deliver more online content. Faculty will be able to schedule classes in the space to experiment and test special teaching modalities.
Students will also have access to an open computer lab to take online classes while on campus. There will be a dedicated collaboration space, and it will house staff to support faculty and students in these areas.
The first procurement item is the contract for construction. Ms. Beardmore stated that the selected construction manager is through a cooperative contract with Frederick County Public Schools, Whiting-Turner. That contract calls for a guaranteed maximum price (GMP) whereby Whiting-Turner obtains hard bids from various subcontractors. While the award of this contract is technically to Whiting-Turner, it will be a pass through to various subcontractors as outlined in Exhibit 1. The contract is fully transparent, and all the details of the various subcontracts are provided to the College. The details reflect the competition for each contract, and there were usually three bids from various firms. Also, it shows that the minority business enterprise participation is about 5% of awarded contracts.
The second item is for the purchase of smart room equipment and training. Ms. Beardmore stated that the contract includes a two-year warranty on parts and labor, in addition to the existing manufacturer’s warranty on parts and labor. The contract was competitively made through a consortium contract, which leverages the buying power of all its members, and the College receives all the available discounts.
The third item is for the contract for furniture. This purchase includes furnishings for classrooms, the computer lab, offices, the conference room, the lounge, collaborative spaces, and the production space. The College solicited contracts from vendors holding various cooperative contracts with the thirteen furniture manufacturers identified to furnish the space. The manufacturers were then bid by the four firms listed in the Board item. The two firms that were selected had the low bid for the specified manufacturers for the furniture.
By motion of Mr. Ulvila, which was seconded by Dr. Chien, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the award of contract for the Construction Management at Risk Services with a guaranteed maximum price for the new Learning Innovation Center in the Florestano Building to The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company, of Baltimore, Maryland, in an amount not to exceed $3,594,483.
By motion of Dr. Chien, which was seconded by Ms. Price-Jones, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the award of contract to purchase audiovisual equipment and services from Lee Hartman and Sons, Inc., of Baltimore, Maryland in an amount not to exceed $421,928.
By motion of Mr. Curran, which was seconded by Ms. Price-Jones, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the award of contract for Learning Innovation Center furniture to Peabody Office Furniture, Inc., of Boston, Massachusetts in an amount not to exceed $238,060, and Douron, Inc., of Owings, Maryland in an amount not to exceed $212,433.
VI. New Business
There was no new business.
VII. Next Board Meetings
A. Board Budget Workshop – February 21, 2023
B. Public Session - February 28, 2023
VIII. Adjournment
The public session meeting adjourned at 4:18 p.m.
Members present: Sandra E. Moore, Chair; Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Vice Chair (via Zoom); Dr. Nadine Chien; Conor Curran; Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr.; A. Joyce Price-Jones; JaCina Stanton-Buttrom; Dr. Irene Zoppi Rodriguez (left at 9:55 a.m.); and Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
The Board Public Session was called to order by Chair Sandra Moore at 8:30 a.m.
Ms. Moore asked for the roll call and approval of the agenda. By motion of Mr. Curran, seconded by Ms. Stanton-Buttrom, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the agenda. Mr. Ulvila participated in the workshop via Zoom.
Dr. Johnson, Budget Committee Chair, provided a brief introduction. He stated that this is the 4th operating budget in support of the College’s strategic plan Engagement Matters II: Excellence through Innovation. The College’s administration’s FY 2024 planning and budget development process has again focused on reallocating resources in support of initiatives developed under the plan to directly impact student completion.
The budget also includes additional funding to support several key initiatives related to the key priority of attracting and retaining quality and diverse faculty and staff; technology, legal and regulatory components; and student success through the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future. The Budget Committee has met several times to discuss assumptions, guiding principles, and priorities for the FY 2024 budget. He invited Vice President Melissa Beardmore to start the presentation.
I. Proposed FY 2024 Operating Budget
Ms. Beardmore stated that the budget workshop is an interactive session to allow trustees to ask questions about the budget. The Board is not voting at the workshop; it will vote at the Board Public Session on February 28. Feedback received at the workshop will be incorporated into the budget presentation on February 28. Then, the approved budget request will be submitted to the County Executive by March 1, and the College’s budget will become a component of the total County budget. The College will work through the budget process with the County administration before it goes to the County Council, which must vote on the budget on or before June 15.
Ms. Beardmore stated that the College’s mission focuses its work in response to the needs of its increasingly diverse community, and provided context to the proposed FY 2024 Operating Budget to show that the College reviews and assesses the effectiveness of investments of resources.
The FY 2023 Financial Status Report is shared regularly with the Budget Committee and the Audit and Finance Committee. As of December 31, the operating budget status report shows the College is operating within a balanced budget for the current year, and all areas are projected to be within their appropriation authority. Student tuition and fees are projected to be above budget by 1% due to improved spring enrollment, offsetting lower than expected summer enrollment. Spring enrollment is currently projected at about 3% above budget.
Overall, expenses are projected to be under budget due primarily to staff turnover and benefit savings from open positions, and in some areas, offset by strategic year end purchases identified in the FY 2024 budget development process. Instead of estimating a transfer to the Tuition Stabilization Fund (TSF) of $2.3 million as budgeted, the College is currently estimating a transfer of $4.1 million to the TSF. This is a six-month projection, and the numbers will change.
Dr. Johnson provided a reminder to the Board regarding the TSF. It is how the College balances the budget, using TSF funds, and why the numbers fluctuate.
Mr. Andrew Little, associate vice president, discussed industry trends and environmental scans for the past year, as the College developed the budget materials and the assumptions for this year. Looking at the largest industry trends in the Baltimore/Washington metro region, several of the College’s key programs appear on the middle to top end of the scale, showing an alignment between the College’s programs and industry trends, particularly in Health Care and Construction.
Population characteristics show activity in the region which millennials are slightly over the national average, retirement risk slightly under, racial diversity slightly over, and Veterans slightly under. This aligns with key strategic work by the College around equity, diversity, inclusion, anti-racism, and accessibility and activities to support veterans.
Population educational attainment data for the region shows that there are potentially 1.8-1.9 million people who have not yet earned at least an associate’s degree, supporting the work of the College and the potential moving forward.
Anne Arundel County Public School (AACPS) high school graduation rates continue to be close to 90%, which can reasonably give the College a predictor of future attendees. The draw rate of AACPS graduates attending AACC shows a decrease during the pandemic years with an uptick in fall 2022. This has implications for the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, as tuition and fees for dual enrollment for AACPS high school students are now free, creating an opportunity for the College to engage with students earlier.
Looking at a comparison of AACC student demographics to County demographics, the County has seen an increase in population of Hispanics/Latinos and Blacks/African Americans. The growth rate of Hispanic/Latino students continues to grow, and in fall 2022, 10.9% of the total student headcount was Hispanic/Latino. This aligns with a consistent upward trend in the County. The College is retaining Hispanic/Latino students at a greater percentage than the average.
Observing the trends for new and returning students the data shows an increase in new applicants in fall 2022. Strategic investments were made in marketing and recruitment of new students. This reinforces the strategic work being done around retention of current students.
Looking at previous investments in budget cycles, the Model Course Initiative, which courses were redesigned in accordance with standards that would promote student success, several courses have narrowed or eradicated equity gaps.
Mr. Little highlighted work from the Enrollment Retention and Completion Council, including streamlining the scholarship application software that resulted in a 40% increase in scholarship applications. Improved marketing messages on the registration website has tripled website visits.
In looking at levels of student engagement at the College compared to national benchmarks, AACC results are higher than the benchmark average. There remain areas for improvement and budgetary investments are being made in these areas.
The College is seeing an increase in the retention of African American male students, there still remains an equity gap. Investments have been made in the Black Male Initiative, and a special team within the Enrollment and Retention Council is addressing this work.
Dr. Chien asked for more information on the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future and dual enrollment of high school students – what has been implemented and what are the expectations. Mr. Little responded that the free tuition and fees program technically launched in the fall, and the College is experiencing a significant growth, 48%, for the spring semester compared to the spring term last year. Initial projections were in the range of 30%, but the College has exceeded that at this point.
Dr. Chien asked where in the County has there been expanded dual enrollment. Mr. Little said that he would have to get back to her about this, but he commented that he has seen an increase from Broadneck High School. Dr. Chien asked about a summer program, and Mr. Little responded that as long as students are still in high school, they can participate in the summer. Ms. Beardmore added that Dr. Patterson was looking into her questions about dual enrollment, and can present more of an update at the Student Success Committee.
Ms. Stanton-Buttrom asked for clarification on the data slides (e.g., Hispanic Growth) regarding “the average.” Mr. Little commented that the data is the institutional or College’s average.
Mr. Curran asked about the retention rate of the dually enrolled County public school students once they complete their high school studies? Dr. Patterson responded that prior to Covid, the College would see about 50%; given the student supports the College has put in place and Blueprint, moving forward, the College hopes the number will be higher.
Dr. Patterson returned to Dr. Chien’s question about where the expanded enrollment from dual enrollment program has been. She shared that increased enrollment has been primarily from Broadneck, Severna Park and South River High Schools.
Ms. Beardmore noted that the College has previously shared with the Board and the community the College’s environmental scan information regarding the impact of the external environment on higher education, which helped to form the current strategic plan. Issues included the scrutiny of the value of higher education, public funding challenges, competition, student demographics, and the post-Covid world.
Several years ago, at the request of, and with the support of the Budget Committee and the Board, the College embarked on a journey to ensure the long-term sustainability of the College. The College has started this work, which includes the annual budget, the multi-year strategic plan, a multi-year financial plan, and phased in reviews of College systems and structures to ensure future resiliency, such as the Administrative Services Review (ASR). The ASR provided recommendations for efficiencies and investments outside of the classroom in support of the strategic plan. Currently underway is the Academic Portfolio and Resource Review.
The ASR reviewed operations outside the classroom and included a deep dive into the administrative functions at the College, allowing it to maintain levels of service at lower costs while enhancing services as appropriate and addressing existing institutional service pain points. Work to implement the recommendations of the ASR will continue through the Budget Committee, and may be phased in over time to minimize the disruption to students and the campus.
The College is currently focused on the Academic Portfolio and Resource Review, spending much time on data collection and collaboration within the college community. The Budget Committee will receive its next report in March, and the full Board in May.
Ms. Beardmore briefly reviewed the College’s mission, vision, and the purpose of the budget is to help accomplish the strategic goals of completion. The College demonstrates budget efficiency and accountability. The College uses the Maryland Association of Community College’s data book of information (MACC Data Book) to understand how it compares to other community colleges. The College holds itself to high standards, and was recognized by the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA), and awarded the inaugural GFOA Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for FY 2017 and each year since. Due to staffing shortages, the College did not pursue the application process for FY 2023. The College uses several measures to understand how resources are being allocated as compared to other Maryland community colleges.
Regarding affordability, the Pell Grant maximum award is estimated to fully cover tuition, fees and books for eligible students. The budget includes a $2 increase in tuition for in-county, $1 increase to the student association fee, and $1 increase to the athletic fee. Through the AACC Foundation, private scholarship donations continue to supplement AACC Financial Aid by more than $1 million annually. Textbook affordability initiatives student an annualized equivalent of $4 in tuition.
Ms. Beardmore highlighted cost containment examples such as Project Sunburst, the energy consortium, vacant position elimination, adjunct savings and other programs, in addition to the savings generated through the Administrative Services Review. Adjunct costs savings have been the largest source of cost containment as enrollment decline continues.
The FY 2023 Compensation program remains a focus of the budget as the College continues to compete for talent in the post-COVID paradigm; it is more than 80% of the budget, and contributes to the College’s ability to attract and retain talented and diverse faculty and staff.
In 2015, the Board set a goal to review compensation systems to support the hiring and retention of quality faculty and staff. The current compensation system was created by the faculty compensation committee and staff compensation committee. The goals of transparency, ease of implementation, consistency, and equity, guided by the Board’s compensation policy, makes it a sustainable system. However in order to maintain the fidelity of the system, adequate funding is required. Adequate funding means enough funding to keep pace with the increasing labor market (between 2-3%).
Key data points were considered in the development of the budget, which includes a 10% compensation pool for faculty and staff. Inflationary costs and other issues were discussed in determining what level of compensation are needed considering the issues of attracting candidates and filling vacancies as well as retaining current faculty and staff. Comparative data between the College’s compensation compared to other County entities shows the College lagging behind. Recruiting is difficult and with these other items to be considered, the 10% increase in the compensation pool request feels justified.
In 2005, the Board set a goal for faculty salaries to be in the top three of Maryland’s large community colleges. In reviewing informal data for full-time faculty positions from peer college’s for average salaries, AACC currently ranks second or third among the teaching positions of professor, associate professor, assistant professor and instructor. For adjunct positions, AACC currently ranks second or third for Levels 1-4 adjunct positions among its peers.
Dr. Johnson noted that this was a very dynamic comparison with the rankings. It is important for the College not only know where they are, but have a projected way to maintain the top three rankings. Dr. Chien asked for clarification about “informal” data. Ms. Beardmore responded that the difference is that it is not data reported through the MACC Data Book. This information was gathered through Human Resources peers, but it is not reported in the MACC Data Book.
The Board Budget Committee met several times to discuss the underlying assumptions and guiding principles related to the operating budget, and considered several scenarios. The preferred scenario is being presented today.
Ms. Beardmore presented a high-level summary of the proposed FY 2024 budget, $134,475,700, which is an increase of $9,885,700 from FY 2023. The majority of that increase is in support of compensation.
Ms. Beardmore reviewed the categories of the FY 2024 budget. Reductions of $318,842 were realized from unemployment and position and program eliminations. Base adjustments total $301,051 for increased costs related existing services, such as utilities, and revenue offsets.
Compensation adjustments total $9,658,959, which includes a 10% compensation adjustment pool for faculty and staff, and a 10% adjunct rate pool. Other items include readjusting the adjunct budget to FY 2023 projections, faculty and staff promotions, anticipated health insurance rate increases, retirement, and turnover adjustment.
Legal and regulatory compliance includes projected legal expenses and institutional insurance for a total of $126,400.
Funding for strategic and operational initiatives include K-12 partnership and Blueprint for Maryland’s Future for $128,132. While much is unknown right now, in terms of what may be needed for implementation, this is a key priority, and supports the students and community.
Ms. Beardmore presented the proposed revenue for the FY 2024 operating budget. State funding for the College is determined through the Cade funding formula, which ties a percentage of the annual state aid allocated for full-time equivalent (FTE) at select University System of Maryland (USM) institutions to the state aid granted per FTE at the community colleges. For FY 2024, the proposed Cade funding is $43,763,100, which is an increase of almost $3 million from FY 2023. In addition to Cade Funding, the College receives funds, $200,000 from the state for the Regional Higher Education Center at Arundel Mills. The governor’s budget continues Cade funded at the statutory percentage of 29%.
The County has been the College’s discretionary funding partner. In order to be eligible for any new state funding, the County must fund the College at the same level as the prior year. The proposed FY2024 to the County is $54,127,800. The $5 million request to the County will help to fund compensation increases and maintain tuition affordability.
The College’s contribution to the budget comes through tuition and fee revenue. The proposed FY2024 budget revenue for tuition and fees is $33,366,300. Consistent with the guiding principle of small incremental tuition increases, this budget proposes a tuition increase of $2, $1 increase in activities fee, and $1 increase in the athletic fee. The increase in total tuition and fee revenue in FY 2024 is $1,665,800 or 5% from the FY 2023 budget. Continuing to manage tuition and fee increases demonstrates to the County the College doing its part to increase revenue.
In assessing affordability, a comparison of full-time tuition and feels as a percentage of the median household income in the county, AACC is about 4.1%. This compares well to other counties.
The proposed FY 2024 budget revenue for Transfers and other income proposed revenue $3,018,500, which includes transfers from the Tuition Stabilization Fund (TSF), auxiliary fund transfers, and other income. The budget includes a transfer of $1,871,000 to the operating budget from the TSF. The other income revenue is the result of interest earnings.
The projected TSF FY 2024 budget request balance of $13,659,862, is within the Board goal of 5-10% at 8.1%, and includes a transfer of $2 million to the information technology (IT) capital budget.
Dr. Johnson noted the auxiliary and enterprise net surplus, which has not been seen in some time. The Board has asked for diversity in revenue sources, and is pleased to see this new pathway.
Ms. Moore asked Ms. Beardmore explain the Auxiliary and Enterprise Net Surplus/Deficit for the newer trustees. Ms. Beardmore stated that auxiliary and enterprise operations are off operating budget activities. Auxiliary operations primarily includes dining services and the bookstore, which are designed to be self-supporting. Enterprising activities are contract training and other services priced appropriately, which can provide additional revenue.
For the proposed FY 2024 budget, the funding source as percent of revenue is the state 33%, County 40% and the College 27%.
Mr. Curran asked if the delay in the state fully funding Cade, and the County funding the College than 33%, puts the College in a better position compared to other community colleges. Ms. Beardmore responded that the lost funding to the College during that time period would have been approximately been $8-10 million. That means the College had to increase tuition, and the County had to step up, and they have been a reliable funding partner, including funding to increase compensation.
Dr. Johnson commented that there is another component that is not included in the funding table. If there is construction, the state and county fund construction; the College does not pay for construction. The capital costs are not included. Mr. Little added that in addition, the state significantly supports the College’s retirement contributions.
Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez talked about the importance of cybersecurity, and asked if the College has worked with those agencies for opportunities to enter the workforce in this field. Ms. Beardmore shared that the Center for Applied Learning and Technology houses many cyber-related classes, and the College has a robust cybersecurity program. Dr. Millner added that the College has partnerships with the NSA, Fort Meade, and several government agencies with internships and externships for students. Dr. Kralevich noted that Information and Instructional (IIT) has a strong collaboration between operations and academic programs, and institutionally has an excellent team and resources in place to defend the College as best it can. Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez added that she would share her NSA contacts and additional information.
Ms. Beardmore provided an update on the Other Post Employment Benefits (OPEB), which relates to health insurance, prescriptions, dental and vision coverage for retirees. Pre-funding this liability helps to reduce the College’s expense compared to its peers. By creating a trust, in which contributions have been made by the County and College from the TSF, the plan assets are almost $22 million on cash contributions of $18 million, a 22% rate of return since inception.
Ms. Beardmore explained that by law, the College is required to submit a budget for all of its funds. Auxiliary, enterprise and restricted funds must be managed with a goal to be self-supporting. The budget is approved by the County Council in total, and the FY 2024 budget request for auxiliary, enterprise and restricted funds is $34,460,600, which would be appropriated.
Ms. Stanton-Buttrom asked for clarification about the actual total tuition increase for students. Ms. Beardmore stated it would be $120 per year for a full-time student, with the proposed increase in tuition and fees.
Dr. Johnson added that there were several tables in the materials that list the changes in fees between programs, which would be added to the cost, depending on the courses. Ms. Beardmore agreed, noting the course specific fees were included the Board’s background materials. At the next public session, the Board will be approving not only the increase to tuition, the activity fee and athletic fee, but also the decreases and increases to lab fees as well.
Dr. Chien commented in the background material on compensation, it was noted that a 4% increase was needed to remain competitive, and the tuition revenue does not cover that 4%. She would like to know what specifically makes up the difference so that the budget is balanced. Additionally, in regards to the shortfall of staff, what does that College think are the causes – turnover, difficultly in recruiting, compensation or other factors.
Regarding the second question, Ms. Beardmore responded it is all of the above. Competing for talent, salary is important, and while the College has a robust benefits package, providing competitive salaries, as outlined in the rationale for the 10% increase in the salary pool, is needed for the College to catch up to the market. Departments are going out for searches multiple times, which means positions are vacant for 6-8 months, if not more, and existing staff have to do the work. The College is in an environment in a post-COVID world, competing for talent in a way that it has not done before. The College has to look at compensation and benefits.
Dr. Chien asked if the College viewed this as long-term problem or if will it level out. Ms. Beardmore responded that time will tell as the trends are not clear yet. What the College does know is that it needs a compensation pool that is more than what the market is moving.
Dr. Chien asked if the rise in tuition is likely to happen each year as the College works to catch up and stay competitive. Ms. Beardmore explained that College looks at tuition independent from compensation increases. There have been years, most recently during COVID, that there were no tuition increases. Each year, the tuition increase is examined separately, what revenue is expected from the state, as that helps to mitigate tuition increases. Students have stated their preference for more small increases versus larger one-time increases.
Regarding the first part of Dr. Chien’s question, Ms. Beardmore commented that this will be discussed in the third part of the presentation. That 4% is an assumption built into the multi-year projection model.
Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez offered to help with faculty recruitment and asked how the Board could support the College with recruiting. Dr. Lindsay commented that Human Resources is currently utilizing the resources she shared and provided with the College seeing an increase in diverse applicants.
Dr. Johnson commented that there are other variables for predicting for the future, such as full-time vs. part-time students, so another perspective to think about moving forward. Dr. Lindsay added the strategic plan focuses on the student experience. The College does not receive extra funds for wrap-around services that it provides for its students, and those services are key for their success.
II. Update on Facilities Master Plan and Proposed FY 2024 – FY 2029 Capital Budget
Ms. Beardmore provided a quick overview of the Facilities Master Plan to allow the Board to see the link to the Capital Budget. The Facilities Master Plan is a comprehensive document that uses data to drive the College’s plans to renovate existing buildings and build new buildings. In order to be eligible for state funds, a project must be in the master plan.
While some key data points are based on College projections and assumptions, the formulas and planning guidelines are provided by the state. This is not used for budget projections. As a result, calculations and projections used for space planning purposes may look different from budget projections. The study projected a surplus of existing classrooms that could be repurposed or taken offline, including the modular buildings. The study projects a deficit in lab and athletic space.
For the College’s capital budget request for new construction and renovation, Ms. Beardmore provided on update on the Dragun building renovation and addition, Florestano renovation, and Student Services Center. This plan was submitted to the County for approval in December with the understanding that it is not yet approved by the Board.
For the Dragun building renovation and addition, new estimates bring the total cost to $96 million from the $86 million that was requested. The County has been updated on project from its original project estimate of $46 million years ago to the current estimate of $96 million, and asked to continue supporting the project. The College will work with the Facilities Committee and the Board to determine how to bring the project closer to its original estimate. The design of the space is being revisited and foregoing of the addition is under consideration.
The Florestano 4th floor Learning Innovation Center is underway using fund balance generated through appropriate uses of stimulus funds. The second part of the project includes the renovation of the first three floors for a one-stop student services center.
After completion of the Florestano building renovation, the Student Services Center will be vacated. The plan is to renovate that building, which will become student event space, space for student life and the Student Government Association, the Health and Wellness Center, an Interfaith Center, and the Military and Veterans Resource Center. This project may need to move further into the out years.
For the College’s capital budget request for repairs, replacement, and improvement, the campus improvements project provides $700,000 each year for emergencies. If the College does not have those emergencies, the funds are deployed to deferred maintenance projects considered high priority in the facilities condition audit study. The County has also provided funding, $250,000 each year, for upgrading walkways, roads, and parkway projects.
Systemics projects are funded every other year for $1,000,000, where the College receives matching funds for major projects, such as chillers and air handlers.
The College currently has two information technology projects for information technology enhancement and technology fiber infrastructure, which are funded through a combination of the County and the College’s TSF.
Ms. Beardmore explained that the capital budget is different from the operating budget. The operating budget is for one year. The capital budget includes project phases and multi-year funding. The FY 2024 – FY 2029 Proposed Capital Budget summarizes the College’s total capital requests to the County for each for each of the projects discussed.
Mr. Ulvila commented that the Dragun building does not represent what the students need for a learning environment, or what they will see in the real world. It is an important project, but one that will have to be right-sized due to the projected costs.
III. Multi-Year Budget Planning Tool
Ms. Beardmore explained that use of the multi-year budget planning tool allows the College to look at decisions made today, and based on certain assumptions, project out revenues and expenses as they may look in the future.
Mr. Little noted that this presentation and the planning tool is not intended to be a future year budget request. It is a tool to facilitate conversation around key assumptions, and what it looks like going forward.
Mr. Little highlighted key revenue assumptions: (1) a 2% increase in state aid each year; noting that an additional 1% increase would equate to an increase of $410,000 in projections; (2) a 4% increase in County revenue each year; (3) for tuition and fees, a forecast of flat enrollment; noting a 1% change in FTE would equate to a change of $370,000 in projects; and (4) for other interest income, the College is not making a change due to the inability to predict interest rates. The TSF is able to support about 2% of the annual operating budget each year with a goal of managing, and not using it.
Looking at expenses, the College is beginning to see unprecedented wage increases coupled with inflation on other activities such as service contracts and software licensing. The presentation includes a 3% increase, however due to the volatility of costs, it may need to push up towards 4%, which would add $1 million that would need a funding solution.
For benefits, an increase of 5% was included which is consistent with what is seen in the OPEB actuarial studies, which predicts a about a 5.2% increase long term.
For other operating expenses, the College continues to include no increase as the College believes the strategy to reallocate resources to support that activity is reasonable in the short term, and will continue to be monitored. Deferred essential technology purchases have been completed through end-of-year acquisitions for AV and PC replacements.
The tool runs multiple budget scenarios. Scenario 1 assumes better results than historic trends. Scenario 2 assumes the same results with historical trend. Scenario 3 assumes worse results with historic trend. If the College can align with historical averages, the College is in decent shape. If things are better, the College is in much better shape. If they are worse, the College will have situations to manage, which reinforces the work of the Administrative Services Review and the Academic Portfolio and Resources Review to help the College prepare for these scenarios.
Consistent with what has been seen with the Board’s guiding principle of small incremental tuition and fee increases to avoid large spikes, reasonable support from the County and state will allow us to keep tuition and fee increases manageable to inflationary increase (2-3%) and maintain compensation increases.
Dr. Chien asked why the technology equipment software line item and the software maintenance line item are constant across the multi-year budget planning tool. Mr. Little explained this is a smoothing out of the total deferred maintenance backlog or average, which will occur each year, and change depending upon the current needs and prioritization of which labs need to be recycled and upgraded.
Dr. Chien asked if external factors, such as new leadership in state government, should be considered in the scenarios. Ms. Beardmore stated it is about the priorities. State and county have finite resources, and while education is a priority, there is a focus is on K-12. Competing state and county priorities can affect the College’s budget. Fully funding Cade is a good indicator of the state supporting community colleges. This highlights the importance of the five-year planning tool and its various scenarios and what the College may need to change.
Mr. Ulvila commented that last year, MACC hosted a gubernatorial forum, and while the current governor was not able to attend, the forum highlighted the importance of community college education. The current governor is a graduate of a community college and understands the value of what the Colleges does. Recently, Mr. Ulvila was at the Senate building, and Anne Arundel County senators commented to him how they are committed to fully funding the Cade formula, and the general assembly is supportive as well.
Dr. Lindsay asked the Board members to attend the meetings with the senators and delegates, and tap into the relationships with the elected officials who appointed this Board, which could be very powerful. The College has a wonderful relationship with the County, and they have been a great partner in the community.
Dr. Johnson reminded the Board about the Middle States Site Visit, and information cards were provided, which will serve as a primer before the next Board meeting.
The next Board Public Session will be February 28, 2023
The Board Budget Workshop adjourned at 10:40 a.m.
Members present: Sandra E. Moore, Chair; Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Vice Chair; Dr. Nadine Chien; Conor Curran; Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr.; A. Joyce Price-Jones; JaCina Stanton-Buttrom (arrived 4:42 p.m.); Dr. Irene Zoppi Rodriguez (arrived 4:33 p.m.); and Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
I. Call to Order
II. Roll Call and Approval of the Agenda, Sandra E. Moore, Chair
The Board Public Session was called to order by Chair Sandra Moore at 4:00 p.m.
Ms. Moore asked for the roll call and approval of the agenda. By motion of Dr. Chien, which was seconded by Ms. Price-Jones, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the agenda.
III. Welcome and Introductions, Sandra E. Moore, Chair
IV. Consent Agenda
Ms. Moore presented the Consent Agenda. By motion of Dr. Johnson, which was seconded by Mr. Curran, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the Consent Agenda:
V. Board Chair and Committee Reports
A. Reports for February
1. Board Chair Report – Sandra E. Moore, Chair (no report)
2. Budget Committee – Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Committee Chair
Dr. Johnson stated that the committee met on January 17 and 31. The FY 2023 operating budget status report as of December 28 reflects the results of the fall semester and preliminary results of the spring semester. Projections show a balanced budget and all areas are within their appropriation authority. Student tuition and fees are projected above budget by 1% due to improved spring enrollment, offsetting lower than expected summer enrollment. Spring is currently projected at 3% above budget.
Overall expenses are projected to be under budget primarily due to staff turnover and benefit savings from open positions and in some areas, offset by strategic year end purchases identified in the FY 2024 budget development process.
At both meetings, the committee discussed and provided feedback on several operating budget scenarios for FY 2024, and the assessment of those scenarios in the achievement of previously agreed-to guiding principles and priorities.
The committee also reviewed the proposed FY 2024-2029 capital budget.
Dr. Johnson provided introductory comments regarding the proposed FY 2024 operating and capital budgets on the agenda as action items. In addition to multiple meetings held by the committee, the full Board reviewed the budgets at the February 21 Board budget workshop.
That workshop included detailed presentations from the administration regarding the FY 2024 operating budget request; the auxiliary, enterprise and restricted fund appropriation authority; and the FY 2024-2029 capital budget request. During that workshop, the Board engaged in discussions with the administration regarding the budgets, high-level trends facing the College, outcomes of prior budgetary investments, and the Facilities Master Plan. In addition, the key assumptions and projections contained in the multi-year budget planning tool were discussed.
Dr. Johnson stated that this is the fourth operating budget in support of the College’s strategic plan: Engagement Matters II – Excellence through Innovation. The administration’s FY 2024 planning and budget development process has again focused on reallocating resources in support of initiatives developed under the plan to directly impact student completion.
This budget includes additional funding to support the key priority of attracting and retaining quality and diverse faculty and staff, technology, legal and regulatory compliance, and student success through the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future. The proposed budget represents an overall expenditure increase of 8% or $9.9 million compared to the FY 2023 budget.
Dr. Johnson stated that the Board appreciates and values the dedication and quality of the faculty and staff who serve the students. Knowing that the College’s quality programs and reputation for innovation and excellence are because of the faculty and staff, the committee is pleased to bring forward a budget that includes a pool of funds for compensation increases in support of the Board approved compensation policy. This includes $9.6 million in funding for a 10% compensation pool for faculty, adjunct faculty, and staff.
Dr. Johnson stated that the budget recommendation limits tuition and fee increases with a proposed $2 in-county tuition rate increase, and a $1 increase in the student association fee and $1 increase in athletics fees. Despite these necessary increases, the continued and expanding use of lower-cost course materials and the innovative approaches faculty have taken in addressing lab costs, will help offset these increases for many students and maintain a flat overall cost of attendance.
The Governor’s budget includes an additional $3 million in state funding over the FY 2023 funding level, and the College is asking for an increase of $5 million from the county. The focus of the FY 2024 capital budget is on deferred maintenance projects, innovative spaces to support students and faculty, and critical information technology enhancements.
The College will continue many of the efforts deployed with the federal stimulus funds in FY 2024, and beyond, through the information technology capital budget which will support critical technology and infrastructure necessary to ensure every student has an exceptional experience.
The FY 2024 capital budget will also allow the College to finalize the creation of the Learning Innovation Center (LInC) located on the 4th floor of the Florestano building, and begin design work for the renovation of first three floors. This funding and phased approach has allowed the College to accelerate the completion of the LInC, currently scheduled to be completed by September 2023. This important space will function as an incubator for new course delivery modalities in Hyflex and technology rich classrooms.
Ms. Beardmore provided a high-level overview of the components of the budget and began by providing a reminder to the Board of the College’s mission, which focuses the work, especially the commitment to be responsive to the increasing diverse community and its needs. It is what the College strives for, and provides the context for the budget, helping to accomplish the strategic goals of completion and being student ready.
Ms. Beardmore explained that the budget is built starting with expenditures necessary to support the strategic priorities. Expenditure categories include: compensation adjustments; base adjustments for non-compensation costs; legal and regulatory compliance; and strategic initiatives. The FY 2024 budget proposes a change over the FY 2023 budget of just over $9.8 million. She added that each year, reductions are considered where savings can be found and are rolled into the next budget. Looking at base adjustments, Ms. Beardmore stated that those include increased costs of existing services and anticipated increases in utilities costs.
Ms. Beardmore stated that compensation is more than 83% of the budget. In 2005, the Board set a goal for compensation – to be ranked in the top three of Maryland’s large community colleges. In alignment with The Faculty Organization compensation committee and the Professional and Support Staff Organization compensation committee requests, the budget includes a 10% compensation adjustment pool and 10% adjunct faculty rate pool adjustment. Pursuant to the College’s market-based system, the 10% adjustment would be applied on the mid-point of the grade. This pool will allow the College to keep pace with the market and inflation and provides funds for employees to move through the salary range as they gain more experience.
Ms. Beardmore provided a breakdown of the $9.6 million in compensation related adjustments, which includes the impact of the faculty and staff compensation pool and the adjunct compensation pool, as well as other compensation and benefit related items based on assumptions to the budget.
Other areas reviewed include legal and regulatory compliance, which reflects institutional costs such as estimated legal expenses and business insurance. The budget also contains a placeholder in the event that the College will need to fund efforts to support the implementation of the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future.
Ms. Beardmore continued with the revenue of the budget. The College is funded through the Cade funding formula at the state level, which ties a percentage of the annual state aid allocated per full-time equivalent at select University System of Maryland (USM) institutions to the state aid granted per full-time equivalent to the community colleges. As a result of the continuing increases in state funding, the College is proposing a moderate tuition increase. The Governor’s budget includes just under $3 million in new funding for AACC.
The County has been the College’s discretionary funding partner versus the state, which is formulaic. The $5 million increase requested from the County will help fund the compensation increases. After the Board approves the budget, the College will submit the budget to the County Executive. The College will present is budget to the County Executive on March 24. The $5 million request to the County is to provide partial funding for the College’s pay package and to maintain tuition affordability.
Ms. Beardmore explained the College’s contribution to the budget is from tuition and fee revenue. The College is implementing a small tuition rate increase of $2 as well as a $1 increase to the student association fee and a $1 increase to the athletics fee. This is consistent with the guiding principle of small incremental increases. The budget includes a flat projection for full-time equivalent enrollment. Ms. Beardmore commented that for a student taking 30 credit hours, this rate increase equates to $120 for the year.
Ms. Beardmore noted that in the Board’s materials, there is an attachment to the operating budget agenda item that includes a list of new and revised lab fees and reflects the course level changes that the Board will vote to approve.
The affordability index shows how over the last few years the College’s tuition and fees for a full-time student compared to the median household income in the counties of Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Howard, Montgomery and Prince George’s. The percentages have remained relatively the same at about 4% over the years.
Revenues to or from the Tuition Stabilization Fund (TSF) along with Auxiliary Fund transfers and other income sources complete the budget income. The budget includes a $1.8 million transfer from the TSF, as well as $250,000 from the Auxiliary Fund.
Ms. Beardmore noted that the Board has a guiding principle related to the TSF for responsible usage of the one-time fund. With the TSF fund balance at 8% of the FY 2024 proposed budget, the College remains within the Board’s goal of 5-10%.
Also, as a guideline, the College aims for revenue funding to be at 1/3 from the state, 1/3 from the County and 1/3 from the College. For the FY 2024 budget, the state is at 33%, the County budget request is for 40% and the College (tuition & fees) is at 27%.
Ms. Beardmore stated that Board’s meeting materials includes a chart showing the summary of the components of the budget with a balanced budget. The Auxiliary, Enterprise and Restricted Funds, which includes grant funding is included as the College must submit a budget that includes all funds. The County Council gives the College an appropriation for those funds, which will be $34.4 million for FY 2024.
i. Approval of the FY 2024 College Operating Budget – Action Item
By motion of Dr. Johnson, seconded by Mr. Ulvila, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees voted unanimously to approve the FY2024 College Operating Fund Budget request in the amount of $134,475,700 and the Auxiliary, Enterprise, and Restricted Funds Appropriation Authority in the amount of $34,460,600 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.
ii. Approval of the FY 2024-2029 Capital Budget – Action Item
Ms. Beardmore summarized the total capital request to the County for each of the projects discussed at the Board budget workshop. The two primary projects in the years beyond FY 2024 are the renovations of the Florestano and Dragun buildings. Currently, options are being considered for the Dragun building project to assure that it is within the County’s affordability measures.
By motion of Dr. Chien, which was seconded by Ms. Price-Jones, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees voted unanimously to approve the FY 2024-FY 2029 College Capital Budget.
3. Board Development Committee – A. Joyce Price-Jones, Committee Chair
Ms. Price-Jones stated that the committee met on February 2 and discussed the following: the August 2023 retreat, the annual board assessment; debriefed on the Board’s DEIAA training in January; and discussed a future communications training.
The committee agreed to have the retreat on Tuesday, August 15, 5:00 – 6:30 p.m., and focus on the DiSC survey. Dinner will be provided.
The committee will work on developing the annual Board assessment this spring. The assessment will be made available for Board members to complete on May 2, with a due date of May 15. The results will be reported on at the June 13 Board meeting.
Regarding January’s DEIAA training, the committee agreed that the presentation by Dr. Kellie McCants-Price and Professor David Caskey was excellent and informative.
According to the Board’s goals, trustees are to participate in a communications training. The committee agreed to ask the College’s Strategic Communications department to prepare a presentation for the Board to be held after the April 11 or May 9 Board meeting. Dinner will be provided as well.
4. Board Policy Oversight Committee – Sandra E. Moore, Chair
i. COVID Policy – Information Item
Ms. Moore stated that the committee did not meet in person the past month, but
communicated via email to review and approve the COVID-19 Policy presented as an information item to the Board.
On August 22, 2021, the Board of Trustees reauthorized the President to make decisions during the COVID-19 crisis for the continuity of operations and/or the safety of faculty, staff, and students which impact the College’s normal operations. The Board Policy Oversight Committee approved the policy action request for an interim policy on January 12, 2022. The President adopted the Interim Policy regarding COVID-19, which was effective March 24, 2022.
Per the Board’s Policy on the Development of Policies and Procedures, an Interim Policy will remain in force until adopted, with or without revisions, through the review and approval process or for up to twelve months from the date of issuance, whichever occurs first. The Interim Policy regarding COVID-19 will expire on March 24, 2023.
This policy establishes the College rules regarding COVID-19, including the requirement to report COVID cases to the College, the requirement that students and employees participating in clinicals, internships, and externships in certain programs be vaccinated against COVID-19, the ability for the College to require wearing face coverings on campus, and a discussion of health and safety measures for the use of respirators.
Since the Interim Policy was adopted, this policy has been updated to exclude the Massage Therapy program from the vaccine mandate because the clinic sites for this program generally do not require vaccination to participate since these sites are not subject to the vaccine mandate issued by the federal government that applies to Medicare- and Medicaid-certified providers and suppliers.
The other substantive change is that the College will no longer require someone who is subject to the vaccine mandate who receives an accommodation to not get vaccinated for religious or disability reasons to submit to weekly testing because the CDC no longer recommends screening testing for unvaccinated individuals, as well as other administrative and logistical reasons for discontinuing these protocols. Other clarifying changes were made.
This Policy has followed the procedures for the review and approval process. The constituency groups are currently submitting their feedback. There may be some revisions to this draft policy as a result of that process.
If there are any changes from this draft policy, the committee will highlight them when it is brought back to the full Board for approval at the March 14 public session.
At the March 14 meeting, a motion to dissolve the reauthorization to the President to make decisions regarding health and safety regarding COVID will also be brought forward, as this policy will replace the need for this delegation of authority.
5. Facilities Committee – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Committee Chair
Mr. Ulvila stated that the committee met via Zoom on February 6 and 21 and discussed the following topics: March procurements; future procurements; and campus projects. The committee also discussed future meetings.
First, the committee discussed the March procurements. While there are no procurements on the Board’s agenda for the February meeting, there will be two presented for the Board’s approval at its March meeting.
Next, the committee discussed the list of future procurements. Lastly, the committee received an update on campus projects, specifically matters pertaining to real estate.
Dr. Johnson asked about the matters pertaining to real estate to which Mr. Ulvila responded that it was regarding a request of variance on some property.
6. AACC Foundation – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Committee Chair
Mr. Curran read a thank you letter to the Board from a student for a scholarship. Mr. Ulvila stated that as of February 15, 2023, the Foundation’s fundraising total is just over $1.88 million in gifts and commitments toward a fiscal year goal of $2 million.
Mr. Ulvila stated that the Foundation has received generous gifts over the past several months, including a gift from the Tate Foundation for the HelpLink Fund for Nursing. These resources will be used to provide temporary emergency assistance to students in the nursing program. The AACC Foundation also received a generous gift from the Clauson Family Foundation to endow the Clauson Center Trades Education Scholarship. This non-credit educational scholarship provides financial support to AACC students in pursuit of academic excellence and future careers.
In addition, Dr. Nadine Chien, through the Batzold Chien Charitable Fund, generously contributed to the Fund to Advance Student Success in STEM at AACC, a fund she established last year. This fund is designed to provide high-impact experiences for students, preferably women, who are pursuing a degree or intend to transfer, in a STEM field of study. These funds will support annual student scholarships and provide programmatic resources to the College. The AACC Foundation is grateful for the support of these, and the many donors who choose to invest in our students, the College, and the community
B. No Reports for February
1. Audit & Finance Committee – Dr. Irene Zoppi Rodriguez, Committee Chair
2. Human Resources Committee – JaCina Stanton-Buttrom, Committee Chair
3. Student Success Committee – Dr. Nadine Chien, Committee Chair
VI. President’s Report – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
A. Information Items
1. College Updates – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay stated that the spring semester started on January 23, and is pleased to say that as of March 27, the College is at 2454.0 FTE, which is up 4.2% compared to last year’s FTE of 2355.1, exceeding the final target by 22.0 FTE. Fall 2022 to Spring 2023 Retention is 74.1%. Fall 2021 to Spring 2022 was 73.4% during the same time last year. The Enrollment, Retention and Completion Council work teams are still meeting to develop strategies and tactics to increase both enrollment of new students, and retention of current students.
On February 17, Dr. Lindsay had the pleasure of hosting Congressman John Sarbanes at the Arnold campus. Congressman Sarbanes represents Maryland's Third Congressional District and AACC is now located in this district. They discussed AACC’s vision and mission, workforce training initiatives, business and community partnerships, and visited the Sarbanes Center for Career and Civic Engagement, named in honor of his father.
Dr. Lindsay presented at the Achieving the Dream conference with provost and vice president for Learning, Dr. Tanya Millner; vice president for Learner Support Services, Dr. Felicia Patterson; and Dr. Kellie McCants-Price, interim Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer about AACC’s Racial Equity Leadership Academy Journey. AACC was one of the 10 institutions selected for the inaugural Racial Equity and Leadership Academy, sponsored by Achieving the Dream and USC Center for Race and Equity Center.
Dr. Lindsay congratulated the 2023 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Zeitgeist Award recipients Kymberly Smith Jackson, associate professor in the Legal Studies Institute and vice president and senator of The Faculty Organization, and Winnie Shabazz, student success and retention advisor for the Student Achievement and Success Program, who were honored at the 42nd annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Breakfast on January 16. The Zeitgeist Award was started several years ago by the AACC's Black Student Union and remains an important part of the celebratory events for the annual breakfast.
In celebration of Black History Month, AACC has hosted a variety of in-person events this month. This year’s theme was Unmasking Black Excellence, and the events were an impactful way to promote meaningful discussion. Dr. Lindsay thanked the Black History Committee Members for their commitment to the community and students.
AACC is preparing for the Middle States Evaluation Team visit March 12-15. Trustee participation is important in the reaccreditation process. Dr. Lindsay gave sincere thanks to Dr. Greg Schrader, the Steering Committee Chair, the committee members, and faculty and staff who are helping to prepare for this event.
Dr. Lindsay also thanked Trustee Curran for testifying in support of legislation for the Maryland Promise scholarship. Dr. Lindsay reminded trustees of the monthly Board talking points provided in their meeting packets, and informed them that that she will be meeting with each of them in preparation for the accreditation visit.
2. Monthly Update on Accreditation – Dr. Gregory R. Schrader, Chair, Steering Committee
Dr. Schrader provided an update on Middle States Evaluation Team visit. There will be a reception for the Middle States Evaluation Team on Sunday, March 12 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. in the Health and Life Sciences Building Atrium. On Tuesday, March 14, the Board will meet with the Evaluation Team. The Board is invited to attend the exit report to the college community on Wednesday, March 15 from 10:00-10:30 a.m. The Evaluation Team Chair will read the report, and then the entire team will leave the campus.
Dr. Schrader provided guidance on how to prepare for the Evaluation Team meeting. Resources for the Board will be posted to Diligent, which include the Self-Study Report and talking points. He stated that the purpose of the Evaluation Team’s visit it to clarify and verify what was written in the College’s report and to help the College become better.
Dr. Johnson noted that continuous improvement applies to all areas across the College, not just where obvious improvement is needed, but also where things are going well.
Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez asked Dr. Schrader what lessons have been learned and what wisdom has been gained through this process. Dr. Schrader stated that this process was radically different from the last accreditation, and there are many lessons learned that may help the College when it is time for the next self-study process.
Mr. Curran asked if the exit R\report is only to be available in-person. Dr. Schrader stated it will be in-person only, and will not be livestreamed.
On behalf of the Board, Ms. Moore thanked Dr. Schrader for his work, and Dr. Johnson for stepping into his role on the committee. Finally, Ms. Moore stated that the accreditation process is not only an opportunity for the College to show off all the wonderful things about the College, but an opportunity to learn how to improve.
3. Academic Forum/Council – Dr. Candice Hill, Chair
Dr. Hill stated that the Academic Forum met on January 26 and the Academic Council met on February 23. Representation for next year’s Academic Council was determined and elections are underway for new representatives. Dr. Hill is ending her time as Academic Forum Chair, and the search for her replacement is underway. Committees shared updates focused on student success, retention, diversity, equity, inclusion and antiracism work, and training for faculty.
Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez asked what type of training has been provided to faculty and Dr. Hill stated she would be happy to provide a list to the Board.
4. Administrative Staff Organization (ASO) – Jill Bennett, President
Ms. Bennett stated that members continue to serve on a wide variety of policy and planning committees and, at the prompting of general counsel, there is discussion about how to streamline the selection of members for those committees to make the process more efficient.
The ASO held a coffee social earlier in the day, the third in a series of informal gatherings designed to help connect members of ASO as a team, both professionally and personally. These face-to-face meetings can be warmer than when meeting virtually. Lastly, ASO is seeking volunteers for the positions of president and vice president for the next two years.
5. Professional and Support Staff Organization (PSSO) – John Dayton, President
Mr. Dayton stated that the PSSO held an in-person welcome back event on January 11. The PSSO continues to work on its goal for college-wide engagement and influence, working closely with College administration on three areas: implementation of the Fair Labor Standards Act and the effect of non-exempt staff’s ability to receive compensation for work beyond their full-time position; PSSO members who teach as adjunct faculty but do not receive safe and sick leave hours via their adjunct contract; and staff’s ability to fully participate in annual convocation activities.
For its workplace environmental culture and expectations goal, the PSSO held a professional development workshop on “Fostering a Climate of Inclusion.”
6. Student Government Association (SGA) – Abigail Billovits-Hayes, President
Ms. Billovits-Hayes provided a brief update on SGA activities which included the Involvement Fair, Spring General Forum, and a Karaoke Night. Future events will include a Town Hall, an UNO Tournament, and a Craft Night.
New senators have been elected along with a new vice president of Campus Activities, bringing the organization closer to its goal of having a full board. Ms. Billovits-Hayes attended the National Association for Campus Activities (NACA) Live Conference along with Trustee Conor Curran and brought back ideas for redoing training, and how to gain more SGA members and retain them. In addition, Ms. Billovits-Hayes, along with Trustee Curran and others, attended Student Advocacy Day, meeting with elected officials to promote the needs of students and the College.
Ms. Billovits-Hayes and Trustee Curran will attend a few events and sessions during the Middle States Evaluation Team visit. The SGA is also recruiting students for the SGA Executive Board for the next year.
Mr. Curran added his appreciation for getting to attend the NACA Live Conference in Louisville, Kentucky this year, where they had the opportunity to meet students from other institutions across the country and to bring back new experiences to the campus.
7. The Faculty Organization (TFO) – Dr. Nicole Williams, President
Dr. Williams stated that TFO met on February 15, and senators for each affinity group were selected for AY 2023-2024. TFO Convocation is in March, and the elections for officers will be held for next year.
The TFO/Academic Forum current leadership and TFO past Presidents are currently working together to put in policy requests for the proposed Tenure Cap committee.
The TFO/Academic Forum leadership has formed a committee with faculty to review the requirements for emeritus status, and the qualifications and procedures to ensure they are inclusive, fair and equitable.
The TFO formed an ad-hoc Collective Bargaining committee last year. The purpose of the
committee is to educate TFO about Collective Bargaining. At this time, four forums have been held.
8. Maryland Association of Community Colleges (MACC) Activities – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay stated that the annual MACC Trustee Leadership Conference and Reception was held at the Governor Calvert House in Annapolis. At the conference, there were presentations about the MACC legislative agenda, trends and priorities from the Association of Community College Trustees, and a legal update about issues that may affect higher education. At the reception, there was an opportunity to meet and talk with Anne Arundel County delegates and senators. Dr. Lindsay thanked Chair Moore, Vice Chair Ulvila, Dr. Johnson, and Trustees Price-Jones and Curran for attending this event.
On Tuesday, February 21, Dr. Lindsay participated in MACC’s virtual Student Advocacy Day with eight students, including student Trustee Conor Curran, where they met with Anne Arundel County delegates and senators. This was an opportunity for the students to speak directly to their elected officials about how pending legislation would impact them personally.
The MACC Legislative Committee has been meeting every Monday since the session started in January to review the numerous bills introduced this session. In addition, at the monthly Maryland Council of Community College Presidents meetings, MACC has been providing the presidents updates in regards to the bill related to MACC’s legislative agenda.
Dr. Lindsay reminded the trustees of the talking points for this month. Updates have been provided about the legislative agenda that the students shared at Advocacy Day as well.
B. Action Items
1. Approval of Health Sciences Certificate Program – Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President for Learning
Dr. Millner stated that the Board of Trustees is asked to approve the Health Sciences Certificate Program. The proposed program was approved by the Academic Forum in Spring 2022. With the Board’s approval the Maryland Higher Education Commission will be notified of the College’s intent to offer the program described in the exhibits beginning Fall 2023. The program consists of coursework that already has faculty and other instructional resources in place. As a result, there are no additional resources required to offer this program. This program was needed to become a new stand-alone certificate to support goals of the Maryland Education Alliance and to ensure smooth transferability.
Dr. Johnson clarified that that the no additional resources relates to the development of new courses, but that in the event of increased enrollment, there will be additional costs for the hiring of additional adjunct faculty. Dr. Millner stated that was correct because the courses are not new and have been put into a new program.
By motion of Mr. Curran, which was seconded by Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the proposed Health Sciences, Certificate.
2. Approval of the 2023-2024 Academic Calendar – Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President for Learning
Dr. Millner stated that the Board of Trustees is asked to approve the 2023-2024 Academic Calendar. The academic calendar was developed by the Registrar’s office and has been reviewed by the Committee on Teaching and Learning, as per the Academic Forum charter and by College administration. It was submitted to the Academic Council as an information item earlier this month.
With the Board of Trustees’ approval, the 2023-2024 Academic Calendar will be published in the 2023 catalog and other publications, as appropriate. There are no fiscal implications.
By motion of Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez, which was seconded by Dr. Chien, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the approve the 2023-2024 Academic Calendar.
VII. New Business
Ms. Moore reminded the Board of the importance of attendance at the Middle States Evaluation Team meetings which shows our support and approve of the activities.
VIII. Next Board Meetings – March 14, 2023
IX. Adjournment
The public session meeting adjourned at 5:11 p.m.
Members present: Sandra E. Moore, Chair; Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Vice Chair; Dr. Nadine Chien; Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr.; A. Joyce Price-Jones; JaCina Stanton-Buttrom; Conor Curran; and Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Absent: Dr. Irene Zoppi Rodriguez
I. Call to Order
II. Roll Call and Approval of the Agenda, Sandra E. Moore, Chair
The Board Public Session was called to order by Chair Sandra Moore at 4:00 p.m.
Ms. Moore asked for the roll call and approval of the agenda. By motion of Ms. Price-Jones, which was seconded by Mr. Curran, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the agenda.
III. Welcome and Introductions, Sandra E. Moore, Chair
IV. Approval of Faculty Promotions, Tenure, and Sabbaticals
A. Approval of Faculty Promotions
Dr. Tanya Millner asked the Board for approval of the President’s recommendations for the award of faculty promotion. Dr. Millner reviewed the process for faculty promotion and certification of the process. Faculty recommended for promotion will advance in rank effective August 16, 2023. The increase in salary for faculty members approved for promotion is equivalent to two full-steps increase in salary, which including FICA, totals $54,899 for all faculty listed below in FY 2024.
By motion of Dr. Johnson, seconded by Dr. Chien, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the President’s recommendations for promotions, effective August 16, 2023, for the following faculty members: to Associate Professor: Brandi L. Angel, Business Management; Dr. Shelley D. DeBlasis, English; Cory E. Doubek, Health, Fitness & Exercise Studies; Zoe R. Friedman, Visual Arts; and Sara A. Prigodich, Visual Arts; to Full Professor: Robert T. Carp, Physical Science; Dr. Jennifer A. Dix, English; Jodie S. Hogan, World Language; Dr. Kathleen Krueger, Sociology; Dr. Johnny Lew, English; Dr. Kellie M. McCants-Price, Psychology; Sara E. Meinsler, Human Services; Dr. Karen K. Phelan, Education; Adil S. Qaiyumi, Esq., Homeland Security & Criminal Justice; Dawn M. Ryan, Cybersecurity, Networking & Digital Forensics; Dr. Anthony C. Santorelli, Physical
Science; Dr. Kentina R. Smith, Psychology; and Dr. Ian A. Wardenski, Performing Arts.
B. Approval of Faculty Tenure
Dr. Millner asked the Board for approval of the President’s recommendations for the award of faculty tenure. Dr. Millner reviewed the process for the award of tenure and certification of the process. Tenure will be effective August 16, 2023. There were no fiscal implications.
By motion of Mr. Curran, seconded by Mr. Ulvila, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously awarded tenure effective August 16, 2023, to the following faculty members: Ellen M. Asbury, Nursing; Mary M. Bachkosky, J.D., Legal Studies; Dr. Debra M. Bartlett, Biology; Dr. Jennifer A. Dix, English; Alice C. Jackson, Nursing; Dr. Kathleen E. Krueger, Sociology; Thao-Nhi Luu, Mathematics; Jessica Mattingly, Communications; Timothy P. May, English; Dr. Kellie M. McCants-Price, Psychology; Sara E. Meinsler, Human Services; Dr. Darian T. Senn-Carter, Homeland Security & Criminal Justice; and Dr. Kentina R. Smith, Psychology.
C. Approval of Faculty Sabbaticals for FY2024
Dr. Millner asked the Board for approval of the President’s recommendations for sabbatical leave for six faculty members: Dr. Candice J. May Hill, Dr. Heather E. Rellihan, Dr. Rachelle E. Tannenbaum, Jennifer M. Schuster, Timothy P. May, and Scott A. Cooper. Dr. Millner reviewed the process for sabbatical leave.
Drs. Candice J. May Hill, Heather E. Rellihan, Rachelle E. Tannenbaum and Professors Timothy P. May and Jennifer M. Schuster will receive paid leave at full salary for the Fall 2023 semester, and Professor Scott A. Cooper will receive paid leave at full salary for the Spring 2024 semester.
Adjunct faculty will be hired to provide coverage to meet the instructional needs, which equates to 15 faculty load hours per faculty member per semester of leave. The current adjunct rates range from $938-$1,058 per faculty load hour. The total cost for one sabbatical leave would not exceed $17,084 ($15,870 + FICA) and the six sabbaticals would not exceed $102,504 ($17,084 x 6 sabbaticals) at the current adjunct rates.
By motion of Ms. Price-Jones, seconded by Dr. Chien, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously granted the sabbatical leave for: Dr. Candice J. May Hill, English, Fall 2023; Dr. Heather E. Rellihan, Gender and Sexual Studies and American Studies, Fall 2023; Dr. Rachelle E. Tannenbaum, Psychology, Fall 2023; Jennifer M. Schuster, Visual Arts, Fall 2023; Timothy P. May, English, Fall 2023; and Scott A. Cooper, World Languages, Spring 2024.
On behalf of the College and the faculty, Dr. Lindsay thanked the Board for the opportunity to support faculty sabbaticals. Dr. Lindsay noted the importance of faculty sabbaticals to the College’s growth, development, innovation, and contributions to the faculty and students that the College is serving.
V. Consent Agenda
Ms. Moore presented the Consent Agenda. By motion of Mr. Ulvila, which was seconded by Dr. Chien, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the Consent Agenda:
VI. Board Chair and Committee Reports
A. Reports for March
1. Board Chair Report – Sandra E. Moore, Chair
i. Appointment of Nominating Committee
Ms. Moore asked Dr. Chien and Ms. Price-Jones to serve on the Board Nominating Committee. Ms. Moore announced that anyone who is interested in serving as the Chair or Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees should contact Dr. Chien or Ms. Price-Jones.
ii. Rescission of Special Authorization
Ms. Moore reported that on March 26, 2020, the Board voted to authorize the President or designee to make decisions during the COVID-19 emergency that may have waived or contradicted established Board policy, if the President or designee deemed it necessary for emergency reasons, continuity of operations and/or the safety of faculty, staff, and students which impacted the College’s normal operations.
As the federal government announced its intention to end the national emergency and public health emergency declarations related to the COVID-19 pandemic in May 2023, the state of emergency expired in the State of Maryland, and Anne Arundel County continues to have a low community spread according to the Centers for Disease Control data, the Board recommends rescinding the special authorization.
By motion of Dr. Chien, seconded by Dr. Johnson, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the rescission of the President’s special authorization.
2. Board Policy Oversight Committee – Sandra E. Moore, Chair
i. Approval of COVID-19 Policy
Ms. Moore reported that on August 22, 2021, the Board of Trustees reauthorized the President to make decisions during the COVID-19 crisis for the continuity of operations and/or the safety of faculty, staff, and students which impact the College’s normal operations. The Board Policy Oversight Committee approved the policy action request for an Interim Policy on January 12, 2022. The President adopted the Interim Policy regarding COVID-19, which was effective March 24, 2022.
Per the Board’s Policy on the Development of Policies and Procedures, an Interim Policy will remain in force until adopted, with or without revisions, through the review and approval process or for up to twelve months from the date of issuance, whichever occurs first. The Interim Policy regarding COVID-19 will expire on March 24, 2023.
This policy establishes the College rules regarding COVID-19, including the requirement to report COVID-19 cases to the College, the requirement that students and employees participating in clinicals, internships, and externships in certain programs be vaccinated against COVID-19, the ability for the College to require wearing face coverings on campus, and a discussion of health and safety measures for the use of respirators.
Since the Interim Policy was adopted, this policy has been updated to exclude the Massage Therapy program from the vaccine mandate because the clinic sites for this program generally do not require vaccination to participate since these sites are not subject to the vaccine mandate issued by the federal government, which applies to Medicare- and Medicaid-certified providers and suppliers. The other substantive change is that the College will no longer require someone who is subject to the vaccine mandate who receives an accommodation to not get vaccinated for religious or disability reasons to submit to weekly testing. Other clarifying changes were made.
Legal counsel and AACC staff have reviewed the policy. The College’s constituency groups have reviewed this policy and provided feedback, which has been incorporated into the final draft. The effective date of the final policy will be the date that this policy is published on the College website after it is approved by the Board.
By motion of Ms. Price-Jones, seconded by Dr. Chien, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the COVID-19 Policy.
3. Board Development Committee – A. Joyce Price-Jones, Committee Chair
Ms. Price-Jones stated that the committee met on March 2 to discuss the Communications Training, confirm the annual retreat, and discuss the annual Board assessment.
According to the Board’s goals, trustees are to participate in a Communications Training. The Communications Training will be held on Tuesday, May 9 immediately after the Board of Trustees Public Session. Dan Baum, Executive Director, Strategic Communications, will facilitate the 60-90-minute training, and dinner will be provided.
The committee confirmed the date of the Board’s retreat: Tuesday, August 15, 2023, 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m., and dinner will be provided. Board members will receive the DiSC survey prior to that date, and should complete it, as the results will be discussed at that retreat.
The committee is finalizing the annual Board assessment. The assessment will be available for Board members to complete on May 2 with a due date of May 15. The results will be reported at the June 13 Board of Trustees meeting.
4. AACC Foundation – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Lead Liaison
Mr. Ulvila was pleased to report that the AACC Foundation received a very generous gift of $685,000 from the estate of Donald Wood of Severna Park. Mr. Wood passed on December 31, and this gift was directed to support the Lynne Wood Memorial Scholarship at AACC.
Lynne Wood, Mr. Wood’s first wife, was a faculty member at AACC who established our paralegal program. She was a resourceful advocate for this initiative, even reaching out to law firms in the region to ensure that AACC’s program had the library and resources needed to educate students for this profession. Lynne Wood passed in 1996, and a few years later, Mr. Wood established the Lynne Wood Memorial Scholarship at AACC.
Lynne Wood’s legacy continues at AACC, through the many students who have prepared for paralegal careers, and through this memorial scholarship. Mr. Wood chose a scholarship to honor Lynne, and as part of his estate, he included a generous gift to greatly expand the support offered to AACC students through the Lynne Wood Memorial Scholarship. Prior to this estate gift, the Lynne Wood Memorial Scholarship was yielding approximately $1,300 annually to students. Once this new gift is fully invested, the Lynne Wood Memorial Scholarship will eventually yield approximately $22,000 annually to students. The AACC Foundation is grateful for Mr. Wood’s generosity.
B. No Reports for March
1. Audit & Finance Committee – Dr. Irene Zoppi Rodriguez, Committee Chair
2. Budget Committee – Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Committee Chair
3. Facilities Committee – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Committee Chair
4. Human Resources Committee – JaCina Stanton-Buttrom, Committee Chair
5. Student Success Committee – Dr. Nadine Chien, Committee Chair
VII. President’s Report – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
A. Information Items
1. College Updates – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay reported that she was pleased to attend the Greater Annapolis Design District Member luncheon on March 1, and thanked them for establishing a scholarship at AACC to support students in the Skilled Trades and the Design/Build Industry.
On March 3, she joined former Governor Larry Hogan, former Senator Ed Reilly, County Councilman Pete Smith and others at Live! to meet with a delegation of leaders from North Carolina to discuss the gaming industry, its partnerships, and economic development.
On March 9, she and Dr. Tanya Millner attended the joint Fort Meade Alliance and FMA Foundation Board of Directors Annual Dinner. This is a wonderful way for the boards of both organizations to support each, as the mission of both support the work and people of Fort Meade, the military and their families through education and workforce development initiatives. Dr. Lindsay noted that her term will end on the board this year; however, Dr. Millner will start her first term on July 1.
AACC is celebrating Women’s History Month in March, a time to acknowledge, celebrate, and study the vital role of women in American history. The events reflect the diversity of women’s experiences and accomplishments. Dr. Lindsay thanked the co-coordinators of Women’s History Month, Sophie Reverdy and Shelly DeBlasis, as well as all the faculty, staff and student planning and participating in this month’s events.
The College is close to the end of the Middle States Evaluation Team visit. It started with a beautiful welcome reception on Sunday, featuring student artwork, a jazz ensemble, and amazing desserts prepared by our culinary students.
The Middle States Evaluation Team has been meeting with various groups at the College, including the Board, faculty, staff and students. We are looking forward to the exit report tomorrow at 10:00 a.m. at the Pascal Theater.
Dr. Lindsay recognized Dr. Greg Schrader, the Steering Committee Chair, the steering committee members, and the communications and logistics team who have been planning for this site visit for months and years. It has been a very positive experience, and we have enjoyed showing off the amazing work of the faculty and staff.
2. Enrollment Update – Dr. Felicia Patterson, Vice President for Learner Support Services
Dr. Patterson presented the winter and spring credit 2023 enrollment report. For the winter 2023, the total credit headcount or actual number of students enrolled in courses was 1,393, an increase of 197 students from 1,196 in winter 2022. The winter full-time equivalent credit (FTEs) was 163, an increase of over 20 from winter 2022.
There was an increase of 4.92% for the spring credit headcount totaling 9,683, an increase of 454 students. Spring credit FTE was 2,453, an increase of 4.25% or 100 students compared to spring 2022.
In reviewing spring credit trends data, for the new and returning spring credit headcount, 8,691 were returning students, an increase of 4.22% of 352 students; 992 were new students this spring, an increase of 11.46% or 102 students.
The spring credit 2023 headcount by age was 11.6% of students under the age of 18; 25.9% ages 18-19; 29% ages 20-24; and 33.6% ages 25+. When disaggregating the data, the decline was in the age groups of 25-29 and 30-39, so there is opportunity to do work there.
For spring credit 2023 headcount, 76.9% of students attend part-time; 23.1% attend full-time; 60.5% were female; 39.5% male; and 42.3% or 3,675 students identified as minority (Asian, Black/African American, Hispanic, Pacific Islander, Native American/Alaskan native or other multiracial). Dr. Patterson presented the breakdown of spring 2023 credit headcount by race and ethnicity: White 51.8%; Black/African-American 16.6%; Unknown 16.4%, Hispanic/Latino 10.6%, and Asian 4.5%.
In terms of modality for spring 2023 credit students, 7,354 students or 75.9% were taking at least one distance learning course, which includes online and hybrid formats; 5,757 or 59.5% took at least one online course this spring compared to 6,710 last spring; and 1,581 or 16.3% of students took at least one hybrid course.
There was an increase in dually enrolled high school students from 1,201 in spring 2022 to 1,552 in spring 2023; 1,045 ECAP students and 507 other dually enrolled students.
The fall-to-spring retention rate is 74% for first-time degree or certificate seeking students. The 74% is actually .5% higher than last year but due to rounding, it is still listed as 74%.
In reviewing the budget goal FTE to the official FTE, as of March 6, there are 5,775 FTE, which includes summer 2022 terms 2 and 3, fall 2022, winter 2023, and spring 2023. The College expects to have another 360 FTE in summer 2023 term 1, which will meet the budget goal of 6,030 FTE.
Dr. Johnson asked if there were any strategy changes to help the College reach its FTE goals. Dr. Patterson responded that yes, there are many opportunities. She and Dr. Millner facilitate the Enrollment, Retention, and Completion Council, which is comprised of a number of teams throughout the College, which continue to bring opportunities to the table that impact enrollment. Right now, the teams are identifying barriers to remove, and in the next year, the focus will be working with the Planning, Research, and Institutional Assessment Office to identify data points to impact enrollment.
Dr. Johnson asked how many headcounts, on average, does it take to make one FTE? Dr. John Grabowski, Dean, Enrollment Services, responded that the average credit load for a student is 8.1 credits. Dr. Patterson added that there have been incremental increases in full-time students, noting there is always a balance between taking the appropriate number of courses and being successful in those courses.
Dr. Chien commented that the retention rate has been historically constant. Does this indicate that enrollment is important, and retention not as much, as that has been constant? Dr. Patterson responded that she would not say that, as there has to be equity in retention. When the data are disaggregated, it shows opportunities, for example, the African-American retention rate compared to the overall retention rate.
Dr. Chien commented that for hybrid learning, the trends seem to be headed back towards 2017 levels. Is the thinking that hybrid learning will go back to pre-pandemic levels? Dr. Millner commented that the hope is that the College is offering enough flexibility and opportunities for students to take courses in the modalities in which they are most successful, and match the demand with success rates.
Mr. Curran asked Dr. Millner about the course evaluations. There is a question that asks how does the modality fit the content? Is that reviewed when evaluating what courses to offer? Dr. Millner responded that yes, student opinion forms are reviewed, and there are discussions between supervisors and faculty about them as well.
3. Workforce Update – Suzanne Boyer, Executive Director, Human Resources
Ms. Boyer stated that the Workforce Report is an in-depth look at the College’s employee data comparing 2021 workforce data against previous years, and some comparisons with other institutions. Most of the report is data as of October 31st of each year. The full report captures compensation metrics, workforce characteristics and activity, as well as training and education. The purpose of the report is to gather valuable information about where the College stands in regard to compensating, diversifying, and retaining its employees.
The report shows that the total workforce has increased 2.2% between 2020 and 2021. There continues to be an increase in the applicants for open positions at AACC, which identify themselves as a race other than White.
In reviewing the total workforce by classification (temporary employees were not included), there was a reduction in faculty from 2019 to 2021; from 249 to 234. For faculty vacancies, the College usually recruits in the Fall, so if faculty positions become vacant off cycle, they remain open all year, versus staff, which are recruited as they become vacant and as needed. Some faculty positions held due to declining enrollment. For the upcoming 2023-2024 academic year, there were only four faculty retirements, but the College is recruiting for 18 new faculty members.
From 2017 to 2021, the diversity of the workforce has increased; 23% to 26%. This increase speaks to the College’s continuing efforts to hire a more diverse workforce. In comparison to Anne Arundel County demographics, the College is quite similar: White residents represent 73.6% of the County population; AACC’s total’s workforce is 74% White.
The College has a higher percentage of Baby Boomers within its workforce than the national average. The employees most closely resemble the national average for Generation X individuals at 39% compared to 33% nationally. The College has 25% of Generation Y individuals, while the national average is 35%. New to this year’s report is the Gen Z employee; the College has 22 Gen Z employees, who were born between 1995 - 2021.
The College’s workforce is older than the national average. This impacts the College in many ways, including a need for succession planning. As the Traditionalists and Baby Boomers retire, the College will likely continue to hire more Generation Y and Z employees who value different things in the workplace. In a recent Gallop poll, the number one thing Generation Y and Z want in their employer is someone who cares about their well-being; Baby Boomers desire ethical leadership. For Generation Y and Z, ethical leadership is number two.
For total applicants, there was an increase in calendar year 2021 for faculty, staff, temporary and adjunct positions to just over 3,000; 23% of the applicants did not disclose their race in the application process. The remaining 33% described themselves as a race other than White.
Ms. Boyer presented a few other highlights from the Workforce Report. Fifty-seven faculty and staff were promoted, awarded a career ladder promotion, or professional recognition award, which resulted in a compensation increase for the employee. In 2021, 43% of the staff and faculty are retirement eligible, meaning the employee has a minimum of 10 years of service, and meets the retirement requirements either under the Maryland State Retirement System or the Optional Retirement Program.
As the College is preparing the 2018-2022 report, some preliminary data include: 29 new employees identify themselves as a race other than White, which represents 53% of the new hires; there was a decrease in the number of applicants for all positions, which is similar to the national trends; and there was a 4% increase in applicants who identified as a race other than White.
Ms. Boyer indicated that this will require the College to look at different ways of recruiting that are innovative and creative. The national phenomenon, The Great Resignation, began in 2021, where employees voluntarily resigned their positions. COVID-19 stimulus packages and increases in unemployment benefits allowed employees to quit their jobs and still get paid. Now, the new phenomenon is The Great Regret, as those employees are now regretting the decisions they made.
The College continues to offer competitive salaries and retain employees, while encouraging continued education and creating paths to promotion.
Mr. Curran asked about the workforce age; if that includes work study students or just full-time and part-time faculty and staff. Ms. Boyer was not sure, and later confirmed that it did not include work study students.
Mr. Curran asked if 43% of the faculty and staff are retirement eligible, and while unlikely, they decided to retire at the same time, is there a plan in place?
Ms. Boyer responded that the College does spend a lot of time looking at succession planning. There are opportunities for training and advancement for leadership roles, and the College is encouraging that professional development. Ms. Boyer also noted that while they are retirement eligible, it does not necessarily mean that they will retire.
4. Monthly Update on Accreditation – Dr. Gregory R. Schrader, Chair, Steering Committee (NO REPORT)
5. Academic Forum/Council – Dr. Candice Hill, Chair (NO REPORT)
6. Administrative Staff Organization – Jill Bennett, President (NO REPORT)
7. Professional and Support Staff Organization – John Dayton, President (NO REPORT)
8. Student Government Association – Abigail Billovits-Hayes, President (NO REPORT)
9. The Faculty Organization – Dr. Nicole Williams, President (NO REPORT)
10. Maryland Association of Community Colleges Activities – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
The MACC Legislative Committee continues to meet on a weekly basis to review bills that impact the Maryland community colleges. As it is now two-thirds of the way through the session, the meetings will be shifting focus to provide updates and amendments rather than bill introduction review.
MACC’s positions on bills and legislation are available on its Legislative Action Center website, which provides up-to-the-minute information on legislative activity affecting Maryland’s community colleges.
VIII. New Business
There was no new business.
IX. Next Board Meeting - April 11, 2023
X. Adjournment
The meeting was adjourned at 5:02 p.m.
Members present: Sandra E. Moore, Chair; Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Vice Chair (via Zoom); Dr. Nadine Chien; Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr.; A. Joyce Price-Jones; JaCina Stanton-Buttrom; Conor Curran; and Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Absent: Dr. Irene Zoppi Rodriguez
I. Call to Order
II. Roll Call and Approval of the Agenda, Sandra E. Moore, Chair
The Board Public Session was called to order by Chair Sandra Moore at 4:00 p.m.
Ms. Moore asked for the roll call and approval of the agenda. By motion of Ms. Price-Jones, seconded by Dr. Johnson, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the agenda.
III. Welcome and Introductions, Sandra E. Moore, Chair
Ms. Moore introduced and welcomed Ms. Cintamani Rathinam, the new Executive Assistant, who will support the Board of Trustees.
IV. Consent Agenda
Ms. Moore presented the Consent Agenda. Dr. Chien moved to approve the Consent Agenda, which was seconded by Mr. Curran.
Dr. Johnson asked if the Facilities Committee or another Board committee had reviewed the procurement item prior to the Board meeting. Ms. Melissa Beardmore, Vice President for Learning Resources Management, stated that the procurement item was reviewed by the Facilities Committee, which was confirmed by Mr. Ulvila, the Facilities Committee Chair. Dr. Johnson asked that in the future, if a procurement item was reviewed by a committee, it would be helpful to include that in the agenda item.
A roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the Consent Agenda:
V. Board Chair and Committee Reports
A. Reports for April
1. Board Chair Report – Sandra E. Moore, Chair
Ms. Moore stated that starting this month, each Board of Trustees member will receive a record of their attendance for public session meetings during the past calendar year. This information is generally sent to the state in January of each year.
2. Board Development Committee – A. Joyce Price-Jones, Committee Chair
Ms. Price-Jones reported that The Board Development Committee met on April 6 to discuss and review the Annual Board Self-Assessment Survey.
The survey will be sent to Board members, along with the 2022-2023 Board member Goal Completion Tracking Sheet on May 1, for completion by May 15. The survey results will be reported at the June 13, 2023 Board meeting.
The Communications Training for Board members will be held on Tuesday, May 9, for 60-90 minutes, immediately following the Board of Trustees Public Session Meeting. Dan Baum, Executive Director of Strategic Communications, will facilitate and dinner will be provided.
The Board’s Annual Retreat will be held on Tuesday, August 15, from 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m., and dinner will be provided. Board members will receive the DiSC survey in advance for completion prior to the retreat as the results will be discussed at this time.
3. Budget Committee – Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Committee Chair
Dr. Johnson reported that the Board Budget Committee met via Zoom on March 28 and discussed the following topics: Academic Portfolio and Resources Review; FY 2023 financial status report; and FY 2024 budget.
The meeting started with a presentation and discussion with Katie Hagan and Mike Daly, from rpk GROUP, on the status of the Academic Portfolio and Resources Review. The committee reviewed the goals of the project, which include identification of the strengths of the College’s academic offerings and efficiencies that the College may wish to reinvest, and meeting student demand while supporting continuous improvement through data-driven decision-making. The committee reviewed the findings related to the review of the academic program along with course and faculty analysis. The presentation included a review of recommendations and next steps. An update to the full Board will be provided at the May meeting.
The FY 2023 operating budget status report as of February 28 shows a balanced budget, with all expenditure categories within their appropriation authority. Student tuition and fees are projected above budget by 1% due to improved spring enrollment offsetting lower than expected summer enrollment. Spring is currently projected at 3% above budget. Overall expenses are projected to be under budget primarily due to staff turnover and benefit savings from open positions and in some areas, offset by strategic year end purchases identified in the FY 2024 budget development process.
Regarding the FY 2024 budget, the College presented the Board-approved budget to the County Executive and his team on Friday, March 24. The County Executive presents his budget to the County Council on May 1.
4. Human Resources Committee – JaCina Stanton-Buttrom, Committee Chair
Ms. Stanton-Buttrom reported that the Board HR Committee met via Zoom on March 29 and discussed the following topics: collective bargaining; the Workforce Report and video; PageUp implementation; and the job description project.
The committee received an update on the College’s efforts to prepare for the collective bargaining legislation, and on the Workforce Report, which Suzanne Boyer, executive director of human resources, discussed at the Board’s March meeting. The committee discussed the College’s recruitment strategies implemented this cycle to diversify and attract strong faculty candidates, and employee retention strategies. The committee also received an update on the implementation of PageUp, the College’s new applicant tracking system, and the upcoming project to update all staff job descriptions.
The committee’s last meeting for the fiscal year is scheduled for June 1.
5. Student Success Committee – Dr. Nadine Chien, Committee Chair
i. Student Success Committee Charter
Dr. Chien reported that the Student Success Committee met on March 30 and reviewed and finalized the committee charter. The committee gave much thought to the purpose of this new ad hoc committee and considers its primary role is to ensure that the College’s policies keep pace with students’ diverse and changing needs. The charter makes clear that the committee provides policy oversight, and will report its findings and suggestions to the Policy Oversight Committee or the Board, as needed.
The draft charter, which was included in the Board meeting materials, is as follows:
The Board of Trustees Student Success Committee (SSC) reviews and provides feedback on policy-level strategies related to recruitment, enrollment, retention, and completion that support the mission of the College. In the event that the SSC believes changes to policy need to be considered, the chair will provide recommendations to the Policy Oversight Committee or in a report to the Board, as appropriate, to keep pace with students’ diverse and changing needs.
As outlined in the Board’s bylaws, and consistent with the other Board committees, the SSC will report to the Board as a whole, and any actions will be brought to the Board for a vote.
The committee’s next meeting will be held in May.
6. AACC Foundation – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Lead Liaison
Mr. Curran read a thank you letter to the Board from a student for a scholarship.
Mr. Ulvila reported that as of March 30, 2023, the Foundation’s fundraising total is just over $2.73 million in gifts and commitments, which exceeds the fiscal year goal of $2 million.
The AACC Foundation has received several generous gifts this past month supporting various scholarships and initiatives: Dr. Joseph Lamp funded an endowed scholarship, the Dr. Joseph Lamp and Librarian Judy Offutt First Responder-Medical Scholarship, for students pursuing programs in the medical technician, paramedics, and first-responder fields. The Baltimore International College Educational Foundation provided additional funding for their scholarship which assists students with financial need who are studying culinary arts and hospitality at AACC; and the Foundation received a generous donation from an AACC alum who endowed a STEM Initiative Scholarship for Future Success. This funding will provide financial support for students pursuing careers in STEM fields to help them contribute to the future in ways that have not yet been imagined.
The AACC Foundation has had a record number of scholarships established by donors in FY2023, with 17 new scholarships to-date. AACC Foundation staff are working with College leadership to identify fundraising priorities for FY2024.
7. Nominating Committee Report – Dr. Nadine Chien and A. Joyce Price-Jones, Committee Co-Chairs
Ms. Price-Jones reported that according to the Board of Trustees Bylaws, the Nominating Committee shall communicate with all trustees to determine who is interested in serving as chair or vice-chair of the Board.
The Nominating Committee received two responses from the trustees expressing interest in serving as Chair and Vice Chair. The Nominating Committee submits the names of Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr. for the position of Board of Trustees Chair and Dr. Nadine Chien for Vice Chair.
B. No Reports for April
1. Audit & Finance Committee – Dr. Irene Zoppi Rodriguez, Committee Chair
2. Board Policy Oversight Committee – Sandra E. Moore, Committee Chair
3. Facilities Committee – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Committee Chair
VI. President’s Report – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
A. Information Items
1. College Updates – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay was pleased to report that the Middle States for Higher Education Commission Evaluation Team Chair, Dr. Claudia Schrader, shared in her exit report that Anne Arundel Community College met each of the standards for accreditation, and supported the College’s opportunities for improvement with no additional recommendations. Dr. Lindsay noted that this is the first time in her 30-year career in higher education that she has seen a college receive zero recommendations from a reaccreditation evaluation team. Dr. Lindsay stated that this reflects the exceptional work of the College’s faculty and staff, and dedication to our students, and that she is very proud to be part of this college community. The Evaluation Team highlighted the College’s spectacular student body, including a special mention of Board of Trustees student member, Conor Curran.
Dr. Lindsay thanked Dr. Greg Schrader, the Steering Committee Members, the Work Teams, and volunteers who worked tirelessly preparing for the welcome reception and visit, and for everyone who met with the Evaluation Team.
This spring, Dr. Lindsay was elected to serve a three-year term on the Board of Directors of the American Association of Community Colleges, starting July 1. Dr. Tanya Millner, Dr. Felicia Patterson and Dr. Lindsay attended the American Association of Community Colleges Annual Conference in April, and presented “A New Paradigm for Enrollment Management and Retention,” which highlighted the work of the Enrollment, Retention, and Completion Council. Dr. Kellie McCants-Price, interim Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer, also presented at the conference about AACC’s Model Course initiative, and the College’s equity change efforts.
Dr. Lindsay was pleased to announce that AACC has earned a 2023-2024 Military Friendly School Gold-level designation for its efforts in creating sustainable and meaningful education paths for military and veteran students.
2. Strategic Plan Update – Monica Rausa, Special Assistant to the President
Ms. Rausa presented an update on the College’s Strategic Plan, Engagement Matters II: Excellence through Innovation. The three goals are entry and engagement, progress and growth, and retention and completion. The four objectives are excellence, engagement, innovation, and resources. The College achieves its goals through its strategic activities. Ms. Rausa noted that the Board approved the revised activities at the December 13, 2022 Board meeting.
Ms. Rausa highlighted a few of the major initiatives and projects this past year, and how they align with the College’s strategic plan and objectives.
Each of the strategic activities in the College’s strategic plan are aligned with a Middles States standard, and the opportunities and improvements listed in the Self-Study Report, along with any collegial advice offered by the evaluators, will be tracked moving forward. The College invested in a software assessment management tool to store and track its assessment efforts, including evidence and results.
The Academic Portfolio and Resources Review, at the direction of the Board, was a comprehensive review of the College’s resources, and the recommendations will be presented to the Board in May. For innovation, the College implemented new technology this past year for faculty, students and staff, which enhanced operations and experience, such as PageUp, the new human resources system for the hiring and recruitment process, and the new MyAACC portal upgrade.
For engagement, there are two major initiatives, the K-12 partnership / Blueprint for Maryland’s Future and the Enrollment, Retention, and Completion Council. There have been immediate accomplishments and recommendations, and the College plans to transition the Enrollment, Retention, and Completion Council to align with the strategic plan.
For excellence, the College has implemented the diversity, equity, inclusion, antiracism, and accessibility (DEIAA) training for all employees, and continues to add new sessions, which aligns with the College’s work as part of the Achieving the Dream – University of Southern California Race, Equity and Leadership Academy.
Ms. Rausa noted that the Board also approved the key performance indicators (KPIs) of the strategic plan. The KPIs reflect the actions at the unit and departmental level which support the strategic plan. Last month, in Dr. Patterson’s enrollment report, she highlighted many of the College’s entry and engagement key performance indicators, such as credit headcount and FTE, enrollments in online courses, and dual enrollment and retention rates.
Ms. Rausa continued to highlight a few other KPIs. For student engagement, Ms. Rausa reviewed one of the benchmarks on the Community College Survey of Student Engagement. This survey is a well-established tool that helps institutions focus on effective practices and identify areas in which they can improve their programs and services for students. She noted that not only is the College’s score increasing, but in FY 2022, AACC’s score was 51.0, which was higher than the average for large colleges at 49.7, and the national average of 50.0.
For employee engagement, one indicator that the College focuses on, is Employees Enrolled in Professional Development Courses, by headcount and enrollments. While the current data are only through the spring 2023, the number of enrollments has increased from 2022 so far.
For excellence, one indicator is Student Learning Outcomes Met Target. Consistent with continuous improvement methodology endorsed by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and educational assessment leaders, the Student Learning Outcomes Met Target is an internal indicator that the College uses for its program and course assessment. The College’s academic departments set targets for learning outcomes in their programs, aligned with the standards in their field, and assess how many students have met the learning outcomes targets. The percent met or exceeded has increased to 76% in 2022. In addition to program assessment, the College conducts course assessments for the highly enrolled and general education courses. The percent met or exceeded has increased to 72% in 2022 for the course assessment in 2022.
For innovation, the number of credit programs that can be completed exclusively by distance education has increased to 42. The College is well positioned to remain competitive in the growing distance learning industry, in Maryland and the nation.
For resources, one indicator focuses on the Dollars Raised for Support of College Programs and Scholarships. Ms. Rausa commented that under the leadership of Vollie Melson, the Foundation and Sponsored Programs office does an excellent job with raising resources and identifying sponsored research opportunities for the College’s faculty and staff.
Ms. Rausa noted that since the Board approved the strategic plan’s revised strategic activities, it is a good opportunity for the College to revisit the KPIs. The Strategic Planning Council will review how these KPIs measure progress toward the goals, objectives, and strategic activities, review the best practices and research that measure student success. The Strategic Planning Council will also review the indicators that Achieving the Dream and the Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence use for metrics, and incorporate the recommendations from the Academic Portfolio and Resources Reviews and the Middle States opportunities and improvements, so everything aligns.
3. Monthly Update on Accreditation – Dr. Gregory R. Schrader, Chair, Steering Committee
Dr. Schrader thanked the Board and the College community for making the Middle States Evaluation Team Visit successful. Dr. Schrader noted that from the reception, to the meetings, to the exit report, the College provided exemplary service to the Evaluation Team. The Evaluation Team Exit Report was very complimentary of the College’s work, and had no recommendations for the College in any of the standards.
Dr. Schrader stated that the Steering Committee will continue to meet this semester in order to assess how the self-study process went and how to improve it for future self-studies. Dr. Schrader noted that he is working with College leadership in order to develop a plan to monitor the progress of completion of the opportunities for improvement and innovation from the College’s Self-Study Report.
4. Academic Forum/Council – Dr. Candice Hill, Chair (NO REPORT)
5. Administrative Staff Organization (ASO) – Jill Bennett, President
Ms. Bennett reported that ASO will meet on April 19 to elect a new slate of officers for the upcoming year. Currently candidates include Andrea Zamora for president, Angelo Thalassinidis for vice president, and Kevin Miller and Kathy Campbell for member-at-large. Dorothy Parrish-Harris is stepping down as member-at-large.
The ASO is also reviewing and providing feedback on a number of policies and procedures, is planning an informal gathering to build morale and improve communication, and will sponsor a food drive this spring to support the College’s food pantry.
6. Professional and Support Staff Organization (PSSO) – John Dayton, President (NO REPORT)
7. Student Government Association (SGA) – Abigail Billovits-Hayes, President
Ms. Billovits-Hayes provided an update on SGA activities over the past month, plans throughout the rest of the year, and plans for next year, including partnering with the Office of Student Engagement and the Health and Wellness Center for an event spreading awareness about the Violence Against Women Act.
Ms. Billovits-Hayes stated that the election for the SGA board election will take place the week of May 1st. The SGA has started a strategic plan for next year’s board, which is modeled after the College’s strategic plan.
Lastly, she noted that she and Trustee Curran will be emcees at the Impact and Excellence Awards on April 27.
8. The Faculty Organization (TFO) – Dr. Nicole Williams, President
Dr. Williams reported that TFO held a meeting on March 16. There were new officers elected for AY 2023-2024: Dr. Deborah Levine, President (Physical Sciences); Professor Erik Dunham, Vice-President (Visual Arts); and Dr. Mary Holder-Musser, Recorder (Biology)
The TFO/Academic Forum current and past leadership continue to work on policy requests for the proposed Tenure Cap removal and are near completion for this task, and the Emeritus ad-hoc committee continues its work on revising requirements for Emeritus status.
The TFO committees, including Promotion and Tenure, Adjunct Faculty Affairs, Compensation, and the ad hoc Collective Bargaining Committee, continue to make progress towards their goals, and advocate for TFO members.
9. Maryland Association of Community Colleges Activities – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay reported that the 445th Session of the Maryland General Assembly adjourned at midnight on April 10. MACC is tracking legislation, including decentralizing the Maryland Promise scholarship administration and the capital budget, and will communicate the final outcomes and bill signing days to the MACC Legislative Committee shortly. Dr. Lindsay noted that the MACC is preparing a summary of the 2023 session, and the College will share that report with the Board once the College receives it.
VII. New Business
There was no new business.
VIII. Next Board Meeting – May 9, 2023
IX. Adjournment
The meeting was adjourned at 4:46 p.m.
Members present: Sandra E. Moore, Chair; Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Vice Chair; Dr. Nadine Chien; Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr.; A. Joyce Price-Jones; JaCina Stanton-Buttrom (via Zoom); Conor Curran; and Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
I. Call to Order
II. Roll Call and Approval of the Agenda, Sandra E. Moore, Chair
The Board Public Session was called to order by Chair Sandra Moore at 4:00 p.m.
Ms. Moore asked for the roll call and approval of the agenda. By motion of Dr. Chien, seconded by Dr. Johnson, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the agenda.
III. Welcome and Introductions, Sandra E. Moore, Chair
Ms. Moore introduced and welcomed the families and guests of the candidates for the award of Professor Emeritus status.
IV. Approval of Award of Emeritus Status, Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President for Learning
Dr. Millner presented the candidates for the award of Professor Emeritus status: Dr. Lester S. Brooks and Dr. Rajwant K. Gill (posthumously). Awarding the honor of emeritus status is within the purview of the Board of Trustees (College Manual, 4.8.3.8) upon recommendation of the president. Granting of emeritus status is the trustees' "recognition of significant contributions to the college" made by the faculty member.
Dr. Millner noted that the candidates for emeritus status have been recommended as outstanding as measured against the criteria set forth in the College Manual, 4.8.3.8. The nominations were forwarded by the deans of the School of Liberal Arts and the School of Science, Technology & Education to the provost/vice president for learning and the president.
By motion of Mr. Ulvila, seconded by Mr. Curran, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the awards of Professor Emeritus status to Dr. Lester S. Brooks and Dr. Rajwant K. Gill (posthumously).
V. Consent Agenda
Ms. Moore presented the Consent Agenda. Dr. Chien moved to approve the Consent Agenda, which was seconded by Ms. Price-Jones.
A roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the Consent Agenda:
VI. Board Chair and Committee Reports
A. Reports for May
1. Board Chair Report – Sandra E. Moore, Chair
Ms. Moore stated that she had no Board Chair Report for May.
2. Board Policy Oversight Committee – Sandra E. Moore, Committee Chair
i. Flexible Work Policy (Information Item)
Ms. Moore reported that the Board Policy Oversight Committee met on May 4 to review two policies, the discontinuation of a policy, and a request for the Board to delegate authority to the President to create an interim policy.
The Flexible Work Policy is a new policy, which complies with applicable law. It establishes that not all jobs will be suitable for a flexible work arrangement and that staff must submit a request to telework or have an alternative work schedule in writing, subject to approval of an agreement by their supervisor and human resources. This Policy also discusses requests for situational telework as well as mandated telework. This Policy provides that all employees, including faculty and staff, are only permitted to telework from within the United States and are limited to the approved states listed in the Telework Procedure, as well as other terms and conditions of flexible work arrangements. All employees must comply with the Information Security Telework Guidelines when teleworking.
ii. Tuition and Residency Classification Policy (Information Item)
The interim Policy on Tuition and Residency Requirements was combined with the Waivers to Tuition and Fees Policy for the revised Tuition and Residency Classification Policy.
iii. Removal of Waivers to Tuition and Fees Policy (Information Item)
The interim tuition policy was updated last year due to changes in the law that were effective on July 1, 2022 and the College did not have enough time for the policy to be vetted through the review process. The Committee is recommending to remove the current Waivers to Tuition and Fees Policy, as it is subsumed into the Tuition and Residency Classifications Policy so all information regarding tuition is in one policy to make it easier for students to find all relevant information in one place.
Ms. Moore stated that the committee also requests consensus from the Board to delegate authority to the President to create an Interim Religious Accommodations Policy, in order to meet the July 1, 2023 deadline in Maryland legislation, requiring colleges and universities to have a religious accommodations policy.
While this policy is already under development, there is not enough time to have the policy vetted through the review process before the July 1 deadline.
Ms. Moore asked for a consensus from the Board for the President to move forward in drafting and adopting the Interim Religious Accommodations Policy. There were no objections.
3. Budget Committee – Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Committee Chair
Dr. Johnson reported that the Board Budget Committee met via Zoom on April 17 to discuss the FY 2024 County Executive’s budget.
The committee reviewed a proposed plan in the event that the County Executive did not fund the College’s request for increased operating budget funding. Subsequent to the committee meeting, the County Executive’s budget was released and while the College requested an increase of $5 million from the county, only $1 million in new funding was provided.
The College has developed a plan supported by updated revenue projections and expenditure reductions to make up the $4 million reduction.
The College presented its budget on May 4 to the County Council and requested restoration of $1 million in operating funding. The president, vice president Beardmore and board members will be meeting individually with council members to seek restoration of the $1 million.
Dr. Johnson introduced Katie Hagan, Principal, and Mike Daly, Senior Associate of rpk GROUP, who presented a report on the Academic Portfolio and Resources Reviews project.
i. Academic Portfolio and Resources Reviews Update – Katie Hagan, Principal and Mike Daly, Senior Associate, rpk GROUP
Mr. Daly shared the project goals which included identification of the strengths of the College’s academic offerings and efficiencies that the College may wish to reinvest, and meeting student demand while supporting continuous improvement through data-driven decision-making.
Mr. Daly stated that they are providing metrics and an initial framework for consideration by the College. The College can then decide on the critical elements and move forward with consistency in implementing those data elements.
Mr. Daly discussed the project findings which included program, faculty, course, and student-related recommendations, as well as next steps.
Board members requested and received clarification on the following topics presented by the rpk GROUP: the types of degree and transfer programs analyzed; the calculations and formulas used to produce the data; criteria for measuring program health; job-related analysis conducted; labor projections; employment outlook; analysis of different types of faculty; analysis of college policy regarding the number of students enrolled per course; and courses and strategies that will allow AACC to be more competitive in the market.
4. Facilities Committee – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Committee Chair
Mr. Ulvila reported that the Facilities Committee met via Zoom on May 2 and discussed the following topics: May procurements; future procurements; and campus projects.
The committee received an update on campus projects, specifically the Florestano building and the Dragun Science building renovations. The committee also discussed the County Executive’s capital budget which was released on May 1.
The committee’s next meeting will be held on June 6.
5. Student Success Committee – Dr. Nadine Chien, Committee Chair
i. Student Success Committee Charter (Action Item)
Dr. Chien reported that the Student Success Committee met on May 8 to review some of the key performance indicators from the College’s strategic plan. This provided the committee an opportunity to take a more in-depth look at the outcomes and trends, ask questions and have a robust discussion about student success.
The committee’s charter was brought forward as an action item. The charter makes clear the committee’s role to provide policy oversight and that it will report its findings and suggestions to the Policy Oversight Committee or the Board, as needed. Its primary role is to ensure that the College’s policies keep pace with students’ diverse and changing needs.
As outlined in the Board’s bylaws, and consistent with the other Board committees, the Student Success Committee will report to the Board as a whole, and any actions will be brought to the Board for a vote.
Ms. Moore asked for the roll call and approval of the charter for the Student Success Committee. By motion of Mr. Ulvila, seconded by Mr. Curran, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the charter for the Student Success Committee.
6. AACC Foundation – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Lead Liaison
Mr. Curran read a thank you letter to the Board from a student for a scholarship.
Mr. Ulvila reported that as of April 30, 2023, the Foundation’s fundraising total is just over $3.1 million in gifts and commitments, which exceeds the fiscal year goal of $2 million.
Last month, the AACC Foundation reported a new record number of scholarships that were established by donors in a single fiscal year. That total is now 18 thanks to the generosity of Board Member Emeritus Hank Libby and Foundation Board member Mark Libby. Through the Carol M. Jacobsohn Foundation, the Libby’s recently established the Carol M. Jacobsohn Foundation Clauson Center Endowed Scholarship Fund. This scholarship will provide financial support toward the cost of attendance for students pursuing workforce certificate programs at the Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades.
The AACC Foundation also recently received a generous gift from the estate of Ethel Williams. Funds from this estate will go to support programs at the College. The AACC Foundation is grateful for the many donors who have supported the College in FY2023.
AACC Foundation staff continue to work with College leadership to identify fundraising priorities for FY2024.
7. Nominating Committee – A. Joyce Price-Jones, Committee Member
i. Election of Board Officers (Action Item)
Ms. Price-Jones stated that per the Board bylaws and as announced at the April Board Public Session meeting, the Nominating Committee recommends Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., as chair and Dr. Nadine Chien as vice chair of the Board of Trustees.
By motion of Ms. Moore, seconded by Dr. Chien, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the election of Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr. as Chair, and Dr. Nadine Chien as Vice Chair, of the Anne Arundel Community College Board of Trustees beginning July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2024.
B. No Reports for May
1. Audit & Finance Committee – Sandra E. Moore, Chair
2. Board Development Committee – A. Joyce Price-Jones, Committee Chair
3. Human Resources Committee – JaCina Stanton-Buttrom, Committee Chair
VII. President’s Report – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
A. Information Items
1. College Updates – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay was pleased to attend AACC’s Business Pitch Competition on April 25, where eight businesses vied for prize money to support their business ventures. Dr. Lindsay thanked the Philip E. and Carole R. Ratcliffe Foundation for their generous financial support of the Entrepreneurial Studies Institute and AACC students.
On April 26, Dr. Lindsay hosted a luncheon for the candidates for this year’s valedictorian. Dr. Lindsay, along with the vice presidents, enjoyed meeting the extremely talented candidates.
April 27 was the 2nd Annual Impact and Excellence Awards, co-sponsored by The Student Government Association and Student Development. This special event recognizes exceptional AACC students in the areas of academic performance and leadership, and honored faculty, staff and community members for their dedication to the success of all AACC students.
On April 28, Dr. Lindsay enjoyed visiting the first Mastery Instruction Poster session, where Dr. Jackie Gambone presented to the Board about this project for her sabbatical.
The 2nd AACC Journal of Emerging Scholarship was launched on April 28, which provides the opportunity for peer-reviewed publications of undergraduate student research at the college. Dr. Lindsay thanked Chair Moore and Trustee Curran for attending both of these events.
The Celebration of Life for Dr. Andrew (Andy) Meyer, former AACC vice president of Learning, was held on April 28. Dr. Lindsay was pleased to get to know Andy through the League for Innovation, where they served on the board together.
Dr. Lindsay reminded the Board that the 2023 Commencement will be held on Thursday, May 25 at the Hall at Live! with two ceremonies at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m.
Dr. Lindsay announced that the College’s Health and Life Sciences Building won a 2023 Green Good Design Sustainability Award. Organized by The Chicago Athenaeum Museum of Architecture and Design and the European Centre Architecture, this award identifies and emphasizes the world’s most important examples of sustainable design.
The Executive Alliance recently named Anne Arundel Community College to the 2023 Honor Roll for Women’s Representation. The recognition aims to promote equity, diversity and inclusion for women and celebrates Maryland organizations that lead the way for women’s leadership. Forty-three organizations were included in this year’s list. To qualify for the award, at least 30% of the organization’s executive leadership as well as the board of directors must identify as women.
Dr. Lindsay was pleased to announce that Dr. Kellie McCants-Price accepted the position of Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer effective May 1. Dr. McCants-Price served in this interim role since August 20, 2021. Dr. Lindsay thanked Dr. McCants-Price for her work including presenting at three national events in the past six months.
2. Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Antiracism, and Accessibility Update – Dr. Kellie McCants-Price, Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer
Dr. McCants-Price presented an update on the College’s Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Antiracism, and Accessibility (DEIAA) projects, as well as an update on the Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Access and Leadership (IDEAL) Office.
The update included an overview of the DEIAA Professional Growth & Development Plan; the Language Line; cultural observances; bias incidents and reporting process; and the campus accessibility statement. Dr. McCants-Price highlighted DEIAA resources available for faculty, students, and employees.
Dr. McCants-Price reported that the IDEAL office hired an interim Coordinator for Inclusive Excellence. Dr. McCants-Price provided an update on the 2023 MHEC Cultural Diversity Report and revising of AACC’s EDI strategic plan.
Dr. McCants-Price reviewed the following IDEAL office projects: equity review of all policy and procedure proposals from drafting committees; coordination with AACC Foundation to secure funding for AACC’s participation in the AAC&U Truth, Racial Healing, and Transformation Institute in June 2023; presentation of AACC’s Racial Equity Leadership Academy work at ATD DREAM conference (February 2023) and AACC Annual conference (April 2023); and planning focus groups for advancing DEIAA PD for FY 24 and creating structure for campus inclusion council.
3. Monthly Update on Accreditation – Dr. Gregory R. Schrader, Chair, Steering Committee (NO REPORT)
4. Academic Forum/Council – Dr. Candice Hill, Chair (NO REPORT)
5. Administrative Staff Organization (ASO) – Jill Bennett, President (NO REPORT)
6. Professional and Support Staff Organization (PSSO) – John Dayton, President (NO REPORT)
7. Student Government Association (SGA) – Abigail Billovits-Hayes, President
Ms. Billovits-Hayes provided an update on SGA activities over the past month, plans throughout the rest of the year, and plans for next year, including partnering with the Health and Wellness Center for the Stress Less Fest. The SGA partnered with the Office of Student Engagement (OSE), the Student Achievement and Success Program (SASP), and Athletics for the Impact and Excellence Awards.
Ms. Billovits-Hayes announced that Zack Buster was elected as next year’s SGA President. The SGA continues to accept applications for additional SGA board positions.
Ms. Billovits-Hayes thanked the Board of Trustees and the AACC community. Dr. Lindsay and Mr. Curran thanked Ms. Billovits-Hayes for her work as the SGA President and for her leadership.
8. The Faculty Organization (TFO) – Dr. Nicole Williams, President (NO REPORT)
9. Maryland Association of Community Colleges Activities – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay reported that the 8th Annual Maryland Collegiate STEM Conference was held on April 22 at Howard Community College. Approximately 300 students and faculty from Maryland's community colleges and four-year institutions participated in this research exhibition event. This unique event provides community college students with opportunities to exhibit their original research, to develop professionally and to connect with faculty from Maryland's four-year institutions.
Dr. Lindsay noted that the 2023 MACC Legislative Committee Report, which summarizes the highlights of the 2023 Session and outlines the key bills the committee followed throughout the 90-day session, is included in the Board’s meeting materials. Highlights included the fact that the Cade Funding Formula achieved full statutory funding for the 2nd time in history, and the Maryland’s Community College Promise Scholarship Program will now allow for awards to full-time, part-time, and non-credit students. Additionally, distribution will be to each college based on the number of Pell-eligible students enrolled, and each college will be able to make the award.
B. Action Items
1. Approval of Cloud Computing Transfer, Associate of Science and Certificate Programs – Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President for Learning
Dr. Millner requested Board approval of the Cloud Computing Transfer, Associate of Science and Certificate Programs. The programs provide a solid information technology foundation for those students transferring to four-year colleges and universities to pursue a bachelor’s and/or master’s degree in cloud engineering.
The proposed programs were approved by the Academic Forum in Spring 2022. With the Board’s approval, the Maryland Higher Education Commission will be notified of the College’s intent to offer the programs beginning fall 2023.
These programs consist of coursework that has faculty and other instructional resources in place. As a result, there are no additional resources required to offer this program, except for the cost associated with providing additional faculty coverage should enrollments grow. Increased enrollment would potentially require new adjunct contracts at the current cost of $1,027 per faculty load hour as needed.
By motion of Mr. Ulvila, seconded by Dr. Johnson, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the Cloud Computing Transfer, Associate of Science and Certificate Programs.
2. Approval of Computer Science Transfer – Data Science, Associate of Science Program – Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President for Learning
Dr. Millner requested Board approval of the Computer Science Transfer – Data Science, Associate of Science Program. The program is designed for students preparing to transfer to a four-year institution to obtain a baccalaureate degree in Data Science.
The proposed program was approved by the Academic Forum in Spring 2022. With the Board’s approval, the Maryland Higher Education Commission will be notified of the College’s intent to offer the program beginning fall 2023.
This program consists of coursework that already has faculty and other instructional resources in place. As a result, there are no additional resources required to offer this program, except for the cost associated with providing additional faculty coverage should enrollments grow. Increased enrollment would potentially require new adjunct contracts at the current cost of $1,027.00 per faculty load hour as needed.
By motion of Dr. Chien, seconded by Ms. Price-Jones, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the Computer Science Transfer – Data Science, Associate of Science Program.
3. Approval of Management Information Systems Transfer, Associate of Science and Certificate, Information Technology Service Management Certificate, and Software Quality Assurance Analyst Certificate Programs – Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President for Learning
Dr. Millner requested Board approval of the Management Information Systems Transfer, Associate of Science and Certificate, Information Technology Service Management Certificate, and Software Quality Assurance Analyst Certificate Programs.
The Management Information Systems Transfer, Associate of Science program provides a solid foundation in the management of information systems for students who either want to transfer to a four-year university or enter the job market as an entry-level Information Technology Specialist. After analyzing the current Information Systems Technology A.A.S. degree, faculty determined that this degree needed to be replaced with more current content that better aligns to industry standards. The three new certificates included herein, Management Information Systems, Information Technology Service Management, and Software Quality Assurance Analyst, help form a foundation for the new Management Information Systems degree.
The proposed programs were approved by the Academic Forum in Spring and Fall 2022. With the Board’s approval, the Maryland Higher Education Commission will be notified of the College’s intent to offer the programs beginning fall 2023.
The programs consist of coursework that already has faculty and other instructional resources in place. As a result, there are no additional resources required to offer these programs, except for the cost associated with providing additional faculty coverage should enrollments grow. Increased enrollment would potentially require new adjunct contracts at the current cost of $1,027.00 per faculty load hour as needed.
By motion of Ms. Price-Jones, seconded by Dr. Johnson, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the Management Information Systems Transfer, Associate of Science and Certificate, Information Technology Service Management Certificate, and Software Quality Assurance Analyst Certificate Programs.
VIII. New Business
There was no new business.
IX. Next Board Meeting – June 13, 2023
X. Adjournment
The meeting was adjourned at 5:39 p.m.
Members present: Sandra E. Moore, Chair; Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Vice Chair; Dr. Nadine Chien; Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr.; A. Joyce Price-Jones; Conor Curran; and Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Absent: JaCina Stanton-Buttrom
I. Call to Order
The Board Public Session was called to order by Chair Sandra Moore at 5:00 p.m. The meeting was open to the public via Zoom allowing attendees to hear and observe the public session. Ms. Moore informed participants the meeting was being recorded pursuant to state law.
II. Vote to Close the Meeting
Ms. Moore stated that the purpose of the public session was to vote to close the meeting for the evaluation of an employee. By motion of Mr. Ulvila, seconded by Dr. Nadine Chien, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees approved the motion to close the meeting, 5-0, with one abstention.
III. Adjournment
The public session meeting adjourned at 5:02 p.m.
Members present: Sandra E. Moore, Chair; Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Vice Chair; Dr. Nadine Chien; Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr.; A. Joyce Price-Jones; JaCina Stanton-Buttrom (via Zoom); Conor Curran; and Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Note: Due to a technical issue, attendees were unable to hear Ms. Stanton-Buttrom via Zoom. Ms. Stanton-Buttrom communicated with Ms. Monica Rausa, Special Assistant to the President, throughout the meeting, and Ms. Rausa provided Ms. Stanton-Buttrom’s responses.
I. Call to Order
II. Roll Call and Approval of the Agenda, Sandra E. Moore, Chair
The Board Public Session was called to order by Chair Sandra Moore at 4:00 p.m.
Ms. Moore asked for the roll call and approval of the agenda. By motion of Dr. Johnson, seconded by Mr. Ulvila, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the agenda.
III. Welcome and Introductions, Sandra E. Moore, Chair
A. AACC Women’s Lacrosse Team
Ms. Moore congratulated AACC Women’s Lacrosse Team, the 2023 National Junior College Athletic Association Champions, and invited Mr. Duane Herr, Athletic Director, to introduce the members of the team that were present.
The team received a citation from Anne Arundel County Executive Steuart Pittman in recognition of their championship.
IV. Recognitions
A. Recognition of Outgoing Chair, Sandra E. Moore – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Vice Chair
Mr. Ulvila recognized and thanked Ms. Moore, on behalf of the Board of Trustees, for her outstanding service and contributions as chair of the Board of Trustees for the past three years.
B. Recognition of Outgoing Student Trustee, Conor Curran – Sandra E. Moore, Chair
Ms. Moore recognized and thanked Mr. Curran, on behalf of the Board of Trustees, for his outstanding service and contributions as the student member of the Board of Trustees for 2022-2023. Mr. Curran expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve the community and thanked the College staff for supporting the Board.
V. Consent Agenda
Ms. Moore presented the Consent Agenda. Mr. Curran moved to approve the Consent Agenda, which was seconded by Dr. Johnson.
Dr. Johnson requested an amendment to the wording of the procurement items to clarify that funding is pending approval of the capital and operating budgets by the County Council.
Additionally, Ms. Price-Jones requested that, except for the Approval of Award of Contract to Upgrade Select Common and Academic Spaces at the Glen Burnie Town Center, the wording include language about having sufficient funds available for the request.
A roll call taken was of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the Consent Agenda, as amended by Dr. Johnson and Ms. Price-Jones:
VI. Board Chair and Committee Reports
A. Reports for June
1. Board Chair Report – Sandra E. Moore, Chair
Ms. Moore recognized the Board for their hard work and accomplishments this past year, including their work on the Board committees.
Ms. Moore thanked Mr. Ulvila for his time and support, as well as the staff of the Office of the President for their support.
2. Board Development Committee – A. Joyce Price-Jones, Committee Chair
Ms. Price-Jones reported that the 2023 Board Assessment was conducted in May and completed by all Board members. The purpose of the assessment was to identify areas of concern, strengthen performance and continuous improvement. The assessment topics included the role of a Board member, sharing the mission, and discussing the vision of the College.
Ms. Price-Jones stated that the committee would like to thank Dr. Kellie McCants-Price and Professor David Caskey for the diversity, equity and inclusion training provided to Board members, and Dan Baum, Executive Director of Strategic Communications, for the communications training.
Ms. Price-Jones recognized committee members Conor Curran, JaCina Stanton-Buttrom, and Chair Sandra Moore for their commitment and service on this committee.
3. Board Policy Oversight Committee – Sandra E. Moore, Committee Chair
Ms. Moore reported that the Board Policy Oversight Committee recommended that the Board approve two policies, and discontinue another policy, which were presented as information items at the Board meeting on May 9, and approve a request for the Board to delegate authority to the President to create an interim policy.
i. Flexible Work Policy (Action Item)
The Flexible Work Policy is a new policy, which complies with applicable law. It establishes that not all jobs will be suitable for a flexible work arrangement and that staff must submit a request to telework or have an alternative work schedule in writing, subject to approval of an agreement by their supervisor and human resources. This Policy also discusses requests for situational telework as well as mandated telework. This Policy provides that all employees, including faculty and staff, are only permitted to telework within the United States and are limited to the approved states listed in the Telework Procedure, as well as other terms and conditions of flexible work arrangements. All employees must comply with the Information Security Telework Guidelines when teleworking.
By motion of Dr. Chien, seconded by Mr. Curran, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the new Flexible Work Policy.
ii. Tuition and Residency Classification Policy (Action Item)
The interim Policy on Tuition and Residency Requirements was combined with the Waivers to Tuition and Fees Policy for the revised Tuition and Residency Classification Policy.
By motion of Ms. Price-Jones, seconded by Dr. Johnson, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the new Tuition and Residency Classification Policy.
iii. Removal of Waivers to Tuition and Fees Policy (Action Item)
The interim tuition policy was updated last year due to changes in the law that were effective on July 1, 2022, and the College did not have enough time for the policy to be vetted through the review process. The committee is recommending to remove the current Waivers to Tuition and Fees Policy, as it is subsumed into the Tuition and Residency Classifications Policy so all information regarding tuition is in one policy to make it easier for students to find all relevant information in one place.
By motion of Mr. Ulvila, seconded by Dr. Chien, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the discontinuation and removal of the Waivers to Tuition and Fees Policy, from the Board Policy Manual the date that the Tuition and Residency Classification Policy is effective, July 1, 2023.
Ms. Moore stated that the committee also requests consensus from the Board to delegate authority to the President to create an Interim COVID-19 Policy. While the Board recently approved the COVID-19 Policy, additional updates are requested due to the ending of the national public health emergency on May 11.
Most of the other community colleges in Maryland either never required reporting of COVID-19 cases or no longer require reporting of COVID-19 cases. Accordingly, the College would like to amend the current Policy so that it no longer requires the reporting of COVID-19 cases to the College and its case management processes will no longer be utilized.
The College proposes that the interim policy be effective on July 1, 2023, at the start of a new fiscal year.
Mr. Curran asked about the new process in the case that there is a COVID-19 case in a class. Dr. Patterson responded that anyone in a class can continue to contact the College’s Health and Wellness Center as a resource just as they would if they had any other kind of condition.
Ms. Moore asked for a consensus from the Board for the President to move forward in drafting and adopting the Interim COVID-19 Policy. There were no objections.
4. Facilities Committee – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Committee Chair
Mr. Ulvila reported that the Facilities Committee met via Zoom on June 6 to discuss June procurements; future procurements; and campus projects. The committee asked that the Ellucian Modernization and SaaS Migration procurement be pulled out of the consent agenda for a special presentation under the President’s report. The committee received an update on the Florestano building renovation and the GBTC renovation.
5. Human Resources Committee – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Committee Member
Mr. Ulvila reported that the Human Resources Committee met via Zoom on June 1 and received an update on the College’s efforts to respond to the election petition from the Service Employees International Union, Local 500, to serve as the exclusive representative (the union) of the part-time faculty; the College’s plan to respond to the May 11 ending of the Federal Public Health Emergency for COVID-19; and an update on the job description project.
6. AACC Foundation – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Lead Liaison
Mr. Curran shared a thank you letter from a student for a scholarship.
Mr. Ulvila reported that as of May 30, 2023, the Foundation’s fundraising total is just over $3.18 million in gifts and commitments, which exceeds the fiscal year goal of $2 million.
At the Foundation’s Board meeting on June 7, the Board elected new officers who will serve a two-year term effective this June: Mr. Dan Mathias, President; Ms. Laura Westervelt, Vice President; Mr. Eric Keitz, Treasurer; and Ms. Cara duCellier, Secretary. The Foundation Board approved its goals for FY2024 which include fundraising for initiatives that were identified as needs by College leadership.
The Chair of the College Board, Ms. Moore, and President of the Foundation Board, Mr. Frank Campbell, met with Dr. Lindsay and Mr. Vollie Melson, Executive Director, AACC Foundation, to assess progress and outcomes in the partnership between the College and the Foundation. Mr. Ulvila and Mr. Mathias participated in the meeting as they will be succeeding Mr. Campbell and Ms. Moore.
7. Approval of Board of Trustees Meeting Dates for 2023-2024 (Action Item)
Ms. Price-Jones moved to approve the Board of Trustees Meeting Dates for 2023-2024, which was seconded by Mr. Ulvila.
Dr. Johnson asked if the Board has considered having the June meeting after the budget is approved by the County. Vice President Beardmore noted that the budget must be approved by June 15 each year, and having the June Board meeting after the budget is approved might be helpful with procurement items.
Mr. Ulvila suggested that the June Board meetings could be held on the third Tuesday of June going forward, so that the meeting date falls after June 15. The June meeting next year will be June 18, 2024.
A roll call was taken of trustees to determine their vote, and the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the Board of Trustees Meeting Dates for 2023-2024, including the amendment for the June Board meeting date.
B. No Reports for June
1. Audit & Finance Committee – Sandra E. Moore, Chair
2. Budget Committee – Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Committee Chair
3. Student Success Committee – Dr. Nadine Chien, Committee Chair
VII. President’s Report – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
A. Information Items
1. College Updates – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay was pleased to announce that the College’s commencement was a huge success! Approximately 1,772 students graduated with 2,224 degrees and certificates, and around 515 graduates participated in two ceremonies at The HALL at Live! Casino & Hotel Maryland. Dr. Lindsay thanked the Commencement Committee for planning the event.
On May 10, a luncheon was held for the Middle States Steering Committee, Work Teams, and volunteers to thank them for their hard work for the Middle States Self-Study and Evaluation Site Team Visit. Dr. Lindsay thanked the Board members who attended this event including Chair Moore; Vice Chair Ulvila; Dr. Chien; Dr. Johnson, Trustee Price-Jones; and Trustee Curran.
On May 12, the College celebrated the inaugural cohort who completed the African American Leadership Institute. This program was intentionally designed to build a diverse and inclusive pipeline of leaders, which is essential to the continued success of the College and the success of our increasingly diverse student body.
On June 1, Dr. Lindsay was pleased to give the keynote address for the Arundel High School Global Community Citizenship Leadership Summit at the College. The summit is for 9th grade students, focusing on leadership, resiliency, and making a positive impact in our communities.
The AACC Retirees Reception was held on June 1, where the College honored faculty and staff who retired this past year and recognized their contributions to the College.
The College celebrated the Women’s Lacrosse Team and their 2023 NJCCA Championship win on May 17th in the Hawk’s Nest dining hall. Dr. Lindsay noted that she is very proud of the women’s team, players, and coaches.
Dr. Lindsay also recognized and thanked the College’s constituency group leaders for their service: Dr. Candice Hill, Academic Forum and Council Chair; Jill Bennett, President, Administrative Staff Organization; John Dayton, President, Professional and Support Staff Organization; Abigail Billovits-Hayes, President, Student Government Association; and Dr. Nicole Williams, Chair, The Faculty Organization.
2. AACC Foundation and Institutional Advancement Update – Vollie Melson, Executive Director, AACC Foundation and Institutional Advancement
Mr. Melson presented an update on the AACC Foundation and Institutional Advancement. The update included an overview of funds raised and assistance provided to students; strategic plan outcomes in FY2023; and goals for FY2024. Mr. Melson was pleased to announce that there were 19 new scholarships created this year, which was a record number of new scholarships.
Dr. Johnson asked why gifts and commitments are coupled together. Mr. Melson responded that gifts are private funding the College receives, usually for a specific purpose, and commitments refer to pledges which are counted in the year that the pledge is signed.
AACC Foundation fundraising initiatives identified for FY2024 include Nursing scholarships; workforce development scholarships; HelpLink support; Health Science manikins; and a potential pilot program for student internships.
Dr. Johnson asked about the model for internships. Mr. Melson responded that the AACC Foundation is working to determine the right model and how the College could obtain 10 to 15 paid internships for this year. The Foundation is looking into revenue and partnerships to advance the internship program, and they are currently gathering data in partnership with program leadership at the College.
3. Affirmative Action Report – Dr. Tiffany Boykin, Chief Compliance and Fair Practices Officer
Dr. Boykin presented the College’s 2022-2023 Affirmative Action Programs Annual Report. The College's affirmative action programs include an audit and reporting system, which uses metrics and other information to measure the effectiveness of the programs for women and minorities, individuals with disabilities, and protected veterans.
Dr. Boykin noted that the estimates and comparisons in the report are based on census data derived nationally, and from Washington D.C. and Baltimore metropolitan statistical areas, and that the data used is from November 1, 2021, through October 31, 2022.
The report included an overview of the data and methodology; analysis of women and minorities; analysis of individuals with disabilities; analysis of protected veterans; development and implementation of action‐oriented programs; strategies to support strategic plan initiatives; recruitment strategies; and retention strategies.
4. Continuing Education and Workforce Development / Noncredit Programs – Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President for Learning
Dr. Millner presented a report on the School of Continuing Education and Workforce Development (CEWD) and Noncredit Programs. The report included an overview of the programming areas; noncredit data; Hotel/Restaurant Management credit and contract credit; student data; Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades; enrollment data; programming and employer partners; CEWD community outreach and impact; and student success.
Board members requested and received clarification on the following topics: actual data compared to projections; carpentry enrollment; plumbing enrollment; electrical enrollment; and how the College determines which programs to offer. Dr. Chien asked if the College collects employment data or outcomes from students in the skilled trades. Dr. Millner responded that a survey, the Pre-Apprenticeship Program Completers Employment Data survey, was sent to students and the survey data will be sent to the Board.
5. Monthly Update on Accreditation – Dr. Gregory R. Schrader, Chair, Steering Committee (NO REPORT)
6. Academic Forum/Council – Dr. Candice Hill, Chair
Dr. Hill announced the incoming officers for 2023-2024: Andrew Kim, Chair; Abigail Brackins, Recorder; and Shelley DeBlasis, Parliamentarian. Her written report included an overview of the goals of the Academic Forum Chair for 2022-2023 and the Academic Forum/Council accomplishments for 2022-2023.
7. Administrative Staff Organization – Jill Bennett, President
Ms. Bennett announced the incoming officers for 2023-2024: Andrea Zamora, President; Angelo Thalassinidis, Vice President; and Stacy Korbelak, Secretary. The ASO held a food drive for the AACC Food Pantry and continues to receive donations.
8. Professional and Support Staff Organization – John Dayton, President (NO REPORT)
9. Student Government Association – Abigail Billovits-Hayes, President (NO REPORT)
10. The Faculty Organization – Dr. Nicole Williams, President
Dr. Williams congratulated the following faculty: Dr. Candice Hill, Dr. Jackie Gambone and Professor Beth Anne O’Reilly for receiving the Jill Loukides Award; Dr. Candice Hill and Professor Stephanie Goldenberg for the Teacher Excellence Award; and Professor Mary Bachkosky for the Riverhawk Faculty/Staff Community Engagement Award.
The TFO met on May 11, and Dr. Williams presented a summary of the TFO’s committee activities for the past year, and shared some goals that TFO will work on in fall.
11. Maryland Association of Community Colleges Activities – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay reported that MACC has launched a new platform to publicly share data visualizations online. MACC transferred the former data spreadsheets (or Databooks) into dashboards that can be used to assess needs, document trends, make decisions, and advocate for students.
The next MACC Board of Directors Meeting is scheduled for June 20, in which the MACC budget and slate of officers for 2023-2024 will be approved, and the Maryland Council of Community College Presidents retreat will be held from July 31-August 1 at Montgomery College.
B. Action Items
1. Approval of the Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) Cultural Diversity Report 2023 – Dr. Kellie McCants-Price, Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer
Dr. McCants-Price presented the 2023 Maryland Higher Education Commission Cultural Diversity Report. In accordance with Section 11-406 of the Education Article, each public college and university must submit by September 1 of each year a report to Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) summarizing institutional progress toward the implementation of its plan for cultural diversity.
The core narrative of the 2023 report consists of four sections: a summary of the institution’s plan to improve cultural diversity; efforts to increase diversity of historically underrepresented faculty, staff, and students; a description of efforts designed to create positive interactions and cultural awareness; and emerging populations currently underrepresented in higher education. The report provides only a sampling of the College’s efforts and initiatives regarding diversity, equity, inclusion, antiracism, and accessibility as the report is limited to a seven-page narrative.
The report needs to be approved by the governing Board, and submitted to MHEC by September 1, 2023, which is why it is being presented at the June meeting.
By motion of Dr. Chien, seconded by Ms. Price-Jones, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved Anne Arundel Community College’s 2023 Cultural Diversity Report, for submission to the Maryland Higher Education Commission by September 1, 2023.
2. Approval of Award of Contract for the Ellucian Modernization and SaaS Migration Project – Dr. Richard C. Kralevich, Vice President for Information and Instructional Technology
Dr. Kralevich presented an overview of the Ellucian Modernization and SaaS (Software-as-a-Service) Migration Project, including the current state of the Ellucian Colleague system, the proposal to migrate to Colleague SaaS, and why this initiative is critical.
Mr. Andrew Little, Associate Vice President for Learning Resources Management, reviewed the fiscal implications of the project. Mr. Little noted that by implementing the SaaS deployment with a 7-year contract, the College is fixing the annual SaaS subscription increase to 4% annually, and the College is projected to have annual savings beginning in year 5 and each year thereafter of the 7-year contract by initiating this transition.
Board members requested and received clarification on the following topics: how and why the College selected Ellucian for this project; project costs and savings; the impact on students; security; how the system can prepare the College for changes related to artificial intelligence; and staffing for the project.
By motion of Mr. Ulvila, seconded by Mr. Curran, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the award of contract for the Ellucian Modernization and SaaS Migration project to Ellucian Company, L.P., of Malvern, PA in an amount not to exceed $8,283,349, pending the approval of the FY2024 capital and operating budgets by the County Council.
VIII. New Business
There was no new business.
IX. Next Board Meeting – September 12, 2023
X. Adjournment
The meeting was adjourned at 6:05 p.m.
Members present: Sandra E. Moore, Chair; Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Vice Chair; Dr. Nadine Chien; Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr.; A. Joyce Price-Jones; JaCina Stanton-Buttrom; and Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Absent: Conor Curran
I. Call to Order
The Board Special Session was called to order by Chair Sandra Moore at 8:00 a.m. The meeting was open to the public via Zoom allowing attendees to hear and observe the public session. Ms. Moore informed participants the meeting was being recorded pursuant to state law.
Ms. Moore asked for the roll call and approval of the agenda. By motion of Mr. Ulvila, Jr., seconded by Dr. Chien, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the agenda.
II. Procurement Item
A. Approval of Award of Contract for Roof Engineering Services for the Physical Plant and Gym
By motion of Mr. Ulvila, Jr., seconded by Dr. Chien, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the award of contract for engineering services associated with the planned replacement of the Physical Plant and partial replacement of the David S. Jenkin’s Gymnasium roofs to Gale Associates, of Towson, Maryland, in an amount not to exceed $118,879.
III. Vote to Close the Meeting
Ms. Moore stated that the purpose of the public session was to vote to close the meeting to consult with legal counsel to obtain advice regarding the collective bargaining law. By motion of Dr. Johnson, seconded by Ms. Price-Jones, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the motion to close the meeting.
IV. Adjournment
The public session meeting adjourned at 8:04 a.m.