February 24, 2026
Members present: Dr. Nadine Chien, Chair; A. Joyce Price-Jones, Vice Chair (via Zoom); Keshawn Johnson; Dr. M. Alexandra Matiella Novak; Sandra E. Moore; Jennifer Pastrone; Roxana Rodriguez (arrived 4:07pm); JaCina Stanton-Buttrom; Anelle R. Tumminello; and Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr.
I. Call to Order - Dr. Nadine Chien, Chair
The meeting was called to order at 4:00pm.
II. Roll Call and Approval of the Agenda - Dr. Nadine Chien, Chair
Dr. Chien asked for the roll call, and a quorum was established. By motion Mr. Ulvila, seconded by Mr. Johnson, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the agenda.
III. Welcome and Introductions - Dr. Nadine Chien, Chair
Dr. Chien welcomed everyone to the meeting, including Dr. Megan Myers, Dean of Distance Education, who was filling in for Dr. Richard Kralevich, Vice President for Information and Instructional Technology, and Dr. Erin Reeder, Associate Vice President of Enrollment Management, who was filling in for Dr. Felicia Patterson, Vice President for Learner Support Services.
IV. Consent Agenda
Dr. Chien presented the Consent Agenda. By motion of Ms. Pastrone, seconded by Mr. 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 February
1. Board Chair - Dr. Nadine Chien, Chair
Dr. Chien provided an update on the presidential search process. She noted that the search for the next President is underway. The Board has selected RH Perry & Associates to lead the search. The Presidential Transition web page has been launched and will be updated regularly with news, announcements, and relevant information as the process progresses. A parallel plan to identify an interim president has also begun. No further updates were available at the time, but Dr. Chien will continue to keep the college community informed as more information becomes available.
2. Request for Proposal (RFP) Committee – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr.
i. RH Perry & Associates Presentation
Mr. Ulvila shared that to ensure a fair, transparent, and thorough search for the new president, the Board of Trustees issued a request for proposals to engage an external search firm and received ten responsive submissions. He explained that the committee evaluated and scored the technical proposals based on qualifications, relevant experience, key personnel, prior community college presidential searches, and overall program approach, while Purchasing reviewed and scored the remaining proposal components. Three firms were then invited to present to the committee to further assess their capabilities, approach, and to respond to questions. After conducting the interviews, RH Perry & Associates was selected as the top-ranked firm. The committee determined that the firm’s extensive higher education executive search experience and project team expertise made them the most qualified. The Board formally engaged the firm in February.
Mr. Ulvila noted that the consultants are former community college presidents and were present to provide a brief presentation outlining the search process and highlighting opportunities for engagement across the College community. He introduced Dr. Joanne Bashford and Ms. Charlene Newkirk. Dr. Bashford previously served as President of Miami Dade College’s InterAmerican Campus and also worked as a coach with Achieving the Dream. Ms. Newkirk served as President of the Community College of Allegheny County in Pittsburgh and retired in 2024. She has strong ties to Maryland, having served as a trustee at the College of Southern Maryland and having worked at both the College of Southern Maryland and St. Mary’s College of Maryland.
Dr. Bashford, Lead Consultant, provided an overview of RH Perry & Associates, noting that the firm was founded in 1974 and has conducted more than 1,100 search assignments in higher education, including over 350 presidential searches. She highlighted that the firm’s Community and Technical College practice has supported 136 searches, including 71 presidential searches since its launch in 2010. RH Perry & Associates has been recognized as a Top-40 Higher Education Executive Search firm by Hunt-Scanlon and as a top 200 search firm by Forbes Magazine.
Dr. Bashford joined RH Perry in 2017. She has conducted 32 searches to date, including 12 presidential searches, all for community and technical colleges. She has more than 25 years of experience in higher education, primarily within community colleges. Dr. Bashford is a retired community college president and has served as an Achieving the Dream leadership coach for 16 years. She has also worked as a higher education consultant for over 20 years.
Ms. Newkirk is a Senior Consultant who joined RH Perry in 2024. She has more than 40 years of experience across research universities, small private and public colleges, and community colleges. In Maryland, she has held significant roles, including Trustee and Dean of the Prince Frederick Campus at the College of Southern Maryland, as well as positions within St. Mary’s County government. She served as Chair of the Community College Presidents’ Initiative in STEM Regional Network. A retired community college president, Ms. Newkirk has conducted three searches to date, including one presidential search, all for community and technical colleges.
Dr. Bashford walked the Board through the proposed timeline for the presidential search at Anne Arundel Community College (AACC).
From April through May 2026, listening sessions will be held with stakeholder groups, and additional input will be gathered through an online survey. During this period, the College’s challenges and opportunities over the next three to five years will be identified, and the work experience, educational background, and professional and personal characteristics desired in the next president will be defined. The College’s points of pride and work environment will also be collected, while orientation and training will be provided for the Presidential Search Committee. In addition, the presidential search profile and marketing plan will be prepared.
During May and August 2026, recruitment and outreach efforts will focus on developing a strong and qualified candidate pool, including solicitation of nominations. The search team will prescreen candidates, conduct preliminary video interviews, and perform due diligence for the 15 to 20 top candidates.
From September through October 2026, the Presidential Search Committee will review the candidate pool and evaluate the top candidates for further consideration. The Committee will select semi-finalists and conduct interviews before identifying the finalists to recommend to the Board of Trustees.
Between October and November 2026, the search team will conduct intensive due diligence on the finalists and share their findings with the Board of Trustees. The finalists will interview on campus with stakeholder groups and participate in open forum sessions, while feedback on each finalist will be gathered through an online survey.
Finally, from November through December 2026, the Board of Trustees will discuss the finalists and vote to select the next president. An offer will be extended and the contract finalized, followed by the public announcement of the new president. The new president is expected to join Anne Arundel Community College in July 2027.
Individuals who are not serving on the Presidential Search Committee will have other opportunities to engage in the process, including sharing input during listening sessions to help the search team accurately reflect the opportunity and identify the educational background, work experience, qualifications, and attributes needed to lead AACC into the future. They may also submit nominations of qualified individuals, after which the consultants will contact nominees confidentially to discuss the opportunity. In addition, they will have the opportunity to participate in finalist visits and provide feedback through surveys.
Ms. Moore asked that if the Board plans for the new president to join Anne Arundel Community College in July 2027 and expects to make a decision by the end of November 2026, what would happen if a candidate indicated they could begin earlier. Dr. Bashford explained that in such a situation the search team could return to the Board to discuss whether it would like the president to begin earlier. She noted that an interim president would likely already be in place and expecting to serve for a set period, which could make an earlier start somewhat complicated. She added that the Board may wish to consider whether an earlier start date would be preferable or whether July, when the academic year transitions, would remain the better time. Dr. Bashford stated that if that situation arises, it can be discussed, and the Board would have the option to move the start date earlier if it chooses.
Ms. Stanton-Buttrom shared that she had been serving as an adjunct professor during the College’s previous presidential search. She noted that she was unsure whether any other current Board members had been present at that time, and she reflected on how fortunate the College had been to have Dr. Dawn Lindsay selected through that process. She emphasized the importance of having all trustees involved in the search and observed that three opportunities had been mentioned for trustees who are not serving on the Presidential Search Committee to participate. She asked whether those opportunities would be the only times for engagement or whether there would be additional opportunities for trustees to stay involved and informed. She further remarked that the next president would be the seventh president in the College’s history, which she noted is a relatively small number over the life of the institution. Because of the significance of the responsibility, she stated that trustees take the role very seriously and would like to remain informed throughout the process. While acknowledging that the consultants would manage the review of resumes and candidate development, she requested continued communication and additional dialogue about the progress of the search based on prior experience. Dr. Bashford responded that the opportunities to engage that had been shared were intended for individuals who are not serving on the committee. She explained that the Board itself would typically receive monthly updates on the progress of the search. She noted that she generally meets weekly with the search liaison to ensure alignment throughout the process, while the Presidential Search Committee chair would likely provide updates to the full Board on a monthly basis. Dr. Bashford agreed that selecting the next president is one of the Board’s most important responsibilities. She added that, ultimately, the decision rests with the Board. The committee will recommend finalists, and at that stage the leading candidates are brought forward for the Board to interview before making its final decision.
Ms. Moore reiterated the comments made by Ms. Stanton-Buttrom and stated that the Board had selected the right firm. She then asked whether the Presidential Search Committee would include members of the Board. Dr. Bashford responded that the committee should include Board members and recommended that the number of trustees serving be fewer than a quorum. She explained that the search process is intended to be inclusive, with representation from faculty, staff, and administration so that the perspectives of different groups can be heard. She added that, while the committee will include these voices, the final decision will ultimately rest with the Board.
Ms. Tumminello asked about the timeline for identifying stakeholder groups for the presidential search process. She noted that she assumed stakeholder groups would be involved in the initial stages to learn about the process and provide feedback about the College. She further asked whether members of those stakeholder groups would also serve on the search committee and how those groups would be identified. Dr. Bashford responded affirmatively and explained that the process is already underway. Preliminary conversations have been held regarding the listening sessions and which stakeholder groups should be defined. She noted that some colleges prefer very open sessions, while others establish more discreet groups. She recommended the latter approach, as it allows participants to feel more comfortable discussing their perspectives among peers with similar experiences and reporting relationships to the president. Dr. Bashford stated that the plan is to finalize the groups and the schedule for meetings in April, noting that the Board itself will be one of the stakeholder groups.
3. Board Development Committee – Anelle R. Tumminello, Committee Chair
Ms. Tumminello reported that the Board Development Committee met on February 17 to discuss priorities and plan projects for the remainder of the year. The committee focused on trustee recruitment and development, including building a pipeline of prospective trustees who may apply for nomination to the Governor’s Appointment Office. The committee also discussed rescheduling Mr. Baum’s presentation on his professional leave research and using that opportunity to engage the full Board in a substantive discussion on strategies to intentionally shape and strengthen the College’s reputation. In addition, the committee selected the first of a series of short, focused videos on key aspects of the College to initiate, support, and update trustees. These on-demand videos will allow trustees to access information frequently and at their convenience. Given the additional meetings and assignments scheduled for this year’s Board of Trustees, committee members will independently review last year’s recommendations and refine the Board Self-Assessment questions for the current year. The committee further recommended that the Board evaluate and update its goals to align with the College’s annual calendar and new strategic plan, as well as to prepare for the arrival of the new president in 2027. Ms. Tumminello expressed appreciation to Trustees Johnson, Matiella Novak, and Moore for their time, efforts, and valuable contributions.
4. Budget Committee – Sandra E. Moore, Committee Chair
i. Approval of the FY 2027 College Operating Budget (Action Item)
ii. Approval of the FY 2027-2032 Capital Budget (Action Item)
Ms. Moore reported that the Board Budget Committee met on January 15 and January 29 to review the FY 2026 operating budget status as of November 30, which included fall semester results and preliminary projections for spring. Expenditure projections indicate limited resource availability, with operations maintenance of plant and institutional support expected to exceed the original budget, while other areas show limited savings. As needed, the administration will collaborate with the County to seek approval for a “4th Quarter Transfer” to reallocate savings to cover anticipated cost increases. Overall expenses are projected to remain under budget due to staff turnover, benefit savings from open positions, and prior-year spending patterns. Student tuition and fees are projected above budget by 3% due to increased enrollment.
The committee also reviewed operating budget scenarios for FY 2027 and assessed them against guiding principles and priorities, as well as the proposed FY 2027– FY 2032 capital budget. At the February 19 Board budget workshop, the Board engaged with the administration on detailed presentations covering the FY 2027 operating budget request, auxiliary, enterprise, and restricted fund appropriation authority, and the FY 2027 to FY 2032 capital budget request.
During the workshop the Board engaged in discussions with the administration regarding the budgets and received an update on the Academic Portfolio and Resources Review, high level trends facing the college, anticipated revenues and expenditures, and the key assumptions and projections contained in the multi-year budget planning tool. The presentation and workshop discussion highlighted the limited revenues available from state and county sources to support the operating costs necessary for ensuring institutional success and reinforced the need for the college to continue its cost containment efforts.
The proposed FY 2027 operating budget represents a 6% ($8 million) increase over FY 2026, including $7.6 million for compensation and benefits, contingent upon receipt of the requested county funding. The Board recommends a $5 in-county tuition increase, representing a 3% increase, with cost-mitigation strategies such as lower-cost course materials and expanded foundation scholarships. State funding increases $1.3 million, but remains $3.8 million below the reduced formula, prompting a $4.8 million county funding request. The FY 2027 capital budget prioritizes deferred maintenance and building renovations, including the Dragun Science Building, to provide innovative student spaces. Ms. Moore concluded by expressing appreciation for the dedication of faculty and staff.
Dr. Chien shared remarks on behalf of the Board related to the Budget Workshop, governance responsibilities, the Academic Portfolio and Resources Review, and the Board's position concerning the Provost. No formal action was taken.
By motion of Mr. Ulvila, seconded by Ms. Moore, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously accepted the FY 2027 College Operating Budget and the FY 2027-2032 Capital Budget.
5. Facilities Committee – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Committee Chair
Mr. Ulvila shared that the committee has met twice since his last update, and his report provided a combined summary of both meetings. At the January 6 meeting, the committee endorsed the procurement that the Board subsequently approved at its January 13 meeting and reviewed the list of future procurements scheduled for Board approval. The committee also received an update on potential future development by the owners of the Severna Park Golf Center, located adjacent to the College’s western border. Although still in the early stages of obtaining necessary approvals, the current plan calls for up to 130 townhouses to be built on the site of the existing golf center. The committee also received updates on several campus projects. Renovations of the Florestano and Dragun buildings are proceeding on schedule and within budget. Additionally, power was restored to the northern portion of the Student Union Building following the installation of a new transformer over the winter break. Mr. Ulvila noted that the February 19 committee meeting was cancelled. The committee received a written update that included the procurement on the current agenda as well as the list of future procurements.
6. AACC Foundation – Dr. Nadine Chien, Lead Liaison
Mr. Johnson shared a thank you letter from a student who received a scholarship.
Dr. Chien reported that as of February 13, the AACC Foundation’s fundraising total is just over $2.2 million in gifts and commitments. She noted that this has been an extraordinary year and expressed the Foundation’s gratitude to the many generous donors who continue to support students.
Last fall, the College requested that the Foundation explore raising funds to operate a cyber camp for middle school students in the summer of 2026. The camp teaches young people about safe online behavior, ethics, and cybersecurity through instruction by experienced college faculty, while also fostering interest in future studies and careers in cyber. Although the program is traditionally funded by a grant from the National Security Agency and the National Science Foundation, this allocation was on hold for 2026. Dr. Chien reported that the Foundation successfully raised $52,000 in private contributions, ensuring that the camp will operate this summer. She acknowledged and thanked the donors who recognized the value of the program and helped prevent its cancellation.
Dr. Chien also reported that in November, the Foundation announced a dollar-for-dollar challenge match issued by the Deerbrook Fund to raise $100,000 in eligible gifts by June 20, 2026, to support the Future Nursing Professionals Annual Scholarship. The challenge was met in late December, with more than $100,000 in eligible gifts and commitments received. Additionally, the Foundation received a grant from the Annapolis Rotary, funded through proceeds from the previous summer’s crab feast, to support the Future Nursing Professionals Scholarship.
7. Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) National Legislative Summit Report - Sandra E. Moore and Jennifer Pastrone, Trustees
Ms. Pastrone shared that in February, as part of ACCT’s National Legislative Summit, she attended the Maryland Association of Community Colleges (MACC) Congressional Delegation Meeting in Washington, DC, along with sessions at the ACCT National Legislative Conference on federal policy and trustee governance. At the MACC meeting, Maryland’s community college presidents and trustees met with Senator Van Hollen and Representatives April McClain Delaney, Sarah Elfreth, Steny Hoyer, and Johnny Olszewski to discuss the impact of federal legislation on community colleges, focusing on Pell Grants, economic impact, and workforce development. Discussion emphasized strengthening Pell Grants, including increasing the maximum award, preventing taxation for living expenses, and protecting eligibility under FAFSA changes, relevant to AACC, where just over 21% of students receive Pell Grants.
Workforce development was also highlighted, including sustaining investment in programs such as Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), Career and Technical Education, and Adult Basic Education, in which 740 AACC students were enrolled. The broader federal funding outlook anticipates flat funding for most higher education programs, effectively reducing resources when adjusted for inflation, with continued budget uncertainty and competition for discretionary grants into FY 2027. Governance sessions reinforced the trustee role in advocacy, emphasizing the importance of data-informed communication, strong board–president partnerships, and disciplined governance. Overall, the experience underscored the critical role of sustained advocacy in protecting student financial aid, workforce funding, and institutional resources that support AACC’s mission.
Ms. Moore shared that the Impact and Success Committee met on February 7, in Washington, DC. There were 15 members present, with many guests observing the meeting. Multiple topics were discussed as the committee moves forward to fulfill its charges to increase success for all students and maintain educational resources for trustees. Committee members were informed of progress on the Excel badging program for trustees, which will be starting soon. The next Big Pivot training session is scheduled for March 18. Members were divided into three groups, Resources, Communication, and Advocacy, to discuss key focus areas and report back to the committee. These groups will continue ongoing discussions both in person and over Zoom. Ms. Moore was asked to chair the Resources group, which discussed ways for trustees to assist fellow trustees in deeper engagement with ACCT when they cannot attend sessions, conferences, or congress. The Communication group discussed the need for administrative groups and presidents to ensure trustees have access to necessary information and resources. The Advocacy group discussed how trustees can communicate and tell stories with local, state, and elected officials. The next in-person meeting of the committee will be at the national conference in Chicago in October 2026.
B. No Reports for February
1. Audit & Finance Committee - JaCina Stanton-Buttrom, Committee Chair
2. Board Policy Oversight Committee – A. Joyce Price-Jones, Committee Chair
VI. President’s Report - Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
A. Information Items
1. College Updates - Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay reported that she is pleased to share that Victor Aigbedion, a Glen Burnie High School student who is dually enrolled at AACC, has been selected as one of only eight 2026 DREAM Scholars by Achieving the Dream. He is the first high school student ever to receive this distinction and the first student from AACC to be named a DREAM Scholar. Victor was one of the featured student speakers at Convocation this past fall. An immigrant from Nigeria, he has been taking classes at AACC since 2024 and exemplifies what is possible when a dually enrolled student fully embraces the opportunities available at the College. Victor will participate in an immersive leadership and learning experience at the Achieving the Dream conference next week. Dr. Lindsay will attend the conference alongside Vice Presidents Millner and Patterson and members of the College’s Achieving the Dream team to celebrate and support Victor’s remarkable achievement.
Dr. Lindsay also shared that, as of Monday, full-time equivalent (FTE) enrollment for spring 2026 is up 2.2%, and headcount is up 2.6% compared with this time last year. Dr. Patterson will provide a comprehensive enrollment update at the May Board meeting.
On February 3, Dr. Lindsay shared that the College welcomed Capitol Technology University President Bradford Sims for a signing ceremony to celebrate the new transfer pathways agreement between the two institutions. She noted that this partnership represents a shared vision and a strong commitment to expanding access to higher education for Maryland’s students. Dr. Lindsay highlighted that one particularly unique and impressive aspect of Capitol Technology University is its Salary Guarantee, which ensures that graduates will earn at least $60,000 per year, or the university will assist them in repaying their educational loans.
Dr. Lindsay further shared that she was pleased to welcome participants to AACC on February 20 for Anne Arundel County’s Standing Together Against Hate conference. She noted that the two-day event addressed ways to build a safer, more inclusive community by uniting law enforcement, community leaders, and residents to proactively address hate and bias incidents.
2. New Programs and Certificates - Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President for Learning
i. Theater and Dance, Associate of Arts Degree Program
ii. Studio Arts, Associate of Fine Arts Degree Program
iii. Graphic and Web Design, Associate of Fine Arts Degree Program
iv. Science Transfer, Associate of Science Program
Dr. Millner shared that the Board received as information items the approval of new degrees and areas of concentration, which will be formally presented and brought to a vote at the March 10, Board of Trustees public session meeting. The proposed new programs are Science Transfer, Associate of Science, Graphic and Web Design, Associate of Fine Arts; Studio Arts, Associate of Fine Arts; and Theater and Dance, Associate of Arts.
Dr. Millner noted that these programs were developed as part of the ongoing Academic Portfolio Review (APR) process, which evaluates the academic portfolio using a data-driven approach. Over the past two years, faculty have engaged in extensive discussion regarding both the development of these new programs and the recommended discontinuation of certain related programs.
The results of this work include the new Science Transfer degree, which consolidates 11 areas of concentration into seven that more closely align with current academic pathways and workforce needs. The Graphic and Web Design degree combines three existing programs into a single, more streamlined offering. The Theater and Dance degree brings together two existing degrees into one program. In addition, the Studio Arts degree is designed to better prepare students to develop competitive portfolios, supporting a smoother transfer into bachelor’s-level programs.
3. Academic Forum (AF)/Council - Dr. Shelley De Blasis, Chair
Dr. De Blasis reported that she submitted a written summary of the Academic Forum/Council meetings held in December 2025, January 2026, and February 2026, including documentation of a charter violation that occurred during the January meeting.
She emphasized the distinctive and essential role of Academic Forum in advancing the College’s mission to provide high-quality, affordable, accessible, and innovative lifelong learning. Academic Forum oversees academics and curriculum under authority delegated by the Board of Trustees. Its membership, faculty, administrators, college officers, professional and support staff representatives, and student government members, reflects the College’s commitment to shared governance.
Dr. De Blasis described shared governance as a collaborative model in which governing boards, faculty, staff, administrators, and students share responsibility for guiding the institution. She noted that this model strengthens the academic community by incorporating diverse expertise and perspectives into decision-making. She also observed that shared governance faces challenges nationally and cautioned that when bodies such as Academic Forum cannot fulfill their purpose, the institution and its students are affected.
Drawing on her experience teaching ENG 101 (Academic Writing and Research), she highlighted the importance of critical thinking, effective communication, and engagement with multiple perspectives, principles central to both academic inquiry and shared governance. She concluded by referencing the Academic Forum charter, which states that members are to be included in all phases of issues related to educational policy, and affirmed that shared governance remains essential to responsible oversight of the College’s academic programs.
4. Administrative Staff Organization (ASO) - Stacy Korbelak, President
Ms. Korbelak shared that ASO would like to thank Ms. Price-Jones for attending the speed networking luncheon on January 14. She noted that members enjoyed the dedicated time to build community and relationships across the campus.
She also reported that this week is the final week of the ASO “Share the Love” personal hygiene product donation drive for the AACC food pantry, and that 100 items have been donated so far from the Amazon Wishlist, including soap, toothpaste, and feminine hygiene products. She added that the nominating committee chair has begun the search for ASO board members for academic year 2027, and elections will be held in the spring when ASO also has its virtual meeting with Information and Instructional Technology.
5. Professional and Support Staff Organization (PSSO) - Caitlin Silver Negrón, President
Ms. Silver Negrón reported that, as always with a new semester, PSSO has hit the ground running with a packed schedule of “choose your own adventure” ways to get involved, including monthly business meetings featuring relevant spotlights, professional enrichment training opportunities, and the spring professional development day, which will be hosted on Wednesday, April 8. She noted that once the schedule is finalized, it will be shared as usual.
She also reported that during the February 11 business meeting, members spent time addressing an objective connected to a PSSO goal for the year: the creation and adoption of an agreed-upon vision, mission, and values statement for PSSO. She explained that this objective grew out of discussions at the start of the academic year in which members expressed a desire to better understand the purpose of PSSO now and in the future. PSSO leadership drafted statements reflecting the present and aspirations for the future, which were presented during the meeting for open discussion and feedback. She added that the written report includes the draft statements and that finalized versions will be shared after constituents review and vote on them.
6. Student Government Association (SGA) – Chris Chambers, President
Mr. Chambers reported that the Student Government Association recently removed its Vice President of Campus Activities and Executive Vice President. He noted that the Vice President of Public Relations has become the new Executive Vice President. He also reported that the Vice President of Finance resigned and has been replaced by Jada Lewis, who is currently being trained for the position.
Mr. Chambers further reported that the entire SGA Executive Board attended Advocacy Day to speak with legislators about the College receiving additional funding. He shared that SGA has assisted the Office of Student Engagement with Welcome Week events and is planning several upcoming activities. These include Love Your Pets Day on February 19, during which tie blankets were donated to the SPCA along with activities and food. SGA is also planning a painting event on April 2 featuring artwork from different cultures and artists. Additional April events include a Field Day with The Ambassadors Campus Team and an Earth Day event in collaboration with the Super Science Club.
7. The Faculty Organization (TFO) – Heather Riordan, President
Ms. Riordan began by expressing sincere appreciation to the leadership and staff of the AACC Testing Center. She reported that when the electrical system in the Student Union building failed for several days in December, the Testing Center relocated its entire final exam operation to CALT and continued serving students without interruption. Despite significant challenges, staff remained positive and responsive. She noted that faculty and students depend heavily on the Testing Center and conveyed gratitude on their behalf for the team’s dedication and professionalism.
Ms. Riordan stated that the remainder of her remarks were offered in a constructive spirit and in alignment with her responsibility as TFO President to uphold the College’s values and collaborate with faculty, students, administration, and the Board in the best interest of the institution.
She conveyed collective faculty concern regarding the Board’s recent public expression of full confidence in the Provost during last week’s budget workshop and again this evening. First, she stated that this action has created the impression that faculty perspectives may not be fully considered, which she described as inconsistent with the College’s mission, values, and policies.
Second, she noted that the Board has taken a public position on a matter that has not yet been fully discussed or voted upon by the faculty and may or may not ultimately come before the Board. She expressed concern that the Board has placed itself on record without first hearing from the faculty or reviewing the evidence necessary to make an informed decision.
Finally, she stated that TFO is concerned that, however unintentional, the Board’s action may undermine the democratic processes that are central to the College and could have a chilling effect on faculty free expression, academic freedom, and shared governance.
Ms. Riordan stated that TFO respectfully requests that should the issue of faculty confidence in Dr. Millner come before the Board, it be received with an open, evidence-based mindset and with consideration of the best interests of the College and its students.
Ms. Tumminello acknowledged the difficulty of expressing candid concerns and experiences in an open meeting while considering all stakeholders. She noted her experience as both faculty and administrator and stated that she understands the perspectives and challenges of each role.
She affirmed the professionalism of the Board and stated that no decision will be made without hearing from stakeholders and reviewing relevant data, information, and perspectives. While recognizing that disagreements may arise, she emphasized the Board’s commitment to listening carefully, fulfilling its responsibilities, and upholding shared governance and transparency.
8. Maryland Association of Community Colleges (MACC) Activities – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay reported that the MACC Trustee Leadership Conference was held virtually due to inclement weather. The program included presentations by President and CEO of the American Association of Community Colleges Dr. DeRionne Pollard, and MACC Executive Director Dr. Brad Phillips, who outlined the year’s legislative agenda. She also reported that on February 5, she joined 15 students, including SGA President Chris Chambers, for MACC Student Advocacy Day. She described the event as one of her favorite annual engagements, providing students an opportunity to meet directly with elected officials, share personal stories, and express appreciation for legislative support of community colleges.
Dr. Lindsay acknowledged two students present at the meeting who participated in Advocacy Day and commended their growth and engagement. She noted that students effectively advocated for the College, faculty, and institutional funding, helping legislators better understand the impact of their educational experiences.
She shared that although students were initially nervous, they quickly became comfortable meeting with legislators and indicated they would participate again. Dr. Lindsay thanked all 15 students for their preparation, professionalism, and willingness to represent the College, describing them as strong communicators and effective ambassadors.
B. Action Item
1. Approval of the 2026-2027 Academic Calendar - Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President for Learning
Dr. Millner presented the 2026-2027 Academic Calendar for approval. The calendar was developed by the registrar's office and reviewed and discussed by the Committee on Teaching and Learning as per the Academic Forum charter and by the College administration. It was presented to the Academic Council for information at its meeting on December 11. Upon approval by the Board of Trustees, the 2026-2027 academic calendar will be published in the 2026-2027 catalog and other College publications as appropriate. There are no physical implications related to approval of the 2026-2027 academic calendar.
By motion of Ms. Tumminello, seconded by Ms. Pastrone, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously accepted the 2026-2027 Academic Calendar.
VII. New Business
VIII. Next Board Meeting
The next public session meeting will be on March 10, 2026, starting at 4:00pm.
IX. Vote to Close Meeting - Dr. Nadine Chien, Chair
A. To discuss personnel matters, to protect the privacy or reputation of an individual in a matter not related to public business, and to consult with legal counsel pursuant to Sections 3-305(b)(1), 3-305(b)(2), and 3-305(b)(7) of the General Provisions Article of the Maryland Code Section 3-305(d)(2)(i)(ii).
By motion of Mr. Ulvila, seconded by Ms. Tumminello, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the vote to close the meeting.
X. Adjournment
The meeting was adjourned at 5:35pm.
A closed session of the Board of Trustees was held on February 3, 2026 via Zoom. To discuss personnel matters pursuant to Section 3-305(b)(1) of the General Provisions Article of the Maryland Code Section 3-305(d)(2)(i)(ii). The following Board members voted to close the session: Dr. Nadine Chien, Chair; A. Joyce Price-Jones, Vice Chair; Keshawn Johnson; Dr. M. Alexandra Matiella Novak; Sandra E. Moore; Jennifer Pastrone; Roxana Rodriguez; JaCina Stanton-Buttrom; Anelle Tumminello; and Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr. The following Board members were present at the meeting: Dr. Nadine Chien, Chair; A. Joyce Price-Jones, Vice Chair; Keshawn Johnson; Dr. M. Alexandra Matiella Novak; Sandra E. Moore; Jennifer Pastrone; Roxana Rodriguez; JaCina Stanton-Buttrom; Anelle Tumminello; and Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr. Dan Baum, Executive Director, Strategic Communications; Stephanie LaRue, Executive Director, Human Resources; Suzanne Boyer, Presidential Search Advisor (left at 4:45 p.m.); Steve Metzger, Attorney, Gallagher, LLC; Heidi Frist, Senior Purchasing Agent (left at 4:45 p.m.); and Monica Rausa, Special Assistant to the President were present as well. The meeting began at 4:05pm and ended at 5:44pm.