Members present: Sandra E. Moore, Chair; James H. Johnson, Jr., Ph.D., Vice Chair; A. Joyce Price-Jones; Jordan Foley, J.D.; JaCina Stanton-Buttrom, Esq.; Irene Zoppi Rodriguez, Ph.D.; Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr.; and Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Absent: Jerome Klasmeier
I. Call to Order – Sandra E. Moore, Chair
The special session of the Board of Trustees was called to order by Chair Sandra Moore at 5:00 p.m. The meeting was open to the public via Zoom Video Communications 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– Sandra E. Moore, Chair
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 motion to close the meeting.
III. Meeting Reconvene for Public Session at 5:30 p.m.
IV. Roll Call and Approval of the Agenda – Sandra E. Moore, Chair
The special session of the Board of Trustees was reconvened by Ms. Moore at 5:30 p.m. The meeting was open to the public via Zoom Video Communications allowing attendees to hear and observe the public session. Ms. Moore informed participants the meeting was being recorded pursuant to state law.
By motion of Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez, seconded by Ms. Price-Jones, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the August 24, 2021 Board of Trustees special session agenda.
V. Special Authorization
Ms. Moore asked the Board to reaffirm its commitment to the safety and well-being of the faculty, staff and students of the College. The Special Authorization was originally approved by the Board of Trustees on March 26, 2020. The purpose of the Special Authorization, which was enacted during the COVID-19 crisis, was to allow the President or her designee to act quickly out of concern for the safety of all persons associated with the College during a time when action must be taken quickly and decisively. The Special Authorization expired when Governor Hogan ended the State of Emergency effective July 1, 2021, with a forty-five (45) day grace period ending on August 14, 2021. Due to the increase in the Delta variant of the COVID-19 virus, and the fact that Anne Arundel County has moved to a “substantial” level of community of transmission by the Centers for Disease Control, the Board was asked to reaffirm the Special Authorization.
Ms. Moore reminded the Board of their duty to enact policy and it is the responsibility of the President, along with her executive team, to create procedures that carry out the policy of the Board of Trustees.
By motion of Dr. Johnson, seconded by Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the Special Authorization for the President to act on matters impacting the safety of the college and maintain continuity of 2 operations during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) global pandemic, and take all appropriate actions to protect the health and safety of the campus community.
VIII. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 5:37 p.m.
A session of the Board of Trustees was held on June 29, 2021 at 4:18 p.m. via Zoom Video Conferencing. Pursuant to section 3-305(b)(1)(i) and 3-305(b)(I)(ii) 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, Paula J. Darrah, Briana Barone, Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Jerome Klasmeier, A. Joyce Price-Jones and Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr. All trustees were present except Dr. Irene Zoppi Rodriguez. Dr. Dawn Lindsay was also present. Topic discussed was personnel appointment affecting one or more individuals. The meeting began at 4:20 p.m. and ended at 4:24 p.m.
A session of the Board of Trustees was held on August 24, 2021 at 5:04 p.m. via Zoom Video Conferencing. Pursuant to section §3-305(b)(7) of the Open Meetings Act, a vote was taken to close the meeting pursuant to the General Provisions Article of the Maryland Annotated Code Section 3- 305(d)(2)(i)(ii). The following board members were present and voted to close the session: Sandra E. Moore, Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Jordan Foley, A. Joyce Price-Jones, JaCina Stanton-Buttrom, Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., and Dr. Irene Zoppi Rodriguez. Dr. Dawn Lindsay, Melissa Beardmore, Dr. Richard Kralevich, Dr. Tanya Millner, Dr. Felicia Patterson, Erin Parker and Monica Rausa Williams were present as well. Topics discussed included legal advice. The meeting began at 5:04 p.m. and ended at 5:30 p.m.
Members present: Sandra E. Moore, Chair; Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Vice Chair; Jerome W. Klasmeier; A. Joyce Price-Jones; JaCina Stanton-Buttrom; Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr.; Dr. Irene Zoppi Rodriguez; Jordan Foley; and Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
I. Call to Order and Approval of the Agenda
The public session of the Board of Trustees was called to order by Chair Sandra Moore at 4:00 p.m. The meeting was open to the public via Zoom Video Communications allowing attendees to hear and observe the public session. Ms. Moore informed participants the meeting was being recorded pursuant to state law.
By motion of Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez, seconded by Mr. Klasmeier, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the September 14, 2021 Board of Trustees public session agenda.
II. Welcome and Introductions
Ms. Moore welcomed and introduced the two new members of the Board, Ms. JaCina StantonButtrom and student board member, Jordan Foley whose terms started July 1, 2021.
III. Approval of 2021-2022 Full-time Faculty Appointments
Dr. Lindsay introduced Dr. Tanya Millner who joined the College in August as the Provost and Vice President of Learning. Dr. Millner asked the Board to approve the full-time faculty tenure and term appointments for 2021-2022.
By motion of Mr. Klasmeier, 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 appointments for 2021- 2022.
Dr. Millner introduced the new faculty, and Dr. Zoppi Rodriquez welcomed them to the College.
IV. Consent Agenda
Ms. Moore presented the Consent Agenda and asked if any item should be removed for discussion and voted on separately. Dr. Johnson stated that he had a comment in regards to an update to the Approval of Award of Contract for the Theater Seating Upgrades. Ms. Moore stated that this item would be removed from the consent agenda (item IV.B.2) and discussed after the approval of the Consent Agenda.
By motion of Mr. Ulvila, seconded by Mr. Klasmeier and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the Consent Agenda;
Dr. Johnson stated that in regards to the Approval of Award of Contract for the Theater Seating Upgrades the document was updated to include that it had been reviewed by the Facilities Committee and that references had been pursued.
By motion of Dr. Johnson, seconded by Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved B.2. Award of Contract for the Theater Seating Upgrades to American Office Services, Inc. of Westlake, OH, in an amount not to exceed $339,563.
V. Board Chair and Committee Reports
A. Reports for September
1. Audit & Finance Committee – Dr. Irene Zoppi Rodriguez, Committee Chair
Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez stated that the Audit and Finance Committee met on August 26 and that Ms. Christina Bauman, Principal from CliftonLarsonAllen LLP, presented an overview of the plan for the Fiscal Year 2021 Audit. The Committee reviewed its roles and responsibilities for the audit and were updated on the implementation timeline for new accounting standards from the Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB). Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez stated that Dr. Rick Kralevich and Mr. John Williams presented on the College’s Information Security and Business Continuity Programs and that the Committee discussed the FY 2021 operating budget status report as of August 23which projected a balanced budget. An update on the status of the Other Postemployment Benefits Trust (OPEB) was given and as of June 30, has approximately $18 million and that in July, 2021, the County contributed approximately $2.9 million to the trust on behalf of the College.
2. Board Policy Oversight Committee – Sandra E. Moore, Committee Chair
Ms. Moore reported that the committee met on August 23 to review the Policy on Development of Policies and Procedures, which creates an infrastructure for policy development for the Board and procedures for the College. The draft policy is currently under review by the constituency groups for feedback. The committee expects to present this policy for approval at the October 12 Board of Trustees meeting.
3. Budget Committee – Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Committee Chair
Dr. Johnson reported that the committee met on June 10 and on September 9. At the June 10 meeting, the committee discussed the FY 2022 Budget and Higher Education Emergency Relief Funding (HEERF).
Since that time the County Council adopted the FY 2022 Budget and supported the College’s requests to maintain the County Executive’s Operating Budget support for the College; restored the $1.4 million in FY 2022 funding for the IT Capital Budget; and supported the acceleration and creation of the Learning Innovation Center (LInc) on the 4th floor of Florestano in the FY 2022 Capital Budget.
The committee was advised that the College had received the 3rd round of stimulus funding bringing the total amount for institutional support to $18.6 million and for student emergency aid to $13.1 million. Feedback received from the College community on opportunities to utilize this funding was shared with the committee. The committee supported the approach to support both changes in operations required by COVID 19 while also addressing strategic plan goals and objectives and asked for regular updates on the progress.
At the September 9 meeting, the committee discussed the FY 2021 and FY 2022 Financial Status Reports and the HEERF. The FY 2021 report as of August 23 was shared with the Audit & Finance Committee on August 26 and is the final report, subject to final audit adjustments. The budget is balanced and the College has operated within existing resources, consistent with projections. T
he committee received the FY 2022 operating budget projection showing a balanced budget despite a projected significant decline in tuition and fee revenue. Expenditure savings were seen from managing position vacancies, favorable utility rates and general reductions in spending which will offset the revenue decline. Enrollment and expenditures will continue to be monitored.
The committee received an update on the HEERF and was informed that additional funding was received of $760,000 in institutional funds and $1.2 million in student aid which was disbursed to summer students. An update was given on the planning and strategy to deploy maximum availability and utilization of funding, which includes the work of several Research and Development Teams exploring innovative ways to improve operations.
The committee was informed that collaboration with the County will be required to effectively deploy funding within the Capital Budget and that there may be a need for an increase in appropriation authority for restricted funds to ensure the College remains compliant. A meeting with the County and the College administration has been scheduled for these conversations.
The next meeting of the committee is scheduled for November 3 and will begin the FY 2023 budget development conversations.
4. Facilities Committee – Jerome W. Klasmeier, Committee Chair
Mr. Klasmeier shared that the committee met on September 7 and discussed the Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades, the Health and Life Sciences Building, procurements and campus projects.
Mr. Klasmeier stated that the Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades project is underway and that exterior masonry work is near completion while mechanical, electrical and plumbing rough-ins continue. The Substantial Completion date for the project has shifted by two weeks due to the delayed delivery of the roof top mechanical units caused by supply chain issues. These delays are not expected to affect key milestone dates and the schedule will continue to be refined if additional supply issues occur. The project is on time and classes are expected to start in January.
The Health and Life Sciences Building opened on time for the fall semester. Punchlist and commissioning work continue to be addressed and will continue through the fall. Project closeout work will begin soon with final closeout of the project expected within a year.
The committee reviewed the list of future procurements and drafts of the procurement items to be presented at this meeting for approval.
The committee received an update on campus projects to include the 4th floor renovation of Florestano for the Learning Innovation Center (LInc) and the turf field renovation. Completion of the LInC will be done utilizing the construction manager at risk delivery method through a Frederick County Schools open-end contract with Whiting Turner. Both the construction contract and guaranteed maximum price will come before the Board for approval.
The turf field replacement is underway and expected to completed in about a month.
5. AACC Foundation – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Lead Liaison
Mr. Foley shared a student letter in gratitude for a scholarship. Mr. Ulvila provided a fundraising update stating that the Launching the Future campaign closed on June 30and raised $9.86 million. The current fiscal year fundraising total as of August 31 is $293,875 in gifts and commitments.
The AACC Foundation Board continues to work on the development of a three-year plan to guide its work in FY 2022 – FY 2024. The Foundation Strategic Planning Committee met to review deliverables resulting from the plan's first year of implementation. Adoption of the three-year Strategic Plan will be considered at the Foundation Board meeting on September 29.
6. Trustee Emeritus Status to Walter J. Hall – Jerome W. Klasmeier
Mr. Klasmeier presented the information item to confer Emeritus Status to Walter J. Hall. Mr. Hall served on the Board of Trustees with distinction for 36 years, and his extraordinary service to the Board and Anne Arundel Community College is deserving of special and significant recognition.
Ms. Moore stated that the Board will be voting on this item in October at which time Mr. Hall will be in attendance.
B. No Reports for September
1. Board Development Committee – A. Joyce Price-Jones, Committee Chair
2. Human Resources 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 announced this year as the 60th Anniversary of the College. She stated that convocation occurred on August 19, 2021, the Health and Life Sciences Building opened in August and the Grand Opening event will be October 26 at 4:00 p.m.
Thanks to the fundraising efforts of the AACC Foundation, construction is currently underway for the Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades. The project is on time and will open in January, 2022.
Dr. Lindsay shared that classes started on August 30 and in terms of headcount, 18% of students are attending in-person and 8% hybrid, while the remainder of classes are online or online sync.
The College is moving toward all AACC employees and students being fully vaccinated or tested weekly for COVID. Implementation teams are working on the protocols, which will be communicated to the community.
Dr. Lindsay announced that Dr. Kellie McCants-Price is the interim Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion effective August 30.
AACC will celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month September 15 - October 15 with events planned both virtually and in-person.
2. Monthly Accreditation – Dr. Gregory R. Schrader, Chair, Steering Committee
Dr. Schrader stated that the steering committee met on September 10 to review work team status reports and to discuss timeline progress. On June 28, the Middle States Vice President and the College’s liaison, Dr. Robert Bonfiglio, officially approved the College’s Self Study Design. Dr. Schrader shared that work teams have begun to write the Self Study Report with the first draft expected in spring 2022. The Communications Team has developed a plan to provide progress updates and participation opportunities to the community. Students will also have an opportunity to be involved in the accreditation process. The committee continues to receive professional development and organize future logistics of the accreditation process.
3. Academic Forum/Council – Dr. Candice Hill, Chair (No Report)
4. Administrative Staff Organization – Jill Bennett, President (No Report)
5. Professional and Support Staff Organization – Anne Bashore, President
Ms. Bashore reported on activities of the Community Service Committee and the PSSO Retreat on September 9, 2021.
6. Student Government Association – Benjamin Nussbaumer, President (No Report)
7. The Faculty Organization – Dr. Nicole Williams, President
Dr. Williams reported that the TFO had its first meeting of the year on September 9 where the standing committee shared their goals and the ad hoc committees shared their charges. The next meeting will be the organization’s Convocation on October 14.
8. Maryland Association of Community College Activities (MACC) – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay shared that the MACC Board of Directors met on June 23 and that Trustee Ulvila was reelected as the President of the 2021-2022 MACC Executive Committee.
Dr. Lindsay stated that the Maryland Council of Community College Presidents (MCCCP) Retreat occurred on August 2-3. Among the many topics discussed, the Presidents reviewed the draft legislative agenda for the 2022 session of the Maryland General Assembly, which will be brought to our Board for approval in October prior to MACC bringing it to the MACC Board of Directors for approval at its October 27 meeting.
B. Action Items
1. Approval of the 2021 Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) Performance Accountability Report – Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President for Learning
Dr. Millner provided a presentation on the Performance Accountability Report (PAR) for 2021.
Dr. Millner stated that the report includes a data summary and narrative report and explained that the indicators are aligned to the goals of the 2017-2021 State Plan for Post-Secondary Education and that the structure is defined by MHEC. Over the past year, MHEC has gathered stakeholders for recommendations and that for FY 2021, PAR reflects changes to some of the required data elements.
Dr. Millner stated that the fiscal year benchmarks were set 10 years ago when the landscape in higher education was much different. This year, the benchmarks will be setup for FY 2025. The PAR report reflects an alignment with the focus of AACC’s Strategic Plan. The College continues to leverage the requirements of PAR into the assessment and continuous improvement that the College is seeking through Engagement Matters.
This year, the College was asked to discuss the ongoing effects of COVID-19, how the College utilized CARES funding, and how it leveraged those funds for student access and success.
The College uses PAR data in concert with AACC’s Strategic Plan and this report, along with key performance indicators, can be used to seek continuous improvement and assessment of the overall health of the College in a systemic way.
Dr. Millner reviewed areas of the College where improvements have been achieved, ensuring equity and that the College remains student-ready. The College saw an increase of 2% in part-time enrollment of students due to COVID. Demographic shifts illustrate the need for the College to continue to be inclusive, implementing equitable practices.
Dr. Millner stated that PAR data is one year behind. PAR indicators show that AACC is funding instruction and student support at high levels, which ensures student success is the core work of the College. The College is measured on retention of college-ready and developmental education students.
Dr. Johnson asked for clarity on the slide #6 bullet “Tuition and Fees as a percent of tuition and fees has held steady at 44.7% over the last four years.” Mr. Klasmeier asked for additional clarity as well. Ms. Beardmore stated that item 7 on the PAR report states it is the percentage of tuition fees at Maryland public 4-year institutions and referred trustees to page 88 of the report for more information. A formal response with full clarity will be sent to the Board.
AACC’s strategic plan places equity at the center and is in line with the State Goals 2 - Success trends and the College continues to work to anticipate future needs.
Dr. Millner stated that indicators related to persistence, retention and completion show good news, based on the cohorts of new awards seekers who earned 18 or more credits in their first two years and transferred, graduated or are still enrolled after four years. The experiences of these cohorts are being studied to learn what can be applied to the broader population.
Dr. Millner stated that AACC offers 10 credit programs in the health professions that require external licensing or certifications upon completion that had more than five candidates in the fiscal year. The median realized income for program graduates from one year prior to graduation to three years after graduation improved significantly for FY 2016 and FY 2017 graduates.
Dr. Millner stated that the PAR will be used to enhance the College’s work in institutional assessment along with the College’s key performance indicators. While the pandemic interrupted the trend of increasing fall-to-fall retention rates, prior to COVID 19 the average retention rate for students was 62.3%. The College saw a 5% decrease in the retention rate from fall 2020 to fall 2021. The College is leveraging technology to improve student experience, retention and completion outcomes.
Dr. Millner noted that PAR has been part of operational efficiencies improvement discussions and determining the direction to increase enrollment through strategic enrollment management. The PAR report and the leveraging of it, contributes to the success of the College’s Strategic Plan.
By motion of Mr. Klasmeier, seconded by Dr. Johnson and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the 2021 Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) Performance Accountability Report to be submitted to MHEC by October 1, 2021.
VII. Next Board Meeting
The next meeting of the Board of Trustees is scheduled for October 12, 2021.
VIII. Vote to Close the Meeting / Adjournment of Public Session
By motion of Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez, seconded by Ms. Moore, and a roll call was taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the motion to close the meeting.
IX. Adjournment
The public session meeting was adjourned at 5:08 p.m
Members present: Sandra E. Moore, Chair; Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Vice Chair; Jerome W. Klasmeier; A. Joyce Price-Jones; JaCina Stanton-Buttrom; Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr.; Dr. Irene Zoppi Rodriguez; Jordan Foley; and Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
I. Call to Order and Approval of the Agenda – Sandra E. Moore, Chair
The public session of the Board of Trustees was called to order by Chair Sandra Moore at 4:00 p.m. The meeting was open to the public via Zoom Video Communications allowing attendees to hear and observe the public session. Ms. Moore informed participants the meeting was being recorded pursuant to state law.
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 October 12, 2021 Board of Trustees public session agenda.
II. Welcome and Introductions – Sandra E. Moore, Chair
Ms. Moore welcomed special guests attending the meeting to honor Mr. Walter J. Hall: Senator Pam Beidle; Donald C. Roane, M.D., Trustee Emeritus; Robert J. DiAiso, Trustee Emeritus; Dr. Martha Smith, President Emeritus; Phil Jimeno, former Maryland State Senator; Martin Snyder, former legal counsel; Dr. Andy Myers, Vice President of Learning Emeritus; Trish Casey-Whiteman, former Associate Vice President for Learning; Anita Delaporte, former Special Assistant to the President; and members of Mr. Hall’s family, Walter Hall, Jr., Philip Hall and Michael Hall.
III. Trustee Emeritus Status for Walter J. Hall – Sandra E. Moore, Chair
Ms. Moore reviewed the criteria for award of emeritus status and asked the Board to award emeritus status to Mr. Walter J. Hall in recognition of the 36 years he served in distinction. Ms. Moore stated that Mr. Hall was one of the College’s most dedicated advocates, demonstrating outstanding dedication to the College and the students it serves.
By motion of Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez, seconded by Mr. Klasmeier, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the award of Trustee Emeritus Status for Walter J. Hall.
Mr. Klasmeier shared his gratitude and personal appreciation for Mr. Hall’s leadership and commitment as a former Board member. Mr. Ulvila shared his approval of the award of Trustee Emeritus Status to Mr. Hall. Dr. Johnson also shared his appreciation for the opportunity to work with and learn from Mr. Hall. Ms. Moore shared that Mr. Hall had been a mentor for her and expressed her gratitude. Dr. Lindsay, on behalf of the College, expressed her gratitude to Mr. Hall and highlighted a few of his contributions to the College.
Personal tributes to Mr. Hall were given by Senator Pam Beidle, including a citation honoring his service; a video presentation from Art Ebersberger, Trustee Emeritus; and a video presentation from Dr. Martha Smith, President Emeritus. Mr. Hall thanked everyone for the honor and shared his gratitude for the chance to serve as a trustee.
Ms. Moore thanked Mr. Hall and all who spoke in honor of his Trustee Emeritus Status.
IV. Consent 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 Mr. Ulvila, seconded by Mr. Klasmeier and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the Consent Agenda which included;
V. Board Chair and Committee Reports
A. Reports for October
1. Board Chair Report – Sandra E. Moore, Chair
Ms. Moore shared that on September 21, she, Vice Chair Johnson, Trustee Klasmeier, Trustee Ulvila, and Dr. Lindsay met with the Anne Arundel County Senators regarding the possible expansion of the Board of Trustees. Ms. Moore stated that expanding the Board would bring in additional members to share the work and would possibly allow for representation from District 21. Further discussion will be had at the November Board meeting.
Ms. Moore reviewed the responsibilities of the Trustees and emphasized the role of the Board as not operational but focused on policy.
2. Board Policy Oversight Committee – Sandra E. Moore, Committee Chair
Ms. Moore reported that the committee met on October 7 to review the Policy on Development of Policies and Procedures, which will create an infrastructure for policy development by the Board and procedures development by the College. Ms. Moore stated that legal counsel, AACC staff, and constituency groups reviewed the policy and provided feedback, which was incorporated into the final draft. The policy will be brought to the full Board at the November meeting for approval.
Ms. Parker provided an overview of the workflow for policy and procedures development from the initial request through approval.
3. Board Development Committee – A. Joyce Price-Jones, Committee Chair
Ms. Price-Jones shared that the committee met on September 20 and discussed the purpose and benefits of the committee and reviewed activities and workshops in which Board members have participated in previous years. The committee brainstormed ideas, activities and topics that may be opportunities for professional development and reviewed the Board goals set in FY 2018.
The committee is considering a request of board members to attend at least two webinars, and the possibility of organizing a professional development opportunity. The committee will be reviewing the Board Efficacy Survey from FY20, focusing on the comments related to reviewing and revising board goals, and possibly developing a new survey to the Board to seek their input and develop a plan. Utilizing the Association of Community College Trustees, the Association of Governing Boards as well as other resources, the committee will be researching professional development opportunities for the board.
4. Facilities Committee – Jerome W. Klasmeier, Committee Chair
Mr. Klasmeier stated that the committee met on September 30 and discussed the Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades, procurements and campus projects.
Mr. Klasmeier reported that the Clauson Center project is on budget and on time, and shared a list of completed projects, noting that any supply chain issues have been mitigated or will not affect the milestone date for the start of classes in January.
The committee reviewed the list of future procurements and drafts of items to be on the agenda for this Board meeting. An update on the turf field replacement project was shared along with an update on the 4th floor of Florestano renovation. The committee also received an update on a recent meeting with senior policy advisor to the county executive, budget officer, Chris Trumbauer, on the county budget.
5. Human Resources Committee – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Committee Chair
Mr. Ulvila reported that the committee met on September 16 and discussed the 2016-2020 Workforce Report, employee engagement and Fall 2021 Planning.
The 2016-2020 Workforce Report provides data on college employee demographics and trends over the past five years. The committee received an update on the College’s efforts to impact employee engagement, including Supervisors Forums along with structured learning and professional development. The Employee Engagement Team is developing recommendations that will impact meeting management, improve communications and provide tools for supervisors.
The committee also received an update on the College’s process with vaccination certification and testing protocols for employees and students.
6. AACC Foundation – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Lead Liaison
Mr. Ulvila shared a student thank you letter to the Board and provided a fundraising update. At the AACC Foundation Board meeting on September 29, the Board adopted a three-year strategic plan and will be engaging consultants to conduct philanthropy training for leadership.
Mr. Ulvila stated that the Foundation report on the Launching the Future campaign will be sent soon and announced that the Clauson Center building gifting and dedication ceremony will be Thursday, December 16.
B. No Reports for October
1. Audit & Finance Committee – Dr. Irene Zoppi Rodriguez, Committee Chair
2. Budget Committee – Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Committee Chair
VI. President’s Report – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
A. Information Items
1. College Updates – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay shared an update on the number of completed vaccination certification forms for employees and students. Details on weekly COVID testing will be finalized and faculty, staff and students may now request an accommodation request for medical, disability and religious reasons.
Dr. Lindsay announced that the Health and Life Sciences Building Grand Opening will be October 26 and that the Baking, Pastry and Culinary Arts Programs were accredited and identified as exemplary, receiving the highest recognition awarded by the American Culinary Federation Education Foundation Accrediting Commission.
Dr. Lindsay stated that on October 5, she presented at the American Association of Community College’s Future Presidents Institute and that she will be attending the 2021 Chesapeake Connect Program in Philadelphia as part of a delegation from Anne Arundel County.
Dr. Lindsay congratulated Dr. Johnson who will be inducted into the Anne Arundel Chamber of Commerce Business Hall of Fame, which recognizes individuals who have made remarkable and significant contributions to the business and civic community in Anne Arundel County.
2. Sabbatical Reports – Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President for Learning
Dr. Millner introduced Professor of Visual Arts, Chris Mona, who shared a presentation about his sabbatical leave. Professor Mona stated that the two mediums he learned during his sabbatical were metalpoint and tempera paint. He shared pictures of the art he created. As a result of his sabbatical research, Professor Mona has rewritten his curriculum introducing these new materials.
Dr. Lindsay thanked the Board for their continued support of faculty sabbaticals that allow them to remain innovative and continue to learn professionally.
3. Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades Program Planning – Kip Kunsman, Dean, School of Continuing Education and Workforce Development
Mr. Kunsman provided an update on the strategies being used to create a student recruitment plan in preparation for the Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades opening in January 2022.
Mr. Kunsman explained that in May 2019, the Clauson Center Advisory Committee was formed to provide guidance and recommendations. Their input coupled with data, led to the development of three programs: Direct to Career, Pre-apprenticeships, and Registered Apprenticeships.
Mr. Kunsman explained that a multi-faceted student recruitment strategy was launched by Strategic Communications in spring 2021 and showed samples of the various marketing campaign strategies implemented.
Mr. Kunsman shared that staff in Continuing Education and Workforce Development have implemented a Cohort Recruitment Strategy focused on increasing student retention from initial expression of interest through registration. Through grass roots marketing efforts continued conversations are also happening with community and business members and new relationships are being cultivated.
Mr. Kunsman shared current success statistics and plans for continuation of the marketing plan and outreach to the community.
Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez congratulated Mr. Kunsman on the presentation and the hard work being completed, focusing on students first.
4. Strategic Communications Update – Dan Baum, Executive Director, Strategic Communications
Mr. Baum provided an overview of the work of Strategic Communications, stating that they work with a philosophy of integrated marketing communications, which focuses on repetition of the same message through different channels. Mr. Baum showed how different forms of media and different platforms are used to keep the College and greater community informed and messaging current.
The strategic plan for communications, with the goals of entry, progress and completion, is about getting people’s attention and building excitement around the College, keeping people informed through current messaging, and celebrating students as they graduate. This is accomplished by staying on top of technology and the different communication channels and meeting students where they are.
Mr. Ulvila thanked Mr. Baum and Strategic Communications for the excellent work they do.
Mr. Baum offered to share with the Board examples of videos, social media and ads in the next Weekly Update communication.
5. Monthly Accreditation – Dr. Gregory R. Schrader, Chair, Steering Committee
Dr. Schrader provided an update on the status of the accreditation steering committee which met on October 8 to review work team status reports and discuss fall timeline progress. Dr. Schrader shared that students are now involved with the committee and that report writing guidance has been developed for the teams and a communications plan has been created.
6. Academic Forum/Council – Dr. Candice Hill, Chair (No Report)
7. Administrative Staff Organization (ASO)– Jill Bennett, President
Ms. Bennett introduced herself as the new President, and stated that the ASO met on September 15 to introduce the new leadership team, discuss changes to the ASO charter which will be voted on at the November meeting, and review its goals for FY22.
8. Professional and Support Staff Organization (PSSO) – Pat Shoemaker, Vice President
Ms. Shoemaker reported that following its annual retreat, the PSSO voted to confirm its goals for FY22 and have begun increasing opportunities for members to collaborate with the community.
9. Student Government Association (SGA) – Benjamin Nussbaumer, President
Mr. Nussbaumer stated that the SGA has been working to recruit new senators and are interviewing candidates. Mr. Nussbaumer shared that the SGA is involved in several projects and volunteer opportunities across campus.
10. The Faculty Organization (TFO) – Dr. Nicole Williams, President (No Report)
11. Maryland Association of Community College Activities (MACC) – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay announced upcoming activities of MACC, including the upcoming Board of Directors meeting on October 27, the 2021 Virtual Transfer Fair for students on October 11-14, and the annual MACC Trustee Leadership Conference and Legislative Reception scheduled for 4:00 p.m. on January 24, 2022. Details for the event will be shared when available.
B. Action Items
1. Approval of the Draft 2022 Maryland Association of Community Colleges Legislative Agenda – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay asked the Board to approve the Draft 2022 Maryland Association of Community College Legislative Agenda stating that the agenda includes items for legislative action at the state level on issues that affect the well-being of Maryland’s community colleges and the students that they serve. Dr. Lindsay explained that the draft of the agenda was created by MACC staff over the summer and was presented to and approved by the community college presidents at the Maryland Council of Community College Presidents’ October 2 and 3 retreat.
Dr. Johnson, referring to page 150 of the document, stated that there are two numbers which probably should be the same. The first reference “amounts to $82 million” is then referred as “the $83.6 million.” Mr. Ulvila stated that this was noted by the Executive Committee of MACC, and it should read $82 million in both places. MACC will make the correction.
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 draft 2022 Maryland Association of Community College Legislative Agenda.
VII. Next Board Meeting
The next meeting of the Board of Trustees is scheduled for November 9, 2021.
VIII. New Business
There was no new business.
IX. Vote to Close the Meeting / Adjournment of Public Session
By motion of Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez, seconded by Mr. Ulvila, and a roll call was taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the motion to close the meeting.
X. Adjournment
The public session meeting was adjourned at 5:52 p.m.
A session of the Board of Trustees was held on September 14, 2021 at 5:13 p.m. via Zoom Video Conferencing. Pursuant to section §3-305(b)(7) of the Open Meetings Act, a vote was taken to close the meeting pursuant to the General Provisions Article of the Maryland Annotated Code Section 3-305(d)(2)(i)(ii). The following board members were present and voted to close the session: Sandra E. Moore, Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Jordan Foley, Jerome W. Klasmeier, A. Joyce Price-Jones, JaCina Stanton-Buttrom, Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., and Dr. Irene Zoppi Rodriguez. Dr. Dawn Lindsay, Melissa Beardmore, Dr. Richard Kralevich, Dr. Tanya Millner, Dr. Felicia Patterson, Erin Parker and Monica Rausa Williams were present as well. Topics discussed included legal advice. The meeting began at 5:13 p.m. and ended at 6:12 p.m.
Members present: Sandra E. Moore, Chair; Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Vice Chair; Jerome W. Klasmeier; A. Joyce Price-Jones; JaCina Stanton-Buttrom (joined at 5:02 p.m.); Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr.; Dr. Irene Zoppi Rodriguez; Jordan Foley; and Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
I. Call to Order – Sandra E. Moore, Chair
The public session of the Board of Trustees was called to order by Chair Sandra Moore at 4:00 p.m. The meeting was open to the public via Zoom Video Communications allowing attendees to hear and observe the public session. Ms. Moore informed participants the meeting was being recorded pursuant to state law.
II. Approval of the Agenda – Sandra E. Moore, Chair
By motion of Dr. Johnson, seconded by Mr. Klasmeier, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the November 9, 2021 Board of Trustees public session agenda.
III. Welcome and Introductions – Sandra E. Moore, Chair
IV. Consent 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 Mr. Ulvila, seconded by Mr. Klasmeier and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the Consent Agenda which included:
V. Board Chair and Committee Reports
A. Reports for November
1. Board Chair Report – Sandra E. Moore, Chair
Ms. Moore shared that in September, she, and other trustees, met with a delegation of Anne Arundel County Senators and discussed expanding the Board to assist with distribution of responsibilities and to add representation from District 21. Ms. Moore asked that trustees share their comments regarding the expansion proposal:
After hearing the discussion amongst the trustees, Ms. Moore asked each trustee to state a summary of their opinion on this matter:
Ms. Moore responded to Mr. Foley’s comment that at the meeting with the Senators, the request was made to the Senators that when selecting new trustees, the Board be consulted to see what sort of talent is needed to compliment the current Board. The Senators agreed.
Ms. Moore stated that a summary of this discussion and the letter to the Senators would be shared with the Board. (note: Ms. Stanton-Buttrom joined the meeting after the discussion had ended.)
2. Board Policy Oversight Committee – Sandra E. Moore, Committee Chair
Ms. Moore stated that at the last Board meeting, the Policy on Development of Policies and Procedures was presented as an information item. Currently, the Board does not have a policy that clearly defines what is a policy or a procedure or outlines the process for creating, revising, discontinuing, reviewing and maintaining Board policies. This policy creates an infrastructure for policy development for the Board and procedures development for the College.
Mr. Ulvila moved to approve the Policy on the Development of Policies and Procedures, which was seconded by Ms. Price-Jones.
Dr. Johnson requested the following changes to the policy:
While the first two changes were unanimously accepted as a friendly amendment, there was discussion regarding the second two changes, as those changes may limit the President’s ability to act quickly to make an exception to or waive a policy. The motion was amended to include all four changes proposed by Dr. Johnson.
A roll call was taken of trustees to determine their vote: five trustees approved the motion (Johnson, Price-Jones, Stanton-Buttrom, Ulvila, Zoppi Rodriguez); one trustee opposed (Moore); and one trustee abstained (Klasmeier). The Policy on the Development of Policies and Procedures was approved.
3. Audit & Finance Committee – Dr. Irene Zoppi Rodriguez, Committee Chair
Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez stated that the committee met on October 19, 2021 and received an update from the auditors on the FY 2021 audit, a status report on the FY 2022 budget, and an update on the audit contract.
Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez shared that the audit received a clean opinion and that the single audit has not been completed due to delays with the Federal Compliance Supplement. The Committee approved moving forward with the acceptance of the basic financial statements and audit reports by the Board.
The operating budget for FY 2022 was reviewed and, going forward, updates will be presented to the Board Budget Committee.
Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez shared that the College will be preparing a request for proposal for auditing services. While the Committee’s work has been completed for the current fiscal year, it may be required that the Committee meet in the spring regarding the audit contract.
Dr. Johnson moved to approve the acceptance of the FY 2021 Audit Report, which was seconded by Ms. Price-Jones.
Mr. Ulvila expressed congratulations on a clean audit and asked for more information on the $110 million operating loss. Ms. Beardmore explained that each year the Government Accounting Standards Board (GASB) sets the requirements for what must be included in the annual financial statements and for FY 2021, long term liabilities related to pensions were required to be included.
Dr. Johnson requested a correction be made to page 14: OBED Trust should be corrected to OPEB Trust.
Ms. Price-Jones asked for additional information on the single audit. Ms. Beardmore explained that the single audit includes government programs. The rules for auditing these programs are issued to the auditors by the federal government. There has been a delay in issuing this information which has resulted in a delay of the single audit.
A roll call was taken of the trustees to determine their vote, and the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the acceptance of the FY 2021 Audit Report with the correction proposed by Dr. Johnson.
Ms. Moore expressed gratitude and congratulations to all those involved for the work done in achieving a clean audit.
4. Board Development Committee – A. Joyce Price-Jones, Committee Chair
Ms. Price-Jones reported that the committee met on October 28 and discussed possible professional development training opportunities and revising the Board goals.
A philanthropy training session has been scheduled for the Board with the AACC Foundation Board of Directors for November 18, which the committee believed could be one opportunity to satisfy the requirement of the Board’s current goals that each member attend at least two professional development events during the year.
The committee recommended that in lieu of the January 11, 2022 Public Session, the Board participate in a facilitated workshop from 4-7pm to revise the Board goals, with a focus on equity, diversity and inclusion.
5. Budget Committee – Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Committee Chair
Dr. Johnson reported that the Committee met on November 3 and shared updates on the FY 2022 Financial Status Report, FY 2023 Preliminary Guiding Principles and Base Assumptions, Enrollment, Higher Education Emergency Relief Funding (HEERF), and Riverhawks Reunite.
6. Facilities Committee – Jerome W. Klasmeier, Committee Chair
Mr. Klasmeier stated that the Committee met on November 2 and shared updates on the Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades, future procurements, and current campus projects including completion of the turf field replacement project and an update on the Florestano renovation planning.
7. AACC Foundation – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Lead Liaison
Mr. Foley shared a student thank you letter to the Board and Mr. Ulvila provided a fundraising update.
Mr. Ulvila informed the Board that the philanthropy training session scheduled for November 18 will be led by Bob Ramin of Grenzenbach, Glier & Associates and that trustees will soon receive an invitation to the Clauson Center building gifting and dedication ceremony scheduled for Thursday, December 16.
B. No Reports for September
1. Human Resources 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 the AACC has been invited to apply for the 2023 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence. Based upon performance outcomes, AACC is one of the top 150 community colleges that have been invited to apply from approximately 1,000 institutions evaluated across the country.
The College celebrated the grand opening of the Health and Life Sciences Building on October 26, and is looking forward to the gifting and dedication ceremony for the Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades on December 16.
Dr. Lindsay shared that the College is one of the first two community colleges in the nation accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology and AACC is listed as the #1 associate degree in nursing in Maryland by the 2021 Nursing School Almanac. She thanked Dean Lance Bowen and Dean Elizabeth Appel and their teams for all their hard work.
The College will honor Veterans Day on November 11 by featuring messages of appreciation on social media. The theme this year is “Proud to Serve,” and Dr. Lindsay thanked Trustees Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez and Mr. Foley for recording a message for the students and for their service as well.
2. Enrollment Update – Dr. Felicia Patterson, Vice President for Learner Support Services
Dr. Patterson shared a presentation on the fall 2021 Enrollment Report which included comparisons of data over time reflecting headcount trends by various demographics and different modalities for learning.
Dr. Johnson commented on the slide Draw Rate of AACPS Graduates Attending AACC, stating that, from 2020 to 2021, the actual number of students graduating from Anne Arundel County Public high schools increased and yet the number attending AACC decreased, and asked if there was any explanation. Dr. Patterson stated that Dr. Johnson’s observation was correct and that the admissions office is working closely with the schools, and work is happening to increase the enrollment rate. Dr. John Grabowski, Dean for Enrollment Management, added that nationally, the value proposition for post-secondary training does not resonate with recent high-school graduates.
Dr. Johnson commented that the draw coming from South County was low and that there may be opportunities there. Dr. Millner stated that national trends show that low income students are being shut out of higher education and that this population is the usual draw of community colleges.
3. Strategic Plan Update and KPI Demonstration – Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President for Learning
Dr. Millner shared a presentation on Engagement Matters II: Excellence through Innovation and demonstrated the Key Performance Indicators (KPI) dashboard. The presentation highlighted completion data which shows that the College continues to surpass its goals and receive national recognition.
The interactive dashboard allows users to explore KPI data under the three goals of the strategic plan: entry and engagement; progress and growth; and retention and completion; and by the four objectives: engagement, excellence, innovation and resources. Dr. Millner demonstrated how to navigate through the dashboard and view the data and emphasized how this tool allows the College to disaggregate data to reveal patterns and look at different populations when assessing programs, leading to equity, continuous improvement and institutional excellence.
Mr. Ulvila and Ms. Moore shared appreciation for the dashboard and thoroughness of the data. Dr. Lindsay stated that this has made data accessible and is available to faculty and staff through the myAACC portal.
4. Monthly Update on Accreditation – Dr. Gregory R. Schrader, Chair, Steering Committee
Dr. Schrader stated that the committee is meeting twice per month and has identified thirteen students to participate on the work teams as they continue their work. Each Work Team will be submitting their draft reports for their assigned standard early next spring, which aligns with the timeline to prepare for the spring 2023 site visit.
5. Academic Forum/Council – Dr. Candice Hill, Chair
Dr. Hill stated that the Academic Forum met on October 21 and voted on its committee goals, including each committee having an active goal supporting DEIA work; voted on changes to the committee slate; received updates from the President and Vice Presidents; received updates on the new Student Planning Tool; had a robust discussion on scheduling and testing; and had an opportunity to ask general counsel, Erin Parker, questions about the Policy on Development of Policies and Procedures. The Academic Council will be meeting next on November 18.
6. Administrative Staff Organization – Jill Bennett, President (NO REPORT)
7. Professional and Support Staff Organization – Anne Bashore, President (NO REPORT)
8. Student Government Association (SGA) – Benjamin Nussbaumer, President
Mr. Nussbaumer stated that the SGA hosted its General Forum meeting in October and is focused on increasing student engagement through clubs, activities, expansion of its social media presence and encouraging senate involvement.
9. The Faculty Organization – Dr. Nicole Williams, President
Dr. Williams stated that the TFO Fall Convocation was October 14, in which TFO voted to approve the goals for the following standing committees: Promotion and Tenure; Online Policies and Practices; Compensation; and Adjunct Faculty Affairs. TFO also approved the charges for the following ad hoc committees: TFO Handbook; Evaluation and Tenure; and Shared Governance. The next TFO meeting will be on November 10.
10. Maryland Association of Community Colleges Activities (MACC) – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay stated that the MACC Board of Directors met on October 27 and approved the 2022 MACC Legislative Agenda. The MACC Trustee Leadership Conference has been moved to January 19 and will be held at Anne Arundel Community College, Health and Life Sciences Building.
VII. New Business
In honor of Veterans Day and on behalf of the entire board, Ms. Moore thanked members of the Board who have served including Trustees Klasmeier, Zoppi-Rodriguez and Foley.
Ms. Moore encouraged trustees to support the Anne Arundel Community College Food Bank.
Mr. Klasmeier asked if the letter to the Maryland Senators about the expansion of the Board, would be shared with the trustees before being sent. Ms. Moore stated that the letter would be shared prior to being sent to the senators.
VIII. Next Board Meeting
The next meeting of the Board of Trustees is scheduled for December 14, 2021.
IX. Adjournment
The public session meeting was adjourned at 5:44 p.m.
Members present: Sandra E. Moore, Chair; Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Vice Chair; Jerome W. Klasmeier; JaCina Stanton-Buttrom; Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr.; Dr. Irene Zoppi Rodriguez; Jordan Foley; and Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Absent: A. Joyce Price-Jones
I. Call to Order
II. Roll Call and Approval of the Agenda
The public session of the Board of Trustees was called to order by Chair Sandra Moore at 4:00 p.m. The meeting was open to the public via Zoom Video Communications allowing attendees to hear and observe the public session. Ms. Moore informed participants the meeting was being recorded pursuant to state law.
By motion of Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez, seconded by Mr. Ulvila, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the December 14, 2021 Board of Trustees public session agenda.
III.Welcome and Introductions
Ms. Moore welcomed everyone to the meeting, especially in the middle of a very busy holiday season.
IV. Consent Agenda
Ms. Moore presented the Consent Agenda and asked if any item should be removed for discussion and voted on separately. Mr. Klasmeier stated that he had a comment in regards to the minutes of the November 9, 2021 Public Session regarding the summary statement on increasing the number of Board of Trustees for further discussion. Ms. Moore stated that this item would be removed from the Consent Agenda (item IV.A.1) and discussed after the approval of the Consent Agenda.
By motion of Dr. Johnson, seconded by Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the Consent Agenda;
Dr. Johnson moved to approve the minutes of the November 9, 2021 Board of Trustees Public Session, which was seconded by Ms. Stanton-Buttrom.
Mr. Klasmeier requested to change the minutes to reflect that he unequivocally opposes any expansion of the Board until such time there is a complete analysis of the work load of the Board and its committees, and append to the minutes a reference that includes the verbatim transcripts. Ms. Moore responded that the minutes were prepared from the transcript of the Zoom meeting, and was not sure it was appropriate to add any comments that were not said at the meeting.
Mr. Klasmeier clarified that his recommendation was that before proceeding with an expansion of the Board, there should be an analysis of the workload. He did not think the language in the minutes reflected his opposition.
Dr. Johnson recommended that the transcript be reviewed to make sure the minutes accurately reflect what was said in the meeting. Dr. Johnson withdrew his motion, and Ms. Moore stated that the approval of the November minutes may be voted upon at the brief public session in January before the Board training session.
V. Board Chair and Committee Reports
A. Reports for December
1. Board Development Committee – A. Joyce Price-Jones, Committee Chair; report by JaCina Stanton-Buttrom
Ms. Stanton-Buttrom reported that the committee met on December 1, 2021 via Zoom to review the proposals for the facilitated Board workshop on January 11, 2022, 4-7 p.m. with a working dinner to revise the Board’s goals and priorities.
The committee selected the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) and their consultant, Dr. Helen Benjamin to facilitate the workshop. Dr. Benjamin and her colleague, Dr. Debbie DiThomas, worked with the College conducting in-depth focus groups as a follow-up to the spring 2019 campus climate survey.
Mr. Foley suggested that the Board be sent materials ahead of the meeting so the trustees can review them in advance.
2. Budget Committee – Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Committee Chair
Dr. Johnson reported that the committee met via Zoom on December 9 and discussed the following topics: FY 2022 update and budgetary implications; FY 2023 Budget, and future meetings.
The FY 2022 update and budgetary implications topic included a comprehensive review of a variety of sub-topics to provide context for both the short-term development of the FY 2023 budget and also for the long-term future of the college.
These sub-topics included the review of financial reports including the operating budget status report and the multi-year projection. Additional sub-topics discussed included the fiscal resiliency plan, strategic plan progress, Administrative Services Review, Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund, and Riverhawks Reunite.
While the College is currently operating within a balanced budget, the long-term fiscal projections for the College continue to indicate constrained revenues that are unable to keep pace with the projected expenditures over the next five years. Students need greater support services to be successful and external factors mean that the College needs to assess and review its business model towards greater efficiency and effectiveness.
The College has also initiated several projects designed to better serve students and to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of operations, including a more strategic approach to the class schedule, implementation of the student planning software, and enrollment strategies at the school level.
The College has completed a review of administrative services (operations outside of instruction) and has implemented several recommendations to improve service delivery in support of student success. The recommendations, which have a potential savings of approximately $6 million, are in various stages of implementation.
The College is now poised to take the next steps in shoring up its long-term fiscal position and the committee supports the president in completing this work over the next twelve to eighteen months.
The committee endorses a planning model that is transparent, embodies shared governance, considers diversity of revenue streams and that embodies the principles of continuous improvement and the assessment of outcomes.
Dr. Johnson added that in addition to these attributes, the committee also supports the completion of a comprehensive review and development of a fiscal resiliency plan to consider the following activities: (1) develop a multi-year program evaluation framework which looks at programs and activities for investment, reduction, or realignment; (2) creation of metrics of instructional efficiency and effectiveness; (3) identification of activities that compete against, distract from, or bring resources away from critical activities due to resources constraints; and (4) development of a longterm plan for the periodic effectiveness of planning, resource allocation, renewal processes, and the availability of resources.
This is not just about the dollars and cents. This process will identify opportunities for investment that will drive student outcomes in a fiscally sustainable way. With the support of the Budget Committee and the Board, the College will continue to develop the FY 2023 budget while simultaneously developing the structure for and create a viable long-term fiscal plan.
The committee recognizes that acting now is a responsible path forward to ensure that the College continues to transform lives through attainment of students’ educational goals. The committee will continue to meet as the development of the FY 2023 budget continues.
Mr. Klasmeier asked if the College is able to track the federal funds related to COVID it has received the past two years from the other funds in the operating budget as the College moves forward towards FY 2023.
Dr. Johnson stated that the money must be tracked, identified, and spent within a particular time to be eligible to support the institution and students. Ms. Beardmore added that the College’s account tracks these as restricted funds outside of the operating budget.
3. Facilities Committee – Jerome W. Klasmeier, Committee Chair
Mr. Klasmeier reported that the committee met via Zoom on December 7 and discussed the following topics: the Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades; the draft FY 23 – 29 capital budget; procurements, and campus projects.
The Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades is nearing completion, and the project is in good shape for this week’s event. As a result of having the occupancy permit, items are being moved into the building. The Board may recall that the College and Foundation entered into an MOU at the beginning of the project and that document calls for the building to eventually be transferred to the College. The transfer document will require the Board chair’s signature, and the authority to sign the document will come forward at the January Board meeting as an action item. The building will be ready to open in January 2022 for classes.
The committee reviewed a draft of the FY 2023 through FY 2029 capital budget and provided feedback. The draft was reviewed earlier than usual this year due to changes in the County’s capital budget schedule. This will be submitted to the County, noting it has not been approved by the Board yet.
The committee reviewed the list of future procurements, including the four items for today’s meeting, and received an update on the planning for the renovation of the Florestano building.
4. Human Resources Committee – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Committee Chair
Mr. Ulvila reported that the HR Committee met via Zoom on December 2 to discuss the following topics: Riverhawks Reunite and spring planning; employee engagement; collective bargaining; and future meetings.
The committee received an update on the status of the College’s Riverhawks Reunite plan for fall and the upcoming plan for spring 2022. The focus continues to be on further development of the College’s vaccine certification and COVID testing protocols. Since the November meeting, the College has launched the vaccine certification process both for students and employees. Individuals who do not document their COVID-19 vaccine will participate in weekly testing for on-campus work and learning, or to obtain in-person services.
In addition to implementing new tracking software, the College is currently analyzing the new OSHA Emergency Temporary Standard (or ETS), which based on the regulations only applies to employees. The College plans to follow the ETS for both students and employees, when possible, practical, and where it does not negatively impact student success. The College will continue the existing safety protocols into the spring. Compliance by students is still low so the College will be implementing plans to increase awareness and compliance.
The committee also received an update on the College’s efforts to impact employee engagement that includes regular supervisor forums to share information and structured learning and professional development. The team is also developing recommendations to impact meeting management, improve communications and provide resources for supervisors to use in managing their departments.
Lastly, the committee heard an update on the College’s activities to better understand the new collective bargaining legislation.
5. AACC Foundation – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Lead Liaison
Mr. Foley shared a student letter of gratitude for the Scholarship for Associate Degree Completion and provided a fundraising update. As of November 30, 2021, the current fiscal year fundraising total is approximately $635,000 in gifts and commitments. The Foundation received several gifts the past month, including an anonymous donor to establish the Richard L. Bright Endowment for Performing Arts, Severn Bank, BGE and Live! Casino and Hotel.
Mr. Foley reminded the Board that the Clauson Center building gifting and dedication ceremony will be held Thursday, December 16 at 11:30 a.m. on the Arnold campus.
B. No Reports for December
1. Board Chair Report – Sandra E. Moore, Chair
2. Audit & Finance Committee – Dr. Irene Zoppi Rodriguez, Committee Chair
3. Board Policy Oversight Committee – Sandra E. Moore, Committee Chair
VI. President’s Report – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
A. Information Items
1. College Updates – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay announced that the Gifting and Dedication Ceremony of the Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades Building will be held Thursday, December 16 at 11:30 a.m. This event is possible due to the innovative partnership between the AACC Board of Trustees and the Board of the AACC Foundation, inspired by conversations with business leaders in the community, who told the College that they needed help training the workforce.
Dr. Lindsay shared some exciting athletics highlights. AACC freshman goalkeeper, Zane Saab, has been named an NJCAA Division II Second Team All-American. He is the first All-American honoree from AACC since 2016, and the first time the men’s soccer team advanced to the national tournament since 2005.
Dr. Lindsay also reported that the Men’s and Women’s Cross Country each earned 8th place team finishes at nationals in November, and Paul Watson earned Coach’s All America, Madison Palmer earned All-America, and Jasmine Jones earned Coach’s AllAmerica honors. Dr. Lindsay announced that Esports is actively recruiting for its inaugural season this spring.
Reflecting upon the past year, Dr. Lindsay shared there is much to be grateful for – AACC was named the number one college in the country, was invited to apply for the 2023 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, has two brand new buildings on the Arnold campus, and is celebrating AACC’s 60th anniversary – sixty years of meeting the needs of our community, Anne Arundel County and Maryland.
Dr. Lindsay profoundly expressed her pride of the AACC community for their resiliency, dedication, and work to support the students, and for their perseverance during these challenging times. Dr. Lindsay wished everyone a wonderful and relaxing winter break.
2. Division of Information and Instructional Technology Update – Dr. Richard C. Kralevich, Vice President, Information and Instructional Technology
Dr. Kralevich reported that the Division of Information and Instructional Technology (IIT) was officially formed in August 2021. Since then, the team has been working to “rethink” and “redefine” who they are and how they do business.
IIT is focused on providing agile, reliable, and dependable solutions, services and support. IIT, which is comprised of six primary groups: infrastructure services, technology support services, information security, enterprise application services, project management and the IDEA Lab. The division is guided by three principles: (1) to improve organizational flow; (2) to amplify feedback; and (3) to focus on continuous improvement, innovation, and learning.
Dr. Kralevich highlighted some of the IT roadmap and continuous improvement strategies, along with some specific initiatives to better serve the students, the college community, and its clients. The division is working to build a culture where the team feels empowered to innovate, communicate, experiment, collaborate, and ultimately improve the experience by engaging clients, understanding their needs, and assessing feedback to improve overall student and customer experience.
Dr. Johnson asked how the division ensures that roadmap, strategies, and initiatives, some of which are interdependent and some that are independent, are integrated and strategically aligned. Dr. Kralevich stated that team is currently aligning the needs of the institution through the assessments and discussions with customers.
Dr. Lindsay added that having a vice president providing oversight over this has helped the College to reduce redundancy and bring together all of the people working in technology to be work more efficiently, with synergy, and collaboratively. She complimented Dr. Kralevich and his teams for their work to meet the needs of the College as a whole.
Mr. Klasmeier asked if the College will allow manual intervention at certain intervals and applications when it makes sense. Dr. Kralevich responded that yes, they listen to the customers, inform, and engage in honest and transparent dialogue. There are limitations but there are ways to put together and devise solutions that will be in the best interest of the students and faculty.
3. Sabbatical Presentation – Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President for Learning Professor Matthew Moore, Visual Arts and Humanities
Dr. Millner introduced Matthew Moore, professor in Visual Arts and Humanities. The goals for his sabbatical were to introduce students to diverse perspectives in photographic theory and practice, advance the ability of the photography program for professional experience in the field, and collaborate with industry to provide learning opportunities for students beyond the classroom.
Professor Moore shared his focus on monument relocation of socialist statues and how society deals with the burdens of removal of statues which propagate false history. During his sabbatical, Professor Moore created a book, Post-Socialist Landscapes; curated an exhibition on the topic of global warming, Parallax Effect, for the Cade Gallery in spring 2022; and researched the trends in analog photography among institutions. As a result of this work, Professor Moore will be reformatting the ART 121 course and proposing a new name, to make it relevant to today’s photography market.
Dr. Lindsay thanked Professor Moore for the presentation, and the Board of Trustees for their support of the professional development of faculty members to benefit f the students, and continuing to offer these opportunities to the faculty.
4. Monthly Update on Accreditation – Dr. Gregory R. Schrader, Chair, Steering Committee
Dr. Schrader reported that the steering committee continues to meet twice a month. Work teams are currently submitting final draft reports with review and input from the steering committee for their assigned standards, which aligns with the timeline for the spring 2023 site visit.
Work teams will continue to submit evidence and gather new evidence to ensure the completeness and accuracy of the 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 – Anne Bashore, President (NO REPORT)
Dr. Lindsay stated while that there is no verbal report, Anne Bashore, the current PSSO President, will be resigning as president effective December 31st, as she will be unable to fulfill the role in spring. Pat Shoemaker, the current vice president, will assume the role January 1.
8. Student Government Association –Benjamin Nussbaumer, President
Mr. Nussbaumer reported on the events that SGA hosted this past month, including a gratitude event and general forum meetings on important campus issues, such as COVID testing protocols, to create awareness among club members. SGA hosted a multicultural holiday party, which was a huge success and had high student participation.
9. The Faculty Organization – Dr. Nicole Williams, President (NO REPORT)
10. Maryland Association of Community College Activities (MACC) – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay announced that the annual MACC Trustee Leadership Conference will be held on Wednesday, January 19, from 3:30 – 6:00 p.m. at AACC’s Health and Life Sciences Building. At this event, MACC provides an overview of its 2022 legislative agenda and invites a guest speaker to provide an overview of federal issues in higher education that may affect community colleges. This year, there will be a forum featuring the candidates running for Governor, which will be moderated by Trustee Larry Ulvila, MACC president. More information about this event will be communicated when it becomes available.
Dr. Lindsay also shared that the 443rd session of the General Assembly convened in Annapolis on December 6-9 for special legislative session. While the significant issues were the Congressional redistricting and the State Treasurer election, the legislature did override a number of the Governor’s vetoes, including the Community Colleges – Collective Bargaining Bill, which will be effective September 1, 2022. Dr. Lindsay encouraged the employees to learn about the new law so they can make an informed choice on this personal decision. MACC has provided two fact sheets, which are available on its website regarding the new law.
Dr.Lindsay concluded her report by welcoming Dr. Juvy Burns, the new Staff Assistant to the Board of Trustees, who started December 1.
VII. New Business
There was no new business.
VIII. Next Board Meeting
Ms. Moore announced that the next open session meeting of the Board of Trustees is scheduled on January 11, 2022, sometime between 3:30-3:45 p.m. to vote on procurement items and the authorization for the Board Chair to sign the acceptance documents of the Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades from the Foundation to the College. After the open session meeting there will be a Board Training Workshop.
IX. Adjournment
The public session meeting was adjourned at 5:09 p.m.
Members present: Sandra E. Moore, Chair; Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Vice Chair; Jerome W. Klasmeier; JaCina Stanton-Buttrom; Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr.; Dr. Irene Zoppi Rodriguez; Jordan Foley; A. Joyce Price-Jones and Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
I. Call to Order
II. Roll Call and Approval of the Agenda
The brief public session of the Board of Trustees was called to order by Chair Sandra Moore at 3:31 p.m. The meeting was open to the public via Zoom Video Communications allowing attendees to hear and observe the public session. Ms. Moore informed participants the meeting was being recorded pursuant to state law.
By motion of Mr. Ulvila, seconded by Dr. Zoppi-Rodriguez, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the January 11, 2022 Board of Trustees public session agenda.
III. Consent 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 Dr. Johnson, seconded by Mr. Ulvila and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the Consent Agenda;
IV. Board Committee Report
A. Audit & Finance Committee – Dr. Irene Zoppi Rodriguez, Chair
1. Acceptance of the FY 2021 Federal Grants Audit Report (Action Item)
Dr. Irene Zoppi Rodriguez reported that as a follow up to her November 9 report, the acceptance of the college’s fiscal year 2021 federal grants audit, also known as the single audit is presented for approval.
There was a delay in the finalization of the Office of Management and Budget’s Federal Compliance Supplement, which prescribes the auditors’ required testing for federal grants. The final compliance supplement has been released and the auditors have completed their audit procedures.
As a result, the auditors have issued an unmodified or clean opinion with no findings or questioned costs, management advisory letter, material weaknesses, significant deficiencies, control deficiencies, or audit adjustments.
The results are consistent with that of the basic financial statements accepted by the Board of Trustees at the November 9, 2021 meeting.
Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez congratulated and thanked the many staff members at the College that without their daily vigilance and attention to details, this would not have been possible.
The Board of Trustees has been provided the college’s FY 2021 audited financial statements as prepared by college management and audited by CliftonLarsonAllen, LLP. The updated financial statements were included in the Board’s materials, which included the Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards and other required reports and information that were not included in the College’s basic statements accepted by the Board on November 9, 2021.
By motion of Trustee Price-Jones, seconded by Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously accepted the college’s FY 2021 federal grants audit as audited by CliftonLarsonAllen, LLP.
Ms. Moore reiterated her appreciation to everyone for the clean audit report.
V. President’s Report – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
A. Action Item
1. Approval of the Motion Authorizing the Chair of the Board of the Trustees to Sign the Final Documents for the Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades
Dr. Lindsay reminded the Board that in June of 2019, the Board of Trustees entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the AACC Foundation that defined the terms for the partnership to construct the Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades.
As part of this MOU, the AACC Foundation has ownership of the project until the Clauson Center construction process concludes and, at that time, ownership will be transferred to the College to deliver education programs in the facility and maintain the building.
In March of 2020, AACC and the AACC Foundation entered into an easement agreement where the College granted and conveyed a temporary easement to AACC Foundation in order to fully access the College’s Arnold campus to facilitate the construction process.
With input from AACC’s general counsel, the AACC Foundation’s general counsel has developed documents that would (1) per the terms of the MOU, assign to AACC the title, interest, equipment, tangible property, and any other rights associated with the Clauson Center, including all building warranties with Whiting-Turner, and (2) terminate the easement agreement between AACC and AACC Foundation.
If the Board of Trustees approves the motion, the Chair of the Board of Trustees will sign the Blanket Conveyance, Bill of Sale, and General Assignment document and the Release and Termination of Easement Agreement in January of 2022.
By authorizing the Chair to sign these documents on behalf of the College Board of Trustees, AACC and the AACC Foundation will complete the process transferring the Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades from the AACC Foundation to AACC. The AACC Foundation is responsible for making payment for any remaining invoices from Whiting-Turner and Gant Brunnett Architects while also fulfilling the Clauson Center financing obligations with Howard Bank.
By motion of Mr. Ulvila, seconded by Dr. Johnson, Jr., and Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously authorized the Chair to sign the Blanket Conveyance, Bill of Sale, and General Assignment document and the Release and Termination of Easement Agreement with the AACC Foundation.
Dr. Johnson asked if the Foundation used any collateral when they received the loan from Howard Bank for the construction of Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades. Mr. Melson confirmed that the Foundation did not use any real estate and it solely used funding for the building from its unobligated assets.
Mr. Klasmeier asked if a plaque symbolizing a memorial for the Foundation’s efforts in raising the funding for the building construction has been made. Mr. Melson reported that there is a plaque in the building recognizing the Foundation for its thoughtful and kind initiative.
Ms. Moore also conveyed her heartfelt gratitude to the Foundation for its generous efforts and that she is looking forward to more collaborations between the Board of Trustees and the Foundation Board.
VI. Adjournment
The public session meeting was adjourned at 3:42 p.m.
Members present: Sandra E. Moore, Chair; Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Vice Chair; A. Joyce Price-Jones; Jerome W. Klasmeier; Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr.; Jordan Foley; and Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Absent: JaCina Stanton-Buttrom; Dr. Irene Zoppi Rodriguez
The Board Budget Workshop was called to order by Chair Sandra Moore at 8:30 a.m. The meeting was open to the public via Zoom Video Communications allowing attendees to hear and observe the public session. Ms. Moore informed participants the meeting was being recorded pursuant to state law.
Dr. Dawn Lindsay expressed her gratitude to the Board of Trustees for their commitment and service to the College; to the Budget Committee Chair, Dr. Johnson and the committee members for their support and assistance for the budget workshop; to the vice presidents, Dr. Richard Kralevich, Dr. Felicia Patterson and Dr. Tanya Millner for their collaboration in bringing together the instructional and student support programs; to Erin Parker, general counsel, for her guidance; to Vice President Melissa Beardmore, Andrew Little and Sue Callahan for all of their work on the budget development process and preparing for this meeting; and lastly to the faculty and staff for the delivery of high quality educational opportunities for students.
Vice President Melissa Beardmore welcomed trustees and attendees, and noted to the Board members that the numbers in italics on the slides refer to the page number in their background materials.
Ms. Beardmore reminded the trustees that all materials and data are in draft form until the Board formally approves the budget at its meeting on February 22, 2022.
1. Update on FY2022
Ms. Beardmore presented an update on the FY2022 financial status report as of December 31, 2021. For the current fiscal year, the College has a balanced budget and all areas are projected to be within their appropriation authority on the expenditure side. The budget shows about $4.1 million shortfall in tuition revenue due to decline in enrollment. However, this is offset with an expected expenditure savings of over $6 million. The projected estimated transfer from the Tuition Stabilization Fund is $33,933.
While the College is currently operating with a balanced budget, the long-term fiscal projections for the College continue to indicate that revenues are unable to keep pace with the projected expenditures over the next five years. Ms. Beardmore shared more of the context and the environmental scan regarding the impact of the external environment on higher education.
The College, like its peers local and nationally, are struggling with enrollment. With uncertain and strained public funding, this enrollment trend is not sustainable. While the College is working very hard on strategies to impact enrollment, it needs to continue to look comprehensively at its operations and structures to make sure the College is nimble enough to respond to student needs.
Ms. Beardmore listed several projects that have been completed that impacted enrollment and the efficiency and effectiveness of various academic programs and services. Ms. Beardmore provided an update on the Administrative Services Review, which reviewed operations beyond the classroom and the administrative functions of the College.
To ensure a fiscally sustainable institution, the College assessed its current model, and identified some attributes for what an ideal system would look like. There are opportunities, not only to ensure the College is more efficient with its resources (money, people and space) but better ways to inform the College community and involve them in the decision making. The financial model should not just identify areas of savings but where to invest and hopefully positively impact revenue, develop metrics, and guide the College to create a long-term plan that sustains it into the future.
Dr. Johnson suggested developing a communication plan for the college community, asking for input before decisions are made and communicated. Ms. Beardmore agreed and noted that there have been conversations with the college community regarding the need for the work, and the hope is that the college community would help build and shape the work to be completed.
Dr. Patterson talked about the Enrollment, Retention, and Completion Council (ERCC), which is a college-wide team created and designed to manage essential enrollment management policies, procedures, practices, and protocols through a collaborative process that infuses stakeholder voices. Dr. Lindsay charged both Dr. Patterson and Dr. Millner to lead the team to work on strategic, data-driven and tactical initiatives to impact enrollment. The ERCC is composed of more than 130 volunteers representing all areas in the College tasked to create short- and long-term solutions to address enrollment and retention.
Dr. Millner talked about the structure of ERCC and the nine teams of Planning; Outreach; African American Male Success; Institutional Aid; Course Success; Classroom Experience and Student Engagement; Policies and Procedures; Analytics; and Glen Burnie Town Center and Arundel Mills. Some of the highlights for spring 2022 include strengthening financial aid outreach and communication by streamlining the student aid verification process so students can access their financial aid more quickly and register for classes; expediting communications within departments to a general email, so the office managers can get permissions from department chairs or faculty in minutes rather than days; conducting further research on why students are withdrawing from classes, such as health concerns, changes in work schedules, etc.; conducting student focus groups and surveys; and continued data analysis.
Mr. Ulvila asked if the College is part of the summer study with the other Maryland community colleges to examine enrollment decline. Dr. Millner shared that was shared in her affinity group of chief academic officers, and Dr. Lindsay added this topic was an ongoing discussion in monthly meetings of community college presidents.
Dr. Millner briefly shared progress with the strategic plan, specifically with students who identify as Hispanic/Latino students. Not only have the number of Hispanic/Latino students increased, there are pockets of excellence in terms of student success and graduation rates compared to other community colleges in Maryland. Hispanic students at AACC have the highest 150% or three-year graduation compared to its peers.
Dr. Johnson asked a question about the trend in equity gaps between Hispanic/Latino students. In 2018-19 and 2020-2021, the Hispanic/Latino success rate was higher than the average student. However, there was a decrease in 2019-2020. Dr. Johnson asked if there were some contributing factors to this decline. Dr. Millner responded that more than likely the drop followed the national trend in response to COVID, as moving to remote learning, students were not as engaged as they were in face-to-face learning. Dr. Millner noted that the team would look into this more and get back to him.
Dr. Millner highlighted the model course initiative, which focuses on culturally response teaching and allows faculty time and space to discuss learning and critical pedagogy, continues to narrow the equity gaps among African American students.
Dr. Millner talked about the effect of the redesigned development courses in English, math and academic literacies. The redesign significantly reduced the number of years to complete the developmental sequence, which based upon national research, increases the likelihood of a student to complete an associate degree and go into the workforce or transfer to a four-year institution. However, this also decreased the FTE and revenue. This is an example of when doing the right thing and focusing on student success is not always good for the bottom line financially.
Dr. Millner concluded that the College utilized stimulus funds to award resiliency grants to faculty to support the creation and enhancement of online courses and in synchronous, asynchronous and hybrid modalities, consistent with Q-CAR standards, which are the highest standards in online learning, including rigorous principles that enhance equity, diversity and inclusion.
Mr. Little presented an update about the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) activity and planning. In addition to the loaner laptop program and expanding access to high speed internet, the funds were used to implement COVID testing on campus, the development of the IT capital budget plan utilizing lost revenue, the work of the research and development team to improve the services and operations, planning for the Learning Innovation Center, and disbursements for student emergency aid for spring semester. The College will disburse about $1.1 million in aid for the spring term, which brings the total disbursed to students to over $13.1 million during the pandemic.
Mr. Little shared some of the challenges with the grant deadlines, and how the College plans to work with those timelines and work with the County about a strategy and plan for the IT capital project in future years. Mr. Little concluded that the College is confident in utilizing all of the institutional funds (approximately $19.4 million) by the funding deadline and poised to fully disburse the student aid (over $13.1 million).
Ms. Beardmore provided an update on Riverhawks Reunite. The College has layers of protocols that focus on the safety for the college community. The student services team continues to serve students both remotely and in-person effectively and efficiently. In addition, the website is updated frequently with current information, organized around student services and health and safety. The College continues with the protocols for vaccines, certifications and testing. There are many ways the team is communicating with the college community including weekly emails, open forums regarding testing and vaccines for both students and employees, supervisor forums and dedicated email addresses in which employees and staff can ask questions.
The College requires employees and students to provide vaccine certifications or participate in testing protocols. The College is currently developing plans to increase awareness and enforcements with students to help increase compliance.
2. Proposed FY 2023 Operating Budget
Ms. Beardmore briefly reviewed the college’s vision, mission, and the purpose of the budget to help meet the mission. The budget is the tool to accomplish the Colleges’ strategic goals of completion being student-ready. Ms. Beardmore emphasized the continued excellent fiscal management of the College. In 2017 the College received the inaugural Government Finance Officers Association’s Distinguished Budget Presentation Award, and has received it each year since then.
The College has the fourth lowest tuition of all sixteen community colleges. The AACC Foundation provides over $1 million annually in scholarships for students. Textbook affordability initiatives save students the annualized equivalent of $2 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.
The Board set a goal to review its compensation system to support the hiring and retention of quality faculty and staff. The FY2023 proposed budget includes a pool of funds for college-wide compensation adjustments that reflects an average of 5% increase for the faculty and staff pool in terms of inflationary costs and benchmarks.
The budget development process is based upon guiding principles and strategic priorities. Ms. Beardmore provided a high-level summary of the proposed FY 2023 budget, $125,580,000, which is a modest 4% increase from the FY2022 budget, $120,201,000. Dr. Johnson clarified that the FY2022 budget presented was the actual budget and not the projected budget, which Ms. Beardmore confirmed.
Ms. Beardmore reviewed the categories of the FY2023 Budget. Reductions of $1,688, 392 were realized from adjunct faculty savings, base budget cuts, and positions eliminations. Base adjustments total $98,147 for miscellaneous adjustments, such as costs related to capital leases, and revenue offsets.
Compensation adjustments total $5,653,593 for salary change for FY 2023 new hires, 5% increase for faculty and staff compensation pool and 5% increase for the adjunct faculty pool, faculty and staff promotions, health insurance and turnover adjustment.
Legal and regulatory budget compliance includes institutional insurance, legal expenses and the Middle States Accreditation Site Visit for $182,000.
Funding for strategic and operational initiatives total $1,133,652. Ms. Beardmore explained that the budget changes in the categories reflected are due to the increase in the state allowing the College to fund few strategic and critical priorities aligned with the College’s strategic plan. It was noted that these are not the full cost of the items listed but are additional amounts funded for those areas in the FY2023 budget.
Ms. Moore asked if the two full-time equivalent (FTE) employees are going to be enough for the nursing program expansion. Ms. Beardmore explained that these additional funds needed beyond what the college has already allocated.
Ms. Price-Jones asked if the proposed budget for the hourly positions for COVID case management is additional funding. Ms. Beardmore explained the College did not budget this for FY 2022, so it is funding for the positions that are in place now.
For the proposed FY 2023 operating budget revenue, Ms. Beardmore reviewed the state funding through the Cade Formula showing data for FY 2018 – FY 2021. Ms. Beardmore explained that there is an increase in the state funding for almost $7 million for FY 2023, for a total of $40,788,100.
The affordability funding listed in the prior years were added to the budget in FY 2018 and FY 2019. The governor provided funding to the Maryland community colleges as an incentive if they kept their tuition rate at or below 2%. Those funds do not exist anymore. The Regional Higher Education Center funds are provided by the state and support the College’s Regional Higher Education at Arundel Mills.
Cade funding was enacted in 1996, which mapped out a plan of annual increases based on a percent of state support for select four-year public institutions to reach at 29% in 2012 and continue at 29% thereafter. Ms. Beardmore commented that this is the first time the state funding has reached 29%. Mr. Ulvila added that there is legislation pending that will increase the funding by an additional 1% to 30%. Ms. Beardmore responded that the College will closely monitor that and adjust as necessary.
The proposed request to the County is $50,127,800, which is an increase of $2 million for FY2023. The County funding request provides partial funding the College’s pay package and supports the expansion of health profession programs and critical technology through the capital budget.
Dr. Johnson commented that it would also be good to indicate that in addition to the operating funds, the County provides matching dollars for construction and benefits for retirees, and other sources of support for the College. Ms. Beardmore stated that is an excellent point, and she will be talking about that as well. The County is a great supporter of the College.
Ms. Beardmore reviewed tuition and fees as part of the FY2023 operating budget revenue. The proposed FY2023 budget, $31,700,500 shows a small $2 tuition rate increase, which is consistent with the guiding principle of small incremental tuition increases. The budget includes a small 2% projected decrease in credit FTE from the FY 2022 projections resulting in tuition and fee revenue decrease of over $3.8 million.
Mr. Klasmeier asked what is the value of $1 tuition fee increase on revenue. Ms. Beardmore responded that it is equivalent to around $200,000, which was confirmed by Mr. Little and Ms. Callahan.
Ms. Beardmore shared data showing the moderate increases in the in-county, out-of-county, and out-of-state credit tuition per credit hour from FY 2018 – FY 2021. The Affordability Index was shared, which shows how the College’s tuition and fees of full-time students compares to the median household incomes in each county. With an index of 4.4%, AACC still does well compared to its peer colleges.
Ms. Beardmore reviewed transfers and other income for the proposed FY 2023 operating budget revenue. The budget includes a $2.3 million transfer from the Tuition Stabilization Fund (TSF). The Board set a policy of having the TSF be between 5-10% of the total proposed budget. The percent of the FY 2023 proposed budget is 4.3%.
Ms. Beardmore recapped the different sources of revenue, which ideally would be a third from the County, a third from the state, and a third from tuition and fees. The state is increasing to 33%, while the County is 40% and the College at 27%, primarily due to the decline in enrollment.
Ms. Beardmore provided an update on Other Post-Employment Benefits (OPEB) including AACC’s total contributions to the trust to date at $9.51 million, total County contributions $5.56 million. The College anticipates a $2.88 million contribution in FY 2023.
In addition to the operating budget, the College submits to the County a schedule of auxiliary, enterprise and restricted funds. Auxiliary funds are primarily the bookstore, events and conferences and dining services. Enterprise funds are continuing education workforce development activities. Restricted funds include any funds given to the College for a specific purpose, such as grants and federal funding.
Ms. Moore asked about added fees to the registration, like the athletic fee. This fee has been the same for a long time and Ms. Moore added if there have been discussions on increasing it minimally to augment the income. Ms. Beardmore responded that the College does take this in consideration of the tuition rate increase; however, there are implications for eligibility for employer tuition sponsorship programs, for example, that employees tend not to cover. The College did increase the educational services fee several years ago, and at the request of one of the Board members, last year laboratory fees have been reviewed and updated. Dr. Johnson added that the fees are being reviewed, modified and adjusted. Additionally, Ms. Beardmore stated that the College considers all student fees, which apply to everyone, comprehensively as part of the budget.
From the perspective of the budget committee, Dr. Johnson highlighted a summary of the FY 2023 operating budget:
3. Proposed FY 2023– 2028 Capital Budget
Ms. Beardmore reviewed the proposed capital budget which funds new construction projects, renovations, repairs, replacements and improvements, which includes the current fiscal year plus the next five years for planning purposes.
The College presented the capital request to the County in January noting that the budget has not been approved by the Board. The capital budget is aligned with the 2016 Facilities Master Plan, and the most recent update, which funds the renovation to the Dragun Building and Florestano renovation project. The College is in the process of using the fund balance generated by lost revenue through the stimulus funding for the 4th floor of Florestano Building, the Learning Innovation Center. Then the first through third floors will be renovated for a new one stop shop for student services.
The Student Services Center will be renovated rather than the proposed expansion in the original plan. The Dragun Building renovation will include existing science laboratories and classrooms. The repairs, replacements and improvement projects will either be funded by the College or by the County. The information technology enhancement is for the operational and tactical elements for the technology plan, and the fiber infrastructure project will replace the fiber in the ground.
Mr. Klasmeier asked if the Planning Advisory Board was invited to take a look at the completed capital projects. Ms. Beardmore responded that the College was presenting to the Planning Advisory Board on February 11, and they will invite the board members to visit the Health and Life Sciences Building. The Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades would not come forward to them as it was funded by the private philanthropy and the AACC Foundation, but the new building will be mentioned at the presentation.
4. Multi-Year Budget Planning Tool
Ms. Beardmore commented the business office and the budget committee review these scenarios - they are not budgets – to see the impact of financial decisions made today on future years.
Mr. Little noted the tool is for planning and illustration purposes; it is not a representation of future budget requests. It helps to inform and frame the conversations.
Mr. Little reviewed and provided details on the process of using the Multi-Year Budget Planning tool in developing future baseline scenarios for the College. He presented baseline projections for revenue and expenditures for FY 2024 - FY 2028, and sample scenarios of assuming better results compared to historic trend, assuming same results compared to historic trend, and assuming worse results compared to historic trend.
The scenarios in the planning tool show that there is still about a $1.1 - $2.6 million deficit to address in the future years. The challenge between now and FY 2028 is to see if the College can find a sustainable solution, and move forward with the fiscal resiliency work.
Mr. Klasmeier commended Mr. Little for the great presentation and for using the planning tool as it was intended.
Mr. Ulvila asked if this tool has been discussed with other colleges. Ms. Beardmore commented that this is national conversation and discussed at affinity groups with other community colleges. Mr. Klasmeier also added that this is the first time he is hearing national discussions about why is there a need for higher education, and how people are looking at different options, like the skilled trades. Dr. Lindsay commented that a lot has been written about this particular issue, especially as young people are questioning and getting positions that pay high hourly wages. Trends like this is requiring the College to adapt.
Ms. Beardmore discussed the next steps. The budget will be presented to the Board for approval at the February 22 Public Session meeting. If the Board approves, then the budget is submitted to the County Executive by March 1. The College’s budget presentation to the County Executive is March 30. The County Executive decides how much he will fund, and will submit his budget to the County Council on either April 29 or May 2. The College will present to the County Council in May and they have until June 15 to finalize the budget. The new fiscal year starts July 1.
Ms. Moore expressed her gratitude to Ms. Beardmore, Mr. Little and Ms. Callahan for the excellent presentation. Dr. Johnson added that they have worked diligently with the budget committee and responsive to their comments.
Dr. Lindsay expressed her appreciation to Dr. Johnson for his leadership and open dialogue with the budget committee. Ms. Moore concurred and added her thanks as well.
Dr. Lindsay thanked the Board for its partnership and support. It is important to share this information openly for the College as a whole to understand. She commended Ms. Beardmore for her leadership and the planning and work by Mr. Little and Ms. Callahan.
Mr. Ulvila commented that there is nothing more important than fiscal oversight as far as board service is concerned and added his appreciation.
Ms. Moore thanked everyone for joining the meeting.
The meeting was adjourned at 10:38 a.m.
A session of the Board of Trustees was held on January 11, 2022 at 4:00 p.m. via Zoom Video Conferencing. Pursuant to Md. Code, Gen. Prov., § 3-104, the Board met to carry out an administrative function. The following board members were present: Sandra E. Moore, Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Jordan Foley, Jerome W. Klasmeier, A. Joyce Price-Jones, JaCina Stanton-Buttrom, Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., and Dr. Irene Zoppi Rodriguez. Dr. Dawn Lindsay, Dr. Helen Benjamin and Monica Rausa Williams were present as well. Topics discussed included the Board’s goals, as it relates to the Board’s statutory powers and duties under Md. Code, Educ., § 16-101 et. seq. The meeting began at 4:00 p.m. and ended at 7:00 p.m.
Members present: Sandra E. Moore, Chair; Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Vice Chair; Jordan Foley; Jerome W. Klasmeier; A. Joyce Price-Jones; JaCina Stanton-Buttrom; Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr.; Dr. Irene Zoppi Rodriguez; and Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
I. Call to Order
II. Roll Call and Approval of the Agenda
The Board Public Session was called to order by Chair Sandra Moore at 4:00 p.m. The meeting was open to the public via Zoom Video Communications allowing attendees to hear and observe the public session. Ms. Moore informed participants the meeting was being recorded pursuant to state 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 February 22, 2022 Board of Trustees public session agenda.
III. Consent 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 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 Consent Agenda:
IV. Board Chair and Committee Reports
A. Reports for February
1. Board Development Committee – A. Joyce Price-Jones, Committee Chair
Ms. Price-Jones thanked the Board for their participation in the Board retreat on January 11 with Dr. Helen Benjamin. It was a great discussion, and the Board made progress revising its board goals.
The committee met on January 20 to review the draft goals from the retreat, and Chair Moore sent the revisions to the entire board for input.
The committee recommended that Dr. Benjamin return for a one-hour Board retreat session to finish the last part of the original agenda, Board Roles and Responsibilities. The additional session is scheduled for Tuesday, April 19, 4:30-5:30 p.m. via Zoom.
2. Budget Committee – Dr. James H. Johnson Jr., Committee Chair
i. Approval of the FY 2023 College Operating Budget
Dr. Johnson reported that the Budget Committee met three times on January 13, January 27, and February 1. He summarized all three meetings.
The FY 2022 operating budget status report as of December 31, 2021 reflected the results of the fall semester, and the preliminary projections for spring. The operating budget is projected to remain balanced as estimated expenditure savings are projected to offset the projected tuition and fee revenue shortfall of approximately $4 million.
The committee discussed and provided feedback on several operating budget scenarios for FY 2023, and the assessment of those scenarios in the achievement of previously agreed-to guiding principles and priorities. The committee also reviewed the proposed FY 2023-2028 capital budget.
The February 1 meeting was added to allow the committee to review and discuss the assessment of the updated scenarios that reflected the updated state funding provided in the Governor’s budget. The state funding for FY 2023 is a great step forward in support of the College, but it does not eliminate the need to continue its fiscal resiliency work.
Dr. Johnson provided some introductory comments regarding the proposed FY 2023 operating and capital budgets. He shared that in addition to multiple meetings held by the Budget committee, the full Board reviewed the budget at the February 10 Board Budget Workshop.
This is the third budget utilizing the framework of the College’s strategic plan: Engagement Matters II: Excellence through Innovation. With the continued challenges facing the institution as it moves forward from the global pandemic, reallocations continue to play an important role in finding resources to support initiatives developed under the strategic plan.
The budget recommendation includes additional funding to support several key initiatives related to the priority of attracting and retaining quality and diverse faculty and staff, technology, and student success, and limits the tuition rate increase to $2 for in-county students. Dr. Johnson commented that many students will see a reduction in the overall cost of attendance as the College continues into the next budget cycle, through lower-cost course materials, and leveraging of federal stimulus funds as a result of the innovative approaches the faculty have taken in addressing lab courses in the transition to the remote environment.
The budget will also allow the College to utilize the state-of-the-art Health and Life Sciences Building, the faculty, staff and technology infrastructure to support the expansion of critical health sciences and biology programming.
The College will continue many of the efforts deployed with the federal stimulus funds in FY 2023, and beyond, through the Information Technology Capital budget, which will support critical technology and infrastructure necessary to ensure every student has the same exceptional experience.
In addition, the College will be leveraging the federal stimulus funds and Foundation support to ensure the successful launch of the Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades, which will help address the continued shortage of skilled trades workers in the county.
The Board appreciates and values the dedication and quality of the faculty and staff who serve the students. The committee is pleased to present a budget that includes a pool of funds for compensation increases in support of the Board approved compensation policy.
The Governor’s budget includes an additional $7 million in state funding over the FY 2022 funding level, and the College will ask for an increase of $2 million from the county, which brings the county funding to 40% of the budget.
Regarding the proposed FY 2023 Capital Budget, the College’s main priorities are focused on deferred maintenance projects, innovative spaces to support students and faculty, and critical information technology enhancements.
Dr. Johnson expressed his gratitude for the dedication of the faculty and staff to the success of the students.
Ms. Beardmore thanked Dr. Johnson and the committee members for their leadership, and provided an overview of the FY 2022 operating budget status report as of December 31, 2021.
For the current fiscal year, the College is operating within a balanced budget with adequate expenditure savings to offset the declines in student tuition and fee revenue. Instead of estimating a transfer from the Tuition Stabilization Funds (TSF) of $2 million as budgeted, the College is currently estimating a small transfer of about $33,000 to the TSF.
Ms. Beardmore stated that while the College is currently operating within a balanced budget, the long-term fiscal projections for the College continue to indicate constrained revenues that may not keep pace with the projected expenditures over the next five years.
The College, like its peers local and nationally, is struggling with enrollment. With uncertain and strained public funding, this enrollment trend is not sustainable. While the College is working very hard on strategies to impact enrollment, it needs to continue to look comprehensively at its operations.
Ms. Beardmore listed several projects that have been completed that impacted enrollment and the efficiency and effectiveness of various programs and services, and provided an update on the Administrative Services Review, which reviewed operations beyond the classroom and the administrative functions of the College.
To ensure a fiscally sustainable institution, the College assessed its current model and identified some attributes for what an ideal system would look like.
Ms. Beardmore briefly reviewed the College’s vision and mission, stating that the College vision is what it strives for, the mission is how it will get there, and the purpose of the budget is to help the College meet its mission. The budget is a tool to help accomplish the College’s strategic goals.
She highlighted some common measures of how the College is compared to other community colleges. Of note is that over the last few years, AACC has had the fourth lowest tuition. The AACC Foundation and its donors provide over $1 million annually in scholarships for students.
The FY 2023 proposed budget includes a pool of funds for college-wide compensation adjustments that reflects an average of 5% increase for the faculty and staff pool in terms of inflationary costs and benchmarks.
Ms. Beardmore presented a comparison data on compensation update on how the College compares to other county entities, including how full-time faculty positions compare to peer institutions. AACC is ranking fairly well compared to its peers. For adjuncts, in which most are at level two, AACC ranks second.
The budget development process is based upon guiding principles and strategic priorities. Ms. Beardmore provided a high-level summary of the proposed FY 2023 budget of $125,580,000, which is a modest 4% increase from the FY2022 budget of $120,201,000.
Ms. Beardmore reviewed the categories of the FY2023 Budget. Total reductions of $1,688,392 were realized from adjunct faculty savings, base budget cuts, and position eliminations. Base adjustments total $98,147 for miscellaneous adjustments, such as costs related to capital leases and revenue offsets.
Compensation adjustments total $5,653,593 which include salary changes for FY 2023 new hires, a 5% increase for the faculty and staff compensation pool, a 5% increase for the adjunct faculty pool, faculty and staff promotions, as well as health insurance and turnover adjustments.
Legal and regulatory budget compliance includes institutional insurance, legal expenses and the Middle States Accreditation Site Visit for a total of $182,000.
Funding for strategic and operational initiatives total $1,133,652. Ms. Beardmore explained an increase in state funding allowed the College to fund few critical strategic priorities in alignment with the College’s strategic plan.
For the proposed FY 2023 operating budget revenue, Ms. Beardmore reviewed the state funding, which is determined through the Cade Funding Formula, for FY 2018 – FY 2021. Ms. Beardmore explained that an increase in state funding through the governor’s budget of almost $7 million for FY 2023, brings total state funding to $40,788,100. While Cade funding reached its statutory goal of 29% this year, it does not discount the loss of revenue over the years.
The proposed request to the County is $50,127,800, an increase of $2 million for FY 2023, which considers the fiscal realities of the County and generally what the County anticipates each year in the budget office.
The College is proposing a small two-dollar tuition increase, for proposed tuition and fee revenue of $31,700,500 for FY 2023, consistent with the guiding principle of small incremental tuition increases. The budget includes a small 2% projected decrease in credit FTE from FY 2022 projections.
Ms. Beardmore shared data showing the moderate increases in the in-county, out-of-county, and out-of-state credit tuition per credit hour from FY 2018 – FY 2021. The Affordability Index was shared, which shows how the College’s tuition and fees of full-time students compares to the median household incomes in each county. With an index of 4.4%, AACC still does well compared to its peer colleges.
Ms. Beardmore reviewed transfers and other income for the proposed FY 2023 operating budget revenue. The budget includes a $2.3 million transfer from the TSF. The Board set a policy of having the TSF be between 5-10% of the total proposed budget. The percent of the FY 2023 proposed budget is 4.3%.
Ms. Beardmore recapped the different sources of revenue, which ideally would be a third from the County, a third from the state, and a third from tuition and fees. The state is increasing to 33%, while the County is 40% and the College is at 27%, primarily due to the decline in enrollment.
Dr. Johnson asked what funds are being put into the TSF to bring the beginning balance to about $20 million. Ms. Beardmore explained that the bulk of the $20 million is from federal stimulus funds that the College is eligible to draw down under regulations that qualifies the funds as lost revenue. These funds will be put into the capital budget to use for one-time expenses.
By motion of Dr. Johnson, seconded by Mr. Ulvila, the Board of Trustees voted unanimously to approve the FY2023 college operating fund budget request in the amount of $125,580,000 and the auxiliary, enterprise, and restricted funds appropriation authority in the amount of $37,526,700 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 2023-2028 Capital Budget
Ms. Beardmore reviewed the proposed capital budget, which aligns with the updated Facilities Master Plan approved by the Board last spring, and to the Dragun Building and Florestano renovation projects.
The repairs, replacements and improvement projects will generally be funded by the County. The information technology enhancement and the renovation of the Florestano building will be funded by the College using the tuition stabilization fund.
By motion of Ms. Price-Jones, seconded by Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez, the Board of Trustees voted unanimously to approve the FY 2023 – FY 2028 college capital budget request.
3. Facilities Committee – Jerome W. Klasmeier, Committee Chair
Mr. Klasmeier shared that the facilities committee met via Zoom on February 10 to discuss future procurements including the two agenda items in today’s meeting and future campus projects. He concluded his report by noting that the committee received an update on the planning of the Florestano building renovation.
4. AACC Foundation – Lawrence W. Ulvila Jr., Lead Liaison
Mr. Foley shared a student letter of gratitude for the Scholarship for Associate Degree Completion. Mr. Ulvila provided a fundraising update – the current fiscal year fundraising total is just over $1.2 million in gifts and commitments.
The AACC Foundation was pleased to announce two new scholarships: (1) the Abile Group, which is an Annapolis-based information technology business that established an endowed scholarship fund at AACC with the goal of helping rising technology professionals reach their goals at the College and beyond; and (2) the SIXGEN Scholarship, named after a company founded by Ethan Dietrich, while he was a student at AACC, for students pursuing degrees in computer science, computer information systems or cybersecurity.
The Foundation continues to work with GG+A consultants to provide philanthropy training to leadership at the College, including faculty and staff who are working on five College projects, which may potentially yield several gift opportunities.
B. No Reports for February
1. Board Chair Report – Sandra E. Moore, Chair
2. Board Policy Oversight Committee – Sandra E. Moore, Committee Chair
3. Audit & Finance Committee – Dr. Irene Zoppi Rodriguez, Committee Chair
4. Human Resources Committee – Lawrence W. Ulvila Jr., Committee Chair
V. President’s Report – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
A. Information Items
1. College Updates – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay announced that AACC was recognized by Achieving the Dream (ATD) as a 2021 Leader College of Distinction. AACC earned Leader College status in 2018, and as a Leader College of Distinction, the College demonstrated improvement in at least three student outcome metrics, and reduced equity gaps in at least two metrics for at least two student groups. This evidences AACC’s commitment to meeting students where they are, and reinforces all of the hard work of our faculty and staff at the College.
This recognition was announced at the ATD DREAM conference, which AACC’s ATD – USC Racial Equity Leadership Academy team of Dr. Lindsay, Dr. Tanya Millner, Dr. Felicia Patterson, Dr. Alycia Marshall, and Dr. Kellie McCants-Price attended February 14-17.
The spring semester started January 24. Almost 40% of classes this spring are face-to-face, hybrid or hybrid sync; the rest of classes are online or online sync. Enrollment is down 13% compared to last year, and the Enrollment, Retention, and Completion Council teams are hard at work developing and implementing tactical strategies that will impact enrollment and retention.
Dr. Lindsay also shared some of the College’s recent successes including: AACC’s Health and Life Sciences Building receiving the Gold Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Certification; AACC receiving the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada Distinguished Budget Presentation Award; and AACC’s Hotel, Culinary Arts, and Tourism Institute program was listed in the top 20 culinary schools in America by Chefs Pencil.
Dr. Lindsay highlighted some of the in-person and virtual events at the College in celebration of Black History Month.
2. College Manual Revisions (Information Item) – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay presented two sets of College Manual revisions to the Board as an information item. The first set of revisions is in regards to Professional Recognition for Administrative and Professional and Support staff. The College Manual sections need to be updated in both the Administrative Staff Code and Professional and Support Staff Code to reflect current practices for employees receiving professional recognition awards.
The second set of revisions is to remove the sections regarding Supervision of Relatives and Significant Others in both the Administrative Staff Code and Professional and Support Staff Code. When the Board revised its Nepotism and Personal Relationships Policy on May 11, 2021, those sections should have been removed from the College Manual as when a conflict exists between the policy and College Manual, the policy prevails.
These revisions will be presented to the Board for approval at the March 8 public session meeting.
3. Monthly Update on Accreditation – Dr. Gregory R. Schrader, Chair, Steering
Committee
Dr. Gregory Schrader reported that the Middle States Steering Committee is now meeting every week. Each Work Team submitted their draft report to the Steering Committee on February 10. The Steering Committee is in the process of reviewing and providing input to the Work Teams. The revisions are on schedule to be completed in March which aligns with the timeline to prepare for the spring 2023 site visit.
Dr. Schrader thanked all members of the Work Teams for their hard work and dedication through this challenging task. He also expressed his appreciation to those in the College community who are serving as resource members for the Work Teams and assisting with this part of the process.
The Board of Trustees will receive the edited self-study report in late May or early June for review. The final version will be presented in October, and sent to Middle States in early December.
4. Academic Forum/Council – Dr. Candice Hill, Chair
Dr. Hill reported that the Academic Forum met at the end of January. The committees continue to work for student success, and are proud of the work being done revising curriculum and programs, discussing new processes, policies and procedures, reviewing petitions from students, and discussing high-impact practices and best practices especially across new modalities for teaching.
Dr. Johnson asked if the Academic Council looks at programs that may not be as successful. Dr. Hill responded that the College does conduct program reviews, and while that does not fall under her purview, the work is being completed.
5. Administrative Staff Organization (ASO) – Jill Bennett, President
Ms. Bennett shared the amazing work that ASO members are doing as deans, assistant deans, directors and assistant directors as they have been involved in the Enrollment, Retention, and Completion Council teams, and remain quick to volunteer for new policies and search committees, all while carving out time for six new leadership professional development courses, and upcoming collective bargaining training.
She concluded her report by expressing her gratitude to the College for the rich resources it provides ASO members to support them in their work and she is amazed by her colleagues’ professionalism, enthusiasm and dedication to their teams and the students.
6. Professional and Support Staff Organization (PSSO) – John Dayton, Vice President
Mr. Dayton reported that PSSO members participated in the Community Service Committee collection drive in December, in which the College community donated over 200 essential kitchen items to the AACC Food Panty.
Mr. Dayton thanked the Student-Athlete Advisory Council for leveraging a social media campaign, which was instrumental in extending this donation opportunity to students and community residents who supported and attended the basketball program.
The PSSO is currently replacing its outdated Constitution and Bylaws with a new charter, which aligns with the other constituency groups’ charters. PSSO will vote on the new charter at its next assembly meeting before taking it out to the general membership for a vote.
7. Student Government Association (SGA) – Benjamin Nussbaumer, President
Mr. Nussbaumer reported that three SGA members, including himself, attended the National Association of Campus Activities conference in Kansas City, Missouri, where they learned about different kinds of events held at various colleges.
He also shared that the SGA is in the process of filling two vacant vice president roles as well as working on nominations for the executive board for 2022-2023.
Mr. Nussbaumer shared that the SGA was pleased to have some of its members, including himself, participate in Student Advocacy Day, in which they were able to meet with state legislators and advocate for important issues for the College and students.
8. The Faculty Organization (TFO) – Dr. Nicole Williams, President
Dr. Williams reported on committee work of the TFO including: the adjunct faculty committee working on an adjunct faculty job satisfaction survey; recommendation for the promotion and tenure process; the Shared Governance Committee was approved to be a standing committee; the Online Policies and Practice Committee has been working toward improving the virtual learning environment; proposed membership changes to the Adjunct Faculty Affairs Committee; the Nominating Committee will be in charge of selecting the adjuncts for that committee. Currently the TFO is working on hosting open forums on collective bargaining, as TFO leadership believes that it is important for faculty to make an informed decision about collective bargaining.
Lastly, Dr. Williams shared some highlights and accomplishments of AACC faculty: Professor Harold Waterman and Dr. Antione Tomlin received the MLK Zeitgeist Award; Peggy Walton, Ruth Goldstraw, Deborah Hammond, Tim May, Forrest Caskey and Michael P. Gavin received the League Excellence Award; Dr. Anna Binneweg was selected to conduct the 2022 Maryland Music Educators Association Junior Orchestra; two adjunct faculty, LaToya Nkongolo and Courtney Buiniskis, are running for state delegate districts 31B and 30B, respectively; and Dr. Reynaldo Evangelista has been appointed by Baltimore City Mayor Brandon Scott as a commissioner to serve on the Baltimore City Community Relations Commission.
Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez wanted to thank the faculty for the incredible work they have done and stated how wonderful it was for them to be recognized by Dr. Williams.
9. Maryland Association of Community Colleges (MACC) Activities – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay shared that she was pleased to participate in the MACC’s Student Advocacy Day with eight AACC students, including student trustee, Jordan Foley and SGA president Ben Nussbaumer on Tuesday, February 15. It was a wonderful opportunity for students to speak directly with their elected officials about pending legislation and how that legislation would impact them.
Additionally, Dr. Lindsay shared that the MACC Legislative Committee has been meeting every Monday since the session started in January to review the numerous bills introduced this session. At the monthly Maryland Council of Community College Presidents meetings, MACC has been providing the presidents with updates in regards to the bill related to MACC’s legislative agenda. A status update as of February 1 regarding the MACC Legislative Priorities has been included in the Board book for review of the Board of Trustees members.
Dr. Lindsay reminded the Board that the annual MACC Trustee Leadership Conference and the forum featuring the candidates running for Governor has been rescheduled to Thursday, April 28, from 3:00 – 6:30 p.m., and will be held at AACC’s Health and Life Sciences Building. More information about this event will be communicated when it becomes available.
B. Action Items
1. Approval of Amended 2021-2022 Academic Calendar and Revision to Professional Support Staff Code (Holidays and College Closings) – Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President for Learning
Dr. Millner shared that the Board of Trustees approved the 2021-2022 Academic Calendar at its February 23, 2021 Public Session Meeting. Since then, the College approved Juneteenth as a holiday for the operating calendar. As the Juneteenth break occurs during the Summer Term 2022, the amended 2021-2022 Academic Calendar is presented to the Board of Trustees for its approval to become part of the official records of the College. Additionally, the College Manual, will be revised to include Juneteenth in the list of holidays that the College is closed.
There are no fiscal implications related to the approval of the amended 2021-2022 Academic Calendar. The College is concurrently updating the operating calendar. The fiscal impact of adding an additional holiday is estimated to be $3,600, which is pay for essential personnel who are required to remain on campus.
By motion of Ms. Stanton-Buttrom, seconded by Mr. Ulvila, the Board of Trustees voted unanimously to approve the Amended 2021-2022 Academic Calendar for inclusion in appropriate college publications, and the revised College Manual, Section 8.5.10 to include Juneteenth in the list of holidays that the College is closed.
2. Approval of the 2022-2023 Academic Calendar – Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President for Learning
Dr. Millner presented the 2022-2023 Academic Calendar for the Board of Trustees’ approval. With the Board of Trustees approval, the 2022-2023 Academic Calendar will be published in the 2022-2023 catalog and in other college publications as appropriate. There are no fiscal implications related to the approval of the 2022-2023 Academic Calendar.
By motion of Ms. Price-Jones, seconded by Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez, the Board of Trustees voted unanimously to approve the 2022-2023 Academic Calendar for inclusion in appropriate college publications.
3. Approval of Dental Hygiene, Associate of Applied Science Program – Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President for Learning
Dr. Millner presented the proposed Dental Hygiene Associates of Applied Science Program which was approved by the College’s committee on educational policies and curriculum and the Academic Forum on February 17, 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 of 2023.
All costs for the dental hygiene program will be supported by reallocation with the exception of the office manager, supervising dentist, and office expense which will be funded within the 2023 budget.
Ms. Moore moved to approve the Dental Hygiene, Associate of Applied Science program, which was seconded by Ms. Price-Jones.
Dr. Johnson asked how difficult would it be to get an articulation agreement with the school of dentistry program in Baltimore? Would this be a challenge for students to transfer? Dr. Millner responded that the College does see that it will be a challenge. AACC has been working very closely with University of Maryland in Baltimore (UMB) in regards to this program and several others. With UMB and other partnerships, they are not seeing any additional difficulties.
Ms. Moore also asked if there will be a program director for the dental hygiene program? Dr. Millner stated that was correct. Ms. Moore also asked if the role of the supervising dentist will be like a medical advisor of the program. Dr. Millner responded that the supervising dentist is required by the accreditation board to supervise the program, and to ensure that all policies, practices, and procedures are in accordance to regulations, just like a medical advisor to the program.
A roll call was taken of trustees to determine the vote and the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the proposed Dental Hygiene, Associate of Applied Science program.
4. Approval of Teacher Education, Associate of Arts Program – Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President for Learning
Dr. Millner presented the teacher education associate of arts program to the Board of Trustees for its approval. The proposed program was approved by the Academic Forum on January 27, 2022, and with the Board's approval, the Maryland Higher Education Commission will be notified of the colleges 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 the program except for the cost associated with providing additional faculty coverage should enrollment grow.
Mr. Ulvila moved to approve the teacher education Associate of Arts program, which was seconded by Dr. Johnson.
Dr. Johnson asked how many additional students may enter the program before needing more support in terms of teachers and other resources? Dr. Millner stated that it is equivalent and has about 16 students across the five targeted areas. The College is hoping it can at least triple that without incurring any other costs.
A roll call was taken of trustees to determine the vote and the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the proposed Associate of Arts program.
VI. New Business
There was no new business.
VII. Next Board Meeting – March 8, 2022
VIII. Vote to Close Meeting / Adjournment of Public Session
The public session meeting adjourned at 5:16 p.m. and the Board voted unanimously to move into a closed session meeting.
Members present: Sandra E. Moore, Chair; Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Vice Chair; Jerome W. Klasmeier; JaCina Stanton-Buttrom; Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr.; Dr. Irene Zoppi Rodriguez; and Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Absent: Jordan Foley; A. Joyce Price-Jones
I. Call to Order
II. Roll Call and Approval of the Agenda
The Board Public Session was called to order by Chair Sandra Moore at 4:00 p.m. The meeting was open to the public via Zoom Video Communications 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. The agenda was approved. Ms. Moore announced that Trustees Foley and Price-Jones were out of the country, and not able to attend the meeting.
III. 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 for promotion and certification of the process. Faculty recommended for promotion will advance in rank effective August 16, 2022. The increase in salary for faculty members approved for promotion is equivalent to two full-steps increase in salary, which including FICA, totals $60,327 for all faculty listed below in FY 2023.
By motion of Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez, seconded by Dr. Johnson, 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, 2022, for the following faculty members: to Assistant Professor: Tim P. May, English; and Simon J. Ward, English; to Associate Professor: Dr. Bradley J. Austin, Geography; Dr. Susan M. Ficken, Mathematics; Stephanie L. Goldenberg, Business Management/Entrepreneurial Studies; Deborah L. Hammond, Health, Fitness & Exercise Studies; Kymberly S. Jackson, J.D. Legal Studies; Dr. Jarred R. Jenkins, Psychology; Kimberly P. Law, Computer Information Systems; Thao-Nhi Luu, Mathematics; Caree Oslislo, Health, Fitness & Exercise Studies; Dr. Julie E. Takacs, Biology; and Dr. Antione D. Tomlin, Academic Literacies; to Full Professor: Dawn C. Bond, Visual Arts; Myra G. Dennis, Nursing; Dr. Candice J. Hill, English; Dr. Heather L. Langley, Massage Therapy; Beth Anne O'Reilly, Mathematics; Dr. Matthew M. Patton, Psychology; and Dr. Darian T. Senn-Carter, Homeland Security & Criminal Justice.
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, 2022 for 10-month faculty and July 1, 2022 for 12-month faculty. There were no fiscal implications.
By motion of Mr. Ulvila, seconded by Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously awarded tenure effective August 16, 2022 for 10-month faculty and July 1, 2022 for 12-month faculty, to the following faculty members: Robert E. Beatty, Business Administration; Dr. Audra H. Butler, Achieving College/Career Advancement; T. Cameron Caswell, Library; and Stephanie L. Goldenberg, Business Management/Entrepreneurial Studies.
C. Approval of Faculty Sabbaticals for FY2023
Dr. Millner asked the Board for approval of the President’s recommendations for sabbatical leave for three faculty members, Professor Brandi R. Shepard, Professor Jodi S. Hogan, and Professor Matthew P. Klos. Dr. Millner reviewed the process for sabbatical leave. Professor Shepard will receive paid leave at full salary for the fall 2022 semester, and Professors Hogan and Klos will receive paid leave at full salary for the spring 2023 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 rate is $978.00 per faculty load hour. The total cost for one sabbatical leave would not exceed $15,972.000 and the three sabbaticals would not exceed $47,377.00 at the current adjunct rate.
Mr. Klasmeier moved to approve the President’s recommendation for sabbatical leave of the three faculty members, which was seconded by Dr. Johnson.
Dr. Johnson asked about the fiscal implications, if the cost of the three sabbaticals included any possible increases that may occur because of the 5% salary increase proposed in the FY2023 budget?
Later in the meeting, Dr. Lindsay and Ms. Beardmore indicated that the fiscal implications listed in the item were at the current adjunct rate. If the County Council approves the College’s FY2023 budget and the 5% salary increase holds, an additional $2,373 will be added, and the total sabbatical cost for the three faculty members should not exceed $49,750.00. However, how it was presented on the item for the current rate was correct.
A roll call was taken of trustees to determine their vote, and the Board of Trustees unanimously granted the sabbatical leave for: Brandi R. Shepard, Architecture and Interior Design, fall 2022; Jodie S. Hogan, World Languages, spring 2023; and Matthew P. Klos, Visual Arts, spring 2023.
On behalf of the Board, Ms. Moore congratulated all the faculty. Additionally, Dr. Lindsay thanked the Board and shared how important this is for the faculty members who take a lot of pride in what they do for the students.
Dr. Millner virtually introduced each of the faculty members who were promoted, awarded tenure, and granted sabbatical leave, and thanked the Board members and Dr. Lindsay for their support.
IV. Consent 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 Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez, seconded by Dr. Johnson and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the Consent Agenda:
• Approval of the Minutes of the February 22, 2022 Board of Trustees Public Session; and
• Approval of the Minutes of the February 22, 2022 Board of Trustees Closed Session.
V. 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 Mr. Ulvila to serve as Chair of the Board Nominating Committee. Mr. Ulvila has asked Ms. Price-Jones to serve on the committee as well.
2. Board Policy Oversight Committee - Sandra E. Moore, Chair
Ms. Moore reported that the committee has approved three policy action requests: Shared Governance, Employee Grievance, and Corrective Action and Progressive Discipline.
For the Shared Governance Policy, the Middle States Accreditation Standard VII Governance, Leadership, and Administration requires a transparent governance structure that outlines roles, responsibilities, and accountability for decision making by each constituency group. The College would benefit from a policy and procedures that address the College’s definition of shared governance, the distinction between administrative decisions and shared participatory recommendations, the roles and responsibilities of the Board, the administration, faculty, staff, and students in shared governance, the process for obtaining input, appropriate communication channels, and accountability for decisions.
For the Employee Grievance Policy, the Middle States Accreditation Standard II Ethics and Integrity requires that institutions have a grievance policy that addresses complaints or grievances raised by students, faculty, or staff. The College’s current employee grievance process is outlined in the College Manual and pertains only to individuals within a constituency group. The College would benefit from a policy and procedures that address the College’s definition of a grievance, distinguish between other policies and procedures for resolving specific types of disputes, align the process for deciding grievances into one process for all constituency groups, establish an appeal process, and include a statement prohibiting retaliation.
For the Corrective Action and Progressive Discipline Policy, the College requires a policy and process for assisting employees by being clear and precise about problems and the consequences if the same or other mistakes or misconduct reoccur. A progressive discipline policy allows employers to address not only conduct concerns, but also performance issues. It is important that discipline is applied in a fair and consistent manner. The current College’s progressive discipline policy is addressed for some constituency groups in the College Manual, but there are different processes as well as different types of discipline. The College would benefit from consolidating the current processes into one uniform process that applies to all employees, uses the same definitions for the types of discipline, and adopts best practices.
The College is drafting these policies and plans to have these three policies, in their complete form, presented to the committee for review and then forwarded to the Board for approval.
Additionally, the College would like to pursue an Interim Policy on Telework and revise the Interim Policy regarding COVID-19.
As the Board may recall, it can delegate authority to approve a policy on an interim basis when a policy action needs to be completed within a time period to be in compliance with applicable laws and to meet urgent needs.
The College’s current Telework procedures pre-date the pandemic and do not account for the current expansion of telework. In addition, in 2021, the Maryland legislature passed changes to the law that requires that certain information like security be included in the College’s policy and procedures. The committee supports this request so that the College can move forward with its process.
Previously the Board reauthorized the President to take actions related to health and safety related to COVID-19, and the President adopted an Interim Policy regarding COVID-19, pursuant to that authority. Based on recent changes to CDC guidance, the College plans to make updates to the Interim Policy, pursuant to that authority, and is presenting this as an information item for the Board.
The Board did not have any objections, and delegated authority to the President to create an Interim Policy on Telework.
B. No Reports for March
1. Audit & Finance Committee – Dr. Irene Zoppi Rodriguez, Committee Chair
2. Board Development Committee – A. Joyce Price-Jones, Committee Chair
3. Budget Committee – Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Committee Chair
4. Facilities Committee – Jerome W. Klasmeier, Committee Chair
5. Human Resources Committee – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Committee Chair
6. AACC Foundation – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Lead Liaison
VI. President’s Report – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
A. Information Items
1. College Updates – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay announced that CDC recently released new guidelines, and Anne Arundel County is now listed a low risk for COVID-19. As a result, the College will be amending its health and safety policies to no longer require vaccinations and weekly testing effective March 9 with the exception for faculty and students participating in clinicals, fieldwork, internships or externships in health care or clinic settings. Masks will continue to be required indoors at AACC locations through May 18 and will become optional on May 19. Summer and fall planning are underway, and the College will continue to monitor the situation and will be prepared to amend decisions, if needed, to ensure continued health and safety of the college community.
Dr. Lindsay shared that AACC’s Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) chapter has been named a 2022 Recognizing Excellence in Acceptance and Completion with Honors Chapter. She also highlighted March cultural and heritage events at the College, including Women's History Month and Irish American Heritage.
The College will also be co-sponsoring an event with Leadership Anne Arundel and host a leadership talk on Tuesday, March 15 at 2:00 p.m. featuring Anne Arundel County’s Health Officer, Dr. Nilesh Kalyanaraman who will talk about leadership during a global pandemic.
2. Enrollment Update - Dr. Felicia L. Patterson, Vice President for Learner Support Services
Dr. Patterson presented the winter and spring 2022 enrollment report. For the winter 2022, the total credit headcount (actual number of students enrolled in courses) was 1,196, a decrease of 299 students from 1,495 in winter 2021. The full-time equivalent credit (FTEs) decreased by 18.5% from winter 2021. The spring 2022 total credit headcount decreased by 12.5% or 1,319 students from spring 2021. The spring credit FTE decreased by 13.4% from spring 2021.
In reviewing spring credit trends data, for new and returning spring credit headcount trends, there was a decrease in returning students of 13.3% from spring 2021. For new students, there was a decline of 3.9% from spring 2021. The spring credit 2022 headcount by age was 8.9% of students under the age of 18; 25.3% ages 18-19; 29.5% ages 20-24; and 36.5% ages 25+; 76.7% of students attending part-time; 23.3% attending full-time; 60.9% female; 39.0% male (.1% gender not identified); and 41.7% or 3,491 students identified as non-white (Asian, Black/African American, Hispanic, Pacific Islander, Native American/Alaskan native or other multiracial).
Dr. Patterson shared that the College is strengthening its diversity, inclusion, and antiracism efforts. This year there is an expansion on professional development in this area for employees to support student success. The Student Success and Achievement Program which focused on low income, first generation, and minoritized student populations has consistently higher retention rates. Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez expressed her appreciation and thanked Dr. Patterson for this information and for the initiatives for the minority population.
Dr. Patterson presented the breakdown of spring 2022 credit headcount by race and ethnicity: 53.0% white; 16.6% Black/African-American; 15.4% other/unknown; 10.3% Hispanic/Latino; and 4.7% Asian. In terms of modality for spring 2022 credit students, 86.3% were taking at least one distance learning course, which includes online and hybrid formats; 72.3% were taking at least one online course this spring; and 14.4% were taking at least one hybrid course.
There was a decrease in dually enrolled high school students for spring 2022, down 168 students from spring 2021. Dr. Patterson noted that high schools struggle, just as the College, with making sure students get what they need due to COVID-19 pandemic. However, the College has a great partnership with the high schools, and the work will continue.
There was an increase in the fall-to-spring retention rate from 70% in 2020-2021 to 74% for 2021-2022. In reviewing the budget goal FTE to the official FTE, the College expects 6,127 FTE for FY 2022, includes the projection for the rest of spring and summer term 1, which is 86.38% of the FY2022 budget goal of 7,093 FTE.
Dr. Patterson highlighted the initiatives being implemented by the College to strengthen its recruitment and enrollment efforts to address enrollment decline. These include tracking enrollment initiatives to be more flexible with recommendations from the Enrollment, Retention, and Completion Council teams; having a more intentionally designed experience when students enter the College; financial aid and communication outreach, including using a new scholarship tool for students; work with course success and student interventions; administering the Community College Survey of Student Engagement after spring break; and continue to focus on being student ready, from scheduling to support services.
Dr. Johnson asked if the College is quantifying or developing a metric that will determine whether or not the initiatives are making an impact or not. Dr. Patterson responded that the College is in the process of developing a metric for this. Mr. Klasmeier asked if there is a metric that can be developed to give a cost per FTE. Ms. Beardmore commented that this metric is included in the background materials provided for the Board Budget Workshop, and acknowledged that is an important metric for the College to follow. Mr. Ulvila asked when the increased capacity of the Health and Life Sciences building and related curriculum as well as the Clauson Center will have a positive impact on student enrollment. Dr. Patterson responded that there was a growth in the number of students for the nursing program as it continues its efforts to double the number of students in the program, and there is remarkable support for the new programs in the Clauson Center.
Dr. Johnson commented on the budget goal and actual FTE slide noting that through the years, the official FTE is close to the budgeted FTE, but he did not think the College was as close to the budget goal, in terms of tuition and fee revenue. Dr. Patterson responded that the scale is broad and the College can work on this.
3. AACC Workforce Update – Suzanne Boyer, Executive Director, Human Resources
Ms. Boyer presented the College’s workforce report for 2016-2020 which includes an in-depth employee data comparing 2020 workforce data with the previous years in comparison with other institutions. The report captures compensation metrics, workforce characteristics and activities, as well as training and education and it provides valuable information about where the College stands on employee compensation, diversification and retention. Ms. Boyer acknowledged with special thanks to Mr. John Englehart for his work on this report and the staff at the Planning, Research and Institutional Assessment office for providing important data and analysis.
From 2019 to 2020, the workforce decreased by 14% to 1,590 employees; however, the workforce became more diverse and younger. The College continues to see an increase in the number of racial marginalized applicants for open positions.
Ms. Boyer presented a slide of the workforce by classification excluding temporary workers. The data reflects employees as of October 1 each year, and represents people, not position. She noted that there were 249 faculty in 2019 and 237 in 2020. Since faculty vacancies are only recruited in the fall, if a faculty position becomes vacant off-cycle, it remains vacant all year compared to a staff position, which are recruited as they become vacant and needed. Some positions were held due to declining enrollment. Some positions fluctuate based on enrollment, while others do not. For example, facilities and information technology infrastructure need to be supported even when enrollment declines.
From 2016 to 2020, the diversity of the workforce increased by 5%, which reflects the College’s continued efforts to hire a more diverse workforce. In comparison to Anne Arundel County demographics, the College is quite similar. White residents represent 73.3% of the population, and 74% of the 2020 workforce identified as white. Dr. Johnson commented that while the percentages of Black/African-Americans in 2019 and 2020, the percentage is the same (16%) but the numbers dropped. He noted that the College should be aware of the difference between numbers and the percentage. Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez commented that it would be helpful to have the 2021 and 2022 data to see the entire picture, and if the ethnicity by classification should be shared, to see if there any gaps. Ms. Boyer responded that the College can take a closer look at that in the report it is currently preparing with the 2021 data.
The College had a higher percentage of Baby Boomers (born between 1946-1964) in its workforce (33%) compared to the national average (23%). The College employees are closer to the national average for Generation X (born 1965-1979) at 39% compared to 31%. For Generation Y (born 1980-2000), the college workforce was 25% compared to the national average of 44%. In the 2022 report, which will reflect 2021 data, it will include Generation Z numbers will be included as staff members join the College.
Ms. Boyer shared some additional highlights, including that 150 faculty and staff were promoted, awarded a career ladder promotion or professional recognition award resulting to a compensation increase; 25% of the College employees are retirement eligible; and an interactive workforce dashboard has been created to provide real-time information on demand.
Ms. Boyer concluded her report by sharing that AACC continues to offer competitive salaries to retain employees, while encouraging continued education and creating paths to promotion. The College continues to diversify the workforce and applicant pool each year.
Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez asked the ethnicities of the new hires in 2021 and Ms. Boyer stated that the data will be included in the 2021 report.
Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez commended Ms. Boyer and her team for their efforts in providing the workforce data which was also echoed by Ms. Moore.
4. Monthly Update on Accreditation – Dr. Gregory R. Schrader, Chair, Steering Committee
Dr. Gregory Schrader reported that the Middle States Steering Committee is meeting every week, and in the process of reviewing the draft reports and writing the full Self-Study Report draft into one voice. The draft is on schedule to be completed in March, which aligns with the timeline to prepare for the spring 2023 site visit.
The college community will receive the Self-Study Report for their feedback in late April/early May.
The Board of Trustees will receive the edited Self-Study Report on or before June 2 and they will have until June 30 to review the report. A study session will be offered to the Board to provide an overview and the requirements of the report and to answer any questions that the Board may have. The final report will be sent to the Middle States Commission on Higher Education visiting team in early December.
5. Academic Forum/Council – Dr. Candice Hill, Chair
Dr. Hill reported that the Academic Forum/Council met on February 24 to discuss the possible addition of two adjunct voting faculty members to the Council, which will be submitted for approval in the April Academic Forum/Council meeting. The Council continues with discussion on adjunct faculty inclusion. She thanked the Board for the approval of the promotions, tenure and sabbatical leave and shared how much the recognition means to the faculty members.
6. Administrative Staff Organization – Jill Bennett, President (NO REPORT)
7. Professional and Support Staff Organization – Pat Shoemaker, President
Ms. Shoemaker reported that the Professional and Support Staff Organization (PSSO) continues to review the organization’s guiding documents to ensure that everything is updated accurately and to correctly reflect current operations. PSSO is planning its annual retreat, which will focus on diversity, equity, inclusion, and antiracism.
8. Student Government Association – Benjamin Nussbaumer, President (NO REPORT)
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 while the MACC Legislative Committee has not met the past two weeks, committee members are busy testifying at senate and house hearings. AACC participated in the MACC Virtual Transfer Fair on March 1 and 2, which provided all Maryland community college students and their families the opportunity to access and connect virtually with over 60 four-year institutions.
Dr. Lindsay reminded the Board that the annual MACC Trustee Leadership Conference featuring a gubernatorial forum will be on Thursday, April 28, from 3:00 – 6:30 p.m., at AACC’s Health and Life Sciences Building. More information about this event will be communicated when it becomes available.
B. Action Items
1. Approval of College Manual Revisions – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay asked the Board for approval for revisions to the College Manual regarding Professional Recognition for Administrative, Professional and Support Staff and Supervision of Relatives and Significant Others.
The Professional Recognition for Administrative and Professional Staff sections need to be updated to reflect the current practices for employees receiving professional recognition awards. The sections regarding Supervision of Relatives and Significant Others in both the Administrative Staff Code and Professional and Support Staff Code need to be removed as when the Board revised its Nepotism and Personal Relationships Policy on May 11, 2021, these sections should have been removed from the College Manual. When a conflict exists between the policy and College Manual, the policy prevails. General Counsel, AACC staff and the constituency groups have reviewed these revisions per the College Manual.
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 revisions to the College Manual, Sections 7.8.1.2 and 8.4.7, and remove Sections 7.2.2 and 8.2.3.
VII. New Business
Given that the mask requirement of the College will end on May 18, Ms. Moore proposed that the June Board Public Session meeting be held in-person at the CADE building. Trustees who cannot attend the in-person meeting will be provided with Zoom links prior to the meeting.
VIII. Next Board Meeting – April 12, 2022
IX. Adjournment
The public session meeting adjourned at 5:13 p.m.
A closed session of the Board of Trustees was held on February 22, 2022 via Zoom video conferencing. Pursuant to sections §3-305(b)(7) and §3-305(b)(8) 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, Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Jordan Foley, Jerome W. Klasmeier, A. Price-Jones, JaCina Stanton-Buttrom, Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr. and Dr. Irene Zoppi Rodriguez. Dr. Dawn Lindsay, Melissa Beardmore, Dr. Rick Kralevich, Dr. Tanya Millner, Dr. Felicia Patterson, Erin Parker, Monica Rausa Williams, and Dr. Juvy M. Burns were present as well. Topics discussed included legal advice and consultation about pending or potential litigation. The meeting began at 5:19 p.m. and ended at 5:26 p.m.
Members present: Sandra E. Moore, Chair; Dr. James H. Johnson Jr., Vice Chair; Jordan J. Foley, Jerome W. Klasmeier; JaCina Stanton-Buttrom; Lawrence W. Ulvila Jr.; Dr. Irene Zoppi Rodriguez; and Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Absent: A. Joyce Price-Jones
I. Call to Order
II. Roll Call and Approval of the Agenda
The Board Public Session was called to order by Chair Sandra Moore at 4 p.m. The meeting was open to the public via Zoom Video Communications 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, noting that Ms. Price-Jones was not able to attend the meeting. By motion of Mr. Klasmeier, seconded by Dr. Johnson and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the agenda.
III. Consent Agenda
Ms. Moore presented the Consent Agenda and asked if there was any discussion on the one item included, the Approval of the Minutes of the March 8, 2022, Board of Trustees Public Session meeting. There was no discussion. By motion of Mr. Klasmeier, seconded by Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the Consent Agenda: Approval of the Minutes of the March 8, 2022, Board of Trustees Public Session.
IV. Board Chair and Committee Reports
A. Reports for April
1. Board Chair Report – Sandra E. Moore, Chair
Ms. Moore reported that she, Dr. Lindsay and Dr. Johnson, attended the ACCT Governance Leadership Institute Conference in Philadelphia, PA on March 24-25. The highlights from the conference sessions were included in the Board’s materials, and she encouraged the Board members to review the materials.
She added that Dr. Lindsay participated in a panel discussion, “Highly Effective Boards” and discussed the campus climate survey administered at the College a few years ago, and how it has impacted changes at AACC.
The College’s vision and mission statements will be added to all public session meetings moving forward as a reminder to the Board who they serve and represent. Ms. Moore also stated that AACC email accounts will be created for all the Board of Trustees members. She asked the Board members to complete the profile form they have received for the creation of their AACC email accounts. Once the Board’s AACC email accounts are activated, all College and Board communications will be sent through their AACC email accounts.
2. Board Development Committee - JaCina Stanton-Buttrom, Member
Ms. Stanton-Buttrom reported that the committee met on March 29 and adopted the new Board goals, which are posted in Diligent. She thanked the trustees for their input and feedback to update and revise the Board goals. The committee will work to develop a self-assessment survey to be administered this year as well.
She concluded her report by reminding the Board of the additional Board retreat session with Dr. Helen Benjamin on Tuesday, April 19, at 4:30 p.m. via Zoom, to finish the last part of the original agenda, Board Roles and Responsibilities.
3. Budget Committee – Dr. James H. Johnson Jr., Committee Chair
While the committee had not met since the Board’s last meeting, Dr. Johnson wanted to provide an update on the progress of the College’s budget as it moves through the county approval process. Following the Board’s approval on February 22, the budget was submitted to the county by March 1. On March 30, the College presented its budget request to the County Executive and his team for review. The County Executive will formally submit his budget, that includes the College’s budget request, to the County Council on April 29.
4. Facilities Committee – Jerome W. Klasmeier, Committee Chair
Mr. Klasmeier reported that the Facilities Committee met via Zoom on April 7 to discuss future procurements and campus projects. He shared that the committee received an update on the College’s initial analysis related to the insurance agenda item that is scheduled for Board approval in June.
The preliminary information the committee received regarding the insurance budget was in support of the $95,000 increase that the Board approved in the FY 2023 budget as there are initial indications of increased costs of 10% to 15%. More information will be shared with the committee at its next meeting. There will be one procurement item for Board approval in May and four in June.
The committee also received an update on the planning for the renovation of the Florestano building, as approved by the Board in the FY 2023 – FY 2028 capital budget.
5. Human Resources Committee – Lawrence W. Ulvila Jr., Committee Chair
Mr. Ulvila reported that the committee met via Zoom on March 15 to discuss COVID protocols, supervisor professional development, collective bargaining, tenure and future meetings.
Mr. Ulvila shared a status update for the College’s COVID protocols plan for the rest of the spring term and fall 2022. The College ended vaccine and testing protocols on March 9. However, masks will continue to be required indoors through May 18, and the reporting of positive COVID tests, exposures and symptoms will continue to be required. For fall, classes will be scheduled to meet student demand in terms of modality, and there are no percentage limits for the number of classes in person versus remote.
The committee received an update on the professional development trainings required of all supervisors and the College’s efforts to understand and prepare for collective bargaining legislation. The committee also received an update on the request of The Faculty Organization to expand tenure and the College’s plan to utilize an external consultant to study the issue.
6. AACC Foundation – Lawrence W. Ulvila Jr., Lead Liaison
Mr. Foley shared a student letter of gratitude for the Dr. Thomas E. Florestano Scholarship. Mr. Ulvila shared that the AACC Foundation’s FY22 revenue goal was $1.5 million, and he was pleased to report that the current fiscal year fundraising total is just over $2.4 million in gifts and commitments.
The AACC Foundation was pleased to announce generous gifts received from the Live! Casino & Hotel to continue to support scholarships for students in the dealer school, and Dr. Nadine Chien in memory of her late husband, Dr. Frederick Batzold to advance student success in STEM fields of study. Also, The Philip E. and Carole R. Ratcliffe Foundation signed another three-year commitment of $900,000 to support Ratcliffe Scholarships, entrepreneurial studies, and the business pitch competition at AACC.
The AACC Foundation staff and the consultants at GG+A provided philanthropy training to faculty and staff working on five college projects that may become gift opportunities for AACC Foundation fundraising in FY23.
7. Nominating Committee Report – Lawrence W. Ulvila Jr.
Before Mr. Ulvila presented his committee report, Ms. Moore shared that Dr. Johnson has asked to be replaced as vice chair. She expressed her appreciation and gratitude to Dr. Johnson for all his help this past year.
Mr. Ulvila stated he and Ms. Price-Jones met and discussed how to move forward in filling the role of vice chair. Mr. Ulvila encouraged Ms. Price-Jones to consider serving as vice chair, and she said she did not feel the time was appropriate but would consider it in the future. He reported that the nominating committee’s recommendation for chair next year is Ms. Moore, and he volunteered to serve as vice chair.
Dr. Johnson commented that he is stepping down as vice chair to encourage the involvement of younger trustees, so they may get trained and ensure a smooth succession. Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez thanked Dr. Johnson for all of his work in the community, and indicated that she would be interested in the role of vice chair as she learns more and has the opportunity to grow more.
B. No Reports for April
1. Audit & Finance Committee – Dr. Irene Zoppi Rodriguez, Committee Chair
2. Board Oversight Committee – A. Joyce Price-Jones, Committee Chair
V. President’s Report – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
A. Information Items
1. College Updates – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay announced that AACC was honored to host Dr. Nilesh Kalyanaraman, Anne Arundel County’s Health Officer, for a leadership talk on March 15. She also shared that she attended the League for Innovation in the Community College virtual board meeting on March 17 and that she has been appointed as chair of the board for this year. AACC will be hosting the in-person Fall 2022 League Board meeting in October.
Dr. Lindsay thanked Chair Moore, Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez and Dr. Millner for their support and joining her at the Fort Meade Alliance Gala on April 9.
Dr. Lindsay shared recent recognitions: Dr. Rick Kralevich and Dr. Tanya Millner were selected as New Leaders Honorees by Leadership Anne Arundel and will be honored in an event on April 27; the AACC Police participated in the Polar Bear Police Plunge on March 25, and raised almost $1,000 in support of Special Olympics Maryland; and at the National Council for Marketing and Public Relations national conference held in March, AACC’s Strategic Communications team received 2021 Paragon Awards in the social media category for the podcast, Redefine U Episode 38, "Hallelujah" with Dan Baum and Doug Byerly and in the video category for the team’s work on the Carmencement Recap video.
Dr. Lindsay concluded her report by sharing that this year’s commencement will be held in person at The Hall at Live! Casino & Hotel on Thursday, May 26 with two ceremonies at 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. More information will be shared with the Board once it becomes available.
2. Strategic Plan Update – Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President for Learning
Dr. Millner thanked the Board for giving her the opportunity to provide an update on the strategic plan and share some of the successes the College has accomplished. She noted that this is the second year of the College’s strategic plan Engagement Matters in support of the College’s mission.
The plan has three goals: entry and engagement; progress and growth; and retention and completion; and four objectives: excellence; engagement; innovation; and resources. She stated that there are 40 key performance indicators (KPIs) of the plan that help measure the progress on the goals and objectives. Additionally, Dr. Millner presented a sampling of the priorities and initiatives that the College is working on in support of the College’s strategic plan.
Dr. Millner stated that for the goal of entry and engagement, one of the KPIs is dual enrollment. The College’s dual enrollment was on a growing trend until spring 2021, in which it dropped by 12%, from 1,369 in spring 2021 to 1,201. This trend is consistent with the national trend and the trend for Maryland community colleges. AACC and the Anne Arundel County Public Schools dual enrollment program will launch its inaugural pilot for English Learners in July 2022, in which 100% of the candidates in the first cohort are Hispanic students.
For the goal of progress and growth, one KPI the College uses is course success rates. Course success is defined as a grade of C or higher. The College examines student success through the lens of equity, and data are disaggregated by student characteristics such as race/ethnicity.
Dr. Millner presented Fall 2020 and Fall 2021 course success data, which illustrated that the overall- equity gap for Black/African American students was reduced from approximately 11% in Fall 2020 to 8% in Fall 2021. Closing the equity gap by 3% is significant and reflects the College’s strategic initiatives, such as Model Course and investments in Resiliency Awards to improve online course designs and student success. The equity gap for Hispanic students was roughly 4%, and the course success rate for international students stayed above the institutional average by almost 4%. Dr. Millner noted that strategic initiatives, such as embedding tutors in English and Math online courses, also contributed to the improved course success rate and reduced equity gaps.
For the goal of retention and completion, one KPI used is the 3-year graduation rate. According to the IPEDS data, AACC has the highest 3-year graduation rate among the four largest Maryland community colleges. The graduate rate is also higher than the averages of League for Innovation colleges and the comparison group formed by IPEDS. AACC continues to be positioned as one of the best community colleges in the nation.
The second KPI used is the fall-to-spring retention rate. AACC’s fall-to-spring retention rate increased from 70% last spring to 74% this spring. Dr. Johnson asked how this rate compared with the same cohort of community colleges in the 3-year graduation rates. Dr. Millner stated that she would get the information and share it with the Board.
The third KPI for retention and completion is the number of degrees and certificates awarded. Dr. Millner noted that despite decreases in enrollment, there were increases in both degrees and certificates awarded in 2021, with 2.5% more degrees and 9.4% more certificates awarded than in 2020. Additionally, 36.7% of graduates identified as a minority in 2021.
Dr. Johnson asked Dr. Millner to comment on the use of the term minority vs minoritized. Dr. Millner shared that in the diversity, equity and inclusion literature, there has been a move from characterizing people of color largely as minorities, to being racially minoritized by another group. Dr. Patterson added that minoritize is a verb which reflects that people have been treated differently through social constructs of power and prejudice.
This topic generated a discussion about the use of the term, and the Board members’ reactions to it. The Board asked if they could learn more about using this in the academic context. Chair Moore agreed that this should be a topic the Board should continue to explore, and asked that the president and the vice presidents share more information about the use of the term minoritize vs. minority.
3. Middle States Commission on Higher Education Accreditation Update – Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President for Learning
Dr. Lindsay thanked Dr. Johnson for his role as a liaison between the Board and the Middle States Commission on Higher Education accreditation team, and Dr. Marshall and Dr. Schrader for their leadership. Dr. Millner introduced Dr. Johnson, Dr. Schrader and Dr. Marshall to present an update on the Middle States process.
Dr. Marshall provided an overview of the importance of accreditation and the Board's role in supporting the College’s successful reaccreditation process. The Middle States standards are based upon four guiding principles: mission-centric standards that acknowledge the diversity of the institution; standards that are focused on the student learning experience; standards that emphasize the institutional assessment/assessment of student learning; and standards that support innovation as an essential part of continuous improvement.
The two large components of the reaccreditation process include the Self-Study Report conducted by the College and the on-site evaluation by Middle States. The College’s last reaccreditation was in 2014, and Mid-Point Peer Review in 2018. The College created a Middle States leadership team to continue the process of working on the recommendations from the last accreditation visit, which helped prepare for the upcoming site visit.
There are seven standards on which the College will be assessed during the accreditation process: (1) Mission and Goals; (2) Ethics and Integrity; (3) Design and Delivery of the Student Learning Experience; (4) Support of the Student Experience; (5) Educational Effectiveness Assessment; (6) Planning, Resources, and Institutional Improvement; and (7) Governance, Leadership, and Administration.
The Middle States evaluation team will review the Self-Study Report and conduct on-site interviews (which may be in-person or virtual). The Board may be invited to a meeting with the evaluation team, and likely be part of the welcome dinner, and the final presentation of the Evaluation Team’s Report. Board members should become familiar with the Self-Study Report, which will be provided in June, and the seven standards with which the College will be evaluated.
Dr. Schrader shared the organizational structure, process and timelines for the Self-Study Report and accreditation visit. Currently, the final draft of the Self-Study Report is being reviewed by the president and vice presidents, then it will be sent to the college community for feedback, and submitted to the Board for review in June. The final report will be submitted to the Middle States team for review prior to the reaccreditation visit in Spring 2023.
Dr. Johnson commented that the Board will get the final version of the Self-Study Report on or before June 1, and their comments should be returned to the steering committee by June 17. Dr. Johnson recommended that Board divide into teams to work on specific sections/standards to ensure that everything is reviewed by the Board.
Ms. Moore asked if the Self-Study Report review by the Board would be held during a public session. Dr. Johnson commented they could set-up a different meeting; however, since there is a very narrow time frame with a little more than two weeks to read and comment, the Board may want to assign sections to review. Ms. Moore asked the Board members to review the seven standards and send their preferences for their first and second choice, and perhaps a third, for which standard to review, and she and Dr. Johnson will work together to make the assignments.
Dr. Schrader thanked Dr. Johnson for his active participation and commitment; the steering committee, work team chairs, members, editors, and the college community for their efforts; and the president and vice presidents for their involvement throughout the whole process, which was also echoed by Dr. Marshall and Dr. Lindsay.
On behalf of the Board, Ms. Moore commended the team for their hard work on the Self-Study Report. Dr. Johnson also congratulated the team for the approach, progress, and the teamwork developing the report. Mr. Klasmeier expressed his appreciation to Dr. Johnson for his efforts as a Board representative to the accreditation team, and Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez thanked him as well.
4. Academic Forum/Council – Dr. Candice Hill, Chair
Dr. Hill reported that the Academic Forum/Council has created an ad hoc committee to look at definitions for instructional modalities, such as online sync, to ensure that faculty are clear with their students on what they are signing up for. The nominating committee is working on the committee slates for next academic year. Dr. Hill concluded her report by sharing that the next Academic Forum is scheduled for April 28.
5. Administrative Staff Organization – Jill Bennett, President
Ms. Bennett reported that she attended the National Council of Marketing and Public Relations Professionals Conference in Denver, Colorado, and one of the things that she observed is that AACC is one of the leading colleges from which others are learning from.
It also made her wonder about the role other ASO members play within their own professional and community organizations. She asked the question to her fellow members, and included in the Board’s materials were a sampling of the ASO members’ impressive recognitions and service on college-wide committees. She concluded her report by sharing that at the next ASO meeting, they will be electing a new slate of officers for next year.
6. Professional and Support Staff Organization – Pat Shoemaker, President
Ms. Shoemaker reported that PSSO ‘s last meeting for the academic year will be May 5. On April 19, PSSO will be hosting an Open Forum with Dr. Lindsay and the vice presidents. The newly elected officers will be announced by the end of May. Additionally, she stated that many PSSO members will be volunteering for the upcoming in-person AACC commencement ceremonies. She concluded her report by sharing that PSSO is preparing for its annual retreat which will focus on diversity and inclusion training.
Ms. Shoemaker reflected upon the scholarship letter that was read during the Foundation report. In the financial aid office, where she works, she sees how much it makes a difference for the students. She noted that every donation is truly appreciated. Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez concurred, and committed to donating to the Foundation for a scholarship.
7. Student Government Association – Benjamin Nussbaumer, President
Mr. Nussbaumer reported that SGA is preparing for the election of next year’s officers. The association is planning to host a variety of events, and is in the process of planning the end-of -year party.
Currently, SGA is accepting nominations for the Impact and Engagement Awards in collaboration with the Student Achievement and Success Program. He concluded his report by sharing that the SGA has approved a new group on campus, the Muslim Student Association.
Ms. Moore asked if the student association has voted on the new student Board member. Mr. Nussbaumer commented that he would have to look into that and get back to her. Later in the meeting, Ms. Moore noted that the selection of the student board members is through a different process, and there was no follow-up needed.
8. The Faculty Organization – Dr. Nicole Williams, President
Dr. Williams reported that the last TFO meeting was March 17. She shared brief committee updates including that the TFO Handbook committee completed its work and will present it at the TFO Convocation, and that the Shared Governance committee facilitated the process to collect questions for a Collective Bargaining Open Forum on March 29.
Dr. Williams shared changes made by the adjunct faculty affairs on committee membership and to remove the requirement of department/college service for Lecture III promotion. She concluded her report by noting that TFO voted on the number of approved senators for each affinity group, and that the next TFO meeting scheduled for April 20 at 3:30 p.m., is convocation.
9. Maryland Association of Community Colleges Activities – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay shared that the 442nd Session of the Maryland General Assembly adjourned at midnight on April 11. She stated that MACC will provide a written report on the 2022 session, and a summary of the report will be shared with the Board.
Dr. Lindsay concluded her report by reminding the Board that the MACC Annual Trustee Leadership Conference and Gubernatorial Forum is scheduled on Thursday, April 28, from 3:00 – 6:30 p.m., at AACC’s Health and Life Sciences Building.
VI. New Business
There was no new business.
VII. Next Board Meeting – May 10, 2022
VIII. Vote to Close Meeting / Adjournment of Public Session
The public session meeting adjourned at 5:22 p.m. and by motion of Mr. Ulvila, seconded by Dr. Johnson and a roll taken of the trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees voted unanimously to move into a closed session meeting.
Members present: Sandra E. Moore, Chair; Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Vice Chair; Jordan J. Foley, A. Joyce Price-Jones; Jerome W. Klasmeier; JaCina Stanton-Buttrom; Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr.; and Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Absent: Dr. Irene Zoppi Rodriguez
I. Call to Order
II. Roll Call and Approval of the Agenda
The Board Public Session was called to order by Chair Sandra Moore at 4:00 p.m. The meeting was open to the public via Zoom Video Communications 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, noting that Dr. Zoppi Rodriguez was not able to attend the meeting. 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. Consent 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 Mr. Klasmeier, seconded by Ms. Price-Jones and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the Consent Agenda:
IV. Board Chair and Committee Reports
A. Reports for May
1. Board Chair Report – Sandra E. Moore, Chair
Ms. Moore shared that at the last public session of the Board of Trustees, there were a number of comments by members of the Board after the presentation from Dr. Millner centered around the word “minoritize.” She was made aware after the meeting that there was concern among faculty members that the intention of the Board was to remove all references to the word “minoritize” in any future reports.
Ms. Moore assured the faculty that the word, whether liked or disliked or simply misunderstood by the Board, will not be removed from reports or scholarly references, citing the Academic Freedom Policy, which the Board approved and follows.
What was voiced from the Board were opinions, and everyone has the right to express their concerns and opinions, and all are valued. However, what became clear is that the Board needed to learn more about the word “minoritize” and seek to understand its effect on all people. The Board participated in a training opportunity, and had an excellent discussion with Dr. Helen Benjamin, which has given the Board a deeper understanding of the word and a new respect for the opinions of all. The Board will be pursuing other learning opportunities in late summer or fall this year.
Ms. Moore concluded her statement by saying that words matter and can have a profound effect on others. By coming together, and truly listening and hearing the concerns of others, everyone can keep learning and moving forward.
2. Board Development Committee – A. Joyce Price-Jones, Committee Chair
Ms. Price-Jones reported that the committee met on May 4, 2022 and discussed possible diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) training for Board members in the fall of 2022; the role and responsibilities of the Board as it relates to DEI for the College; the current DEI training/programs at the College which are included in this meeting; and the Board’s recently approved goals, which includes a commitment to “welcome and support the success of all employees and students, regardless of age, race ethnicity, gender, identity, learning differences, sexual orientation, or religion.”
The committee recommends that the Office of Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Access and Leadership provide an overview of College programs related to DEI at the June meeting. The committee will convene in September to determine if there is a consensus for a formal DEI training for the Board.
3. Budget Committee – Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Committee Chair
Dr. Johnson reported that the committee met on April 19 to discuss the FY 2023 County Executive’s budget and a plan to accommodate a potential county funding reduction.
The County Executive’s budget was formally presented to the County Council and included a $1 million reduction in county funding for the operating budget, and slight modifications to the fiber infrastructure and student services center capital budget projects in FY2024-2028. The College has made adjustments to the FY 2023 operating budget to accommodate this reduction, and will continue to work with the County to ensure the success of the College’s capital projects in future budget cycles.
The College presented its budget to the County Council on May 5 and asked that they maintain the County Executive’s operating and capital budgets. Dr. Johnson concluded his report by stating that the College will continue to work with the County Council to ensure approval and full funding of the College’s operating and capital budgets as put forward by the County Executive.
4. Facilities Committee – Jerome W. Klasmeier, Committee Chair
Mr. Klasmeier reported that the Facilities committee met on May 3 and discussed the following topics: the County Executive’s FY 2023-2028 capital budget, noting that full funding was provided for the FY 2023 requests; future procurements, including the two on the agenda for this meeting; and updates on campus projects, including the planning for the renovation of the Florestano and Dragun buildings.
Mr. Klasmeier concluded his report by stating that the next committee meeting is rescheduled from June 7 to June 9.
5. AACC Foundation – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Lead Liaison
Mr. Foley shared a student letter of gratitude for the Pathways to Credit Studies Scholarship. Mr. Ulvila shared that the AACC Foundation’s FY22 revenue goal was $1.5 million, and was pleased to report that the current fiscal year fundraising total is approximately $2.4 million in gifts and commitments.
Crosby Marketing recently contributed $100,000 to fund a four-year pilot at the College to provide underrepresented students with extensive mentoring and learning opportunities for those interested in pursuing degrees and future careers in the advertising and public relations field.
The AACC Foundation staff and the consultants at GG+A concluded the philanthropy training session for faculty and staff working on five college projects that are candidates to become gift opportunities for AACC Foundation fundraising. A more extensive update on this process will be provided at the meeting in June.
i. Approval of Naming Opportunity for Campus Office Building
Mr. Vollie Melson presented a naming opportunity for the Board’s consideration and recognition of Henry “Hank” Libby’s exceptional leadership and generosity in advancing philanthropy at the College. The proposal is to name the building currently known as the Isaac Cox house in honor of Henry “Hank” Libby, who meets the conditions and criteria set forth in the procedures for naming college properties, programs, and positions.
Mr. Ulvila moved to approve naming of the building currently known as the Isaac Cox house in honor of Henry “Hank” Libby, which was seconded by Dr. Johnson.
Ms. Moore asked about the name on the sign of the building if the motion was approved, and Mr. Melson responded that the sign to will read the Henry “Hank” Libby Building.
A roll call was taken of trustees to determine their vote, and the Board of Trustees unanimously approved naming the building currently known as the Isaac Cox house in honor of Henry “Hank” Libby, who meets the conditions and criteria set forth in the Procedures for Naming College Properties, Programs, and Positions.
ii. Approval of Relocation of Donor Plaques
Mr. Melson presented the item for the relocation of two plaques that recognize the charitable contributions given by the Carol M. Jacobsohn Foundation, the family foundation of Mr. Hank Libby, to support AACC’s Health Science programs.
On May 12, 2015 the Board approved the placing of the plaques in the Florestano building in specific rooms and included language stating that the plaques would be maintained in comparable space associated with the health science programs. In order to fulfill the intent of those 2015 motions, the Board is asked to approve the relocation of these two plaques from the Florestano Building to Room 339, the Medical Technician Lab, and Room 160S, in the Simulation Laboratory, of the new Health and Life Sciences Building.
By motion of Mr. Ulvila, seconded by Mr. Klasmeier, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the relocation of the two donor plaques to Room 339 and Room 160S of the Health and Life Sciences Building to fulfill the intent of the original motions passed by the Board in 2015.
6. Election of Board Officers – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr.
Mr. Ulvila stated that per the Board bylaws and as announced at the April Board Public Session meeting, the Nominating Committee recommends Sandra E. Moore as chair, and Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., as vice chair of the Board of Trustees.
By motion of Mr. Ulvila, seconded by Mr. Klasmeier, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the election of Sandra E. Moore as returning chair and Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr. for the office of vice chair of the Anne Arundel Community College Board of Trustees for the term beginning July 1, 2022 through June 30, 2023.
Ms. Moore expressed her gratitude to the Board for its confidence in electing her again to chair the Board. She welcomed Mr. Ulvila as incoming vice chair and thanked outgoing vice chair, Dr. Johnson for a great year of Board partnership and service.
B. No Reports for May
1. Audit & Finance Committee – Dr. Irene Zoppi Rodriguez, Committee Chair
2. Board Oversight Committee – A. Joyce Price-Jones, Committee Chair
3. Human Resource Committee - Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Committee Chair
V. President’s Report – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
A. Information Items
1. College Updates – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay expressed that it has been a very busy month, with the end of the semester approaching and an increase of in-person events, and honors and award celebrations for the students, faculty and staff.
Dr. Lindsay was pleased to share that AACC’s Business Pitch Competition was held on April 26 where eight businesses vied for prize money in AACC’s version of Shark Tank. She thanked the Philip E. and Carole R. Ratcliffe Foundation for their generous financial support of the Entrepreneurial Studies Institute and our students.
She announced recent recognitions, accomplishments, and events: Drs. Rick Kralevich and Tanya Millner were recognized as New Leaders Honorees by Leadership Anne Arundel on April 27; on April 29, the College celebrated the launch of the AACC Journal of Emerging Scholarship, which provides the opportunity for peer-reviewed publications of undergraduate student research at AACC; AACC hosted the Maryland Collegiate STEM Conference on April 30, in which more than 300 students, faculty and staff participated; on April 28, Dr. Lindsay hosted a luncheon for valedictorian candidates; and that evening attended the 2022 Impact and Excellence Awards, hosted by the Student Government Association, in collaboration with the Student Achievement and Success Program and Office of Student Engagement; and Dr. Tanya Millner attended the Phi Theta Kappa – All Maryland Community Colleges Recognition event.
Dr. Lindsay announced that AACC will receive the 2022 Greater Baltimore Committee Regional Visionary Award on May 25, and will be recognized with five other community colleges as leaders of workforce development.
Dr. Lindsay concluded her report by thanking the constituency group leaders for spearheading the College’s in-person Employee Appreciation Event, scheduled for Thursday, May 19 and reminded the Board about commencement on May 26 at the Hall at Live! Casino & Hotel.
i. Revisions to College Manual- Information Item
Dr. Lindsay presented revisions to the College Manual, Sections 6.4 Rank and Section 6.6 Promotions as information item to the Board. The Faculty Organization approved a motion to remove the department and College service requirements for Lecturer III. However, the College Manual was not updated to include Lecturer III rank and criteria. The purpose of the revision is to include Lecturer III (without the service requirements) before the start of the next Academic Year.
The procedures for promotions need to be updated for the new criteria as well. The 2nd revision, Section 6.6, is to remove the current procedures from the Manual as the procedures will be developed on the College level. These revisions will be presented to the Board for approval at the June 14 Public Session meeting.
2. Affirmative Action Report – Dr. Tiffany Boykin, Chief Compliance & Fair Practices Officer
Dr. Boykin, in her role, works closely with the Human Resources Office, and the Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer to ensure the College’s Affirmation Action Plan (AAP) and employment practices do not intentionally or unintentionally exclude persons on the basis of any protected groups. The analysis, which includes women and minorities, individuals with disabilities, and individuals with veteran status, looks at employment data from November 1, 2020 – October 1, 2021.
The development and implementation of action-oriented programs have aligned with the College’s strategic plan priorities. The college has updated its Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action Statement to make sure it is consistent and aligned with compliance requirements, and it is available to all applicants and employees.
Dr. Boykin shared some recruitment strategies to encourage qualified minority and female applicants to apply for available job openings, and discussed the continued training for all search committees and chairs, communicating placement goals to search committee chairs. She discussed some retention strategies for current employees, encouraging minority, women, and employees with disabilities and protected veteran status to participate in AACC’s leadership programs.
Mr. Klasmeier asked if there is anything in the College’s hiring process that impedes its ability to remedy deficiencies in the workforce in which it would like more minority representation. Dr. Boykin responded she does not believe there is anything specific in the College’s practices that impedes; however, there are a number of factors that contribute to the challenges. There are opportunities for improvement, and in collaboration with Human Resources and the Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer, they are maximizing efforts to look at data and think of innovative ways to engage and attract diverse applicants to the College.
Ms. Stanton-Buttrom asked if the specific placement goals for job groups under the recruitment strategies can be provided. Dr. Boykin stated that the placement goals are included in the Executive Summary report. Dr. Lindsay commented that the Executive Summary report will be posted in the Diligent Board portal for reference by Board members.
3. Achieving the Dream and USC Race and Equity Center Racial Equity Leadership Academy Update – Dr. Kellie McCants-Price, Interim Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer
Dr. McCants-Price shared that AACC was one of ten community colleges in the nation selected to participate in the Racial Equity Leadership Academy (RELA), which is a joint venture between Achieving the Dream and the University of Southern California Race and Equity Center, funded by the Greater Texas Foundation and the Kresge Foundation. The AACC RELA team includes Dr. Lindsay, Dr. Felicia Patterson, Dr. Tanya Millner, Dr. Alycia Marshall and Dr. McCants-Price. Each team needs to develop a long-range vision that will guide racial equity change efforts at the College.
AACC’s racial equity change effort focuses on employee retention and creating a more welcoming and inclusive campus. The effort includes: developing and implementing college-wide diversity, equity, inclusion and antiracist (DEIA) training and aligning training to focus on appropriate organizational levels to build institutional capacity in advancing equity; approaching work from an antiracist perspective institutional data for continuous improvement; assessing processes needed to launch Employee Resource Groups, which will help increase coalition-building and support for racially minoritized and other marginalized employee groups on campus, including populations with intersecting identities; and eliminating existing racialized gaps in emeritus status attainment for AACC faculty by overhauling emeritus requirements.
Each faculty, staff, and administrator will participate in at least five DEIA professional development sessions in FY23 and have at least one professional goal centered on diversity, equity and inclusion, specific to their work.
Dr. McCants-Price concluded her report by stating that the division of learning will be working on addressing gaps found in the emeritus data based on race.
4. Middle States Commission on Higher Education Accreditation Update – Dr. Gregory Schrader, Steering Committee Chair
Dr. Schrader reported that the Steering Committee presented to the college community the process of accreditation and provided guidance for their review of the Self-Study Report. The college community received the Self-Study Report, and feedback is due by May 13. Additionally, two open forums were held for the college community regarding their feedback. The Board of Trustees will receive the edited Self-Study Report on or before June 2 for review and are asked to provide their feedback by June 30.
Dr. Schrader shared that he, Dr. Lindsay, and Dr. Marshall are scheduled to meet with the Middle States Commission on Higher Education site-visit chair to discuss the upcoming accreditation in March 2023. The final report will be sent to the site visit team in early December. Dr. Schrader concluded his report by sharing that the communications team continues to provide the college community with periodic updates on the progress of the accreditation process.
5. Academic Forum/Council – Dr. Candice Hill, Chair
Dr. Hill shared that the Academic Council had its final academic forum meeting on April 28, in which the nine standing committees reported out their year end goal reports. She stated that these committees have been focused on goals related to diversity, equity and inclusion work, improving the capability of the College’s adjunct voices, being more inclusive of Professional and Support Staff Organization colleagues, and strategies for increased student engagement and retention.
Dr. Hill highlighted the accomplishments of the Educational Policies and Curriculum committee, Academic Integrity Review committee, Committee on Academic Standards, and Committee on Teaching and Learning. She concluded her report by adding that these committees have also been responsible for the professional development for faculty and staff on online courses by looking at the College’s academic integrity policy designs for learning grants, diversity, equity and inclusion work, and best practices on teaching.
6. Administrative Staff Organization – Jill Bennett, President
Ms. Bennett reported that the ASO elected the new officers for FY 2023 and she will return as President. The organization had its final meeting for the year on April 27 and discussed increasing in-person presence on campus; commitment to balancing the needs of staff, faculty, and students; the need to improve perception of openness in a remote environment; and challenges of creating excitement and connection in a hybrid work world.
Ms. Bennett concluded her report by sharing the success and leadership accomplishments of some the ASO members. She also thanked the ASO members who volunteered to draft the committee policies.
7. Professional and Support Staff Organization – Pat Shoemaker, President
Ms. Shoemaker reported that the last PSSO meeting for the academic year was held on May 5, and new officers for the next year were elected. John Dayton will be the incoming president. She shared that the last Open Forum with Dr. Lindsay and the vice presidents, had 90 attendees. PSSO approved a revised charter, and shared some highlights of PSSO members.
She concluded her report by announcing that Dr. McCants-Price will be presenting two diversity sessions as part of the PSSO Retreat on June 7. In addition to those sessions, PSSO will review the current year’s goals and set the organization goals for the incoming year.
8. Student Government Association – Benjamin Nussbaumer, President
Mr. Nussbaumer reported that the SGA has elected its officers for FY 2022-23 and is in the process of planning training for the new 2022-2023 SGA members. He shared that the association hosted events for the student body and it has collaborated with the Office of Student Engagement and the Health and Wellness Center to host a Stress Less Fest which included massage therapy students offering free massages, and education from health and wellness and the counseling center.
He concluded his report by sharing that the association hosted games, a trivia tournament and sponsored the end-of-the-year event with the Latinx club.
9. The Faculty Organization – Dr. Nicole Williams, President
Dr. Williams reported on the April 20 TFO meeting. A motion presented by the Adjunct Faculty Affairs committee passed and the two motions presented by the Shared Governance committee will be voted on at the May TFO meeting. Additionally, a motion on forming an ad hoc committee that would conduct research on the various unions was passed.
Dr. Williams concluded her report by highlighting the awards received by three faculty members, and that the next TFO meeting scheduled for May 12 is convocation.
10. Maryland Association of Community Colleges Activities – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay was pleased to report that all trustees were able to attend the MACC Annual Trustee Leadership Conference and Governor’s Candidate Forum on Thursday, April 28 either in-person or virtually. She recognized Trustee and MACC President, Larry Ulvila for the wonderful job at moderating the forum, thanked the AACC Instructional and Information Technology team and event services staff who worked with MACC to make the conference and forum a success.
The presentations from the Leadership Conference, including the MACC Update by Brad Phillips, the Legal Update from Rob Duston and the 2022 MACC Legislative Committee Report, which summarizes the highlights of the 2022 Session and outlines the key bills the committee followed throughout the 90-day session, are included in the Board’s materials.
VI. New Business
There was no new business.
VII. Next Board Meeting – June 14, 2022, CADE 219
Ms. Moore encouraged everyone to be present at the next Board Public Session meeting which will be held in-person on June 14, 2022 in CADE 219.
VIII. Adjournment
The public session meeting adjourned at 5:15 p.m.
A closed session of the Board of Trustees was held on April 12, 2022 via Zoom Video Conferencing. Pursuant to sections §3-305(b)(7) and §3-305(b)(8) 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(b)(2). The following Board members were present and voted to close the session: Sandra E. Moore, Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Jordan Foley, Jerome W. Klasmeier, JaCina Stanton-Buttrom, Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr. and Dr. Irene Zoppi Rodriguez. Dr. Dawn Lindsay, Melissa Beardmore, Dr. Rick Kralevich, Dr. Tanya Millner, Dr. Felicia Patterson, Erin Parker, Vollie Melson, Monica Rausa Williams, and Dr. Juvy M. Burns were present as well. Topic discussed included the reputation of an individual related to a naming opportunity. The meeting began at 5:31 p.m. and ended at 5:41 p.m.
A session of the Board of Trustees was held on April 19, 2022 at 4:30 p.m. via Zoom Video Conferencing. Pursuant to Md. Code, Gen. Prov., § 3-104, the Board met to carry out an administrative function. The following board members were present: Sandra E. Moore, Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Jordan Foley, Jerome W. Klasmeier, A. Joyce Price-Jones, JaCina Stanton-Buttrom (left at 6:11 p.m.), Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., and Dr. Irene Zoppi Rodriguez. Dr. Dawn Lindsay, Dr. Helen Benjamin and Monica Rausa Williams were present as well. Topics discussed included the Board’s goals, as it relates to the Board’s statutory powers and duties under Md. Code, Educ., § 16-101 et. seq. The meeting began at 4:30 p.m. and ended at 7:00 p.m.
Members present: Sandra E. Moore, Chair; Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Vice Chair; A. Joyce
Price-Jones; JaCina Stanton-Buttrom; Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr.; and Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Absent: Dr. Irene Zoppi Rodriguez; Jordan J. Foley; and Jerome W. Klasmeier
I. Call to Order
II. Roll Call and Approval of the Agenda
The Board Public Session was called to order by Chair Sandra Moore at 4:00 p.m. The meeting was open to the public via Zoom Video Communications 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 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. Ms. Moore asked that it be noted that a quorum had been established for the meeting.
III. Welcome and Introductions
IV. Recognitions
Ms. Moore, on behalf of the Board of Trustees, recognized Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr. for his service and contributions as Vice Chair over the past year and also acknowledged the significant contributions he has made since his original appointment to the Board in 2006 which include Board Chair, Board Liaison to the Middle States Steering Committee, Liaison to the Maryland Association of Community Colleges, and Chair of the Board Budget Committee. Ms. Moore expressed gratitude for having been able to attend with Dr. Johnson and Dr. Lindsay the Association of Community Colleges Trustees Governance Leadership Conference, as well as the Anne Arundel County Chamber of Commerce dinner in October of 2021, where she had the honor of introducing Dr. Johnson as he was inducted into the Business Hall of Fame.
On behalf of the Board of Trustees, Ms. Moore thanked outgoing student board member, Jordan J. Foley for his contributions and for an excellent job representing AACC students and for sharing that perspective with the Board. Mr. Foley served as a member of the Board Development committee and was a Liaison to the AACC Foundation Board of Directors. As a token of gratitude for Mr. Foley’s contributions, he will receive a plaque from the Board.
V. Consent 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 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 Consent Agenda:
VI. Faculty Emeritus
Dr. Millner asked the Board of Trustees to approve the award of Professor Emeritus status to Dr. Silvia H. Ingram; Dr. Javanka H. Mody; Dr. Donald P. Orso; and Dr. David Tengwall. The candidates have been recommended as outstanding, as measured against the criteria set forth in the College Manual 4.8.3.8 and were forwarded by the Deans to the Provost of Learning and then to the President. In a full review, each candidate fully met the criteria required for emeritus status. If approved, the candidates will be listed in the AACC Catalog as Professor Emeritus and will enjoy the benefits that pertain to this status.
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 award of Professor Emeritus status to Dr. Silvia H. Ingram; Dr. Javanka H. Mody; Dr. Donald P. Orso; and Dr. David Tengwall.
Mr. Ulvila noted the impressive body of work of the candidates to which Ms. Moore concurred and offered congratulations.
Dr. Lindsay introduced the candidates and shared highlights of the service of each, offering congratulations.
VII. Board Chair and Committee Reports
A. Reports for May
1. Board Chair Report – Sandra E. Moore, Chair
Ms. Moore stated that there was no Board Chair Report.
2. Board Policy Oversight Committee – Sandra E. Moore, Chair
Ms. Moore stated that the College would like to update the Tuition and Residency Requirement Policy to align with the requirements for in-state tuition for returned Peace Corp volunteers, as well as homeless youth and foster care, which goes into effect July 1, 2022 and recommends the update be via an interim policy to meet the effective date of the law and to allow time for the full vetting process to occur later. As outlined in the Policy on Development of Policies and Procedures, the President may request a delegation of authority from the Board to the President to create an interim policy. The Board can then delegate authority to the President to approve an interim policy when a policy action needs to be completed within a time period in compliance with applicable laws and to meet urgent operational needs. The Board Policy Oversight Committee supports this request.
Dr. Johnson asked if this request was being made in order to remain in compliance with state law, to which Ms. Moore confirmed. The Board did not have any objections, and delegated authority to the President to revise the interim Tuition and Residency Requirement Policy.
3. Facilities Committee – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Committee Member
Mr. Ulvila reported, on behalf of the Committee Chair, that the committee met on June 9 and discussed a real estate matter, future procurements and campus projects, which included an update on the renovation of the Florestano and Dragun buildings.
4. Human Resources Committee – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Committee Chair
Mr. Ulvila reported that the committee met on June 2 and discussed the College’s proposed plan to review the academic portfolio and academic resources along with the Teaching Faculty Organization (TFO)’s request to expand tenure. The committee supports moving forward and recognizes this work as important in enhancing the College’s planning, resources, and institutional effectiveness assessment processes. In addition, the committee supports the separate study of the TFO request to expand tenure.
An update was provided to the committee on the College’s Fall 2022 Plans which include providing additional in-person courses and services that complement existing remote courses and services.
The committee was informed that the College’s Human Resources department received the 2022 College and University Professional Association (CUPA) Innovation Award in recognition of its new EXCELL Performance Coaching Conversation model. Special thanks was given to John Engelhardt who spearheaded this effort.
5. AACC Foundation – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Lead Liaison
Mr. Ulvila shared a student thank you letter from a student for a scholarship for associate degree completion. Mr. Ulvila gave a Foundation fundraising update, reporting that the AACC Foundation FY 22 revenue goal set at $1.5 million was exceeded and the fundraising total as of May 31, 2022 was just over $2.5 million in gifts and commitments. Mr. Ulvila added that all Foundation Board members contributed and thanked them for their leadership and generosity.
Mr. Ulvila shared that Maryland Live! Casino and Hotel announced its intention to gift $1 million dollars to the College over 10 years to support student scholarships in the gaming and hospitality industry. As a long-standing partner, Live! has donated to AACC close to $900,000 since 2012 for student scholarships.
Mr. Ulvila reported that as part of the implementation of the AACC Foundation Strategic Plan, Foundation staff continue to work with college leadership to identify fundraising opportunities for the upcoming year and that this involves Foundation staff being represented on college wide planning committees, as appropriate, to ensure philanthropy is integrated into long-term and short-term planning.
6. Approval of Board of Trustees Meeting Dates for 2022-2023
Dr. Lindsay asked the Board of Trustees to approve its 2022-2023 meeting dates.
Mr. Ulvila asked that the Board be aware that the November meeting date is Election Day. Ms. Moore asked if the College is a polling location to which Dr. Lindsay replied that it is not.
By motion of Ms. Stanton-Buttrom, seconded by Ms. Price-Jones and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approve the meeting dates for the Board of Trustees for 2022-2023.
B. No Reports for April
1. Audit & Finance Committee – Dr. Irene Zoppi Rodriguez, Committee Chair
2. Board Development Committee – A. Joyce Price-Jones, Committee Chair
3. Budget Committee – Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Committee Chair
VIII. President’s Report
A. Information Items
1. College Updates – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay reported that in celebration of the accomplishments of the College’s faculty and staff, on May 19, an in-person employee appreciation event was hosted by the College, allowing colleagues to reconnect and engage. The 60th Anniversary Commencement included approximately 2,044 graduates with approximately 2,488 degrees and certificates and about 500 graduates participating in the two ceremonies on May 26 held at the Hall at Maryland Live! and Casino and Hotel which was live-streamed and viewed by more than 19 countries. Dr. Lindsay gave thanks to the Commencement Committee for their planning.
Dr. Lindsay shared that the College received the Greater Baltimore Committee (GBC)’s Regional Visionary Award on May 25. The GBC is actively engaged in a regional workforce development initiative called Preparing for the Future focused on the importance of education and training of the future workforce for job opportunities in industry sectors expected to grow over the next 10 years. The College was one of six community colleges recognized for leadership in extraordinary workforce development programs which have benefited businesses and the greater community of the Baltimore area.
Dr. Lindsay shared that the College honored AACC retirees from 2020, 2021 and 2022 at the Retirees Reception to honor and recognize their contributions and was held in the lobby of the Health and Life Sciences building. On June 8, the Foundation Board of Directors held a special reception to dedicate the Henry “Hank” Libby building in honor of Mr. Libby’s contributions, leadership and support of the College. The Foundation building will now be known as the Henry “Hank” Libby building.
Dr. Lindsay reported that Crosby Marketing has given the College $100,000 to work with underrepresented students interested in public relations and marketing. The comprehensive program will offer students an internal mentor and participation in a summer internship program.
On June 13, Dr. Lindsay visited Maryland Live! Casino and Hotel and was presented with a $1 million dollar check which will be given in $100,000 increments over 10 years in honor of their 10-year anniversary and in support of scholarships for gaming and hospitality.
Dr. Lindsay was pleased to announce that the County Council has approved the County’s FY 2023 budget and was able to support the County Executive’s budget for the College, as was requested. In addition, the County Executive initiated additional supplemental restricted one-time funds in FY 2023 to support the College’s compensation program which was supported by the County Council. Dr. Lindsay expressed appreciation for the additional one-time funds and stated that the College will work with the Board Budget Committee regarding the implementation plan for these funds.
2. Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Access and Leadership (IDEAL) Office Update – Dr. Kellie McCants-Price, Interim Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer
Dr. McCants-Price shared that effective July 1, the College will be implementing the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Antiracism (DEIA) Professional Growth and Development Plan, which requires all administrators, faculty and staff to complete five DEIA professional development experiences in FY23, as well as to develop one DEIA professional goal for the year.
Working with the Division of Information and Instructional Technology, IDEAL has also created a pilot for Language Line services which will provide, for students and families for whom English is not their first language, telephonic support with translation and interpretation. Research is being conducted on cultural observances with support from the library and Learner Support Services by raising awareness and in planning events around these observances. In addition, a three-person team has been formed to review and address bias incidents.
Dr. McCants-Price shared that IDEAL office, in support of faculty, is providing Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) oversight for the Model Course program which supports faculty in creating pedagogy and in how to show instructors to be more inclusive and equitable for students. Additionally, professional development faculty consultation is being provided and an examination of equity gaps in emeritus faculty and administrative data is being conducted.
The IDEAL office, in support of students, is looking for a location for a serenity space, and is providing professional growth and development sessions, as well as facilitation of DEI training.
In support of employees, the IDEAL office provides DEI training support for search committees and reviews the search committee composition and interview questions to ensure they are inclusive and equitable. Also, research is being conducted on the implementation of Employee Resource Groups to ensure that the work is done well.
In conclusion, Dr. McCants-Price shared that the IDEAL office is in the process of hiring an interim Coordinator for Inclusive Excellence and has completed the Maryland Higher Education Commission Cultural Diversity Report.
Dr. Johnson asked in regards to Facilitating DEI training for student groups, for what target environment students are being trained? Dr. McCants-Price responded that the training will prepare students to interface with a diverse world, to be able to work in difficult political climates, and to be bridge builders within the communities they find themselves after leaving AACC. Dr. McCants-Price shared that the College had an opportunity with the Speak Out Institute for low cost virtual DEI experiences for students, which the office was able to support eight students in participating.
Ms. Price-Jones applauded the work of the IDEAL office and the hard work being done to address these issues.
3. AACC Foundation Update – Mr. Vollie Melson, Executive Director, AACC Foundation
Mr. Melson provided a presentation on the AACC Foundation, beginning with a wrap-up of the last campaign (July 2017 through June 2021) which raised approximately $10 million in gifts and commitments, including $4.4 million for scholarships, $4.3 million for the Clauson Center, and $1.2 million for program support. In FY22, the AACCF Board, working with consultants and college leadership, adopted a new strategic plan titled Aspiring to Become the College’s Indispensable Philanthropic Partner, and developed a three-year comprehensive plan. The plan’s key components include a collaborative planning structure to identify philanthropic needs and to ensure AACCF inclusion in appropriate select college project teams which will ensure inclusion of a philanthropic component in planning and implementation. This will aid the Foundation in leveraging key community relationships and philanthropic investments to ensure the success of college initiatives. In addition, there will be regular progress assessment meetings between the College and the Foundation.
Mr. Melson stated that focus areas of the plan include: building the workforce (traditional workforce development programs and core credit programs that meet the needs of employers); diversified scholarships (wrap around services and resources needed by the College to recruit and retain students); diversity, equity and inclusion; and corporate partnerships (engagement and leverage of resources available through business and community leaders).
FY22 was the first year of implementation of the plan. As a key priority, philanthropic training was provided to Foundation Board members, the AACC Board of Trustees, President’s Cabinet and Foundation staff. Workshops were also conducted with members of five college project teams.
Mr. Melson reported that the AACCF refreshed its mission statement and adopted a new vision statement which closely aligns to the vision and mission of the College and highlights the Foundation’s leveraging of community partnerships and relationships in support of the College.
Mr. Melson acknowledged the generosity of donors and shared that new gifts and commitments are over $2.5 million. Additional highlights of FY22 include the transfer of ownership of the Clauson Center from the Foundation to AACC and the expansion of new corporate partnerships which expand AACC’s relationships with business and community leaders.
Mr. Melson shared that AACCF scholarship dollars transferred to students continues to trend over $1 million since 2018 and AACCF additional support to the College also continues to grow.
Looking forward in FY23, Mr. Melson stated that the College has asked the Foundation to focus fundraising on raising scholarships for nursing and related health programs, as well as workforce development programs, and to support the College’s initiative for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Antiracism. AACCF will be working collaboratively across the AACC community to expand relationships in these areas.
Mr. Ulvila asked what is the percentage of students attending the Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades who have received scholarships? Mr. Melson stated that he is unable to give a percentage.
4. Middle States Commission on Higher Education Accreditation Update – Dr. Gregory Schrader, Steering Committee Chair
Dr. Schrader reported that the Committee met on June 3 and will continue to meet throughout the summer. On May 17, Dr. Lindsay, Dr. Millner and Dr. Schrader met with the site visit chair, Dr. Claudia Schrader to discuss the March 12-15, 2023, site visit. Dr. Claudia Schrader’s preliminary visit will occur on October 11 when she will meet with Dr. Lindsay, the steering committee, board members, as well as student and faculty representatives and the School’s senior leadership team. The purpose of her visit is to introduce herself and to ensure the self-study process is moving forward in the right direction towards the March site visit, as well as to address any questions and practical preparation for her team’s visit.
Dr. Schrader stated that the Board received on May 27 an edited copy of the Self-Study report to review and provide feedback by June 15. The communications team continues to prepare for the preliminary visit and the site visit, and continues to provide periodic communications to the College community.
Dr. Johnson highlighted two dates: (1) October 11 - Board members may be asked to be part of the visitation, and (2) June 15 – Board members’ comments on the self-study are due.
5. Academic Forum/Council – Dr. Candice Hill, Chair
Dr. Hill reported the work of the committee has wrapped up for the FY22 year, however, the EPC and Academic Standards committees will meet over the summer to continue planning for the upcoming year. In FY23, Forum and Council will continue to support the values of the College with a specific emphasis on community and relationships, as well as positivity, ensuring all voices in forum are supported. DEIA work will continue with Dr. Kellie McCants-Price and committee goals will be more DEIA work focused this year. Additionally, work will be happening on the broader forum goals while continuing to support the College’s strategic goal of excellence.
Ms. Moore took a moment to congratulate Dr. Hill on her Commencement speeches at both ceremonies.
6. Administrative Staff Organization – Jill Bennett, President (No Report)
7. Professional and Support Staff Organization – John Dayton, Vice President
Mr. Dayton, on behalf of PSSO President, Pat Schumacher, reported that the PSSO met on May 5. The PSSO Retreat originally scheduled for June 7 will be rescheduled for sometime before the start of the next academic year. As part of this year’s Retreat, the PSSO is working with Dr. Kellie McCants-Price to present two DEIA sessions which will help met the new requirement of all full-time staff to participate in five DEIA sessions each year.
PSSO elections were held and for FY23, PSSO Leadership will be: Recorder - Caitlin Silver-Negrón; Vice-President – Lisa Starkey; and President – John Dayton. The leadership team will be meeting to develop plans and strategy for the upcoming year.
8. Student Government Association – Benjamin Nussbaumer, President (No Report)
9. The Faculty Organization – Dr. Nicole Williams, President
Dr. Williams reported that TFO met on May 12 where each committee provided a brief summary of their work throughout the semester. A motion was passed for creating a committee to conduct research on the various unions. Following this work, the unions will be brought on campus for a question and answer forum. Another motion passed for all new senators to undergo a one-hour training on shared governance and understanding of their role as TFO senators. Finally, a motion was passed for a statement regarding shared governance to be created following the guidelines of the American Association of University Professors (AAUP)’s Statement on Government of Colleges and Universities, that speaks to the contributions of faculty in such matters as decision making, curriculum subject matters, methods of instruction, research, and faculty status.
Dr. Williams shared that TFO accomplished the successful advocation to have the ad hoc shared governance committee become a permanent TFO committee; strengthened communication between TFO leadership and TFO senators; and established a process for bringing issues to Dr. Millner. Additional work was done with the AFA to improve inclusion and fairness for adjuncts; increased the number of adjunct faculty serving on the AFA committee; enhanced representation from each school; extended the term of AFA committee service from 1 to 2 years; added AFA membership to the jurisdiction of the nominating committee; and removed the service requirements from Lecturer III.
The first meeting of the fall semester will be September 8.
10. Maryland Association of Community Colleges Activities – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay reported that the next meeting of the Maryland Council of Community College Presidents will be June 17 and that MACC is preparing for its retreat, a hybrid event to be held on August 1 and 2 at Prince George’s Community College. The next MACC Board of Directors meeting is scheduled for June 23, when the MACC budget and slate of officers for 2022-2023 will be approved.
Dr. Lindsay thanked Mr. Ulvila for serving as MACC President for the last two years, stating appreciation for his leadership and for being an ambassador for AACC.
B. Action Items
1. Approval of College Manual Revisions – Dr. Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay presented two revisions to the College Manual to be approved by the Board, Section 6.4 Rank, and Section 6.6 Promotions. The purpose of these changes is to remove the department and college service requirements for the Lecturer III position. As the manual was never updated to include the position of Lecturer III, the revision is to add this position to the manual, without the service requirement, prior to the start of the next academic year. Additionally, the procedures for promotion need to be updated and the update for Section 6.6 is to remove the current procedures, as procedures will be developed at the college level. These revisions were approved by the TFO at its March 17 meeting and they have been reviewed by legal counsel. The President and Vice Presidents support this proposal.
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 revisions to the College Manual, Section 6.4 and 6.6.
2. Approval of the Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) Cultural Diversity Report 2022 – Dr. McCants-Price, Interim Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer
Dr. McCants-Price reported that each Maryland public university and college has to submit a Cultural Diversity Report to MHEC by December 1, summarizing its institutional progress towards the implementation of its plan for Cultural Diversity. The 2022 Cultural Diversity report which the Board is asked to approve, focuses on the themes of equity, diversity and inclusion and the College’s institutional activities in this area.
By motion of Ms. Price-Jones, seconded by Ms. Moore and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved of the 2022 Maryland Higher Education Commission Cultural Diversity Report.
Dr. Johnson recommended, under student initiatives, to add that there is a student representative to the Board. Dr. McCants-Price stated that a review of the report will be done to verify if this information is already included, and if not, it will be added.
Dr. Lindsay congratulated Dr. McCants-Price on her work.
IX. New Business
There was no new business, however, Ms. Moore did provide thanks, on behalf of the Board, for the service of Monica Rausa Williams and Amanda Turner in support of the Board.
X. Next Board Meeting – September 13, 2022
XI. Adjournment
The public session meeting adjourned at 5:09 p.m.