Members present: Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair; Dr. Nadine Chien, Vice Chair; Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr.; Sandra E. Moore; Dr.; A. Joyce Price-Jones; Rachel Gwin; and Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Absent: JaCina Stanton-Buttrom
I. Call to Order
The Board Public Session was called to order by Chair Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr. at 2:29 p.m. The meeting was open to the public via Zoom allowing attendees to hear and observe the public session. Mr. Ulvila informed participants that the meeting was being recorded pursuant to state law.
The agenda for the meeting was unanimously approved by the trustees, and there was a quorum present.
II. Vote to Close the Meeting
Mr. Ulvila stated that the purpose of the public session was to vote to close the meeting to consult with legal counsel to obtain legal advice and consult with staff and consultants regarding potential litigation. By motion of Dr. Johnson, seconded by Ms. Price-Jones, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the motion to close the meeting.
III. Adjournment
The public session meeting adjourned at 2:32 p.m.
Members present: Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair; Dr. Nadine Chien, Vice Chair; Shahbaz Chaudhry; Rachel Gwin; Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr. (arrived 4:12 p.m.); Sandra E. Moore; A. Joyce Price-Jones; JaCina Stanton-Buttrom; and Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
I. Call to Order
II. Roll Call and Approval of the Agenda, Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair
The Board Public Session was called to order by Chair Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr. at 4:00 p.m.
Mr. Ulvila asked for the roll call and approval of the agenda. Ms. Stanton-Buttrom moved to approve the agenda, which was seconded by Dr. Chien. A roll call was taken of trustees to determine their vote, and the Board of Trustees approved the agenda.
III. Welcome and Introductions, Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair
A. Board of Trustees Member Shahbaz Chaudhry
Mr. Ulvila welcomed the new Board of Trustees member Shahbaz Chaudhry. Mr. Ulvila noted that Mr. Chaudhry was sworn in on September 11, 2023, and was appointed to fill a vacant term that expires June 30, 2024. Mr. Chaudhry has over 20 years of experience in information technology, business development, and human resources in private, federal, and local government. Mr. Chaudhry is an active volunteer in the community, particularly supporting youth education and economic development.
B. Board of Trustees Student Member Rachel Gwin
Mr. Ulvila welcomed Rachel Gwin, the new Student Member of the Board of Trustees. Mr. Ulvila noted that Ms. Gwin’s term started on July 1, 2023. Ms. Gwin is a first-generation college student studying nursing at the College. Ms. Gwin is involved with many of the clubs on campus, as well as the student ambassador program.
IV. Approval of 2023-2024 Full-Time Faculty Appointments
A. Approval of the 2023-2024 Full-Time Faculty Appointments (Action Item) – Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President for Learning
Dr. Millner asked the Board to approve the full-time faculty tenure-track and term appointments for 2023-2024, which include twenty-three new faculty members. Funding for the requested faculty appointments will come from the Division of Learning operating budget, which has been confirmed by the Business and Financial Resources Office that the FY2024 base budget and assumptions approved by the Board of Trustees include sufficient funding to support this request.
By motion of Ms. Moore, seconded by Ms. Price-Jones, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees approved the full-time faculty tenure-track and term appointments. Dr. Johnson was not present at the time of this vote.
B. Introduction of New Faculty – Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President for Learning
Dr. Millner introduced the new faculty to the Board: Dr. Anne-Bach Starling, Psychology; Dr. Cynthia Flores, Psychology; Dr. Vincent Gattud, Nursing; Dr. Lauren Gillespie, Biology; Dr. Richard Hardesty, History; Michael Kelley, Computer Science; Brittany Lamma, Computer Information Systems; Dr. Harry Li, Biology; Kelly Livernoche, Biology; Rachel Loukota, Nursing; Sean Moorhouse, Emergency Medical Services; Haley Mushrush, Nursing; Brittany Nicholson (Meyer), Nursing; Andrea Pecukaitis, Nursing; KT Perkins, English; Carolyn Pratt, Interdisciplinary Achieving College & Career Advancement; Paul Redd, Cybersecurity, Networking, and Digital Forensics; Dr. Mark Ronnenberg, Mathematics; Daniel Shields, Nursing; Jacqueline Snyder, Nursing; Akash Vasishtha, Visual Arts-Gaming; Dr. John Wojcik, Legal Studies; Briana Zeck, Histotechnology; and Trisha Wanamaker, Emergency Medical Services.
V. Consent Agenda
Mr. Ulvila presented the Consent Agenda. Ms. Price-Jones moved to approve the Consent Agenda, which was seconded by Ms. Moore. A roll call was taken of trustees to determine their vote, and the Board of Trustees approved the Consent Agenda, with one abstention (Mr. Chaudhry):
VI. Board Chair and Committee Reports
A. Reports for September
1. Board Chair Report – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair
Mr. Ulvila reminded Board members that if they are not able to attend a Board committee meeting to please let him know in advance of the meeting in order to ensure full Board support at each committee meeting.
2. Audit & Finance Committee – A. Joyce Price-Jones, Committee Chair
Ms. Price-Jones reported that the Audit and Finance Committee met via Zoom on July 19, to discuss the following topics: a presentation from the auditors on the planned FY2023 audit; a review of the Audit and Finance Committee’s roles and responsibilities as set forth in the Committee Charter; accounting procedures and regulatory updates; the FY2023 Financial Status Report; and the Other Post-Employment Benefits Trust.
Ms. Christina Bowman, Principal, and Ms. Katie Orris, Manager, from CliftonLarsonAllen, LLP presented an overview of the planned FY2023 audit including: 2023 trends in higher education; the scope of services and deliverables; the audit approach, plan and timing; the auditor’s preliminary risk assessment; updates to regulations and auditing and accounting standards, along with the anticipated implementation dates; and a request for input from the committee regarding additional areas of focus which should be considered. College staff provided updates on the implementation timeline for two new accounting standards from the Governmental Accounting Standards Board, related to Subscription Based Information Technology Agreements and Compensated Absences, and the committee will receive updates on the implementation of the new standards at future meetings.
The committee received a presentation from Mr. John Williams, the College’s Information Security Director on the College’s Information Security and Business Continuity Programs.
The committee was notified by College staff that Moody’s recently reaffirmed the College’s A2 rating, with a stable outlook. The auditors noted that as an industry, higher education has received a negative outlook from Moody’s, so this is a positive affirmation of the College’s fiscal position.
College staff informed the committee of the increase in the general asset capitalization threshold, which had not been increased since 2012. The committee discussed the FY2023 operating budget status report as of July 6, 2023. The anticipated annual results project a balanced budget with the College operating within existing resources. The committee received an update on the status of the Other Post-Employment Benefits Trust, which as of March 31, 2023 has approximately $22.8 million set aside for costs associated with retiree health benefits. In July, the County made an additional $1 million contribution to the trust on behalf of the College for FY2024. This is the fourth County-funded contribution to the trust and positive demonstration of the County’s support to address this liability going forward.
3. Board Policy Oversight Committee – Dr. Nadine Chien, Committee Chair
Dr. Chien reported that the Board Policy Oversight Committee met via Zoom on September 6, to review one policy and three policy action requests for approval.
i. Employee Grievance Policy (Information Item)
The Employee Grievance Policy is a new policy. Currently, the College’s employee grievance process is contained in the College Manual and pertains only to individuals within a constituency group. The new Employee Grievance Policy will be consistent with the Middle States of Higher Education Commission’s Standard II, Ethics and Integrity, in which institutions have a grievance policy that is documented and disseminated, assures the policy is fair and impartial, and addresses grievances promptly, appropriately and equitably.
The Committee reviewed and approved three new policy action requests: the Discrimination Complaint Policy; the Appointment and Rank Policy; and the Leave Policy. The Discrimination Policy will align with applicable federal and state laws that prohibit discrimination against harassment of members of protected classes and make some process improvements. The Appointment and Rank Policy is one of the policy recommendations from the rpk GROUP assessment. Currently, the ranks and levels are listed in the College Manual. This policy will remove this content from the Manual, and the process will be documented in the College’s related procedure. This policy will be necessary to move forward with the removal of the tenure cap. The Leave Policy will align with the Time to Care Act, which gives College employees access to paid family and medical leave through a State-administered fund financed by employee and employer contributions. It will also establish consistent, equitable and transparent leave provisions across constituency groups.
With the committee’s approval of these three policy action requests, the College will move forward with the drafting of these policies as outlined in the Policy on the Development of Policy and Procedure and bring to the committee for review after the full vetting process.
4. Facilities Committee – Sandra E. Moore, Committee Chair
Ms. Moore reported that the Facilities Committee met via Zoom on August 29 to discuss the Pedestrian Bridge project, and on September 5 to discuss the BGE Right of Way Agreement; future procurements; campus projects; and future meetings.
On August 29, the committee met in a special meeting to hear an update on the status of the Pedestrian Bridge project and supported the College’s plan to address the issue. The full Board received a written update on the College’s plan to make the repairs and to minimize the impact on students.
At the September 5 meeting, the committee discussed the BGE Right of Way Agreement as well as future procurements. The committee received an update on campus projects, specifically the Pedestrian Bridge project, the Florestano building renovation, the Broadneck Trail and the GBTC renovation.
Regarding the pedestrian bridge, the structural engineering firm is expected to complete the engineering work this week and the contractor will begin demolition work. Detour signage and a safety fence has been installed along the detour route sidewalk with shuttle buses running from 7 am until 11 pm, Monday through Saturday.
The 4th floor of the Florestano building is nearing completion and will house the College’s new Learning Innovation Center. The 1st through 3rd floors will be renovated over the next two years and will house a new one-stop Student Services Center.
Regarding the Broadneck Trail, the committee received an update on this County project to create a pedestrian and bike trail along College Parkway. The committee noted that there have been some questions from the community regarding the recent removal of trees on the College’s property. This is the County’s Broadneck Trail project and not the College’s project. The County’s contractor has recently been constructing the portion of the trail along the College’s northern border, along College Parkway. The County’s plan called for a few trees to be removed along the College’s practice fields, which occurred a few weeks ago. However, their contractor hired an arborist recently who determined that all of the trees will need to be removed because the retaining wall that will be built will eventually kill them. The County will be removing the remaining trees and will eventually replace them.
Regarding the renovations to Glen Burnie Town Center, the renovation of the lobby and the testing and tutoring labs continues. The County is planning to replace the HVAC system in the building and the College is discussing with them the ideal timing of the project, to minimize the disruption to students.
Dr. Johnson asked if the Board should be concerned about BGE and whether or not they will conduct proper maintenance per the agreement. Mr. Ulvila responded that the Board will discuss BGE and the agreement during the Approval of Right of Way Agreement portion of the meeting agenda.
5. AACC Foundation – Dr. Nadine Chien, Lead Liaison
Ms. Gwin shared a thank you letter from a student for a scholarship.
Dr. Chien reported that as of August 30, 2023, the Foundation’s fundraising total is just over $280,000 in gifts and commitments towards the fiscal year goal of $2 million.
Last spring, College leadership identified areas for the AACC Foundation to focus its fundraising efforts in FY2024. The AACC Foundation Board incorporated these priorities in the organization’s annual goals. The priorities include scholarships to facilitate enrollment for students in the Registered Nursing program; scholarships to facilitate enrollment in workforce development programs; and funding for HelpLink and HelpLink for Nursing.
The Foundation has raised just over $60,000 to-date for the Nursing initiative and more than $46,000 for the HelpLink program. Foundation staff are currently planning a donor cultivation event on October 24 to support the Future Nursing initiative. Dr. Chien noted that if anyone would like to invite someone to this event, they should contact Mr. Vollie Melson, Executive Director of the AACC Foundation, within the next two weeks.
AACC Foundation Board members will join AACC’s Board of Trustees members at a joint board reception on September 27 at Café Mezzanotte.
B. No Reports for September
1. Board Development Committee – A. Joyce Price-Jones, Committee Chair
2. Budget Committee – Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Committee Chair
3. Human Resources Committee – JaCina Stanton-Buttrom, Committee Chair
4. Student Success Committee – Dr. Nadine Chien, Committee Chair
VII. President’s Report – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
A. Information Items
1. College Updates – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay reported that for Fall Convocation this year, she and the vice presidents focused on reconnecting with the College’s values including Community and Relationships; Opportunity; Positivity; Innovation and Creativity; and Equity and Inclusion. Convocation also focused on the importance of each of the values, what those values look like in action, and how living those values best serves the College’s students and community.
Dr. Lindsay was pleased to share that as of Monday, September 11, the full-time equivalent (FTE), fall enrollment is up almost 6% from last year’s FTE at this time. The College has exceeded its final target of 2,826 FTE for the fall semester. The Fall 2022 to Fall 2023 retention rate is 60.2% (as of September 11), which is slightly down compared to the Fall 2021 to Fall 2022 retention rate of 61.3% during the same time last year.
Dr. Lindsay was proud to announce that two AACC students won first place in the League for Innovation in the Community College's International Student Literary Competition for 2022-2023. Zoe Hunter won the fictional short story category and Jessie Ehrenreich won the one-act play category.
Dr. Lindsay shared that the College’s women’s lacrosse team was named the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Women’s Lacrosse 2022-2023 Academic Team of the Year with the highest team GPA among women’s lacrosse programs. The NJCAA also approved the College's bid to elevate its six NJCAA Division III varsity sports to the NJCAA Division II level beginning immediately for the 2023-2024 academic year.
Anne Arundel County renamed the College’s satellite location Glen Burnie Town Center to the Sarah E. Carter Building in honor of Sarah E. Carter, the first African American woman to be elected to the Anne Arundel County Council. The Naming Ceremony was held on August 28, and Dr. Lindsay thanked Chair Ulvila, and Trustees Johnson, Moore, and Price-Jones who joined her at the event. Dr. Lindsay noted that while the building name has changed, the College will still refer to the satellite location as the Glen Burnie Town Center or GBTC.
On August 24, at the invitation of Col. Michael Sapp, the Fort Meade Garrison Commander, Dr. Lindsay attended the Fort Meade Community Covenant Signing to celebrate Fort Meade being recognized as a 2023 Great American Defense Community by the Association of Defense Community. Dr. Lindsay noted that it was her honor to sign on behalf of the College in support of Fort Meade, and a commitment to the College’s partnership.
Dr. Lindsay was pleased to announce that in October, she and Vice Chair Chien, Trustee Moore, and Dr. Patterson will be presenting at the Association for Community College Trustees (ACCT) Leadership Congress, about the success of the College’s Enrollment, Retention and Completion Council. Trustee Price-Jones will be attending the conference as well. The College’s presentation will take place on October 10, the same day as the Board of Trustees meeting. Dr. Lindsay noted that she and her fellow College presenters will be attending the October 10 Board meeting remotely from the ACCT conference.
2. Academic Portfolio & Resources Review Update – Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President for Learning
Dr. Millner presented an update on the Academic Portfolio and Resources Review (APRR). The update included an overview of the APRR findings and recommendations; criteria for measuring program health; program prioritization; faculty productivity; processes related to the awarding of non-teaching release time; a review of appropriate section size related to student enrollment; practices and services that are proven to address student success race/ethnicity equity gaps; and ways to highlight programs with high employability.
3. Academic Forum/Council – Andrew Kim, Chair
Mr. Kim reported that he and the new Academic Forum officers started August 16, 2023, and that the Academic Forum/Council meeting dates have been scheduled for Academic Year 2023-2024. There are some vacancies on the Academic Council and Mr. Kim is working to fill those vacancies prior to the first Council meeting. Mr. Kim noted that he had several meetings with Dr. Tina Smith, Associate Vice President for Learning, to discuss language required in each course syllabus. Mr. Kim met with each Academic Forum committee, and each committee will have at least one goal related to diversity, equity, inclusion, antiracism, and accessibility (DEIAA). The committee goals will be presented at the September Council meeting and voted upon at the October Forum meeting. Mr. Kim noted that he is finalizing his goals as Chair for the academic year, which will be presented at the September Council meeting and voted upon at the October Forum meeting.
4. Administrative Staff Organization – Andrea Zamora, President
Ms. Zamora noted that the six members of the Administrative Staff Organization (ASO) leadership team are representatives of the four areas of the College. Ms. Zamora reported that the ASO leadership team will conduct a review and revision of ASO goals at the first general membership meeting. The ASO will review the ASO Charter this year and revise the charter if necessary. The ASO leadership team is preparing a membership survey to seek input regarding topics of interest for general membership meetings and support needed as supervisors and managers.
5. Professional and Support Staff Organization – Lisa Starkey, President
Ms. Starkey introduced the Professional and Support Staff Organization (PSSO) leadership team for 2023-2024. Ms. Starkey presented an overview of the PSSO including the PSSO Nomination and Election Committee and their efforts; the College Community Service Committee and their projects for FY2024; the PSSO Engagement Committee and their efforts; the PSSO FY2024 meeting schedule; and the PSSO FY2024 goals.
6. Student Government Association – Zack Buster, President
Mr. Buster provided an update on the Student Government Association (SGA) which included an overview of Mr. Buster’s goals as SGA President; SGA events last month; vacancies on the SGA executive board; and SGA plans for next month.
Mr. Buster noted that for Welcome Week in August, the SGA collaborated with the Office of Student Engagement and Health and Wellness Center to host the AACC Block Party on the first day of school. In October, the SGA will host a General Forum for student organizations, participate in the Fall Involvement Fair to show students the resources that the College has to offer, and host a Swoop Sundae event for students to meet the new SGA executive board and to allow the SGA to recruit for senators and other available positions.
7. The Faculty Organization – Dr. Deborah Levine, President
Dr. Levine provided an update on The Faculty Organization (TFO). Dr. Levine stated that the initial meetings of all TFO standing committees were held on August 24, and there are currently no active ad hoc committees. Chairs and Co-Chairs were selected for all committees. Committee goals are being finalized and will be presented at the Senate meeting on September 13, then voted on at the TFO Convocation on October 12.
Dr. Levine noted that last year’s TFO’s leadership completed the following tasks, which were reported to the Board in April 2023, including submitting policy requests related to removal of the tenure cap and appointment and rank, and a new equitable process for conferring Emeritus status.
8. Maryland Association of Community Colleges Activities – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay reported that the MACC Board of Directors met on June 20. At this meeting, they reviewed the MACC annual report, adopted the budget, and elected the slate of officers for the upcoming year. Dr. Lindsay noted that this year, she has the pleasure of serving on the MACC Executive Committee.
At the Maryland Council of Community College Presidents retreat on July 31-August 1, Lieutenant Governor Aruna Miller was the guest speaker. Lieutenant Governor Miller shared how she and Governor Moore look forward to working with the community college presidents to prepare students for the workforce, and emphasized the significance of financial aid, which creates opportunities for students, especially those from immigrant or low-income families.
B. Action Items
1. Approval of the 2023 Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) Performance Accountability Report – Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President for Learning
Dr. Millner presented the 2023 Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) Performance Accountability Report (PAR). The PAR report is required by the Maryland Higher Education Commission in conjunction with its responsibility for coordinating the performance accountability process for the State’s public colleges and universities.
Dr. Millner provided an overview of the PAR report including the sections of the report/data; part-time students and first-time credit students; the College’s diverse population; indicators positively influencing access; indicators that the College needs to improve upon; dual enrollment; indicators positively influencing success; indicators positively influencing innovation; long term equity gaps and interventions; and disaggregated data/benchmarks.
Board members requested and received clarification regarding what the College has learned from the data from the previous five years and the importance of efforts to increase headcount and how that impacts full-time equivalent (FTE).
By motion of Dr. Chien, which was seconded by Ms. Price-Jones, a roll call was taken of trustees to determine their vote, and the Board of Trustees unanimously approved Anne Arundel Community College’s 2023 Performance Accountability Report, for submission to the Maryland Higher Education Commission by October 1, 2023.
2. Approval of Right of Way Agreement – Baltimore Gas & Electric – Melissa Beardmore, Vice President for Learning Resources Management
Ms. Beardmore presented a report on the Right of Way Agreement between Baltimore Gas & Electric (“BGE”) and the College. The agreement is necessary to provide BGE with access across the College’s property at the Ritchie Highway entrance on the west side of the Arnold campus.
BGE is seeking permission to install a new switch gear and electrical feeder at the West campus entrance which will provide redundant power service to the College in case one or both existing main electrical feeders are out-of-service. Once the new switch gear is installed, the agreement provides BGE the right to access the equipment to perform routine maintenance. The agreement would provide several benefits to the College. The College will increase the reliability of the redundant electrical service to the campus in case of an outage to the main electrical feeders to the campus. The agreement was reviewed by College staff, external consultants and College counsel. Ms. Beardmore showed site drawings and photographs of the site location.
Dr. Johnson asked if the agreement includes a requirement for BGE to repair the landscaping and grass after the project is completed. Ms. Beardmore responded that the College would ensure that BGE fulfills the requirements of the agreement, and the College has a team in place including Mr. James Taylor, Executive Director of Administrative Services, who will be the contact person for the project. Ms. Erin Parker, General Counsel, confirmed that repairing landscaping is included in the agreement. Dr. Johnson asked what kind of lighting will be used for the project. Ms. Beardmore responded that there is a pole for the line, but no lighting.
By motion of Ms. Moore, which was seconded by Ms. Gwin, a roll call was taken of trustees to determine their vote, and the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the authorization of the Board Chair to execute the Right of Way Agreement.
VIII. New Business
There was no new business.
IX. Next Board Meeting – October 10, 2023
X. Adjournment
The meeting was adjourned at 5:11 p.m.
A closed session of the Board of Trustees was held on May 16, 2023 at 5:00 p.m. via Zoom Video Conferencing. Pursuant to section 3-305(b)(1)(i) of the Open Meetings Act, a vote was taken to close the meeting pursuant to the General Provisions Article of the Maryland Annotated Code Section 3-305(d)(2)(i)(ii). The following board members were present and voted to close the session: Dr. Nadine Chien, Conor Curran, Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Sandra E. Moore, and Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr. Dawn Lindsay was also present. The topic discussed was performance evaluation of the President. The meeting began at 5:04 p.m. Dr. Lindsay left the meeting at 5:09 p.m. A. Joyce Price-Jones joined at 5:15 p.m. Dr. Lindsay rejoined at 5:51 p.m. The meeting adjourned 6:08 p.m.
A closed session of the Board of Trustees was held on June 21, 2023 at 8:00 a.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(b)(2). The following Board members were present and voted to close the session: Dr. Nadine Chien, Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Sandra E. Moore, A. Joyce Price-Jones, JaCina Stanton-Buttrom, and Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr. Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President; Melissa Beardmore, Vice President, Learning Resources Management (left at 8:51 a.m.); Dr. Richard Kralevich, Vice President, Information and Instructional Technology; Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President, Learning; Dr. Felicia Patterson, Vice President, Learner Support Services; Andrew Little, Associate Vice President of Learning Resources Management; Karen Cook, Dean, School of Business and Law; Suzanne Boyer, Executive Director, Human Resources (left at 8:52 a.m.); Garrett Wozniak, Attorney, Kollman & Saucier, P.A.; Monica Rausa, Special Assistant to the President and Cintamani Rathinam, Executive Assistant were present as well. The topic included obtaining legal advice regarding the collective bargaining law. The meeting began at 8:06 a.m. p.m. and ended at 9:32 a.m.
A closed session of the Board of Trustees was held on August 4, 2023 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: Dr. Nadine Chien, Rachel Gwin, Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Sandra E. Moore (left at 3:12 p.m.), A. Price-Jones, and Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr. Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President; Melissa Beardmore, Vice President, Learning Resources Management; Dr. Richard Kralevich, Vice President, Information and Instructional Technology; Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President, Learning; Dr. Felicia Patterson, Vice President, Learner Support Services; Erin Parker, General Counsel; Steven Frenkil, Attorney, Miles & Stockbridge; Leslie Cumber, Attorney, Miles & Stockbridge; Dan Baum, Executive Director, Strategic Communications; Suzanne Boyer, Executive Director, Human Resources (left at 3:05 p.m.; rejoined at 3:10 p.m.); and Cintamani Rathinam, Executive Assistant were present as well. Topics discussed included legal advice and consultation about pending or potential litigation. The meeting began at 2:32 p.m. and ended at 3:21 p.m.
A closed session of the Board of Trustees was held on October 2, 2023 at 4:30 p.m. via Zoom Video Conferencing. Pursuant to section §3-305(b)(2) 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: Shahbaz Chaudhry, Dr. Nadine Chien, Rachel Gwin, Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Sandra E. Moore, A. Joyce Price-Jones, and Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr. Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President; Melissa Beardmore, Vice President, Learning Resources Management; Dr. Richard Kralevich, Vice President, Information and Instructional Technology; Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President, Learning; Dr. Felicia Patterson, Vice President, Learner Support Services; Vollie Melson, Executive Director, Anne Arundel Community College Foundation; Erin Parker, General Counsel; Monica Rausa, Special Assistant to the President; and Cintamani Rathinam, Executive Assistant were present as well. The topic discussed included the reputation of an individual related to a naming opportunity. The meeting began at 4:32 p.m. and ended at 4:37 p.m.
Members present: Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair; Dr. Nadine Chien, Vice Chair; Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr.; Sandra E. Moore.; A. Joyce Price-Jones; Rachel Gwin; and Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Absent: Shahbaz Chaudhry; JaCina Stanton-Buttrom
I. Call to Order
The Board Special Session was called to order by Chair Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr. at 4:30 p.m. The meeting was open to the public via Zoom allowing attendees to hear and observe the public session. Mr. Ulvila informed participants that the meeting was being recorded pursuant to state law.
II. Vote to Close the Meeting
Mr. Ulvila stated that the purpose of the public session was to vote to close the meeting to protect the privacy or reputation of individuals with respect to a matter that is not related to public business. By motion of Dr. Johnson, seconded by Ms. Moore, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the motion to close the meeting.
III. Adjournment
The public session meeting adjourned at 4:31 p.m.
Members present: Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair; Dr. Nadine Chien, Vice Chair (via Zoom); Shahbaz Chaudhry; Rachel Gwin; Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr.; Sandra E. Moore (via Zoom, left 4:38 p.m.); A. Joyce Price-Jones (via Zoom); and Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President (via Zoom)
Absent: JaCina Stanton-Buttrom
I. Call to Order
II. Roll Call and Approval of the Agenda, Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair
The Board Public Session was called to order by Chair Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr. at 4:00 p.m.
Mr. Ulvila asked for the roll call and approval of the agenda. Dr. Johnson moved to approve the agenda, which was seconded by Mr. Chaudhry. A roll call was taken of trustees to determine their vote, and the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the agenda.
III. Welcome and Introductions, Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair
Mr. Ulvila noted that Dr. Chien, Ms. Moore, Ms. Price-Jones, and Dr. Lindsay are attending the Board meeting remotely as they are currently attending the 2023 Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) Leadership Congress, and will present on behalf of the College.
IV. Consent Agenda
Mr. Ulvila presented the Consent Agenda. Ms. Gwin moved to approve the Consent Agenda, which was seconded by Ms. Price-Jones. A roll call was taken of trustees to determine their vote, and the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the Consent Agenda:
V. Board Chair and Committee Reports
A. Reports for October
1. Board Development Committee – A. Joyce Price-Jones, Committee Chair
Ms. Price-Jones reported that the Board Development Committee met via Zoom on September 28, to review last year’s Board activities including diversity, equity and inclusion training by Dr. Kellie McCants-Price, Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer, and Professor Forrest Caskey; communications training by Dan Baum, Executive Director, Strategic Communications; the annual Board Self-Assessment; and the DISC assessment by Bluewater Advisory, which was a personal assessment tool used to help improve teamwork, communication, and productivity in the workplace.
Ms. Price-Jones noted that there is a Board Goal Tracking Sheet available in the Board’s online portal to help trustees keep track of the activities they participate in throughout the year.
The Committee will develop the 2023-2024 Annual Board Self-Assessment which will be sent to Board members in May, and the results will be reported to the full Board in June.
2. Board Policy Oversight Committee – Dr. Nadine Chien, Committee Chair
Dr. Chien reported that the Board Policy Oversight Committee is bringing forward the Employee Grievance Policy as an action item.
i. Employee Grievance Policy (Action Item)
The Employee Grievance Policy is a new policy. Currently, the College’s employee grievance process is contained in the College Manual and pertains only to individuals within a constituency group. The new Employee Grievance Policy will be consistent with the Middle States of Higher Education Commission’s Standard II, Ethics and Integrity, in which institutions have a grievance policy that is documented and disseminated, assures the policy is fair and impartial, and addresses grievances promptly, appropriately and equitably.
The College’s legal counsel, staff and constituency groups have reviewed this new policy and provided feedback, which has been incorporated into the final draft. If the Board approves the policy, it will become effective on the date it is posted on the College’s website after its approval by the Board.
By motion of Dr. Johnson, which was seconded by Mr. Chaudhry, a roll call was taken of trustees to determine their vote, and the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the new “Employee Grievance Policy.”
3. Budget Committee – Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Committee Chair
Dr. Johnson reported that the Budget Committee met via Zoom on October 5 to discuss the FY2023 Final Financial Status Report; the FY2024 August 31 Financial Status Report and Capital Budget; and the FY2025 Budget including Preliminary Guiding Principles and Base Assumptions.
Regarding the final FY2023 operating budget status report, the report has been updated for the final year end closing adjustments. The annual results show that tuition and fee revenue and other income exceeded the budget due to increased enrollment and higher interest rates earned on cash balances. The College ended the year with a balanced budget operating within existing resources.
The committee received the first FY2024 operating budget projections as of August 31, and the projections show a balanced budget, with tuition and fee revenue projected above budget due to increased fall enrollment. The College is projecting that all functional expenditure areas will remain within the budgeted amounts. The committee discussed the importance of managing the tuition stabilization fund balance, which will be analyzed in more detail during the FY2025 budget development process.
The committee reviewed and provided feedback on the Preliminary Guiding Principles and Base Assumptions which will guide the development of the College’s FY2025 budget.
4. Facilities Committee – Sandra E. Moore, Committee Chair
Ms. Moore reported that the Facilities Committee’s October 3 meeting was cancelled and is in the process of being rescheduled. The meeting was cancelled to accommodate the anticipated date that the Board agenda item for the emergency Pedestrian Bridge repairs will be ready.
Ms. Moore noted that the committee reviews draft Board agenda items before they are brought forward to the full Board for approval.
5. Human Resources Committee – Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Committee Member
Dr. Johnson reported that the Human Resources Committee met via Zoom on September 14 to discuss Collective Bargaining, Open Enrollment, and Lockdown Drills.
The committee received an update on the College’s efforts to respond to the election petition from the Service Employees International Union, Local 500, to serve as the exclusive representative union of the part-time faculty.
The committee heard an update on the College’s employee benefits changes and the upcoming open enrollment period for employees. The College partners with Anne Arundel County for employee benefits so any rate increases and plan design changes are made by the County. For calendar year 2024, there are no plan design changes but there are rate increases for the health and vision plans. There are no rate changes for the dental plan.
The committee received an update on the upcoming lockdown drills which are required by state law. The drills began in October and will continue into early November. Once the building alarm sounds, the drill entails people staying in their classroom, offices and other spaces until the all-clear is issued. College staff will evaluate the effectiveness of the drills and develop future training opportunities.
6. Student Success Committee – Dr. Nadine Chien, Committee Chair
Dr. Chien reported that the Student Success Committee met on September 19 to discuss fall enrollment, first-year retention rates, and African American Male student success.
The Committee received an update on fall credit FTE and headcount enrollment, dual enrollment, and retention rates.
The Committee received an update on African American Male retention, completion, and course success, as the College is committed to removing barriers for students and responding to one of the long-term equity gaps highlighted in the 2023 Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) Performance Accountability Report (PAR).
7. AACC Foundation – Dr. Nadine Chien, Lead Liaison
Ms. Gwin shared a thank you letter from a student for a scholarship.
Dr. Chien reported that as of September 30, 2023, the Foundation’s fundraising total is $2.03 million in gifts and commitments, exceeding the fiscal year goal of $2 million. The Foundation has a goal of raising $500,000 for the Future Nursing Professionals Scholarship and to-date, donors have given just over $75,000 to this initiative. The Foundation has a goal to raise $75,000 for HelpLink and HelpLink for Nursing, and since July 1, donors have given $47,000 in this area.
The Foundation was recently notified that they were the recipient of a $1.7 million gift from the estate of Ethel Williams, a life-long Maryland resident. Mrs. Williams chose to leave a portion of her estate to the College because she wanted to support students who may not have the opportunity or resources to initially attend a four-year college or university. This scholarship will be established in perpetuity and will provide scholarships to approximately 40 students each year at the College. Dr. Chien noted that the Foundation is honored and grateful to receive this inspiring gift that will have an impact on students fulfilling their educational goals.
The Foundation’s FY2023 audited financial statements were accepted by the Foundation’s Board of Directors at their meeting on September 27. The Foundation raised over $3 million in gifts and commitments. In FY2023, the Foundation transferred over $1 million to the College for direct scholarship aid to students with an additional $300,000 transferred for specific programmatic needs.
The Foundation will host a donor cultivation event at the College on October 24 to support the Future Nursing Professionals Scholarship initiative.
i. Approval of Naming Opportunity for Space in Health and Life Sciences Building (Action Item)
Mr. Vollie Melson, Executive Director of the AACC Foundation, presented the naming opportunity to the Board. The Board was asked to consider naming Room 129 in the Health and Life Sciences Building at the request of the donors, Mr. Dan Mathias and Mrs. Tanya Mathias, in honor of Mr. Mathias’ mother, Dr. Elizabeth Mathias, faculty emeritus, nursing. Room 129 is currently known as the Life Science Tutoring Center, and if approved, would be named the Dr. Elizabeth Mathias Life Science Tutoring Center.
The AACC Foundation would cover expenses for signage placed at this campus building.
By motion of Dr. Johnson, which was seconded by Ms. Moore, a roll call was taken of trustees to determine their vote, and the Board of Trustees unanimously approved naming Room 129 in the Health and Life Sciences Building the Dr. Elizabeth Mathias Life Science Tutoring Center, which meets the conditions and criteria set forth in the Procedures for Naming College Properties, Programs, and Positions.
B. No Reports for October
1. Audit & Finance Committee – A. Joyce Price-Jones, Committee Chair
VI. President’s Report – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
A. Information Items
1. College Updates – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay was pleased to report that as of October 2, the College’s fall enrollment is up 8% from this time last year. The College has exceeded its final target by 141.9 FTE. Dr. Patterson will provide an in-depth report on enrollment at the November Board meeting.
The College’s Athletic Director, Duane Herr, was named the 2022-2023 National Junior College Athletic Association Region 20 Athletic Director of the Year. The award recognizes professional and program excellence in academics, sportsmanship, and athletics, as well as contributions to Region 20 and professional development. Dr. Lindsay congratulated Mr. Herr on this recognition.
On September 19, in recognition of Constitution Day, Dr. Lindsay attended an engaged scholarship event hosted by the Legal Studies Institute, which focused on affirmative action and the most recent Supreme Court decision.
On September 21, Dr. Lindsay visited the Community Service Fair sponsored by the Sarbanes Center for Career and Civic Engagement, which provided the opportunity for faculty, staff, and students to talk to local nonprofits about their volunteer opportunities. Dr. Lindsay also attended the
Transfer Fair which provided students with an opportunity to connect with representatives from almost 40 colleges and universities in Maryland and neighboring states. Dr. Lindsay thanked the College staff who organized the event.
Dr. Lindsay noted that she has restarted her monthly lunches with students, to hear from them directly about what is working and what is not working at the College. In September, Dr. Lindsay had lunch with members of the Student Government Association and the African Student Association.
The College is celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month, and the committee organized events ranging from art exhibits to salsa and merengue lessons. The College also participated in a Hispanic Health Festival on September 30 in Severn. Dr. Lindsay noted that she had the honor of accepting, on behalf of the College, the 2023-2024 Hispanic Scholarship check, which will provide deserving students the opportunity to pursue their education goals at the College. Dr. Patterson and Dr. Millner also attended this event, as some of their departments were there to provide resources to participants.
On October 5-6, Dr. Lindsay attended the St. Louis College site visit, as she is the chair for the League for Innovation. St. Louis College is seeking reaffirmation for the League.
At the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) Leadership Congress, Dr. Lindsay and Ms. Price-Jones participated in a pre-symposium panel about Black Learner Excellence and discussed the importance of college presidents and trustees advocating for Black Learner Excellence. Dr. Lindsay, Dr. Chien, Ms. Moore, and Dr. Felicia Patterson, Vice President for Learner Support Services, presented about the success of the College’s Enrollment, Retention and Completion Council. Ms. Moore is a candidate for the ACCT Northeast Region delegate for the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee.
The College will host an Open House on November 1. Over 60 programs will be represented, and Admissions, Financial Aid, and other support services will be available as well.
2. Sabbatical Reports – Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President for Learning
Dr. Millner introduced Dr. Jodie S. Hogan, Professor, World Languages, and her sabbatical report. Dr. Millner noted that Dr. Hogan has been at the College for over eight years. Dr. Millner shared a thank you letter written to Dr. Lindsay, from one of Dr. Hogan’s students. Dr. Hogan used her sabbatical leave to complete her doctoral studies at Liberty University.
i. Dr. Jodie S. Hogan, Professor, World Languages
Dr. Hogan thanked Dr. Millner; the Board of Trustees; Dr. Lindsay; Dr. Alicia Morse, Dean of the School of Liberal Arts; and Dr. Clint Buhler, Assistant Dean of World Languages/Liberal Arts, for the opportunity to take an academic sabbatical and for their support.
The title of Dr. Hogan’s dissertation was Instructors’ Experiences with Employing Kinesthetic Instructional Strategies in Gatekeeper Community College Courses: A Single Holistic Case Study. Dr. Hogan stated that the purpose of her case study was to understand how community college instructors use kinesthetic instructional strategies to engage students enrolled in gatekeeper college courses at a community college in the northeastern United States. Dr. Hogan provided an overview of her study’s central research question, sub-questions, participants, and results.
As a result of her sabbatical research, Dr. Hogan is currently collaborating with Sara Eger, Director of Instructional Pathways and Partnerships, Secondary; Dr. Jackie Gambone, Professor, Education; Courtney Sabol, Assistant Professor, Education; and Deborah Hammond, Associate Professor and Coordinator of the Public Health Program, to offer a professional development series entitled: “Engagement Revolution: Engaging Students of All Ages”. In the series, they will be sharing kinesthetic and cooperative engagement learning strategies that can be tailored to all content areas for students of all ages. The first session was held on October 4, and they are planning to offer a series of sessions over the next year.
Dr. Lindsay congratulated Dr. Hogan and thanked her for sharing her passion with the College.
3. Strategic Communications Update – Dan Baum, Executive Director, Strategic Communications
Mr. Baum presented an update on the College’s Strategic Communications. Mr. Baum provided an overview of the integrated marketing communications; marketing and outreach efforts; the campaign focused on the primary driver for attendance: transfer to in-state, four-year colleges; campaigns for highest-enrolled programs, promoting financial aid, the north county/satellite locations; promotions for the college-wide Open House; high school visits; dual enrollment promotions for tuition-free courses; advertisements for skilled and medical trades, and technology careers; the communications approach and conversion-oriented goals; key metrics; website actions to track; a performance summary of all campaigns; a year-over-year comparison of campaigns; engagement; and national and district awards.
Mr. Chaudhry asked if College staff answer the questions submitted via the College’s chat feature or if an automated system is used to respond based on predefined questions. Mr. Baum responded that AI (artificial intelligence) is used for the chat feature; it is a chatbot. Mr. Baum added that the College has a response center as well which responds to questions.
Mr. Chaudhry asked if the College is tracking where students are coming from, and which advertisements are most effective. Mr. Baum responded that the College has access to view, by campaign, how each advertisement is performing by platform, and which creative content is most effective which can be maximized to improve performance.
Mr. Chaudhry asked if the College has a process to follow up with a prospective student who began a College application but did not complete it. Mr. Baum responded that the College could run a report showing prospective students who applied but are not enrolled in the College, and the College can then follow up with those prospective students.
4. Academic Forum/Council – Andrew Kim, Chair
Mr. Kim reported that the first Academic Council meeting of the 2023-2024 academic year was held on September 14 via Zoom. The Academic Forum committees set goals which will be voted on during the Academic Forum meeting in October. Mr. Kim set goals including continuing to support Academic Forum committees; work with instructional staff to make charter recommendations to increase inclusivity of their contributions; and update language in the Charter of the Academic Forum.
Mr. Kim has met with various groups, including College leadership, policy administrators and faculty regarding concerns about the Religious Accommodations Policy and Procedures, and the Academic Integrity Policy and Procedures.
Mr. Kim met with instructional specialists to listen to concerns and discuss ways of increasing equity and inclusivity amongst the under-represented instructional staff population. Instructional specialists are part of the Academic Forum, however, they are not dedicated committee positions for them nor do their job descriptions require committee work. Instructional specialists are subject to the same rules and requirements as faculty as to curriculum and delivery of instruction.
5. Administrative Staff Organization – Andrea Zamora, President
Ms. Zamora noted that the first Administrative Staff Organization (ASO) general membership meeting of this fiscal year was held on September 20 and approximately two-thirds of members were in attendance. Members had the opportunity to discuss the proposed goals and provide suggestions. Member proposals included ways to increase member engagement, strengthen collaboration with PSSO and TFO, and provide advocacy and support as needed by ASO members.
During the ASO general membership meeting, members engaged in a professional development activity called Leading Through Change, which was a change game simulation. Each group then shared ways of supporting their teams through the changes being experienced at the College.
The ASO is conducting a member survey, and the results will be shared once it is completed.
6. Professional and Support Staff Organization – Lisa Starkey, President
Ms. Starkey presented an overview of the Professional and Support Staff Organization (PSSO) including the PSSO goals and PSSO committee goals for FY2024; the PSSO Nomination and Election Committee; the College Community Service Committee; the PSSO Engagement Committee; and upcoming PSSO activities.
The PSSO goals include examining opportunities to improve communication and availability of professional advancement including career ladder, professional recognition, and professional development; exploring and implementing opportunities to increase PSSO member engagement including within the PSSO and college-wide opportunities; and exploring and implementing opportunities to improve workplace culture and climate and employee wellness through fostering an environment of positive communication, civility and kindness, and work-life harmony.
Ms. Starkey reported that the College Community Service Committee collaborated with the Sarbanes Center for the Back-to-School Supply Drive benefiting Hilltop Elementary School and Lindale Middle School. Over 3,000 items were donated across the College’s Arnold, Glen Burnie Town Center, Arundel Mills and Sales and Service Training Center locations. Ms. Starkey shared a photograph of the Back-to-School Supply Drive event.
7. Student Government Association – Zack Buster, President
Mr. Buster reported that the Student Government Association (SGA) has a full executive board, and during the last week of September, the SGA opened the application for SGA senators. The senator elections will run from October 9 through 13.
On September 26, approximately 25 student clubs and organizations gathered in the Student Union at the SGA-hosted Involvement Fair to recruit new members and show the student body that the College is a welcoming community.
On September 27, the SGA and the African Student Association participated in a “Nourishing Greatness” lunch with Dr. Lindsay, where students had conversations about what is working and what is not working at the College and shared their experiences.
Mr. Buster reported that as the academic year advances, students are becoming more active on campus. Mr. Buster thanked the executive board for their commitment to helping the College to live up to its value of community by bringing people together, ensuring that the College is a place where everyone feels that they belong, and are inspired to “Redefine” themselves.
8. The Faculty Organization – Dr. Deborah Levine, President
Dr. Levine noted that the first meeting of The Faculty Organization (TFO) for the 2023-2024 academic year was held on September 13. Committee goals were presented and will be voted on at the TFO Convocation on October 12.
The Senate voted to hold a special meeting on September 27 to identify recommendations for changes to the drafts of the Religious Accommodations Policy, the Student Religious Accommodations Procedure, and the Fundamental Alteration Review Procedure. A motion was passed capturing consensus requests for change, and these have been submitted as a comment to the documents, following the Interim Procedure on Development of Policies and Procedures.
9. Maryland Association of Community Colleges Activities – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
The College will host the Maryland Council of Community College Presidents meeting and the MACC Board of Directors meeting on October 27 in the College’s Health and Life Sciences Building.
At the MACC Board of Directors meeting, the MACC Board of Directors will vote to approve the 2024 MACC Legislative Initiatives, which is an action item today for the Board’s approval.
B. Action Items
1. Approval of the Draft 2024 Maryland Association of Community Colleges Legislative Initiatives – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay presented the draft 2024 Maryland Association of Community Colleges (MACC) Legislative Initiatives. The draft sets forth the community colleges’ priorities for inclusion in MACC’s legislative initiatives for the 2024 General Assembly session. The draft is being brought to the Board of Trustees for approval prior to MACC presenting it to the MACC Board of Directors for approval.
The draft includes items for legislative action at the state level on issues that affect the well-being of Maryland’s community colleges and the thousands of students they serve. The draft was developed by MACC staff and presented and reviewed by the community college presidents at the Maryland Council of Community College Presidents at their retreat held July 31 through August 1, and at the September 15 meeting.
If the Board approves the draft 2024 MACC Legislative Initiatives, an affirmative vote will be cast on behalf of the College to approve the Legislative Initiatives at the October 27 meeting of the MACC Board of Directors.
Mr. Ulvila provided background information on the Maryland Association of Community Colleges. Mr. Ulvila noted that MACC was founded due to a request from the Maryland General Assembly, and MACC’s goal is to unite the 16 community colleges in the State of Maryland to create a collective voice from the State’s community colleges.
By motion of Dr. Chien, which was seconded by Ms. Gwin, a roll call was taken of trustees to determine their vote, and the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the draft 2024 MACC Legislative Initiatives.
VII. New Business
There was no new business.
VIII. Next Board Meeting – November 14, 2023
IX. Adjournment
The meeting was adjourned at 5:04 p.m.
Members present: Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair; Shahbaz Chaudhry; Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr.; Sandra E. Moore.; A. Joyce Price-Jones; JaCina Stanton-Buttrom; Rachel Gwin; and Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Absent: Dr. Nadine Chien, Vice Chair
I. Call to Order
The Board Special Session was called to order by Chair Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr. at 3:29 p.m. The meeting was open to the public via Zoom allowing attendees to hear and observe the public session. Mr. Ulvila informed participants that the meeting was being recorded pursuant to state law.
II. Procurements
Mr. Ulvila stated that the purpose of the special session was to discuss and vote on procurement items for the College. Mr. Ulvila introduced Ms. Melissa Beardmore, Vice President for Learning Resources Management, to present the procurement items.
A. Approval of Award of Contract for Pedestrian Bridge Repairs
As previously shared with the Board of Trustees, during routine maintenance, the College discovered significant deterioration of the steel supports infrastructure, to which the bridge decking is attached. Based on that assessment, the College has closed the bridge until the necessary safety repairs are completed.
The Board was asked to approve the construction management at risk contract with a guaranteed maximum price to Whiting-Turner. The same model was used for the Health and Life Sciences Building and first three floors of Florestano. One of the benefits of this model is that it is a transparent process. The contractor receives bids for all the subcontractors over $10,000. A summary of that information was provided to the Board. While the contract will be awarded to Whiting-Turner, there were almost 70 subcontractors that provided bids for their process.
Upon approval by the Board, the construction will begin immediately with anticipated completion by January 11, 2024. The funding for this project will come from the Campus Improvements capital project and sufficient funds are available for the execution of this contract.
Ms. Price-Jones moved to approve the contract, which was seconded by Mr. Chaudhry. Dr. Johnson requested and received clarification on the following: the bidding and certification process; the College’s goals related to minority representation; and the College’s strategy regarding inclusiveness of minority firms, small business contractors, and minority disadvantaged business enterprises.
A roll call was taken of trustees to determine their vote, and the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the award of contract for the Construction Management at Risk services with a guaranteed maximum price for the emergency pedestrian bridge repairs to The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company, of Baltimore, Maryland, in an amount not to exceed $859,523 for the construction services and a total GMP of $870,523.
B. Approval of Award of Contract for CADE Cooling Tower Replacement
Due to significant reliability issues with the cooling in the John A. Cade Center for Fine Arts building, it has become necessary to replace the existing cooling tower. The Cade building, located on the Arnold campus, was built in 1997 and the cooling tower is original to the building.
As it is time sensitive, the Board is asked to approve the contract to RSC Electrical & Mechanical Contractor, prior to the November Board meeting, for this project. RSC Electrical & Mechanical Contractor is a minority disadvantaged business enterprise which refers to socially and economically disadvantaged individuals who own at least 51% interest in the firm.
As discussed with the Facilities Committee, the College has facilities renewal grant funds from the state in the Systemics capital budget, which would be used for this project. Per the state, the funds are not available until July 1 and must be spent by June 30.
The College has been working with the contractor to ensure that the contractor has a full and complete understanding of the project and scope of work in light of their bid level and the state's deadlines. If the Board approves this award of contract, the construction will start in May 2024 and will be completed on or before June 15, 2024.
By motion of Ms. Moore, seconded by Ms. Price-Jones, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the award of contract to replace the existing cooling tower for the John A. Cade Center for Fine Arts to RSC Electrical & Mechanical Contractor, Inc., a MDOT certified minority disadvantaged business enterprise, of Fairmount Heights, Maryland in an amount not to exceed $197,450.
III. Adjournment
The public session meeting adjourned at 3:51 p.m.
Members present: Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair; Dr. Nadine Chien, Vice Chair; Shahbaz Chaudhry; Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr.; Sandra E. Moore; A. Joyce Price-Jones; JaCina N. Stanton-Buttrom; and Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Absent: Rachel Gwin
I. Call to Order
II. Roll Call and Approval of the Agenda, Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair
The Board Public Session was called to order by Chair Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr. at 4:00 p.m.
Mr. Ulvila asked for the roll call and approval of the agenda. Mr. Ulvila noted that Ms. Gwin was not able to attend the meeting as she was taking an exam for a course. Ms. Moore moved to approve the agenda, which was seconded by Ms. Price-Jones. A roll call was taken of trustees to determine their vote, and the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the agenda.
III. Welcome and Introductions, Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair
Mr. Ulvila introduced a special guest, Dr. Chien’s sister, who was visiting from Italy, and thanked her for attending the meeting.
IV. Recognitions
Mr. Ulvila and the Board congratulated Ms. Moore on her appointment as the Northeast Region Member of the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee of the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT). Ms. Moore was elected to the committee at the ACCT Leadership Congress in October. Mr. Ulvila noted that former Board member Rev. Dr. Diane R. Dixon-Proctor previously served on the same committee.
The purpose of the ACCT Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee is to promote awareness and educational opportunities for underrepresented diverse populations. The College has a history of Board of Trustees members actively participating in state and national advocacy efforts. Mr. Ulvila added that the Board is pleased to have Ms. Moore serving in this role at the national level.
V. Consent Agenda
Mr. Ulvila presented the Consent Agenda. Dr. Chien moved to approve the Consent Agenda, which was seconded by Ms. Price-Jones. A roll call was taken of trustees to determine their vote, and the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the Consent Agenda:
VI. Board Chair and Committee Reports
A. Reports for November
1. Audit & Finance Committee – A. Joyce Price-Jones, Committee Chair
i. Acceptance of FY2023 Audit Report (Action Item)
Ms. Price-Jones reported that the Audit and Finance Committee met via Zoom on October 17, to discuss the presentation from the auditors on the FY2023 audit, the FY2024 Financial Status Report, and future meetings.
The College’s FY2023 audited financial statements, prepared by College management and audited by CliftonLarsonAllen, LLP, were provided to the Board. At the committee meeting, Ms. Christina Bowman, principal, from CliftonLarsonAllen, LLP presented the results of the FY2023 financial statement audit and status of the federal grants audit. The auditors issued an unmodified or clean opinion, with no audit adjustments on the financial statements.
The committee was made aware of two items noted in detail on pages 87-92 of the Uniform Guidance report, which required a response from the College. As noted in the report, the administration has addressed one of the items and has developed a plan to address the second by spring 2024. These items are minor in scope and are not anticipated to impact the College’s ability to grant financial aid, nor do they result in the repayment of any funds.
The committee reviewed the FY2024 operating budget status report as of August 31, 2023, and the anticipated annual results, noting that the College is operating within existing resources. Melissa Beardmore, vice president for learning resources management, noted that this report is updated throughout the year and together with the Audit and Finance Committee’s work is generally completed in the fall, future reports will be provided to the Budget Committee.
By motion of Dr. Johnson, which was seconded by Dr. Chien, a roll call was taken of trustees to determine their vote, and the Board of Trustees unanimously accepted the College’s FY2023 financial statements audited by CliftonLarsonAllen, LLP.
Ms. Moore and Ms. Price-Jones congratulated vice president Beardmore and her team for their extraordinary work on the audit.
2. Board Policy Oversight Committee – Dr. Nadine Chien, Committee Chair
Dr. Chien reported that while the Board Policy Oversight Committee did not meet in person in October, the committee communicated via email to review and approve the policy action request for a new Grade Appeal Policy.
Currently, the College’s website has procedures that cover both non-academic student grievances as well as complaints regarding grading of academic assessments. The College is currently drafting a Student Grievance Policy, which was approved by the Board Policy Oversight Committee on September 9, 2022, and the Grade Appeal Policy should be developed and vetted at the same time. As per the Policy and the Development of Policy and Procedures, once the College has developed and vetted the draft policies, the Committee will review them, and then send them to the full Board for review and approval.
3. Facilities Committee – Sandra E. Moore, Committee Chair
Ms. Moore reported that the Facilities Committee met via Zoom on October 23, to review the procurements that were scheduled for the Board’s approval at the October 26 special session. The committee also met via Zoom on November 7 to discuss the procurements for the November meeting, and received an update on campus projects including the Pedestrian Bridge, Florestano building renovation, the Broadneck Trail and the GBTC renovation.
Regarding the pedestrian bridge, repairs are underway and the current schedule calls for the bridge to open by January 11, 2024, assuming that there are no unforeseen conditions with the structure of the bridge and/or significant weather delays.
The renovation of the 4th floor of the Florestano building is complete and the College will host an open house for the College community in the spring semester.
Regarding the Broadneck Trail, the committee received an update on the County project to create a pedestrian and bike trail along College Parkway. It is important for the Board to be aware of this project as there have been some questions from the community regarding the removal of trees on the College’s property.
Regarding the renovations to Glen Burnie Town Center, the renovation of the lobby and the testing and tutoring labs are nearing completion. The County is planning to replace the HVAC system in the building and the College is discussing with them the timing of the project to minimize the disruption to students.
The committee discussed the structural issues with the HCAT building and possible scenarios that the College will discuss with the County.
4. Student Success Committee – Dr. Nadine Chien, Committee Chair
Dr. Chien reported that the Student Success Committee met on November 13 to review the Fall 2023 Credit Enrollment Update Report that will be presented later during the meeting.
The committee had an in-depth discussion about the report and asked clarifying questions about the data and impact of the K-12 Blueprint legislation. The committee also discussed strategies and initiatives that the College is implementing to increase enrollment, retention, and student success.
5. AACC Foundation – Dr. Nadine Chien, Lead Liaison
Dr. Chien shared a thank you letter from a student for a scholarship, and reported that as of October 31, 2023, the Foundation’s fundraising total is $2.33 million in gifts and commitments, exceeding the fiscal year goal of $2 million. Dr. Chien and the Board congratulated the Foundation for their fundraising efforts and for exceeding their fiscal year goal.
Dr. Chien thanked all who attended the Foundation’s donor cultivation event held at the College on October 24. The event informed community members about the College’s commitment to expand the nursing program to address the need for health care workers in this region. The Foundation will continue to focus on raising funds for the Future Nursing Professionals Scholarship to allow more students to enroll in the College’s Registered Nursing program.
B. No Reports for November
1. Board Development Committee – A. Joyce Price-Jones, Committee Chair
2. Budget Committee – Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Committee Chair
3. Human Resources Committee – JaCina N. Stanton-Buttrom, Committee Chair
VII. President’s Report – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
A. Information Items
1. College Updates – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay shared that she was honored to moderate a panel discussion on October 17 for Women Who Make a Difference, sponsored by the Northern Anne Arundel County Chamber of Commerce, which featured a distinguished panel of women, including Dr. Chien. The panel shared their experiences regarding leadership qualities which have driven their success and the success of those around them. Dr. Lindsay thanked Ms. Moore who attended the event as well.
Dr. Lindsay attended and participated in College and community-related events including: the Fall Board Meeting for the League for Innovation in Madison, Wisconsin on October 18-20; the Anne Arundel County Good Scout Award Breakfast, honoring Senator Sarah Elfreth on October 26, along with Mr. Ulvila and Dr. Chien; the Anne Arundel County Chamber of Commerce Annual Business Hall of Fame Induction and Dinner on October 26, along with Mr. Ulvila, Ms. Price-Jones, Ms. Moore, and Mr. Chaudhry; and lunch with students from the Genders and Sexualities Alliance and Super Science Clubs on October 31.
Dr. Lindsay was pleased with the turnout for the College’s Open House on November 2 with over 900 RSVPs, which demonstrates continued interest in the College. Dr. Lindsay thanked the volunteers who supported the Open House and made it such a great success!
Dr. Lindsay congratulated Dr. Susan Lamont, professor of biology, who received the Jan Hollmann Environmental Education Award. The award recognizes an individual or organization that has been especially effective in achieving environmental education in Anne Arundel County. Dr. Lindsay added that Dr. Lamont was nominated by a former student, which is a testament to her ability to inspire students and her dedication to teaching.
Throughout November, the College will recognize the sacrifices and contributions of military families through a variety of visual displays, initiatives, and events. On November 9, the College held its annual Veterans Appreciation Ceremony at the Veterans Memorial Garden. Dr. Lindsay noted that it was a beautiful tribute, concluding with the College’s tradition of reading the names of faculty, staff, family members and veteran students who have either served or who are serving in the military. The College has benefited from the service of veterans and military, is committed to providing support to active military learners, veterans, and families as they achieve their educational goals, and is grateful for their service.
Dr. Lindsay noted that tonight, she will leave for the American Association of Community Colleges conference, where she will share the success of the College’s programs. Dr. Lindsay will participate in a panel discussion along with Dr. Mark Bedell, superintendent of Anne Arundel County Public Schools, and Dr. Sandra Kurtinitis, president of Community College of Baltimore County, regarding how community colleges can support the K-12 system and how the K-12 system can support community colleges.
2. Sabbatical Reports – Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President for Learning
i. Matthew P. Klos, Visual Arts
Dr. Millner thanked the Board for their support of the faculty and the work that they completed during their sabbatical leave. Dr. Millner introduced Mr. Matthew Klos, professor of visual arts, who has worked at the College for 16 years. Professor Klos participated in an exhibition and artist event at Shasta College in Redding, California where he and other artists spoke to students and spent several days creating work in Redding and Sacramento. Dr. Millner noted that Professor Klos’ sabbatical work will impact faculty, student success and engagement positively at the College.
Professor Klos thanked the Board and College staff for their support of his sabbatical leave. His project was entitled Street View, and it investigated structures seen from the alleyways in his former exclusively working-class neighborhood in Sparrows Point, Maryland.
During his sabbatical, he completed approximately 100 small format paintings, and shared a selection of his paintings. Professor Klos used a square format to activate the flatness of the form, and was inspired by the qualities of light and day, the structure and condition of the houses, and the history of the houses, the neighborhoods, the communities, and its residents.
Professor Klos presented some of his work to graduate students from Towson University who visited the neighborhood as well. He selected 35 paintings for his exhibition entitled A Community Portrait, which was held at Todd’s Inheritance Historic Site in Sparrows Point from October 20-November 3. Professor Klos was thankful that the sabbatical allowed him to attend studio visits and exhibitions in various cities including Baltimore and Philadelphia.
Professor Klos announced that an exhibition featuring the entirety of his Sparrows Point Street View project will be held in the Cade Gallery starting the first week of February 2024.
ii. Brandi R. Shepard, Architecture and Interior Design
Dr. Millner introduced Ms. Brandi Shepard, associate professor, who has served as a faculty member at the College for 22 years. During her sabbatical in fall 2022, Professor Shepard investigated and researched instructional coaching and its impact on collegiate level instruction. As a result of Professor Shepard’s research, she created and tested an instructional coaching model and conducted studies with the College’s faculty utilizing this approach to instruction. Her work will lead to greater opportunities for teaching excellence, the ability to explore innovative strategies to develop new teaching techniques, and professional advancement for her and the College’s faculty.
Professor Shepard thanked Dr. Millner, Dr. Lindsay, the Board, and her fellow colleagues for their support and sponsorship of her sabbatical leave.
The purpose of her sabbatical leave was to investigate instructional coaching and its application in higher education, and to develop a model for instructional coaching at the College. Instructional coaching is prevalent in the K-12 education system, with the focus of developing pedagogical approaches in the classroom, student engagement, and instructional strategies to support student learning. Professor Shepard participated in the Engagement Coaching Training program at the College, and realized that those skills could influence teaching effectiveness.
The onset of new instructional modalities, specifically in the virtual and hybrid environments, have created the necessity for increased levels of support for faculty. Through programs such as The Mastery Project, the College is making meaningful connections with instructional development. Through instructional coaching, the goal is to deepen instructional support for faculty and help them achieve instructional goals to increase student learning achievement.
Her research was rooted in the principles of the instructional coaching model, “The Impact Cycle” developed by Jim Knight. She adapted that model for the College, which has a five-prong approach to instructional coaching in post-secondary education that includes awareness of reality, establish areas for change, create goals, form strategies, and measure results and reflection.
By expanding the College’s existing Engagement Coaching Training program, the College is uniquely positioned to develop coaching as a standard practice for faculty and instructional specialists. AACC is the only community college with an International Coaching Federation accredited training program.
Professor Shepard stated that her ultimate goal is to become an instructional coach for the College, and train additional instructional coaches, so each school would have 2-3 instructional coaches supporting faculty.
3. Enrollment Update – Dr. Felicia Patterson, Vice President for Learner Support Services
Dr. Patterson presented the Fall 2023 Enrollment Report, noting that the data was as of September 30, and includes only credit enrollment. The College experienced an increase in headcount of 9.48% or 966 students this fall compared to last fall and an increase of 7.82% in FTE (full-time equivalent) for a total of 2,965 FTE. Dr. Patterson commented that when comparing data from year to year, the enrollments in the Foundations of College Algebra program were not included in this fall’s data, so the FTE number is slightly inflated. When accounting for this, this fall’s FTE is up 5.6% compared to last year’s FTE.
Regarding new and returning students, there were 7,845 returning students this fall, which is an increase of 477 students compared to fall 2022, and 3,313 new students, which is an increase of 17.32% from fall 2022. This is largely due to the increase in dually-enrolled students.
When analyzing the students by age, ages 18 and under comprise 16.2%; ages 18-19 are 25.9%; ages 20-24 are 26.5%, and ages 25+ are 31.3%. For students under the age of 16, the College has a special process for gifted and talented students for dual enrollment. Students under the age of 16 increased by 30 students compared to last fall, and students ages 16-17 increased by 55.4%.
Regarding full-time versus part-time, 73.7% of students attend part-time, and 26.3% attend full-time. The fall credit headcount by gender remains consistent, as 39.6% of students are male versus 60.4% female, which are the same percentages as last year.
Regarding fall credit minority students, 45.2% of students identify as non-white. The data shows that 4,538 of students report as Asian, Black/African American, Hispanic, Pacific Islander, Native American, Alaska Native or other multiracial, which is based on all credit students minus non-US citizens, and those who did not report a race or ethnicity. The College uses the Maryland Higher Education Commission and the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System definitions for race and identity.
The breakdown of enrollment of credit students by race and ethnicity were as follows: 49.4% white; 18.1 % Black/African American; 16.2% other/unknown; 11.8 % Hispanic/Latino; and 4.5% Asian. There were 58.3% of students taking at least one online course in the fall, and 15.5% of students taking at least one hybrid course.
Regarding dually-enrolled students, there was a significant increase, 58.2% in fall 2023 for students in the Early College Access Program, for a total of 1,495 students. There was an increase of 717 other dually enrolled students, which includes students who are home-schooled and students who attend private high schools this fall.
The College’s draw rate is calculated by taking the number Anne Arundel County Public Schools (AACPS) high school graduates attending the College and dividing that by all AACPS high school graduates. The draw rate is a preliminary number until the students graduate, and the fall 2023 draw rate of 22.1% is slightly lower than fall 2022 (22.3%).
Dr. Johnson asked how many of those students were previously dually-enrolled students at the College. Dr. Patterson responded that 410 of the 1,197 or 34.2% were previously dually-enrolled, and the College hopes to increase that number, especially considering the number of dually-enrolled students this fall.
The fall-to-fall retention rate slightly decreased to 60% in fall 2023 compared to fall 2022 (61%). In terms of the number of students by place of residence and Anne Arundel County zip codes, the largest number of students come from Pasadena with 1,189 students, followed by Glen Burnie with 823 students, and Odenton with 651 students.
4. Strategic Plan Update – Monica Rausa, Special Assistant to the President
Ms. Rausa provided an update on the College’s strategic plan, Engagement Matters II: Excellence through Innovation, beginning with a review of the three goals of the plan: entry and engagement; progress and growth; and retention and completion; and the four objectives: excellence; engagement; innovation and resources.
Ms. Rausa stated that the College achieves its goals through its strategic activities, and she reviewed how the College operationalizes the strategic plan. Each year, the president and vice presidents determine the priorities for the College, which align with the Board’s goals, the president and vice presidents’ goals, and the goals and objectives of the strategic plan. The priorities for FY2024 include retention of current students, strategic alignment of resources, diversity, equity, inclusion, antiracism, and accessibility (DEIAA), and the K-12 Partnership/Blueprint for Maryland’s Future.
After the priorities have been determined, the president and vice presidents develop specific actions to be completed during the year, and these actions are aligned with one of the objectives in the strategic plan. Ms. Rausa reviewed the actions for each objective: excellence, engagement, innovation, and resources.
After the actions have been determined, each division develops activities to support those actions. The College receives updates on these actions and divisional activities twice a year.
Then the units and departments align their work or objectives with the divisional activities. The units select one objective that supports an action in the strategic plan to assess each year. Assessment is key for the Middle States Commission on Higher Education Standards for Accreditation, and this is how the College incorporates the administrative unit assessment process.
The results of the administrative unit assessments are collected at the end of each year. This process helps to inform institutional decision-making and resource allocation by aligning unit objectives with the College’s strategic plan to achieve the College’s mission and goals, while demonstrating the College’s commitment to accountability and continuous improvement.
The College has 40 key performance indicators (KPIs) to help measure its progress toward achieving its goals and objectives, which reflect the efforts at the unit and department level to support the strategic plan. Ms. Rausa noted that in Dr. Patterson’s enrollment update she presented many of the KPIs such as credit headcount and dual enrollment. Additionally, many of the strategic plan’s KPIs are in the annual Maryland Higher Education Commission Performance Accountability Report, which the Board reviews and approves each September.
The College’s strategic plan also has an intentional focus on employees. Progress with faculty and staff engagement is measured by the number of employees enrolled in professional development courses. There was an increase in enrollments for FY2023, which was a result of the new DEIAA training plan for all staff, which includes having one DEIAA professional goal for each employee.
Regarding progress and growth, some important KPIs include first-time students who earn 15 or more credits in a year, and the percentage of first-time students who complete college-level Mathematics and English in their first year. The research shows that students who take 15 credits or more in a year, and students who complete gateway English and Mathematics in their first year are more likely to earn an award.
Regarding completion, the number of awards and graduation rates are important KPIs, and the number of awards have decreased in FY2023. This KPI is a lag indicator, and this decrease is mostly attributed to the decrease in students during the pandemic. Given the increased number of continuing students and increased overall persistence rate this fall, the College expects the award numbers to increase in the upcoming years. Students accumulating credits, but not earning a degree, is a national phenomenon as well.
Mr. Chaudhry asked about the breakdown of programs by ethnicity regarding the 2018 Cohort:150% Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity and Gender data. Ms. Rausa responded that she would have to get that specific data, and will provide it to the Board.
5. Academic Forum/Council – Dr. Shelley DeBlasis, Parliamentarian
Dr. DeBlasis reported that the first Academic Forum meeting of the 2023-2024 academic year was held on October 19 via Zoom. At the meeting, the goals for the Academic Forum committees and the Academic Forum/Council Chair were approved.
The Academic Forum has started to receive feedback from committees regarding proposed Charter updates and changes. These committee-proposed updates and changes will be presented at the November or December Academic Council meeting, and voted on at the Academic Forum meeting in January. In addition, the Chair has worked on revising Charter language to be more inclusive of instructional staff at the College, which will be presented to the Academic Council, and voted on at the Academic Forum meeting in January as well.
6. Administrative Staff Organization – Andrea Zamora, President
Ms. Zamora reported that the second Administrative Staff Organization (ASO) general membership meeting of this fiscal year is scheduled for November 29, and the ASO is looking forward to meeting with Dr. Lindsay and the vice presidents at this meeting.
Ms. Zamora shared the highlights of the membership survey which is currently in progress. So far, one-third of the members have responded to the survey, and one of the top challenges is employee engagement. Members reported that finding time to mentor and coach team members can be challenging; they are concerned about staff burnout and managing work-life balance; they would like resources about having difficult conversations; how best to support staff, and managing in a hybrid workplace; and they would like the ASO to focus on leadership support and development.
Members of all the constituency group leadership teams have met to discuss collaboration and creating a culture of cross-constituency support.
7. Professional and Support Staff Organization – Laura Howard, Vice President
Ms. Howard provided an update of the Professional and Support Staff Organization (PSSO). Based on one of their goals to explore opportunities to better connect and communicate with each other and reflect the college values, the leadership has implemented an initiative around civility. The monthly meetings featured topics related to civility in the workplace, and they have offered workshops to members related to civility in the workplace and work-life harmony, stress management, and wellness. There will be two more wellness workshops for members in the spring.
The College’s Community Service Committee launched a food drive to help stock the Food & Snack Pantry at Lindale Middle School, to provide students in need access to food during the Winter Break and throughout the school year. The drive ends December 1.
8. Student Government Association – Zack Buster, President
Mr. Buster provided an update on the Student Government Association (SGA). On October 18, over 200 students attended the first SGA carnival. On October 30, the SGA collaborated with the College’s Latinx Club and community to hold a festival called “HallowsFiesta,” to learn more about Hispanic culture and traditions.
The SGA will begin to host public meetings twice a month where students can bring their questions and concerns to the SGA. As of now, there are approximately 40 active organizations on campus. Mr. Buster noted that student academic performance and retention rates improve when students get involved on campus. He stated that personally being involved in student clubs improved his grades and life, and he is excited to help others have a great college experience. He thanked the Board and attendees for their support of the SGA.
9. The Faculty Organization – Dr. Deborah Levine, President (NO REPORT)
10. Maryland Association of Community Colleges Activities – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
The MACC Board of Directors met on October 27 at Anne Arundel Community College. At this meeting, the MACC Board of Directors approved the MACC Legislative Initiatives for the 2024 General Assembly. Talking points will be prepared for Board members highlighting the key issues of the priorities prior to the start of the legislative session.
The annual MACC Trustee Leadership Conference will be held on January 22, 2024 at the Governor Calvert House in Annapolis. Additional details will be shared when they become available.
VIII. New Business
There was no new business.
IX. Next Board Meeting – December 12, 2023
X. Vote to Close Meeting – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair
A. To protect the privacy or reputation of individuals with respect to a matter that is not related to public business, pursuant to Section 3-305(b)(2) of the General Provisions Article of the Maryland Code.
By motion of Mr. Ulvila and seconded by Ms. Price-Jones, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved closing the public session of the Board to move into a closed session to protect the privacy or reputation of individuals with respect to a matter that is not related to public business.
XI. Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 5:16 p.m.
Members present: Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair; Dr. Nadine Chien, Vice Chair; Shahbaz Chaudhry (arrived at 4:32 p.m.); Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr.; Sandra E. Moore; A. Joyce Price-Jones; JaCina N. Stanton-Buttrom; Rachel Gwin; and Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
I. Call to Order
II. Roll Call and Approval of the Agenda, Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair
The Board Public Session was called to order by Chair Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr. at 4:00 p.m.
Mr. Ulvila asked for the roll call and approval of the agenda and noted that Mr. Chaudhry will be arriving late. Dr. Chien moved to approve the agenda, which was seconded by Dr. Johnson. A roll call was taken of trustees to determine their vote, and the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the agenda.
III. Welcome and Introductions, Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair
IV. Consent Agenda
Mr. Ulvila presented the Consent Agenda. Ms. Price-Jones moved to approve the Consent Agenda, which was seconded by Dr. Chien. A roll call was taken of trustees to determine their vote, and the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the Consent Agenda:
V. Board Chair and Committee Reports
A. Reports for December
1. Board Development Committee – A. Joyce Price-Jones, Committee Chair
Ms. Price-Jones reported that the Board Development Committee met via Zoom on November 28.
The committee members shared ideas from the Association of Community College Trustees conference related to board development including developing talking points or a messaging worksheet for Board members to communicate the value of the College to various stakeholders; an annual diversity, equity, and inclusion training, with a focus on anti-racism and accessibility; tours of the Clauson Center, Arundel Mills and Glen Burnie Town Center (GBTC), and possibly having a Board meeting at one of the other College locations; having Board members participate in the national Community College Trustee Survey, which is the largest research study on community college trustees in almost 25 years; and implementing an annual Board retreat with the purpose of reviewing and assessing Board goals and enhancing working relationships.
The Committee will discuss these ideas and additional options at its next meeting on January 23.
2. Budget Committee – Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Committee Chair
Dr. Johnson reported that the Board Budget Committee met via Zoom on December 7 to discuss the FY2024 update and budgetary implications, the FY2025 budget, and future meetings.
The FY2024 update and budgetary implications included a comprehensive review of a variety of subtopics that provided context for both the short-term development of the FY2025 budget and the long-term future of the College. The discussion included a review of financial reports including the operating budget status report, the projected tuition stabilization fund balance, and the multi-year projections.
The committee discussed the importance of using the budget guiding principles and priorities, which were reviewed at the previous meeting, as the basis for determining which items should be incorporated into the FY2025 budget. The administration noted that these principles and priorities are critical to the deliberations currently underway and support the iterative process that allows for real-time evaluation of the alignment of budget resources as requests are considered.
The committee will review this assessment and provide additional feedback as the plan is further developed and finalized for the Board Budget Workshop, scheduled for February 15.
The committee was updated on the status of the FY2025 budget development and presented with a draft of the FY2025-FY2030 Capital Budget, which was also shared with the Facilities Committee at its last meeting. The Budget Committee will continue to meet as the development of the FY2025 budget continues.
3. Facilities Committee – Sandra E. Moore, Committee Chair
Ms. Moore reported that the Facilities Committee met via Zoom on December 5 to discuss the draft FY2025 Capital Budget Request, future procurements, campus projects, and future meetings.
The draft FY2025 capital budget was submitted to the County for review on December 8 to meet the County’s internal deadline, with a disclaimer that the Board has not yet approved the capital budget. The capital budget is consistent with prior years with a few changes including the updated cost estimate for the Dragun building renovation, moving the Student Services renovation up by one year, and adding the Hotel, Culinary Arts and Tourism (HCAT) and Mathematics building projects. A few of the deferred maintenance projects were increased to reflect inflation and to provide funding for classroom furniture replacement, repairs to the west campus bridge between Parking Lots H and G, and the replacement of the Careers building roof.
The committee received an update on campus projects including the Pedestrian Bridge, Florestano building renovation, the Broadneck Trail and the Glen Burnie Town Center (GBTC) renovation. Regarding the pedestrian bridge, repairs are underway and the current schedule calls for the bridge to open by January 11, 2024. Additional structural purlins will need to be replaced but there are adequate funds for the project. The College is evaluating the impact on the schedule as a result of these changes.
Regarding the 1st through 3rd floors of the Florestano building, the Board approved the design contract in November and design meetings will start in January.
Regarding the Broadneck Trail, the committee received an update on this County project to create a pedestrian and bike trail along College Parkway. The County’s contractor is currently in a holding pattern and the County is working with the contractor on a remobilization plan. The County shared that the College’s portion of the project should be finished in March 2024.
Regarding the GBTC renovations, the renovation of the lobby and the testing and tutoring labs are complete, and the College is working with the County and fire marshal on the occupancy permit. The County is planning to replace the HVAC system in the building and the College is discussing with them the timing of the project to minimize disruption to students. Regarding the HCAT project, the County Chief Administrative Officer was supportive of pursuing a new County capital project to consolidate the HCAT program in an expanded Clauson building in Arnold, in lieu of making repairs to the HCAT building in Glen Burnie.
4. AACC Foundation – Dr. Nadine Chien, Lead Liaison
Ms. Gwin shared a thank you letter from a student for a scholarship. Dr. Chien reported that as of November 30, 2023, the Foundation’s fundraising total is just over $2.8 million in gifts and commitments, exceeding the fiscal year goal of $2 million. The Foundation recently received a planned gift of $285,000 from donor Sandra Winans-Berkow, who passed in October 2022. Ms. Winans-Berkow met with Foundation staff members in 2017 after learning about the scholarship program through a fellow donor. Before her death, Ms. Winans-Berkow formalized the endowed scholarship, naming it the Sandra Winans-Berkow and Melanie Berkow Memorial Endowed Scholarship in her memory, as well as the memory of her late daughter, Melanie. The endowed scholarship will support students pursuing degree programs at the College. Dr. Chien noted that the Foundation is extremely grateful for this gift from Ms. Winans-Berkow.
i. Approval of Naming Opportunity for Space in Health and Life Sciences Building (Action Item)
Mr. Vollie Melson, Executive Director of the AACC Foundation, presented the naming opportunity to the Board. The Board was asked to consider naming Room 172, currently the Health Sciences Student Success Center in the Health and Life Sciences Building, at the request of a donor, who has asked to remain anonymous, in honor of Ms. Lorraine Hughes Girandola (deceased). Ms. Girandola worked in the College’s School of Health Sciences from 2014 to 2022 as a Student Success Coach. The AACC Foundation would cover expenses for signage placed at this campus building.
Ms. Price-Jones moved to approve the naming opportunity, which was seconded by Ms. Moore. Mr. Ulvila recognized and thanked Mr. Melson and the Foundation for their work. A roll call was taken of trustees to determine their vote, and the Board of Trustees unanimously approved naming Room 172 and its inclusive office space in the Health and Life Sciences Building, the Lorraine Hughes Girandola Health Sciences Student Success Center, which meets the conditions and criteria set forth in the Procedures for Naming College Properties, Programs, and Positions.
B. No Reports for December
1. Audit & Finance Committee – A. Joyce Price-Jones, Committee Chair
2. Board Policy Oversight Committee – Dr. Nadine Chien, Committee Chair
3. Human Resources Committee – JaCina N. Stanton-Buttrom, Committee Chair
4. Student Success Committee – Dr. Nadine Chien, Committee Chair
VI. President’s Report – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
A. Information Items
1. College Updates – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
On December 1, Dr. Lindsay and professor emeritus and AACC Foundation Board of Director, Dr. Richard Faircloth, were pleased to host the College’s Retirees Luncheon. This event was a great way to connect, celebrate the retirees, and thank them for their exceptional service to the College.
Dr. Lindsay announced that Department of Public Safety and Police Sgt. Harvey Baublitz received the Community Safety Award, and was recognized for his dedication and service by the Northern Anne Arundel County Chamber of Commerce on November 15.
Dr. Lindsay shared that the College was one of seven colleges nationwide, and the only college in the state, chosen to be part of a national cybersecurity program. The coalition is led by Rochester Institute of Technology to support former military service members and first responders to transition into cybersecurity careers and help address the cybersecurity talent shortage.
The College’s Health and Life Sciences Building continues to be recognized for its design and construction and was recently recognized by the Maryland Community Leadership and earned the Design and Construction Award. This prestigious award celebrates building projects that exemplify excellence in high-performance, healthy design and building, environmental stewardship, and community impact.
The College’s student-run literary magazine, Amaranth at AACC, won second place in the College Media Association's Pinnacle Awards for Literary Magazine of the Year. Additionally, the Campus Current received an Honorable Mention for Newspaper of the Year.
Dr. Lindsay is looking forward to the College’s holiday celebrations at the Arnold campus on December 19, and at Arundel Mills and GBTC at The Sarah E. Carter Building on December 20. She added that as she reflects upon the past year, there are many things to be grateful for and she continues to be proud of the College community and the opportunity to work with such passionate, dedicated and hard-working colleagues.
2. Revisions to College Manual Sections IV, V, VI, VII and VIII – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President (Information Item)
Dr. Lindsay reported that due to the recently approved Employee Grievance Policy and related Procedures, Flexible Work Policy and related Procedures, Staff and Administrator Performance Evaluations Procedure, Full-Time Faculty Performance Evaluations Procedure, and Promotion of Part-Time Faculty Procedure, the College Manual needs to be revised. Dr. Lindsay noted that these revisions are being presented to the Board as an information item for today’s meeting and will be brought forward as an action item at the January meeting.
The sections related to grievances and telework need to be updated to remove conflicting information in the Full-Time and Tenure Track and Full-Time Term Contract Sections of the College Manual (Sections IV and V), Part-Time and Special Term Faculty Contract Section (Section VI), Administrative Staff Organization Code (Section VII), and the Professional and Support Staff Organization Code (Section VIII).
Language in the Full-Time and Tenure Track and Full-Time Term Contract Sections (Section IV and V), need to remove the reference “interim” Full-Time Faculty Performance Evaluations, as the Procedure was vetted through the process as outlined by the Procedure on Development of Policies and Procedures, and approved by the president and vice presidents.
These changes are proposed by the administration, and the College has followed the process for manual revisions as outlined in Section 1.4 of the College Manual. Currently, these sections are under review by the constituency groups, and if there are any changes as a result of that review, they will be highlighted and noted in the Board’s materials for January.
Mr. Ulvila asked that questions regarding the revisions be directed to Dr. Lindsay. Dr. Johnson asked if a Board committee reviews the revisions before they are presented to the full Board. Erin Parker, General Counsel, responded that the College is following the manual editing process outlined in Section 1.4 of the College Manual, which includes a legal review, and a review by the president and vice presidents and the constituency groups. Ms. Parker added that the College is removing conflicting information from the College Manual based on policies that the College recently adopted.
3. Strategic Technology Roadmap Overview – Dr. Richard Kralevich, Vice President, Information and Instructional Technology (IIT)
Dr. Kralevich provided an update on the College’s Strategic Technology Roadmap (STR), which enables IIT, the College’s Division of Information and Instructional Technology, to prioritize mission critical technologies, invest in emerging solutions, improve foundational services, secure the institution, and move on from obsolete platforms.
The update included a review of the STR objectives, organizational structure, spans, and layers, a 36-month plan consisting of eleven STR initiatives, operational projects and their progress over 12 months; the Ellucian Colleague SaaS (Software-as-a-Service) project which has a go live date of December 2025, and prioritized and major projects.
Dr. Kralevich thanked the College’s user community, and noted that he appreciates the community’s support, patience, and feedback.
Dr. Johnson asked what score Dr. Kralevich would give the College regarding the current status of the STR. Dr. Kralevich responded that the STR has exceeded expectations, so he would give his team an A+. Dr. Kralevich added that while there are some areas for improvement, his team is making significant progress, the SaaS project is coming together, and he is looking forward to new STR initiatives next year and future work with artificial intelligence (AI).
4. Continuing Education and Workforce Development Update – Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President, Learning, and Sandra Jones, Dean, School of Continuing Education and Workforce Development
Dr. Millner introduced Ms. Jones who provided an update on the College’s Continuing Education and Workforce Development (CEWD) programs, which included an overview of the CEWD programming areas and the populations they serve, CEWD operations metrics for FY2023, noncredit full-time equivalent (FTE), headcount, and enrollment comparison, noncredit week-to-week comparison, Hotel/Restaurant Management credit and contract credit; CEWD student demographics by race and age for FY2023, the location of CEWD students registered in FY2023, languages spoken by CEWD students; and the Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades enrollment by program. Ms. Jones shared a student success story regarding a student in the College’s pre-apprenticeship HVAC program, and the student’s employment opportunity while enrolled in the program.
Board members requested and received clarification regarding modified courses and course sections, the location of CEWD students, FTE and headcount, enrollment trends; FY2024 data, and factors related to enrollment. Ms. Jones noted that enrollment is reflective of demand by employers and added that the College has a large electrical apprenticeship program. The College recently held a job fair with over twenty employers meeting with students who were excited as job openings are plentiful.
5. Academic Forum/Council – Andrew Kim, Chair
Mr. Kim reported that an Academic Council meeting was held on November 16 via Zoom. The Academic Forum has started to receive feedback from committees regarding proposed Charter updates and changes. These committee-proposed updates and changes were presented at the November Academic Council meeting and will be voted on at the Academic Forum meeting in January.
The Academic Forum/Council Chair presented an instructional staff inclusivity proposal to the Academic Council. The proposal aims to increase the voice and representation for instructional staff, who are currently Professional and Support Staff Organization (PSSO) members with primary teaching responsibilities, to serve Academic Forum committees and Academic Council. The proposal will be discussed further at the December Academic Council meeting and is expected to be voted on at the Academic Forum meeting in January.
6. Administrative Staff Organization – Stacy Korbelak, Secretary
Ms. Korbelak reported that the second Administrative Staff Organization (ASO) meeting of the semester was held on November 29. The ASO appreciated the updates from Dr. Lindsay and Melissa Beardmore, Vice President for Learning Resources Management.
At the meeting, ASO finalized their goals, which include increasing member engagement, strengthening collaboration with PSSO and TFO (The Faculty Organization), and providing advocacy and support as needed by ASO members. They shared the results of the membership survey, which highlighted challenges faced by supervisors, including supporting staff, and the need for more guidance and support to have difficult conversations, and giving and receiving feedback. Members shared tips and strategies to manage the workforce using Microsoft Teams and other technology. ASO is joining the PSSO Pack the Pantry Challenge to contribute to the College’s food pantry.
Dr. Johnson asked if ASO is working on a proposal regarding how it could become more efficient if it had more resources. Ms. Korbelak responded that the strategy includes utilizing technology better and getting members trained so that they can work more efficiently.
7. Professional and Support Staff Organization – Lisa Starkey, President
Ms. Starkey shared that at its meeting on November 10, PSSO followed up on their Kindness Campaign Challenge, which is part of the Civility Matters Project. The PSSO leadership challenged all its members to send thank you emails or cards during the month of October to spread random acts of kindness and gratitude around the College. The feedback from the members was so enthusiastic that the Kindness Challenge will continue until the end of December. Members participated in activity called “What does Civility Look Like?” and shared their ideas about what civility looks like in the workplace. In January, each member will be asked to put one idea into action.
At the December 7 meeting, a workshop was presented on email communication, focused on tone, professionalism, and etiquette.
The PSSO leadership team had the idea for a Pack the Pantry Challenge in October for members to make contributions to the College’s food pantry. PSSO partnered with TFO, ASO and Academic Forum/Council, and asked their members to assist with the challenge.
The College Community Service Committee launched a food and snack drive to help fill the Food and Snack Pantry at Lindale Middle School to ensure that students in need have access to food during the Winter Break and throughout the school year. The drive ran from October 30 through December 1, and the committee dropped off the donated items on December 8.
The PSSO Engagement Committee sent out an engagement survey to its members, and the survey results will help plan engagement opportunities for the remainder of the academic year.
The PSSO Nomination and Election Committee continues to meet with the TFO/Academic Council Nomination Committee to work collaboratively on the committee nomination process to make sure PSSO members are serving on Academic Council committees, and expanding instructional specialist membership on TFO committees that focus on teaching and learning.
Dr. Chien asked about the participation of the PSSO members in the Civility Matters project. Ms. Starkey responded that attendance at PSSO meetings has more than doubled and the leadership team has included it in their leadership philosophy, as well as embracing the College values. Ms. Starkey added that the leadership has received a lot of feedback that members enjoy the meetings and believe that they are productive.
Ms. Moore asked how the Board could donate to the Pack the Pantry Challenge and challenged the Board to participate. Ms. Starkey listed several collection sites and noted that there is an Amazon wish list that the Board may purchase from as well. Mr. Ulvila requested that details be sent the Board about how to participate.
8. Student Government Association – Zack Buster, President
Mr. Buster provided an update on the Student Government Association (SGA). Mr. Buster stated that SGA events have attracted many students this year, and the SGA has the first full senate since before the pandemic.
Mr. Buster thanked the Board, attendees, and the student body for their support of the SGA. Mr. Buster shared that he was not active on campus when he started with the College, but he discovered the power to change lives which gave him a reason to come to campus. Mr. Buster ran for SGA president because he wanted to give the same opportunity to others. Mr. Buster thanked the SGA executive board and the College for welcoming him, giving him the tools needed to make his vision a reality, and added that he is excited to make the College great next semester.
Mr. Ulvila thanked Mr. Buster for his energy and service to the College.
9. The Faculty Organization – Dr. Deborah Levine, President (NO REPORT)
10. Maryland Association of Community Colleges Activities – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
The annual Maryland Association of Community Colleges (MACC) Trustee Leadership Conference and Legislative Reception will be held on January 22, 2024 at the Governor Calvert House in Annapolis. The conference will be held from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., and the legislative reception will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
The MACC Trustee Conference provides an overview of its 2024 legislative agenda and invites guest speakers to provide an overview of federal issues in higher education that may affect community colleges. At the reception, elected officials are invited to meet with the Board members and College leadership. More information about this event will be communicated when it becomes available.
The opening day of the 446th Session of the Maryland General Assembly will convene on January 10, 2024, and the MACC Legislative Committee will start meeting each week starting in January, and throughout the session, to review proposed legislation that will affect community colleges.
VII. New Business
There was no new business.
VIII. Next Board Meeting – January 9, 2024
IX. Vote to Close Meeting – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair
A. To consult with counsel to obtain legal advice pursuant to Section 3-305(b)(7) of the General Provisions Article of the Maryland Code, and to consult with staff, consultants, or other individuals about pending or potential litigation, pursuant to Section 3-305(b)(8) of the General Provisions Article of the Maryland Code.
By motion of Ms. Moore and seconded by Ms. Price-Jones, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved closing the public session of the Board to move into a closed session to consult with counsel to obtain legal advice and to consult with staff, consultants, or other individuals about pending or potential litigation.
X. Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 4:52 p.m.
A closed session of the Board of Trustees was held on November 14, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. at the Anne Arundel Community College Arnold Campus, 101 College Parkway, Arnold, MD 21012, in the Cade Center for Fine Arts Building, Room 228. Pursuant to section §3-305(b)(2) 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 voted to close the session: Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair, Dr. Nadine Chien, Vice Chair, Shahbaz Chaudhry, Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Sandra E. Moore, A. Joyce Price-Jones, and JaCina Stanton-Buttrom. The following Board members were present at the meeting: Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair, Dr. Nadine Chien, Vice Chair, Shahbaz Chaudhry, Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Sandra E. Moore, and A. Joyce Price-Jones. Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President; Melissa Beardmore, Vice President for Learning Resources Management; Dr. Richard Kralevich, Vice President for Information and Instructional Technology; Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President for Learning; Dr. Felicia Patterson, Vice President for Learner Support Services; Vollie Melson, Executive Director, Anne Arundel Community College Foundation; Erin Parker, General Counsel; and Cintamani Rathinam, Executive Assistant were present as well. The topic included discussing the reputation of an individual related to a naming opportunity. The meeting began at 5:19 p.m. and ended at 5:24 p.m.
Members present: Lawrence W. Ulvila Jr., Chair; Dr. Nadine Chien, Vice Chair; Shahbaz Chaudhry (left at 9:53 a.m., returned at 10:30 a.m.); Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr.; Sandra E. Moore; A. Joyce Price-Jones; JaCina Stanton-Buttrom; and Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Absent: Rachel Gwin
I. Call to Order
The Board Public Session was called to order by Mr. Ulvila at 8:30 a.m.
Mr. Ulvila asked for the roll call and approval of the agenda. By motion of Ms. Moore, seconded by Dr. Chien, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the agenda. Mr. Ulvila noted that Ms. Gwin was taking practical exams that morning and would not be able to attend the workshop. Mr. Ulvila asked Melissa Beardmore, Vice President for Learning Resources Management, to start the presentation.
II. Board Budget Workshop
A. Proposed FY 2025 Operating Budget
Ms. Beardmore stated that the budget workshop is an informal interactive session to allow trustees to ask questions about the budget. The Board is not voting at the workshop; but will vote at the Board Public Session on February 27. Feedback received at the workshop will be incorporated into the budget presentation on February 27. Then, the approved budget request will be submitted to the County Executive by March 1.
The College’s budget presentation to the County Executive is on March 14. There is a limited number of in-person attendees for this meeting; Dr. Lindsay, Andrew Little, and Ms. Beardmore will attend. The Board is invited to attend this meeting virtually. The County Executive presents his budget on May 1, which is when the College will learn how much funding it receives. The College then presents to the County Council, which must vote on the budget on or before June 15.
Ms. Beardmore stated that the College’s mission focuses its work and provided context to the proposed FY 2025 Operating Budget to show that the College reviews and assesses the effectiveness of investments in resources.
The FY 2024 Financial Status Report is shared regularly with the Budget Committee and the Audit and Finance Committee. As of December 31, the operating budget status report shows the College is operating within a balanced budget for the current year, and all areas are projected to be within their appropriation authority. Student tuition and fees are projected to be above budget by 7% about $2.5 million. Other income is also over budget, which the College benefits from higher interest rates and earning more interest on cash balances.
The balancing number is the Tuition Stabilization Fund (TSF) and auxiliary transfer. The College budgeted a transfer of $3.3 million; however, it is estimating a transfer of $1.5 million to the TSF, which will be discussed later in the presentation. The savings on expenditures are smaller than what was trended in the past. Most of the savings are from turnover, salaries and benefits, and the turnover budget has been increased to align with current staffing trends as the College is not seeing the budget savings it has in prior years. This does challenge the College’s ability to fund year-end expenditures as there are less savings and the savings are not always in the right category.
Ms. Beardmore shared a quick environmental scan and some thoughts regarding the impact of investments made. The College will be embarking on a new strategic plan for FY 2026, and reviewing internal and external data that impact the College. The Enrollment Retention and Completion Council continues to drive enrollment planning.
Fall 2023 enrollment shows growth for new and continuing students, with a slight decline in returning students. With the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future legislation, there has been a significant increase in dually enrolled students, 50% increase since Fall 2020, and the total headcount has increased almost 17%. There is continued investment supporting these students as it is a great opportunity to convert those students to attend AACC once they graduate.
The number of adult students who are 25 years or older is slightly increasing from Fall 2020. The College wants adults who started a degree but did not complete it to see AACC as a place for them to resume their academic pursuits.
As the community becomes increasingly more diverse, the College is seeing a significant increase in Hispanic/Latino students. The Black/African American headcount is rebounding to Fall 2020 levels, and in Fall 2023, represent its highest percentage of headcount at 18.1%
Other factors are impacting enrollment. There are demographic changes nationally, and at the Anne Arundel County Public Schools (AACPS). The AACPS high school graduation rates are down slightly. Student loan repayment started in October 2023, and many families must consider how to best direct their financial commitments. People seek many opportunities through social media and other outlets, and higher education is not necessarily viewed as the first option for gainful employment.
However, even with enrollment challenges, there has been growth in Fall 2023 in many student populations through both recruitment and retention efforts. The College has created model courses that improve student success at the course level. In addition to focusing on adult students, the College has an opportunity to help dually enrolled students see a pathway to a career or transfer by continuing their academic journey at AACC. While community colleges are an affordable option for higher education, the College still needs to make sure students have adequate financial support to attend. The AACC Foundation provides scholarships and other support for our students.
Ms. Beardmore briefly reviewed the College’s mission, vision, and the purpose of the budget is to help accomplish the strategic goals of completion. The College demonstrates budget efficiency and accountability. The Maryland Association of Community Colleges (MACC) provides data of comparative information, which is accessible on its website. The College holds itself to high standards and has been recognized by the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) and was recently awarded the GFOA Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for FY 2024. The College has received this honor each year since the inaugural award in FY 2017 (except the year the College did not pursue the application process for FY 2023).
The College uses several measures to understand how resources are being allocated as compared to other Maryland community colleges. The College invests in what is important, evidenced by showing as a percentage, the highest in allocating the operating budget towards students, instruction and academic support at 65%, and the fourth lowest tuition of all 16 Maryland community colleges.
Dr. Johnson clarified that having the highest percentage may not be an indicator of what is better or most helpful for students. Ms. Beardmore responded that how the budget is allocated is focused on what is impacting and supporting students, and the importance of assessing student outcomes as a result of the investment of financial resources. Dr. Johnson agreed citing in recent years, the investment of doubling the number of counselors available to students and how those resources focused on student retention and completion. He suggested including a few examples in the footnotes in the Board’s materials to support that measure.
Ms. Moore commented that the College is balancing so many priorities, especially with reallocations of savings throughout the year. She asked how much of the budget is reliant upon the measures of fiscal management. Ms. Beardmore responded that those measures were lag measures, which are benchmarked and reviewed to see if they are validating the College’s priorities and resources directed toward activities or investments that support students. Ms. Moore also wanted to clarify that the cost per FTE (full-time equivalent) was $15,285 per student, which Ms. Beardmore confirmed.
Regarding affordability, the Pell Grant maximum award is estimated to fully cover tuition, fees, and books for eligible students. Through the AACC Foundation, private scholarship donations continue to supplement AACC Financial Aid by more than $1.1 million annually. Mr. Ulvila commented that since joining the AACC Foundation Board in 2010, there has been significant growth, and it is quite remarkable what has been accomplished. He complimented the AACC Foundation, noting how important their contributions are to the College.
Ms. Beardmore continued and stated that the budget includes a modest $1 increase in tuition for in-county, and a $1 increase to the athletic fee. Textbook affordability initiatives help students save an annualized equivalent of $5 in tuition, noting the College has been a leader in these efforts since 2007.
Ms. Beardmore highlighted cost containment examples such as Project Sunburst, the energy consortium, vacant position elimination, part-time faculty savings and other programs. Part-time faculty costs savings have been the largest source of cost containment as enrollment declined in previous years.
Ms. Beardmore provided an update on the FY 2024 compensation program, which is 85% of the College’s budget. In FY 2015, the Board set a goal to review compensation systems to support the hiring and retention of quality faculty and staff. The current compensation system was created by the faculty compensation committee and staff compensation committee with the goals of transparency, ease of implementation, consistency, and equity, guided by the Board’s compensation policy. However, to maintain the fidelity of the system, adequate funding is required. Adequate funding means enough funding to keep pace with the increasing labor market between 2-3%. If salary increases do not increase more than the labor market each year, employees will not be able to move through the salary range within the system.
Key data points were considered in the development of the budget, which includes a 6% compensation pool for faculty and staff. Inflationary costs and other issues were discussed in determining what level of compensation is needed. Using software, the College purchased to manage market-based system for staff, the Baltimore metropolitan region moved 3%. To fund the market-based system, salary increases need to increase more than 3%. If the College does not fund the 6% increase, it will degrade the compensation system as employees will not be recognized for their progression based on their experience. This will lead to compression, and the College spent many years working with the Human Resources and Budget Committees to address those issues.
Ms. Beardmore shared comparative data with other county entities. The College’s pool has lagged the county’s non-unionized employees, teachers, and library employees. There are challenges recruiting in healthcare, computer science, cybersecurity, sciences, economics, and accounting. For staff, there has been difficultly hiring in many areas such as human resources, skilled trades, and information technology.
In 2005, the Board set a goal for faculty salaries to be in the top three of Maryland’s large community colleges. In reviewing informal data for full-time faculty positions from peer colleges for average salaries, AACC currently ranks second or third among the teaching positions of professor, associate professor, assistant professor, and instructor. For part-time faculty positions, AACC currently ranks second for Levels 1-4 part-time positions among its peers.
Dr. Johnson noted that trustees decided years ago that the goal should be in the top three. The College has reached its goal and needs to maintain it. Dr. Chien asked if the plan was sustainable given the decrease in the Governor’s budget. Ms. Beardmore responded that while she will discuss more in the proposed FY 2025 budget, despite the Governor’s cut, the College is still finding a way to fund a 6% compensation increase with a large request to the county. If the county is unable to fully fund the request, there are some opportunities to adjust within the budget to preserve the 6% pool.
Dr. Chien asked if the cost of living of the county is considered in the calculation. Ms. Beardmore commented that the cost of living is not considered in setting salaries. The software for market-based salaries for the Baltimore-Washington region is what is used to determine staff salaries. Dr. Chien asked if that number is necessary, and if it has helped retain staff. Ms. Beardmore responded that the 6% will help, but the labor market is challenging right now. There is turnover, higher education cannot compete with corporate. However, the College has excellent benefits, including leave, and mission driven work. The compensation committee did request an 8% increase but with the state budget cut, the College is not able to afford it.
Mr. Ulvila commented that the retirement plan is a huge benefit compared to the private sector. He also added that each year, the College will face these challenges as one of the funding sources will decrease each year. The Budget Committee vets many options, and the College should be complimented on its efforts so far. Ms. Price-Jones stated it was important to note that it is a different job market and a different generation. Employees do not stay at jobs for 20 or 30 years anymore. The average is 3-5 years before they move on, and this must be factored into the equation as well.
Mr. Chaudhry commented that the College has one of the best health care programs. Salaries in health care are higher, so paying to retain faculty is important to stay at the top, and that costs money. Dr. Patterson added that the College cannot underestimate the quality of the faculty and staff. Employees at the College are well trained, and easily promoted and competitive for other institutions. Mr. Ulvila shared that in his years as president of MACC, he knows all the other colleges are experiencing the same issues. Some have even more challenges, due to geographic disadvantages and more severe funding cuts from the state. Dr. Johnson noted that all the other community colleges receive revenue from the state for compensation; it is how the College allocates funds from the other revenue sources, which determine the budget for salaries. Ms. Beardmore added that the College is also looking internally for efficiencies, such as the administrative services review, so it does not have to look to the state and county to fund all the resources it needs.
Ms. Beardmore thanked the Board Budget Committee, which met several times to discuss the underlying assumptions and guiding principles related to the operating budget and considered several scenarios. The preferred scenario is what is being presented to the Board today.
Ms. Beardmore presented a high-level summary of the proposed FY 2025 budget, $139,935,900, which is an increase of $7,129,100 from FY 2024. The majority of that increase is in support of compensation.
Ms. Beardmore reviewed the categories of the FY 2025 budget. Reductions of $200,000 were projected based on current utility projections. Base adjustments total $233,049 for increased costs related to existing services and activities, such as leases and consortium cost adjustments.
Compensation adjustments total $6,631,426, which includes a 6% compensation adjustment pool for faculty and staff. The compensation committee recommended 8%; however, with the Governor’s budget, 6% is the best the College can afford to maintain the fidelity of the program. Wage adjustments for part-time faculty are subject to collective bargaining negotiations. Other items include readjusting the part-time faculty budget to FY 2024 projections, faculty and staff promotions, anticipated health insurance rate increases, retirement, and turnover adjustment.
Legal and regulatory compliance includes projected legal expenses and institutional insurance for a total of $93,226.
Funding for strategic and operational initiatives include funding for athletics, tutoring services, equipment maintenance in the Health and Life Sciences Building, and increased funding for language translation services in support of diversity, equity, inclusion, anti-racism, and accessibility priorities.
Ms. Beardmore presented the proposed revenue for the FY 2025 operating budget. State funding for the College is determined through the Cade funding formula, which ties a percentage of the annual state aid allocated for full-time equivalent (FTE) at select University System of Maryland (USM) institutions to the state aid granted per FTE at the community colleges. For FY 2025, the proposed Cade funding is $42,021,400, which is a decrease of $1.9 million. While the Board, President and MACC are actively meeting with legislators and testifying at hearings, even if Cade is restored, at best, it would be flat funding for FY 2025.
In addition to Cade Funding, the College receives funds, $200,000 from the state for the Regional Higher Education Center at Arundel Mills.
The County has been the College’s discretionary funding partner. The proposed FY2025 budget request to the County is $55,827,800. The $5.7 million request to the County will provide partial funding for the compensation increases, help offset the state funding cut, and maintain tuition affordability.
The College’s contribution to the budget comes through tuition and fee revenue. The proposed FY2025 budget revenue for tuition and fees is $36,576,000. Consistent with the guiding principle of small incremental tuition increases, the budget proposes a tuition increase of $1, and a $1 increase in the athletic fee. The increase in total tuition and fee revenue in FY 2025 is $2,717,100 or 7% from the FY 2024 budget and based upon flat enrollment from the current year. There have only been moderate increases in tuition and fees since FY 2020, with the percentage increase ranging from 1-3%.
In assessing affordability, a comparison of full-time tuition and fees as a percentage of the median household income in the county, AACC is about 4.1%. This compares well to other counties.
The proposed FY 2025 budget revenue for Transfers and other income proposed revenue $5,410,700, which includes transfers from the Tuition Stabilization Fund (TSF), auxiliary fund transfers, and other income. The budget includes a transfer of $3,323,700 to the operating budget from the TSF. This current year, the College expects to add $1.7 million to the TSF. The other income revenue is the result of interest earnings.
The projected TSF FY 2025 budget request balance of $13,803,592, is within the Board goal of 5-10% at 7.1%.
For the proposed FY 2024 budget, the funding source by percent of revenue is the state 30%, County 40% and the College 30%.
Ms. Beardmore provided an update on the Other Post Employment Benefits (OPEB), which relates to health insurance, prescriptions, dental and vision coverage for retirees. Pre-funding this liability helps to reduce the College’s expenses compared to its peers. By creating a trust, in which contributions have been made by the County and College, the plan assets are almost $26.3 million on cash contributions of $19 million.
Ms. Beardmore explained that by law, the College is required to submit a budget for all of its funds. Auxiliary, enterprise, and restricted funds must be managed with a goal to be self-supporting. The budget is approved by the County Council in total, and the FY 2025 budget request for auxiliary, enterprise and restricted funds is $36,607,100, which would be appropriated.
Dr. Johnson asked if there have been discussions with faculty about teaching loads, such as teaching another section of the same course. Dr. Millner responded if a faculty member increases their faculty load hour (FLH) from 15 to 18, they must be compensated. That additional cost would be the same if the College hired a part-time faculty member to teach that course. However, the College is setting up the framework to continue the work with the rpk GROUP, looking at efficiency and effectiveness with the academic portfolio and resources. Those are the discussions happening with faculty and instructional staff.
Dr. Johnson asked about the auxiliary funds transfer. He noted that while there were activities happening, there was no revenue, but there may be a transfer of $200,000 here and there. He asked if the College anticipates this change moving forward. Ms. Beardmore responded that operations after the pandemic, such as continuing education enrollments, bookstore and dining activities are starting to return to pre-pandemic levels, which is why the revenue is included in the budget for FY 2025.
Mr. Ulvila recommended taking a brief break, and introduced the College’s new general counsel, Dr. Tiffany Boykin, who was hired after an open search. He commented that the College was fortunate to have her in this new role and welcomed her to the meeting.
B. Proposed FY 2025 – FY 2030 Capital Budget
Ms. Beardmore presented the proposed FY2025 – 2030 capital budget. The College is required to submit a current year request, FY 2025, plus five out-years due to the multiyear nature of many of these projects. Generally, new construction and renovation projects are eligible for up to 50% state funding.
The Dragun science building renovation has undergone substantive change in scope since last year’s budget submission to the county. After discussions with the county during the last budget session, the scope and budget were reduced by eliminating the building addition. This reduction reduced the overall request by $28.4 million. The removal of the addition means that the math faculty will remain in the existing location for the near future and forgo additional laboratories and classrooms in the building.
Ms. Moore asked about how the decreased funding for the Dragun building would affect the existing laboratories in the building that need significant upgrades. Ms. Beardmore responded that the funding cut would not impact the renovation of the existing spaces and everything currently in the building will be renovated. Ms. Moore asked a follow-up question about how this will affect the math faculty. Ms. Beardmore stated that much time has been spent with the math faculty evaluating options, and they decided to stay in the current building, and will share plans for that proposed renovation shortly.
Regarding the Florestano renovation, previous funding for this project allowed the College to complete the 4th floor Learning Innovation Center, which provides resources for instructional modalities for online learning. The 4th floor opened this spring, which offers open computer labs and spaces for faculty and students. For the next phase of the project, the College has met with the design team. Funding for FY 2025 will allow the College to complete the renovation of the first three floors for a one-stop student services center.
For the Student Services Center renovation, the College has requested to start the renovation a year earlier in FY 2028. The offices in this building will move to Florestano when the renovations are complete. With the College’s current schedule, this building would be vacant until Fall 2030, so the request will be submitted to start earlier if the county budget allows. Ms. Moore asked if there were any revenue opportunities with that building when it is vacant. Ms. Beardmore responded that the College does have space on campus that it rents but this building is an administration building with offices and no classes. However, this option can be investigated and discussed at the Facilities Committee meetings.
A new project to the capital budget request is the relocation of the Hotel, Culinary Arts and Tourism Institute (HCAT). The HCAT building in Glen Burnie is owned by the county, and over the years, it has experienced severe settlement issues. These issues were documented in an engineering study shared with the College. Several options were proposed to remediate, and all those options were at significant cost and disruption to the facility.
After reevaluation by the College and discussions with the county, the county’s Chief Administrative Officer has agreed to relocate the Glen Burnie location of HCAT and Humanities HCAT into a single location at the Arnold campus with an addition to the Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades. This building was designed with the intention to expand. The request is just over $10 million. Mr. Ulvila noted that the Clausons would be supportive of this expansion.
The Math building renovation is another new capital request this year. The building was originally constructed in the mid-1980s and is a smaller building. During the pandemic, the College decided to close the Child Development Center that was located on the first floor of the building. This project was in the 2021 Facilities Master Plan update and will be submitted for funding in FY 2030.
Dr. Chien asked why the county would approve an addition when it denied the addition of the Dragun building. Ms. Beardmore responded that the request is much cheaper, and the county would have to spend $3 million-$6 million to fix HCAT, so the county could use those funds to expand the Clauson Center. Then, there is an opportunity to get 50% of $10 million of the funds from the state for this project. Dr. Chien clarified as she was referring to the Math building. Ms. Beardmore responded that Dragun starts much earlier and would be finished before the Math building.
The College is requesting $1,750,000 for repairs, replacement, and campus improvements, which includes $1,000,000 to address a significant backlog of furniture replacements in classrooms. The request includes an increase in out-years from $700,000 to $750,000 to address escalating construction costs.
Funding of $275,000 is requested for upgrading walkways, roads, and parkway projects. FY 2025 funding will address deteriorated walkways and stormwater issues adjacent to our Library, Student Union, and Administration buildings.
Systemics projects are higher-level deferred maintenance projects funded every other year. While FY 2025 is an off year, the College is requesting $2,250,000 from the county to replace the Careers Center building roof as the existing roof product is failing.
C. Multi-Year Budget Planning Tool
Ms. Beardmore asked Andrew Little, Associate Vice President for Learning Resources Management, to discuss the multi-year budget planning tool.
Mr. Little noted that the planning tool is not intended to be a future year budget request. It is a tool for planning and illustrative purposes to make long-term assessments about decisions made today around key assumptions for estimates over the next five years. A single year should not be looked at in isolation. It is looking at the five-year trend, whether it is sustainable in that model.
The baseline scenario for revenue assumes a 3% increase in state funding, a 3% increase in county funding, a 3% increase in tuition and fees, although the College expects to see a variation in those line items every year. It also includes a compensation program roughly at 3% and closer to 5% for long-term rate for health benefits over the five-year period.
The baseline scenario has other income as decreasing due to declining interest rates. For the tuition stabilization fund, while in FY 2025, the College is budgeting $3.3 million for support, which is not a number that can be sustained, and at some point, that number will have to come down. For the planning tool, $2 million is the number included in the model that may fluctuate but still maintain savings. For auxiliary transfer, the College is projecting $250,000 in income and incorporating that back into the projections.
The baseline scenario for expenditures does not include inflationary adjustments. The College is projecting based upon its recent history; it adjusts for any inflationary increases. Mr. Little acknowledged that this is more difficult with the inflation increases of the past few years and reductions in the operating budget.
To Dr. Chien’s comments and questions about how sustainable the assumptions are the College is making today looking at the out-years of this process. The bottom line of $2.6 million deficit is not ideal; however, it is not insurmountable. If the College can balance the budget like it has for the past five years, and not use the TSF, that eliminates half of that deficit. The College budgets $1 million for deferred technology needs from year-end funds. This is not factored into the base budget and if the College can continue an additional year, that is another $1 million in savings. Ultimately, that is $300,000 short of $140 million, which is very close. The TSF is a backstop to give one- or two-year fluctuations.
The College must continue the work of the administrative services review, and the academic portfolio resources review and start to change operations. How sustainable is the compensation model the past two years with 10% and 6% pool? It is not sustainable with only 3% revenue increases, so reductions and reallocations of resources are used to balance the funds.
The College runs other scenarios as well - what if some assumptions are worse or better than expected? What if enrollment declines 3% rather than increases 3? Those scenarios present a challenge. If the assumptions are better, the College is in good shape and can start to make significant investment in other areas. If the assumptions are worse, the College must make some changes to sustain its efforts.
Mr. Little commented that this is just a tool to have these long-term conversations. In conversations with the Budget Committee, these are not unreasonable assumptions for FY 2025.
Mr. Ulvila stated that it is important to note that the TSF is not for annual, recurring expenses. It is for a one-time expense. Mr. Chaudhry referenced the environmental factors, such as savings from solar panels. Is the College considering those cost reductions as well? Mr. Little responded that these utility savings are included in the projections for FY 2024 and the budget for FY 2025. The College continues to plan for those utilities savings like what has been done the past few years to hold the budget flat. It is factored in but at the rate that we have sustained for the past 5-10 years.
Dr. Chien asked for clarification about the tuition side for the revenue, if the assumption is that tuition will be increased. Mr. Little responded that on average, the College is predicting that tuition and fees revenue will increase 3%, which is a balancing between enrollment increases and tuition increases.
Dr. Chien asked if the College is setting something in place that is not sustainable for the future. Mr. Little responded not for FY 2025. He does not see anything in the FY 2025 budget that cannot be sustained under these assumptions. If the funding streams change significantly from what was used today, that is a conversation the College continues to have. The tool is used at the beginning of the budget development process; it helps the Budget Committee to assess where the College landed with last year’s budget, refine the guiding principles, and then build the pieces of the budget. Dr. Chien then asked in terms of sustainability, what is the projected deficit between 6% and 8%, and Mr. Little responded roughly an additional $2 million.
Dr. Johnson commented that in past years, it seemed like there were areas that the College wanted to fund and then decided how close it was to the priority of the College. This year, the College determined what the high priorities were, and funded the high priorities first. He believes that is an important approach.
Mr. Little stated that is how the College applied things internally as it went through the vetting process – it defined the priorities and tried to find ways to fund the priorities.
Mr. Chaudhry commented that the College expects to have an investment of $1 million in technology every year. Technology advancement is very important and other companies are realizing significant savings with these initiatives. Is the College considering those types of initiatives, like moving to the cloud? Mr. Little responded that yes, the College is using the IT budget to do that. Currently, the College is doing cloud readiness assessments, and migration from current enterprise resource planning (ERP) to the Software as a Service (SaaS).
Ms. Price-Jones asked for clarification that the expenditure for the multi-year planning tool does not include inflationary adjustments. Mr. Little responded that for those inflationary adjustments, the College plans to reallocate and control those costs.
Ms. Beardmore concluded by stating the Board would approve the budget at the February 27 meeting.
III. Consent Agenda
A. Procurements
Mr. Ulvila presented the Consent Agenda, which had been vetted by the Facilities Committee in advance of the meeting. Dr. Chien moved to approve the Consent Agenda, which was seconded by Ms. Price-Jones. A roll call was taken of trustees to determine their vote, and the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the Consent Agenda:
IV. Vote to Close Meeting
A. To protect the privacy or reputation of individuals with respect to a matter that is not related to public business, pursuant to Section 3-305(b)(2) of the General Provisions Article of the Maryland Code.
By motion of Ms. Moore and seconded by Ms. Price-Jones, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved closing the public session of the Board to move into a closed session to protect the privacy or reputation of individuals with respect to a matter that is not related to public business.
The Board Budget Workshop adjourned at 10:48 a.m.
A closed session of the Board of Trustees was held on December 12, 2023, at Anne Arundel Community College, 101 College Parkway, Cade Center for Fine Arts, Room 207, Arnold, MD 21012. 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: Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair; Dr. Nadine Chien, Vice Chair; Shahbaz Chaudhry; Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr; Sandra E. Moore; A. Joyce Price-Jones; JaCina Stanton-Buttrom; and Rachel Gwin. Persons attending the closed session: Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair; Dr. Nadine Chien, Vice Chair; Shahbaz Chaudhry; Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr; Sandra E. Moore; A. Joyce Price-Jones; JaCina Stanton-Buttrom; Rachel Gwin; Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President; Melissa Beardmore, Vice President for Learning Resources Management; Dr. Richard Kralevich, Vice President for Information and Instructional Technology; Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President for Learning (left at 6:04 p.m.); Dr. Felicia Patterson, Vice President for Learner Support Services (left at 6:04 p.m.); Erin Parker, General Counsel; Garrett Wozniak, Attorney, Kollman & Saucier, P.A.; Monica Rausa, Special Assistant to the President; and Cintamani Rathinam, Executive Assistant. Topics discussed included obtaining legal advice regarding the collective bargaining law and consultation about pending or potential litigation. The meeting began at 5:04 p.m. and ended at 6:13 p.m.
Members present: Lawrence W. Ulvila Jr., chair; Dr. Nadine Chien, vice chair; Shahbaz Chaudhry; Dr. James H. Johnson Jr.; Sandra E. Moore; A. Joyce Price-Jones; JaCina N. Stanton-Buttrom (via Zoom); Rachel Gwin; and Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
I. Call to Order
II. Roll Call and Approval of the Agenda, Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair
The Board Public Session was called to order by Chair Lawrence W. Ulvila Jr. at 4:00 p.m.
Mr. Ulvila asked for the roll call and approval of the agenda. By motion of Ms. Moore, seconded by Dr. Chien, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the agenda.
III. Welcome and Introductions, Lawrence W. Ulvila Jr., Chair
IV. Consent Agenda
Mr. Ulvila presented the Consent Agenda - Approval of the Minutes. Dr. Johnson moved to approve the minutes, which was seconded by Dr. Chien. A roll call was taken of trustees to determine their vote, and the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the following minutes:
Mr. Ulvila presented the Consent Agenda – Procurements. Ms. Price-Jones moved to approve the procurement, which was seconded by Ms. Moore. A roll call was taken of trustees to determine their vote, and the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the purchase of personal computer equipment from Dell Marketing, L.P., of Round Rock, TX, in an amount not to exceed $499,366.
V. Board Chair and Committee Reports
A. Reports for February
1. Budget Committee – Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Committee Chair
Dr. Johnson reported that the committee met on January 18 and January 24.
The FY 2024 operating budget status report as of December 31, 2023, reflected the results of the fall semester, and the preliminary projections for spring. As noted in the Budget Workshop, the projections show a balanced budget, with all areas within their appropriation authority. Student tuition and fees are projected above budget by 7% due to continuing improvements in enrollment.
Overall expenses are projected to be under budget primarily due to staff turnover and benefit savings from open positions and in some areas, offset by strategic year-end purchases identified in the FY 2025 budget development process.
At both meetings, the committee discussed and provided feedback on several operating budget scenarios for FY 2025, and the assessment of those scenarios in the achievement of previously agreed-to guiding principles and priorities. The committee also reviewed the proposed FY 2025-2030 capital budget.
Regarding the FY 2025 operating and capital budgets action items, Dr. Johnson commented that in addition to multiple committee meetings, the full Board reviewed the budget at the February 15th Board Budget Workshop. At the workshop, detailed presentations were shared regarding the FY 2025 operating budget request, the auxiliary, enterprise and restricted fund appropriation authority, and the FY 2025 - FY 2030 capital budget request.
At the workshop, the Board had the opportunity to discuss the budgets, high-level trends facing the College, outcomes of prior budgetary investments, anticipated revenues and expenditures, and the key assumptions and projections contained in the multi-year budget planning tool. The College faces significant fiscal challenges given the anticipated state funding reduction and continuing operating costs necessary to ensure institutional success.
This is the 5th operating budget in support of the College’s strategic plan Engagement Matters II – Excellence through Innovation. The FY 2025 planning and budget development process continued to focus on reallocating resources in support of initiatives developed under the plan to directly impact student completion. The budget also includes additional funding to support several initiatives related to the key priorities of attracting and retaining quality and diverse faculty and staff, strategic initiatives in support of student success, and legal and regulatory compliance.
The proposed budget represents an overall expenditure increase of 5% or $7.1 million compared to the FY 2024 budget. The Board appreciates and values the dedication and quality of the faculty and staff who serve the College’s students. Knowing that the College’s quality programs and reputation for innovation and excellence are because of the faculty and staff, the proposed budget includes $6.6 million in funding for compensation and benefits, including a 6% compensation pool for faculty and staff, which supports the Board approved compensation policy.
Additionally, the committee was pleased that the budget recommendation limits the tuition and fee increases with a proposed $1 in-county tuition rate increase, and a $1 increase in the athletics fee. Despite those necessary increases, the continued and expanding use of lower-cost course materials and the innovative approaches the faculty have taken in addressing course materials, will help offset those increases for many of the students and maintain a flat overall cost of attendance.
The Governor’s budget includes a $1.9 million reduction in state funding from the FY 2024 funding level. To help offset that reduction, the budget request includes an increase of $5.7 million from the county.
Dr. Johnson stated that the focus of the FY 2025 capital budget was on deferred maintenance projects, and the renovation of existing buildings to provide innovative spaces to support students. The FY 2025 capital budget will allow the College to begin the construction phase of floors 1-3 of the Florestano building renovation and begin the design phase of the much-needed renovation to the Dragun Science building.
Dr. Johnson shared his gratitude to the faculty and staff for their dedication and work to support student success.
By motion of Dr. Chien, seconded by Ms. Price-Jones, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the FY 2025 College operating fund budget request in the amount of $139,835,900 and the auxiliary, enterprise, and restricted funds appropriation authority in the amount of $34,607,100 and authorized the President to submit the request to the County Executive. The Board of Trustees reserved the right to revisit the budget after the state and county funding amounts have been finalized.
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 FY 2025 – FY 2030 College capital budget request.
2. Board Development Committee – A. Joyce Price-Jones, Committee Chair
Ms. Price-Jones reported that the committee met on January 23 to follow up on the suggestions for Board development.
The committee will work with Strategic Communications to develop talking points for consistent messaging, which will be printed on cards and available electronically for Board members.
The committee recommended that the Board participate in accessibility training, which has been developed by College staff, to support the Board’s diversity, equity, inclusion, antiracism, and accessibility goal. The committee suggested having the training after one of the Board’s public session meetings and will confirm a date soon.
The Board was invited to tour the Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades and view a laboratory in session with the Dean of Continuing Education and Workforce Development, Sandy Jones, after the public session meeting that night.
Ms. Price-Jones thanked the Board members who completed the Community College Trustee Survey. The national research project, Community College Trustees – Mission, Values and Decision-Making in Uncertain Times, will replicate and expand upon the 1997 national survey of trustees, board chairs, and presidents.
The committee recommended having a facilitated Board retreat this summer, and asked Board members to hold Friday, August 9, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The date will be confirmed once the new Board members, who are appointed on July 1 are consulted to check their availability as well.
Ms. Price-Jones asked the Board to complete the Goal Completion Tracking Sheet as that document helps track the Board’s activities and progress towards their goals.
3. Board Policy Oversight Committee – Dr. Nadine Chien, Committee Chair
Dr. Chien reported that the Committee met on January 31 to review one policy and the proposed revisions to the College Manual.
The Transfer Credit for Prior Learning Examinations Policy was presented to the Board as an information item. The Maryland General Assembly enacted a law that requires public institutions, on or before October 1, 2022, to develop and implement policies and procedures that accept award and credit for prior learning examinations.
In accordance with the Policy on the Development of Policies and Procedures, in September 2022, the Board Policy Oversight Committee received consensus from the Board for the President to create and approve a policy on an interim basis as the College did not have enough time for the policy to be vetted through the review process and be in compliance with the law. It will be presented to the Board as an action item at the March 12 meeting.
The proposed College Manual revisions were presented to the Board as an information item at the December 12 meeting. At the meeting, the Board commented that the College Manual revisions had not been reviewed by a Board committee. The Board Policy Oversight Committee agreed to review the revisions and will continue to do so going forward.
Due to the recently approved Employee Grievance Policy and related Procedures, Flexible Work Policy and related Procedures, Staff and Administrator Performance Evaluations Procedure, Full-Time Faculty Performance Evaluations Procedure, and Promotion of Part-Time Faculty Procedure, the College Manual needed to be revised. The sections related to grievances and telework need to be updated to remove conflicting information in the Full-Time and Tenure Track and Full-Time Term Contract Sections of the College Manual, Sections IV and V, Part-Time and Special Term Faculty Contract Section, Section VI, Administrative Staff Organization Code, Section VII, and the Professional and Support Staff Organization Code, Section VIII.
Additionally, language in the Full-Time and Tenure Track and Full-Time Term Contract Sections IV and V need to remove the reference “interim” Full-Time Faculty Performance Evaluations, as the Procedure was vetted through the process as outlined by the Procedure on Development of Policies and Procedures and approved by the president and vice presidents. A summary of all the College Manual revisions was included in the Board’s materials.
These changes were proposed by the administration, and the College has followed the process for manual revisions as outlined in Section 1.4 of the College Manual. Dr. Chien noted that the Committee had just a few edits in Sections IV and V and those changes are highlighted in yellow in the exhibits. If the Board approves the revisions, the changes will be effective on the date of this meeting.
Dr. Chien moved to approve the College Manual revisions, which was seconded by Ms. Price-Jones. Dr. Johnson asked for clarification about Section VII as the dates of the revision and approval from the Board of Trustees in Section VII-A did not match Section VII-B. It was determined that this was an oversight, and College staff would review and make the correction.
A roll call was taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the revisions to the College Manual Sections IV, V, VI, VII and VIII.
4. Facilities Committee – Sandra E. Moore, Committee Chair
Ms. Moore reported that the committee meeting scheduled for January 4th was cancelled, and in lieu of the meeting, the committee was provided with a written update.
The committee met on February 15th and discussed the procurement item that was presented at tonight’s meeting, and the list of future procurements. The committee also received an update about ongoing campus projects.
Ms. Moore shared that the repairs to the pedestrian bridge were completed and opened on time for the start of the spring semester. Some pavers on the east side of the bridge still need to be replaced and that work will be completed by the end of March.
Regarding the 1st - 3rd floors of the Florestano building renovation, the Board approved the design contract last month and design meetings are underway. The Broadneck Trail, which is the county project to create a pedestrian and bike trail along College Parkway, has a completion date of January 2025.
Regarding the renovations to Glen Burnie Town Center, the county plans to replace the HVAC system in the building starting July 2025. The College and county are discussing the ideal phasing of the project to minimize the disruption to students.
The College is required to submit a new Facilities Master Plan to the state in February 2026. The committee will review a presentation on this project at the March meeting and will keep the Board informed in future reports.
5. Human Resources Committee – Dr. James H. Johnson, Committee Member
Dr. Johnson reported that the committee met via Zoom on December 14th to discuss collective bargaining, lockdown drills, and the Time to Care Act.
The committee received an update on the College’s planning efforts for collective bargaining with the Service Employees International Union, Local 500, which serves as the exclusive representative or union of the part-time faculty.
The College’s lock down drills, which were required by state law, occurred in October and November. The drills were quite efficient because of the detailed planning led by the College’s emergency manager and the collegewide committee with representatives from all divisions and constituency groups. Students, faculty, and staff were well-prepared and there were very few instances of non-compliance. The team will continue to analyze the data and will be planning for the next drill.
Dr. Johnson noted that the committee received an update on new legislation in Maryland, the Time to Care Act, which provides up to 24 weeks of job-protected paid leave to employees to care for themselves or a qualifying family member. The College is investigating options for managing this program and will be participating in a state-wide RFP for plan administration services. This will be a standing item on the committee’s agenda.
6. AACC Foundation – Dr. Nadine Chien, Lead Liaison
Ms. Gwin shared a thank you letter from a student for a scholarship. Dr. Chien shared that since the last report in December, the Foundation received many generous gifts to support various scholarships and programs at AACC, including an endowed scholarship to support students pursuing studies in the health sciences and the skilled trades, funding to support students studying culinary arts and hospitality, and a significant gift to provide much-needed support for the HelpLink Fund for Nursing.
The Foundation has raised $130,000 in annual scholarship support and $1.78 million in endowed scholarship support for the Future Nursing Professionals initiative. As part of this effort, an anonymous donor endowed a scholarship in memory of Lorraine Hughes Girandola to honor her over five decades in nursing. Dr. Chien was pleased to share that as of February 15, 2024, the Foundation’s fundraising total is just over $3.3 million in gifts and commitments, exceeding the fiscal year goal of $2 Million.
i. Approval of Naming Opportunity for Space in Health and Life Sciences Building (Action Item)
Mr. Vollie Melson, Executive Director of the AACC Foundation, presented the naming opportunity to the Board. The Board was asked to consider naming the EMT/Paramedic Suite, which encompasses rooms 154 (lab), 156 (lab services), 156C (lab services), and 158 (lab) in the Health and Life Sciences Building at the request of a donor, Dr. Sally Ehrle. Dr. Ehrle and her late husband, Dr. Raymond Ehrle, have a generous history of giving to AACC, and throughout their lifetimes, demonstrated personal qualities which are appropriate to have their names associated with the College.
Ms. Moore moved to approve the naming opportunity, which was seconded by Ms. Price-Jones. A roll call was taken of trustees to determine their vote, and the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the naming of rooms 154 (lab), 156 (lab services), 156C (lab services), and 158 (lab) in the Health and Life Sciences Building, “Drs. Raymond and Sally Ehrle EMT/Paramedic Suite,” which meets the conditions and criteria set forth in the Procedures for Naming College Properties, Programs, and Positions.
B. No Reports for February
1. Audit & Finance Committee – A. Joyce Price-Jones, Committee Chair
2. Student Success Committee – Dr. Nadine Chien, Committee Chair
VI. President’s Report – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
A. Information Items
1. College Updates – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay was pleased to share that the FTE enrollment for the spring semester, which started on January 22, was up 7% compared to last year. The College has exceeded its final FTE target for the spring semester. Dr. Lindsay believed this reflects the dedicated efforts of the Enrollment, Retention and Completion Council work teams, and the College’s faculty and staff.
Dr. Lindsay commented that this legislative session has been a busy one. Chair Ulvila, Vice Chair Chien, and Trustee Moore joined her in meetings with many of the Anne Arundel County legislators to discuss the impact of the proposed decrease in Cade funding to community colleges and AACC.
On February 1st and 2nd, she and many of the Maryland community college presidents attended both the House and Senate Hearings about community college funding. On February 6th, at the request of Delegate Dana Jones, she attended the House Appropriations hearing to support the alterations to the Facilities Renewal Grant Program, which proposes to distribute grants of equal amounts to each community college to help with the backlog of deferred maintenance projects.
Dr. Lindsay shared that she will be attending both the House and Senate hearings about the Budget Reconciliation and Financing Act or BRFA and testifying on Thursday, February 29th at the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee hearing, asking the Committee to reject the language in the BRFA and fully restore Cade funding.
Dr. Lindsay noted that Chair Ulvila has also provided testimony for both the Senate and House committees hearings in of support legislation that will expand the Board of Trustees to 10 members and consider geographic and ethnic representation so that all segments of the county are represented on the Board.
Dr. Lindsay congratulated the 2024 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Zeitgeist Award recipients Dr. April Copes, professor of communications and Dr. Cedric Harris, associate professor of computer information systems. While the annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Breakfast was cancelled this January, the College will be recognizing them at the Impact and Excellence Awards Ceremony in April. This award, created by AACC’s Black Student Union, recognizes AACC faculty and staff for their exemplary work on campus and in the community to help support students of color and advance diversity, equity, and inclusion.
She announced that the College was celebrating this year’s Black History Month with the theme, “Blackness in Full Bloom.” Several events were planned throughout February including art exhibits, movie and panel discussions, and a modern soul cooking demonstration with Food Network’s “Chopped” Grand Champion Chef David K. Thomas and his wife Chef Tonya Thomas to inspire, educate and promote engagement in meaningful discussion.
2. New Programs and Certificates – Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President, Learning
i. Approval of Music Transfer Program
Dr. Millner presented the new proposed Music Transfer Program, which was approved by the College’s Committee on Educational Policies and Curriculum on December 26, 2023, and the Academic Forum on December 14, 2023. If approved, the Maryland Higher Education Commission will be notified of the College’s intent to offer the program beginning fall 2024. If this program is approved, the Arts and Sciences Transfer – Music, Associate of Arts program will be suspended.
Dr. Millner noted that the program consists of coursework that already has full-time faculty and part-time instructors in place. As a result, there are no additional resources required to offer this program, except for the cost associated with providing additional faculty coverage should enrollments grow. Increased enrollment would potentially require new part-time contracts at the current cost of $1,135 per faculty load hour as needed.
Dr. Chien moved to approve the proposed program, which was seconded by Ms. Price-Jones. Dr. Johnson asked if the existing faculty in place have the background and expertise to teach the components of the new program. Dr Millner responded that they did. Ms. Moore asked if there were any other community colleges in the state offering this type of program. Dr. Ian Wardenski, Performing Arts chair, responded that they did look at what was offered at other community colleges, and there was a certificate offered but not a degree program.
A roll call was taken of trustees to determine their vote, and the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the proposed Music Transfer, Associate of Arts program.
3. Academic Forum/Council – Andrew Kim, Chair (NO REPORT)
4. Administrative Staff Organization (ASO) – Andrea Zamora, President (NO REPORT)
5. Professional and Support Staff Organization (PSSO) – Lisa Starkey, President
Ms. Starkey reported that the leadership team met with the PSSO Engagement committee to discuss the survey results and brainstorm ideas to increase member engagement and provide opportunities for PSSO members to connect. They plan to hold a professional development day on April 24, which is Administrative Professionals Day.
As part of the Civility Matters, Ms. Starkey commented that Jason Ancona presented a session regarding email etiquette and professionalism focusing on tone, construction, and best practices. Other workshops have been offered, including Setting Boundaries to Develop Healthy Relationships. PSSO will continue to offer workshops focused on work-life balance, stress management and wellness.
6. Student Government Association (SGA) – Zack Buster, President
Mr. Buster reported that the new semester brought new leadership to the SGA, as Matthew Bacho is the new vice president for finance. In terms of events, the SGA hosted many activities the past month, including a Valentine-themed event for students to celebrate the joy of love and assisted with other events, such as the Black History Month food demonstration.
Mr. Buster shared that he and other students attended the Maryland Association of Community Colleges Student Advocacy Day and met with state legislators to vote against the funding cuts for community colleges. Dr. Chien thanks Mr. Buster and the students for their advocacy, as hearing from the students is the most meaningful thing that legislators can hear.
7. The Faculty Organization (TFO) – Dr. Deborah Levine, President
Dr. Levine reported that the TFO senate met in December and February and is still working on a motion to provide a voice on appropriate issues for instructional staff who spend much of their time actively teaching. In terms of committees, the Compensation Committee made their recommendations, and has been encouraging faculty to reach out to officials who have input on the budgetary process. The Promotion and Tenure Committee completed their work for the year, and the Ad Hoc Committee on Faculty Mentoring has been very active, having discussions and collecting data, and is ready to move into the implementation phase.
8. Maryland Association of Community Colleges Activities – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay reported that last month was the annual MACC Trustee Leadership Conference and Reception. At the conference, there were presentations about legislative updates from the Association of Community College Trustees and the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond Survey of Community College Outcomes. The reception provided the opportunity to meet with Anne Arundel County delegates and senators. Dr. Lindsay thanked Chair Ulvila, Vice Chair Chien, Dr. Johnson, and Trustees Moore, Price-Jones, and Gwin for attending the event.
On Tuesday, February 6, Dr. Lindsay had the pleasure of participating in MACC’s in-person Student Advocacy Day with twelve students, including Mr. Buster, as they met with Anne Arundel County delegates and senators. She noted it was a wonderful opportunity for the students to speak directly to their elected officials about how pending legislation would impact them personally.
The MACC Legislative Committee continues to meet every Monday since the session started in January to review the numerous bills introduced in this session. In addition, at the monthly Maryland Council of Community College Presidents meetings, MACC has been providing the presidents with updates regarding the bills related to MACC’s legislative agenda.
B. Action Items
1. Approval of the 2024-2025 Academic Calendar – Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President, Learning
Dr. Millner presented the proposed 2024-2025 Academic Calendar for the Board’s approval. Ms. Price-Jones moved to approve the proposed academic calendar, which was seconded by Dr. Johnson. Mr. Chaudhry asked if additional dates were added, would the calendar have to come back to the Board for approval. Dr. Lindsay responded it could be amended, and that the College would vet any changes, and then present to the Board for approval.
A roll call was taken of trustees to determine their vote, and the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the 2024-2025 Academic Calendar inclusion in appropriate College publications.
VII. New Business
There was no new business.
VIII. Next Board Meeting – March 12, 2024
X. Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 5:05 p.m.
A closed session of the Board of Trustees was held on February 15, 2024, at 11:01 a.m. at the Anne Arundel Community College Arnold Campus, 101 College Parkway, Arnold, MD 21012, in the Cade Center for Fine Arts Building, Room 228. Pursuant to section §3-305(b)(2) 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 voted to close the session: Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair, Dr. Nadine Chien, Vice Chair, Shahbaz Chaudhry, Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Sandra E. Moore, A. Joyce Price-Jones, and JaCina Stanton-Buttrom. The following Board members were present at the meeting: Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair, Dr. Nadine Chien, Vice Chair, Shahbaz Chaudhry, Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Sandra E. Moore, and A. Joyce Price-Jones. Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President; Melissa Beardmore, Vice President for Learning Resources Management; Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President for Learning; Dr. Felicia Patterson, Vice President for Learner Support Services; Vollie Melson, Executive Director, Anne Arundel Community College Foundation; Dr. Tiffany Boykin, General Counsel; and Monica Rausa, Special Assistant to the President were present as well. The topic included discussing the reputation of an individual related to a naming opportunity. The meeting ended at 11:11 a.m.
Members present: Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair; Dr. Nadine Chien, Vice Chair; Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr.; Sandra E. Moore (via Zoom); A. Joyce Price-Jones; JaCina N. Stanton-Buttrom; Rachel Gwin; and Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Absent: Shahbaz Chaudhry
I. Call to Order
II. Roll Call and Approval of the Agenda, Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair
The Board Public Session was called to order by Mr. Ulvila at 4:00 p.m.
Mr. Ulvila asked for the roll call and approval of the agenda. By motion of Dr. Chien, seconded by Ms. Price-Jones, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the agenda. Mr. Ulvila noted that Mr. Chaudhry was not able to attend the meeting, and Ms. Moore was participating via Zoom.
III. Welcome and Introductions, Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair
Mr. Ulvila welcomed the faculty in attendance and noted that after the faculty announcements and introductions, they were welcome to leave the meeting.
IV. Approval of Faculty Promotions, Tenure, and Sabbaticals – Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President for Learning
A. Approval of Faculty Promotions – Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President for Learning
Dr. Tanya Millner asked the Board for approval of the President’s recommendations for the award of faculty promotion. Dr. Millner reviewed the process for faculty promotion and certification of the process. Faculty recommended for promotion will advance in rank effective August 16, 2024. The increase in salary for faculty members approved for promotion is equivalent to two full steps increase in salary, which including FICA, totals $34,795 for all faculty listed below in FY 2025.
Dr. Chien moved to approve the promotions, which was seconded by Ms. Stanton-Buttrom. Dr. Johnson asked if the salary increases were two steps for both the associate and full professor levels. Dr. Millner responded that was correct.
A roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, and the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the President’s recommendations for promotions, effective August 16, 2024, for the following faculty members for Associate Professor: Bryan R. Deehring, Cybersecurity, Networking & Digital Forensics; Nicole E. Reed, Health, Fitness & Exercise Studies; James J. Sherman, Engineering; and Christine J. Vasica, Library; and Full Professor: Dr. Anna M. Binneweg, Performing Arts; Dr. Dean E. Bowers, English; Wendy L. Chasser, Computer Science; Krysten B. Hall, Computer Science; Lindsay K. McCulloch, Visual Arts; Heather M. Riordan, Mathematics; and Margaret L. Wyatt, Nursing.
B. Approval of Faculty Tenure – Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President for Learning
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, 2024. There were no fiscal implications.
By motion of Dr. Johnson, seconded by Dr. Chien, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously awarded tenure effective August 16, 2024, to the following faculty members: Wendy L. Chasser, Computer Science; Augusten (Mickey) Dehn, Biology; Dr. Susan M. Ficken, Mathematics; Dr. Jodie S. Hogan, World Languages; Andrew D. Kim, Emergency Medical Services; Dr. Heather Langley, Massage Therapy; Adil S. Qaiyumi, Esq., Homeland Security & Criminal Justice Institute; and Dr. Antione D. Tomlin, Academic Literacies.
C. Approval of Faculty Sabbaticals for FY 2025 – Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President for Learning
Dr. Millner asked the Board for approval of the President’s recommendations for sabbatical leave for three faculty members: Wilfredo Valladares Lara, Jennifer Lara, and Dr. Uzma Qureshi. Dr. Millner reviewed the process for sabbatical leave.
Professor Wilfredo Valladares Lara will receive paid leave at full salary for the fall 2024 semester and Professor Jennifer Lara and Dr. Uzma Qureshi and will receive paid leave at full salary for the spring 2025 semester.
Part-time 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 part-time rates range from $1,051-$1,226 per faculty load hour. The total cost for one sabbatical leave would not exceed $19,797, including FICA, and the three sabbaticals would not exceed $59,391.
By motion of Ms. Price-Jones, seconded by Dr. Chien, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously granted the sabbatical leave for: Wilfredo Valladares Lara, Visual Arts, Fall 2024; Jennifer Lara, TEACH, Spring 2025; and Dr. Uzma Qureshi, Economics, Spring 2025.
On behalf of the College and the faculty, Dr. Lindsay expressed her appreciation to the Board for their continued support of faculty sabbaticals. Many colleges no longer support sabbaticals, and the Board’s support of this opportunity has been unwavering.
V. Consent Agenda
Mr. Ulvila presented the Consent Agenda. Dr. Chien moved to approve the Consent Agenda, which was seconded by Ms. Price-Jones. Dr. Johnson asked for clarification about the footnote in the College Manual, Section VI, and whether that was resolved. Mr. Ulvila stated that the minutes noted it was an oversight, and that College staff would review, verify the information, and make the correction. Mr. Ulvila recommended that information be shared when completed.
A roll call was taken of trustees to determine their vote, and the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the minutes of the February 27, 2024, meeting.
VI. Board Chair and Committee Reports
A. Reports for March
1. Appointment of Nominating Committee – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair
Per the Board of Trustees Bylaws, at the March meeting, the Chair shall appoint two trustees to serve on the Nominating Committee. Mr. Ulvila appointed Ms. Moore as the Nominating Committee Chair and Ms. Price-Jones to serve on the committee to seek nominations for the Board’s leadership for next year.
2. Board Policy Oversight Committee – Dr. Nadine Chien, Committee Chair
i. Approval of Transfer Credit for Prior Learning Examinations Policy (Action Item)
Dr. Chien reported that the committee was presenting the Transfer Credit for Prior Learning Examinations Policy for the Board’s approval. The Maryland General Assembly enacted a law that required public institutions, on or before October 1, 2022, to develop and implement policies and procedures that accept award and credit for prior learning examinations. In accordance with the Policy on the Development of Policies and Procedures, in September 2022, the Board Policy Oversight Committee received consensus from the Board for the President to create and approve a policy on an interim basis as the College did not have enough time for the policy to be vetted through the review process and be in compliance with the law.
The Transfer Credit for Prior Learning Examinations Policy establishes the rules regarding the award of academic credit for prior learning examinations, such as Advanced Placement Program Examinations and College-Level Examination Program Examinations. Legal counsel, AACC staff and the College’s constituency groups have reviewed this policy and provided feedback, which has been incorporated into the final draft. The effective date of the policy will be the date that the policy is published on the College website after it is approved by the Board.
By motion of Ms. Price-Jones, seconded by Dr. Johnson, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved Transfer Credit for Prior Learning Examinations Policy.
3. Facilities Committee – Sandra E. Moore, Committee Chair
Ms. Moore reported that the committee met on March 5th and discussed the 2026 Facilities Master Plan, future procurements, and updates on campus projects.
The committee received an overview of the state’s Community College Construction Capital Grants Program, for which a Facilities Master Plan is a foundational document. The College’s last full Facilities Master Plan was submitted to the state in 2016, and the next plan is due to the state in 2026. The committee reviewed a high-level schedule for the project and supported the recommendation to utilize JMZ Architects to assist the College with the development of the plan and expects this to be an action item at the June Board meeting for the Board’s approval. The committee will continue to receive updates on this project and provide feedback on the process to ensure that collaboration occurs across all constituency groups, including the Board.
The committee received an update on Campus Projects, specifically the roof replacements for the Gym and Plant buildings, the brick repairs to the Humanities and Careers buildings, and the walkways replacement between the Ludlum, Library and Student Union buildings.
Ms. Moore stated that the committee also received an update on the two county projects, the Broadneck Trail and the Glen Burnie Town Center HVAC renovations. The Broadneck Trail will create a pedestrian and bike trail along College Parkway. Work is expected to occur along the College’s practice fields in the coming weeks and will continue through the end of April. The county is planning to replace the HVAC system at the Glen Burnie Town Center beginning in August 2025. The College continues to have discussions with the county about the ideal phasing of the project to minimize the disruption to students. Issues have developed that require the roof to be replaced and the county is investigating replacing the roof work as part of this project, which may shift the schedule of work.
B. No Reports for March
1. Audit & Finance Committee – A. Joyce Price-Jones, Committee Chair
2. Board Development Committee – A. Joyce Price-Jones, Committee Chair
3. Budget Committee – Dr. James H. Johnson, Jr., Committee Chair
4. Human Resources Committee – JaCina Stanton-Buttrom, Committee Chair
5. Student Success Committee – Dr. Nadine Chien, Committee Chair
6. AACC Foundation – Dr. Nadine Chien, Lead Liaison
VII. President’s Report – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
A. Information Items
1. College Updates – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay shared that on February 28th and 29th, she attended both the House and Senate Hearings, and testified at the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee hearing opposing the Budget Reconciliation and Financing Act (BRFA). The BRFA reduces the state funding for community colleges, and she testified how altering the Cade funding formula will impact faculty, staff, and students at AACC.
She and Dr. Tanya Millner attended the League for Innovation in Community Colleges Spring Board Meeting the first week of March, which was hosted by Dallas College. At this meeting, the Board reviewed the strategic plan for the League and shared innovative initiatives at each institution.
Dr. Lindsay was pleased to announce that AACC was recently designated as a Center of Excellence for Domestic Maritime Workforce Training and Education. This program supports maritime workforce training and education, including creating new maritime pathways. She also congratulated Dr. Kellie McCants-Price, Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer who was recently named one of the recipients of the 2024 Women’s History Month “Michelle Obama Awards” for her work in the community centered around equity, diversity, and inclusion.
AACC is celebrating Women’s History as well, which recognizes the achievements of women through a variety of visual displays, conversation and panels, and an interactive culinary experience. Dr. Lindsay thanked the coordinators for Women’s History Month for planning these events.
2. Academic Forum/Council – Andrew Kim, Chair
Mr. Kim shared that the Academic Forum met in January, and there had been two Academic Council meetings since his last report. He attended the AI Gallery Walk in the IDEA Lab in the Florestano Building and thanked the Board for approving the funding and renovation of such a wonderful space.
He has been working with College staff as previous Academic Forum Charter changes that were approved have not been vetted through the full amendment process. He has also been working with the leadership of the other constituency groups to create a new College-wide Nominating Chairs Committee to make the nominations process more transparent and efficient for constituency group member service.
3. Administrative Staff Organization (ASO) – Andrea Zamora, President
Ms. Zamora shared that based upon the feedback from its members, the meetings will be focused on the business of the ASO, as supervisors receive updates at the monthly Supervisors Forums held by Human Resources. At the March meeting, members reviewed the current charter and discussed objectives. One of its goals is to provide advocacy and support as needed by members. Members felt that as a constituency group of the College, they should advocate for the restoration of funding to Maryland’s community. Many members contacted their state senators and delegates to describe the impact of the Governor’s budget, and how the budget reduction would negatively impact AACC students and employees.
4. Professional and Support Staff Organization (PSSO) – Lisa Starkey, President (NO REPORT)
5. Student Government Association (SGA) – Zack Buster, President (NO REPORT)
6. The Faculty Organization (TFO) – Dr. Deborah Levine, President (NO REPORT)
7. Maryland Association of Community Colleges Activities – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President (NO REPORT)
VIII. New Business
There was no new business.
IX. Next Board Meeting – April 9, 2024
X. Vote to Close Meeting – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Chair
A. To consult staff, consultants, or other individuals about pending or potential litigation, pursuant to Section 3-305(b)(8) of the General Provisions Article of the Maryland Code.
By motion of Dr. Chien, seconded by Ms. Price-Jones, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved closing the public session of the Board to move into a closed session to consult staff, consultants, or other individuals about pending or potential litigation.
XI. Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 4:34 p.m.