The Illinois Central College Board of Trustees met Thursday, Dec. 15 to award a gasoline bid.
Here are the meeting's minutes, as provided by the board:
Illinois Central College
Open Session of the Regular Meeting of the Board of Trustees Minutes
December 15, 2016, 3:00 p.m.
ICC East Peoria Campus, Founders Room (211A)
Trustees Present: Don Brennan
Michael Everett Diane Lamb Frank Mackaman Sue Portscheller Student Trustee Hellen Roeser Gale Thetford
Chair Brennan called the meeting to order, and asked the secretary to call the roll. Don Brennan, Michael Everett, Diane Lamb, Frank Mackaman, Sue Portscheller, Student Trustee Hellen Roeser, and Gale Thetford were present.
Recognition
Mr. Brennan welcomed Pam Adams with the Peoria Journal Star; and Ronda Guyton and Rachel Reliford, candidates for the Board of Trustees.
Hearing of Citizens—none.
Conflict of Interest—none.
Consent Agenda
Chair Brennan asked if any Trustee wished to pull an item from the Consent Agenda, and there was no response. Michael Everett moved to approve the consent agenda as presented, and Sue Portscheller seconded. Chair Brennan asked for a roll call vote to approve the Consent Agenda including Minutes of the Open Session of the Regular Monthly Meeting on November 17, 2016; Minutes of the Closed Session of the Regular Monthly Meeting on November 17, 2016; Personnel Recommendations; Amended Purchase Recommendations; Treasurer’s Report for November 2016; Monthly Bills for November 1-30, 2016; and the Dual Credit Intergovernmental Agreements with Midwest Central High School and Quest Charter School.
Minutes
Minutes of the Open Session of the Regular Monthly Meeting on November 17, 2016, and Minutes of the Closed Session of the Regular Monthly Meeting on November 17, 2016 (copies on file).
Personnel Report
Change of Status:
• Karen Geisler—From Part-time Advisor – Arts & Communication to Temporary Full-time Departmental Success Coach – Student Services
• Rebecca Schofield—From Part-time Administrative Assistant – Facilties Services to Full-Time Administrative Assistant – Facilities Services
Separations:
• Jenna Cabrera—Manager – Fitness Center (12/31/16)
• Alice Tiller—Certified Housekeeper – Custodial Services (11/18/16)
• Margaret Swanson—Interim Provost – Office of Academic Affairs (12/31/16)
• Jesse Pence—Technician – Micro Support I – Desktop & Media Services (11/24/16)
Purchase Report
Bid Item to be Approved for Award
• Unleaded Gasoline and Diesel Fuel—Ag-Land FS ($76,368.48)
Data Processing Equipment, Software, and Telecommunications
• Highpoint Financial Aid Course Auditor—Highpoint Technology Solutions ($204,000.00)
• IP Telephony Upgrade—Matrix Integration ($131,672.42)
• Commerce Management System Software Maintenance—TouchNet Information Systems ($123,162.67)
Professional Services
• Web-based Admission Application Consulting Services—Sierra Cedar ($200,000.00)
• Re-roofing Work – Phase 6, Academic Building Professional Services—Apace Design Architect & Engineers ($41,460.00)
• Executive Search Firm Services—R.H. Perry & Associates ($32,000.00)
Treasurer’s Report
The overall financial position as of November 30, 2016, remains strong and reflects favorable operating results for the first five months of the fiscal year as compared to budget. Operational revenue is favorable in excess of $1,000,000, and operating expenditures are favorable $1,250,000. Variances are explained in the two additional schedules provided in the meeting packet.
It should also be noted that as of the end of October, health insurance claims are 5.7 percent under annualized budgeted expectations, but as a result of the reduction in full- time positions, the per capita health plan cost is 8.8 percent above last year’s amount.
Bills
• Education Fund—$3,395,276.21
• Operations and Maintenance Fund—$519,869.10
• Operations and Maintenance Fund Restricted—$2,463,622.05
• Bond and Interest Fund—$4,908,344.17
• Auxiliary Fund—$494,604.74
• Restricted Fund—$202,713.87
• Trust and Agency Fund—$21,097.90
• Audit Fund—$27,655.14
• Liability, Protection, and Settlement Fund—$513,698.60
Dual Credit Intergovernmental Agreements
The Intergovernmental Cooperative Agreements with Midwest Central High School and Quest Charter School were presented for approval. The agreements allow low-income high school students to enroll in dual credit or dual enrollment courses at their high school and receive Pell Grant funding.
Chair Brennan requested a roll call vote to approve the consent agenda including the Minutes, Personnel Recommendations, Purchase Report, Treasurer’s Report, Bills, and the Intergovernmental Agreements; and the following Trustees responded “Aye”: Michael Everett, Diane Lamb, Frank Mackaman, Sue Portscheller, Student Trustee Hellen Roeser (advisory vote), Gale Thetford, and Don Brennan. “Nay”: None. The motion passed.
Board of Trustees Chair Announcements
Chair Brennan announced that today is the last Board of Trustees meeting for Dr. Margaret Swanson, Interim Provost. Mr. Brennan thanked her for putting her retirement on hold to serve as Interim Provost for the last 18 months. He added that her service and leadership have been invaluable. He extended best wishes to her as she enjoys her retirement. Dr. Swanson replied that it has been an honor and privilege.
ICCTA Report
Chair Brennan announced that there has not been an ICCTA meeting since the last Board meeting.
Legislative Report
Michael Everett, Legislative Committee Liaison, advised that Governor Rauner stated yesterday that he will resume talks with the four legislative leaders when the Democrats get serious about negotiating. He added that the Governor said the Democratic leaders are not ready to offer a spending plan, and the meeting scheduled for last week had been canceled. Governor Rauner stated that he has offered to meet with the leaders every day when they are prepared to meet in good faith negotiation. Senate President Cullerton said he believes progress has been made in the working groups, which are meeting regularly, even though the leaders are not. Speaker Madigan’s spokesperson said it is the Governor’s constitutional responsibility to present a budget, not the Democratic leaders’ responsibility.
The 100th General Assembly Inauguration is January 11, 2017, and the State of the State address is scheduled for January 25, 2017.
Mr. Everett commented that he does not think it looks favorable for stop gap funding.
President’s Report
Dr. Quirk-Bailey announced that in continuation of student success stories, she has asked Health Careers to provide some information on their programs. Dr. Margaret Swanson welcomed Wendee Guth, Dean of Health Careers; Julie Feeny, Program Director for Physical Therapist Assistant; Jennifer Haines, Program Director for Occupational Therapy Assistant; and Rebecca Saban, Program Coordinator for Massage Therapist Program. These three programs provide health science pathways for therapeutic services.
Julie Feeney advised that they accept 24 students per year in the Physical Therapist Assistant Program and usually have over 100 applications. Since 2012, they have had 100 percent employment for graduates,which is above the national average. In an effort to increase enrollment and retention, the PHTA 100 course was initiated. This course is offered four times a year and provides a hands-on experience for the students and an opportunity to speak with other students about the program. A designated tutor for the program was added Fall 2016. A licensure exam review workshop is offered and may be incorporated into the program as a requirement. Beginning in the spring, students will purchase a simulated PTA licensure exam as part of one course. Ms. Feeny will work with any student who fails the licensure exam to help them be prepared to retake the exam.
Jennifer Haines reported that the Occupational Therapist Assistant Program had 100 percent completion in 2016. Previously, the completion rate was 88 percent. The clinical process was changed to allow for more pediatric content. Students are in the classroom for eight weeks and then in clinicals for eight weeks. Course exams are similar to the NBCOT exam. If a student fails the certification exam, the program director and academic field work coordinator offer to tutor the student.
Rebecca Saban advised that she graduated from the ICC Massage Therapist Program and successfully ran her own business. She incorporates business components into the program. She speaks to high schools, and the program is marketed at several area events. Since 2014, 100 percent of the students have passed the MBLEx licensure exam. Ms. Saban receives calls from employers wanting to hire ICC graduates. The massage therapy clinic is run like a spa. The cost is $20 for a one-hour massage. Ms. Saban is developing an alumni database to study five-year retention in massage therapy. The program capacity is 20 students per year.
Gale Thetford stated that she is hearing that there is a need in the community for these graduates, but there is limited enrollment. Wendee Guth stated that not all applicants are qualified, but the biggest factor is limitations on clinicals. The department is working on building partnerships with clinical agencies.
Frank Mackaman asked if the programs typically break even. Ms. Guth responded that some do and some don’t. There are also perimeters based on accreditation standards.
Dr. Quirk-Bailey advised that she, Wendee Guth, and Dr. Swanson have been engaged in meetings with the area hospitals, and they are working on a five-year market plan.
Dr. Quirk-Bailey reported that the second strategic planning session was held on November 29.
The top five strengths identified by the participants were:
#1 Rate of fall students returning in the spring #2 Success rate in English 110/111 #3 Peoria MSA skilled worker demand #4 Peoria MSA expected industry growth #5 First-time full-time freshman advancement rate over four years
The top five opportunities in ranked order identified by the participants include:
#1 Student satisfaction #2 High school market penetration #3 First-time-in-college students: developing coursework completion #4 Peoria MSA skilled worker demand #5 Student engagement – 2012 CCSSE
During January, three sessions will be held featuring guest speakers offering different approaches. A conference will be held in March, and community stakeholders will be invited.
Dr. Quirk-Bailey has been meeting with district superintendents, regional superintendents, and the EFE directors. Dual credit enrollment is ahead of last year, but unfortunately traditional and non-traditional student enrollment is lagging approximately 7 percent. Dr. Quirk-Bailey pointed out that the FY17 budget was figured at a 6 percent reduction. The Stop, Drop, and Enroll event is being held at the ICC North Campus this afternoon and evening.
Dr. Quirk-Bailey thanked Dr. Swanson for her leadership serving as Interim Provost. She stated that she has enjoyed her first six months at ICC, and wished everyone happy holidays.
Informational Item 5.1 – Pekin Campus Update
Bruce Budde, Treasurer and Executive Vice President of Administration and Finance, provided an update on the Pekin Campus. He noted that a financial summary was included in the meeting packet under the Informational Items tab. Mr. Budde recently met with the new Pekin City Manager, and he indicated that Pekin officials would like ICC to maintain a presence in Pekin. A market study is being conducted. Administration will then analyze the information and make a decision regarding continuing a Pekin presence or perhaps moving to a different location. Pekin officials indicated support to remain at the current location rent free for the current fiscal year. A meeting will be held after the New Year to develop a long-term strategy and plan that is beneficial to both parties. Mr. Budde stated that the College is currently operating at break even with no lease expense.
Frank Mackaman stated that he was pleased to hear that a market study is being conducted.
Sue Portscheller stated she would like to see an analysis of the market study before any infrastructure decisions are made.
Gale Thetford added that it will be important to study the relationships with the high schools. She posed the question: will students still come to ICC, if there is no location in Pekin? Administration is hopeful that discussions with the high schools will help generate enrollment at the Pekin Campus. Dr. Swanson noted that most of the classes offered at the Pekin Campus are general education courses. Pekin High School conducts their own CNA program. However, the CNA program at the Pekin Campus remains strong due to enrollment from other high schools and the general public. Some of the smaller high schools in the southern portion of the district are not able to offer CTE courses.
Mr. Budde advised that administration will continue to update the Board, and a decision will need to be made fairly soon and prior to Fall 2018 registration. The College has invested $2.1 million into the property.
Student Trustee Hellen Roeser asked about the tuition revenue calculation for the FY 2018 plan. Mr. Budde responded that this calculation is based on a credit hour projection and a projected increase in tuition.
Informational Item 5.2 – Early College Plan
Dr. Sheila Quirk-Bailey called upon Dr. Margaret Swanson for a report on Early College. Based on feedback from partner superintendents and district high schools, a rapid response team was established to simplify and integrate the College’s Dual Credit program. Administration recommends a new name: “Early College,” and a new standardized tuition structure. ICC has had dual credit for many years, and early college is actually an old term that is resurfacing. To date, the College has received 10 signed Pell agreements with high schools. Early College will be available in two formats: at the high schools (currently referred to as dual credit), and at ICC Campuses (currently known as dual enrollment, Strong Start, and Fast Start).
Sue Portscheller commented that she likes the new brand and feels it is more attractive.
Dr. Swanson is developing a simplified partnership agreement so that all Early College options are compiled into one master document. The new document will be used beginning January 2017. Books will now be available for rent for $15 per credit hour and are Pell eligible.
Dr. Quirk-Bailey is sending a communication to superintendents and principals. She recognized Dr. Swanson, Jill Wright, and Kay Sutton for leading this effort.
Dr. Quirk-Bailey stated that fall dual credit enrollment was up 10 percent over last fall, and this most likely is due to the Pell grant. There were 21 students in the Peoria Public Schools who would not have been able to enroll this fall had it not been for the Pell grant. Informational sessions are being offered to assist interested students in applying for the Pell grant.
Action Item 6.1 – Affirmative Action Plan July 1, 2016 to June 30, 2017
Don Brennan moved to approve the Affirmative Action Plan July 1, 2016, to June 30, 2017, as presented. The Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs requires an annual updated Affirmative Action Plan for Women and Minorities, Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities. Highlights of the plan were shared with the Board of Trustees at the November 17 meeting, and all Trustees have been provided copies of the plan. Gale Thetford seconded the motion.
Diane Lamb asked if the data needed to compile the report could be done in-house rather than using consultants. Dr. Ali responded that at the present time that would not be possible, but they hope to have that capability in the future with software improvements.
Chair Brennan requested a roll call vote, and the following Trustees responded “Aye”: Diane Lamb, Frank Mackaman, Sue Portscheller, Student Trustee Hellen Roeser (advisory vote), Gale Thetford, Don Brennan, and Michael Everett. “Nay”: None. The motion passed.
Action Item 6.2 – Business Associate in Applied Science Degree
Frank Mackaman moved to approve the Associate in Applied Science Business program as presented. This is a 61-credit-hour degree designed for students preparing for professional positions of responsibility at a variety of business enterprises. The program offers courses in accounting, business math, management, customer service, finance, sales, marketing, human resource management, and professional development. Upon Board approval, the program will be submitted to the Illinois Community College Board for their approval. Gale Thetford seconded the motion.
Chair Brennan requested a roll call vote, and the following Trustees responded “Aye”: Frank Mackaman, Sue Portscheller, Student Trustee Hellen Roeser (advisory vote), Gale Thetford, Don Brennan, Michael Everett, and Diane Lamb. “Nay”: None. The motion passed.
Action Item 6.3 – Final Construction Completion Form
Gale Thetford moved to approve the closeout for the Science Lab Upgrades Phase 9 project and submit the documentation to the Illinois Community College Board. Frank Mackaman seconded the motion.
Mr. Budde noted that the budget and actual amounts are the same as a result of the transfer of life safety funds which the Board approved at the November meeting.
Chair Brennan requested a roll call vote, and the following Trustees responded “Aye”: Sue Portscheller, Student Trustee Hellen Roeser (advisory vote), Gale Thetford, Don Brennan, Michael Everett, Diane Lamb, and Frank Mackaman. “Nay”: None. The motion passed.
Action Item 6.4 – Approval of Contract with Dr. Lisa Stich to Serve as Interim Vice President of Academic Affairs
Diane Lamb moved to approve the contract as presented for Dr. Lisa Stich to serve as the Interim Vice President of Academic Affairs. Frank Mackaman seconded the motion. Chair Brennan requested a roll call vote, and the following Trustees responded “Aye”: Gale Thetford, Don Brennan, Michael Everett, Diane Lamb, Frank Mackaman, Sue Portscheller, and Student Trustee Hellen Roeser (advisory vote). “Nay”: None. The motion passed.
Gale Thetford stated she is very pleased to have Dr. Stich at the College.
Diane Lamb asked if she will receive benefits. Dr. Quirk-Bailey responded that she will receive the standard benefit package as well as standard sick and vacation time. The term of the contract is for six months beginning January 3, 2017. The Board previously approved the contract for the search firm under the consent agenda, and Dr. Quirk- Bailey is hopeful a new Vice President of Academic Affairs will be in place by July 1, 2017.
Unfinished Business—none.
New Business
Chair Brennan stated that there are some future meeting dates the Board needs to decide upon.
The regularly scheduled monthly Board of Trustees meeting would fall on April 20, 2017. The Board is required to hold the reorganization meeting and seat newly elected Trustees between April 27 and May 2. It was the general consensus of the Board of Trustees to move the meeting date to April 27, 2017. Mr. Richard Joseph, Legal Counsel, recommended the Board at least approve the minutes (consent agenda), adjourn SINE DIE, and then seat the new Trustees.
The Trustees were in general consensus to hold the annual Board Retreat on Saturday, February 18, 2017.
The annual Community Celebration has been booked at Embassy Suites for October 19, 2017, which is the same date as the regular monthly meeting of the Board of Trustees. The Trustees were in general consensus to move the meeting to October 26, 2017.
Closed Session
At 4:20 p.m., Gale Thetford moved that the Board of Trustees conduct a closed meeting to discuss the appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance or dismissal of specific employees of the College or legal counsel for the College (Section 2(c)(1) of the Open Meetings Act); and to discuss the selection of a person to fill a public office including a vacancy (Section 2(c)(3) of the Open Meetings Act). Michael Everett seconded the motion.
Chair Brennan requested a roll call vote, and the following Trustees responded “Aye”: Don Brennan, Michael Everett, Diane Lamb, Frank Mackaman, Sue Portscheller, Student Trustee Hellen Roeser (advisory vote), and Gale Thetford. “Nay”: None. The motion passed.
Dr. Quirk-Bailey asked Bruce Budde, Dr. Margaret Swanson, and Marti Bloodsaw to remain for closed session. All other guests and staff members were excused. A break was taken from 4:20 to 4:33 p.m.
(Closed Session)
Adjournment
At 6:45 p.m., Chair Brennan entertained a motion for adjournment. Gale Thetford moved to adjourn closed session, return to open session, and adjourn the meeting. Michael Everett seconded. Chair Brennan requested a voice vote; the motion passed, and the meeting was adjourned.
The next regularly scheduled meeting will be held Thursday, January 19, 2017, at 3:00 p.m. in the Founders Room on the East Peoria Campus.
Paula Fraley Secretary to the Board of Trustees