January 28, 2009 Board Meeting Minutes

The Board of Trustees of Illinois Valley Community College District No. 513 convened a regular session at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, January 28, 2009 in the Board Room (C307) at Illinois Valley Community College.

Members Physically Present:

David L. Wilcoxson, Board Chair
Dennis N. Thompson, Vice Chair
Lori E. Scroggs, Secretary
Paula J. Endress
Deborah L. Sweeden
Cassie Fuller, Student Trustee

Members Absent:

David O. Mallery
Thomas C. Setchell

Others Physically Present:

Jerry Corcoran, President
Cheryl Roelfsema, Vice President for Business Services and Finance
Sue Isermann, Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs
Walt Zukowski, Attorney

MOMENT OF SILENCE

Mr. Wilcoxson led a moment of silence for Michael Zeman who passed away on Saturday, January 17, 2009 in a tragic auto accident.   Mr. Zeman was a student at IVCC and had attained a 4.0 grade point average in the fall semester of 2008.

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

It was moved by Mrs. Sweeden and seconded by Mr. Thompson to approve the agenda as presented.  Motion passed by voice vote.

CAMPUS UPDATE – NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION GRANT

Dorene Perez was excited to share information on the National Science Foundation Grant for $520,000 for the years 2008-2011.   Dorene is the principal investigator along with co-principal investigators – Jim Gibson, Sue Caley Opsal, and Rose Marie Lynch.  Senior personnel include Jeanette Maurice, Francie Skoflanc, and Tracy Morris.  The grant is a comprehensive recruiting project designed to increase the number of people who prepare to enter engineering and engineering technology careers in the Illinois Valley Community College district.  The objectives of the project are to 1) increase awareness of and interest in engineering and engineering technology careers, with special emphasis on the work of engineering technicians; 2) to assist in preparing students to enter engineering programs by integrating science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) into activities; and 3) to increase enrollment in engineering technology programs at IVCC. 

CONSENT AGENDA

It was moved by Mrs. Sweeden and seconded by Mrs. Endress to approve the consent agenda as presented.  Motion passed by voice vote.

The following items were approved in the consent agenda:

Approval of Minutes – December 17, 2008 Board Planning Committee Meeting and December 17, 2008 Board meeting.

Approval of the Bills - $1,425,423.67

Education Fund - $986,261.47; Operation and Maintenance Fund - $20,145.12; Operation and Maintenance (Restricted Fund) - $170,347.60; Auxiliary Fund - $218,094.09; Restricted Fund - $24,294.39; Audit Fund - $4,500.00; Liability, Protection and Settlement Fund - $6,281.00.

Treasurer’s Report

Personnel

Approved the stipends for the pay periods ending December 13, 2008 and December 27, 2008.

Bid Results – Stand-up Fork Lift (Sheridan)

Accepted the bid of $26,265 from MH Equipment – Streator, IL for a stand-up Hyster Model E30H50 Fork Lift.

Purchase Request – PlasmaCAM Cutting System

Approved to purchase a PlasmaCAM Cutting System from PlasmaCAM, Inc. at a cost of $9,980 plus shipping.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

Dr. Corcoran reported that AQIP (Academic Quality Improvement Program) is the process IVCC follows for accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission.  The AQIP cycle for review includes a quality checkup visit by a review team.  IVCC’s quality checkup visit is scheduled to begin on Wednesday, February 18^th at noon and conclude at noon on Friday, February 20^th.  The review team members are Dr. Jan Snyder from Northwest Iowa Community College in Sheldon, Iowa and Mr. Gary Schindler from Riverland Community College in Austin, Minnesota.  The Board of Trustees are invited to the closing activity at 11:30 a.m. on the 20^th in room C316.  Ms. Jamie Gahm and Dr. Manual Gomez have done an outstanding job of coordinating this event and the material related to accreditation.  Candidates for the position of vice president for learning and student development have been on campus interviewing with the advisory selection committee and interacting with students, faculty, support staff, administrators and members of the Board. Another new position to be filled this fiscal year entitled vice president for planning and institutional effectiveness will be posted by mid-February with reviewing of files to begin around March 17.  Dr. Corcoran recognized Sharon Barthelemy on being elected president of the Illinois Community College Career Services Professionals organization.  He welcomed Abhijeet Bhattacharya as the new economics professor and Reed Wilson as a consultant to the college on pursuing grants that could benefit special projects, federal and state financial support for construction of a technology and workforce development center, and community partnerships.  Nicci Gibson resigned as IVCC women’s volleyball coach after four years of service and has represented the College with honor both on and off the volleyball court.  Dr. Corcoran recognized Fran Brolley for stepping forward and serving as Director of Community Relations as well as overseeing staff in the Foundation Office during a period of reorganization.  Dr. Corcoran noted a letter from Mr. Jim Loveland on behalf of the Illinois Valley Hospice Community Advisory Board recognizing the fine work of Professor Francie Skoflanc and her students for the work they have done on designing promotional items regarding services the hospice organization provides for the terminally ill.  It was noted that the Illinois Valley Building and Construction Trades Council will be participating in a career day on the IVCC campus on March 20.  Students will witness hands-on demonstrations regarding a number of career opportunities in various building trades.  Dr. Corcoran was advised that the Dislocated Workers Center had run out of funding that could be committed to retraining for some new clients that had expressed a desire to participate in two programs:  truck driver training and electronics.  A decision was made to issue these seven students tuition waivers to they can begin retraining immediately.  The truck driver training students can complete a course in four weeks and be ready to return to the workforce.  If the economic stimulus package is approved by Congress, it will include more funding for the dislocated workers program and IVCC will recover the funds committed to these students.  IVCC is monitoring the many disturbing layoffs and possible closing events in the district and doing everything it can to support the workers affected by the unfortunate economic situation.  Dr. Corcoran and Dr. Jerry Weber, president at Kankakee Community College participated in an international seminar on occupational education coordinated by Mr. Blouke Carus.  Leaders in career and technical education from the United States, Europe, New Zealand, Canada, and the United Kingdom talked about educational pathways for young adults and the importance of deep engagement with employers.  A copy of the draft report with recommendations that had emerged from the conference was distributed to each Board member.  Mr. Carus is planning to have the report be the focus of a Business Roundtable Discussion to take place soon.   Dr. Corcoran introduced Elaine Novak, Dean of Career and Technical Programs, who started in her position on January 5.  

TRUSTEES’ REPORT

Ms. Cassie Fuller reported the Student Government Association approved a paintball club and will now go to the legislative branch for approval.  Autism awareness is the spring fundraiser.  ICCB/SAC has also selected this as their spring fundraiser.  Spring intramurals are currently running with dodgeball, volleyball, bowling and home run derby.  SGA joined PTK in volunteering at local PADS shelters.  At the upcoming advocacy day, formerly called lobby day, due to the economic situation the students will not be asking for an increase in funding but will highlight the 64/14 issue – Illinois community colleges enroll 64% of the state's public college credit students while receiving only 14% of Illinois' higher education dollars.  Ms. Fuller expressed her gratitude for giving the opportunity to attend the National Legislative Summit in Washington, D.C. on February 8-11, 2009.  Green initiatives is one of the topics to be discussed.  IVCC is on the right track with the success of its blended courses and introducing more blended courses to save gas for the students.  The ICCB/SAC will be hosting a banquet at the March 13 and 14^th meeting in Oak Brook.  Presidents and trustees are welcome.  The IBHE/SAC are preparing a master guide for all students at community colleges for easy transfer to four-year institutions.  Textbook affordability was discussed to encourage the colleges to offer alternative solutions instead of paying the high price for books.  Ms. Fuller noted that IVCC’s rental program is very good and IVCC is right on track.  She also indicated that IVCC will have a good turnout for advocacy day.

Dr. Scroggs reported on the Board Planning Committee meeting held on January 21, 2009.  The environmental scan was discussed and the committee appreciated the time spent with Rosie Lynch, Cathy Bangert, and Jamie Gahm to help them better understand it.  Dr. Scroggs expressed her appreciation on receiving feedback on the board evaluation instrument.  If any other board members plan to send feedback to Dr. Scroggs, she will need it quickly.  She would like the Board to approve the instrument and the use of it by the next Board meeting.  A decision needs to be made if the instrument will be used to evaluate the board as a whole or individually.  According to Dr. Corcoran’s contract, the president’s evaluation must be completed by April 1. 

Mr. Wilcoxson noted the Board Audit/Finance Committee will be meeting on February 5 at noon.  He reminded Board members that the registration deadline for the March 13-14 meeting in Oakbrook is February 27.   He commended the administration for the right decision in approving the tuition waivers for the truck driver training and electronics students.  He also commended Dr. Corcoran for his participation in the international seminar on occupational education.  Mr. Walt Zukowski introduced his new associate, Tony Phelps, a graduate of IVCC and the University of Indiana. 

TREASURER’S APPOINTMENT

It was moved by Mr. Thompson and seconded by Dr. Scroggs to appoint Cheryl Roelfsema treasurer of Illinois Valley Community College.  Motion passed by voice vote.

FACULTY APPOINTMENT – STEVE SWETT, WAREHOUSING/SHIPPING AND RECEIVING INSTRUCTOR AT SHERIDAN CORRECTIONAL CENTER

It was moved by Dr. Scroggs and seconded by Mr. Thompson to approve the appointment of Steve Swett as the Warehousing/Shipping and Receiving instructor at Sheridan Correctional Center an annual starting salary of $40,840.80.  This offer is contingent upon the Department of Corrections approval.  Motion passed by voice vote.

ACTING DIRECTOR OF ADMISSIONS AND RECORDS – CONNIE SKERSTON

It was moved by Mrs. Sweeden and seconded by Dr. Scroggs to approve the appointment of Connie Skerston as Acting Director of Admissions and receive a stipend of $1300 for assuming additional responsibilities.  Motion passed by voice vote.

ACTING ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR, LASALLE COUNTY PROJECT – DON POLLEX

It was moved by Mrs. Endress and seconded by Mr. Thompson to approve the appointment of Don Pollex as Acting Director, LaSalle County Project and receive a bi-weekly stipend of $200, retroactive to December 1, 2008 for assuming additional responsibilities.  Motion passed by voice vote.

TEMPORARY SPECIAL ASSIGNMENTS

It was moved by Mr. Thompson and seconded by Dr. Scroggs to approve the temporary re-assignment of responsibilities for the period of January 5, 2009 through June 30, 2009 as follows:

1) Perkins Grant coordinator to Marianne Dzik at a stipend of $1,000 for the spring from the Perkins grant funds;

2) Leadership of the IVCC Curriculum Process to Jeannette Mathis at a stipend of $1,500 for the spring semester from the education fund;

3) Co-Director of IVCC/SRAVTE PCCSA Consortium to Jeannette Mathis at a stipend of $2,500 for the spring semester from PCCS grant funds; and

4) CurricUNET implementation management to Judy Day at a stipend of $1,500 for the spring semester from the education fund.

Motion passed by voice vote.

SABBATICAL LEAVE REQUEST – DR. MATHEW JOHLL

It was moved by Mrs. Endress and seconded by Ms. Fuller to approve the sabbatical leave for Dr. Mathew Johll for the academic year 2009-2010, said leave to be governed by the conditions stipulated in the agreement between the American Federation of Teachers Local 1810 and the Board of Trustees of Illinois Valley Community College District No. 513.  Motion passed by voice vote.

SABBATICAL LEAVE REQUEST – DR. RICHARD MANGOLD

It was moved by Mr. Thompson and seconded by Dr. Scroggs to approve the sabbatical leave for Dr. Richard Mangold for the fall 2009 semester of the academic year 2009-2010, said leave to be governed by the conditions stipulated in the agreement between the American Federation of Teachers Local 1810 and the Board of Trustees of Illinois Valley Community College District No. 513.  Motion passed by voice vote.

BOARD POLICY 3013 – FAMILY AND MEDICAL LEAVE ACT

It was moved by Mrs. Sweeden and seconded by Mr. Thompson to approve the revised Board Policy #3013 Family and Medical Leave as presented.  Motion passed by voice vote.

REDUCED TUITION FOR DEVELOPMENTAL COURSES

It was moved by Mrs. Endress and seconded by Ms. Fuller to approve developmental coursework in English, mathematics, and reading as offerings in the Early Entry College (E2C) program to qualify for reduced tuition at 50 percent of the current rate.   IVCC was approached by Hall High School to offer these courses, but all high schools in the district will be given the same opportunity.  Motion passed by voice vote.

AUTHORIZATION FOR DESTRUCTION OF VERBATIM RECORDINGS OF CLOSED SESSION MEETINGS

It was moved by Mr. Thompson and seconded by Dr. Scroggs to adopt the following resolution:

“Be it resolved that the Board of Trustees of Community College District 513, accepts for destruction the verbatim audiotapes of Closed Session Meetings from June 28, 2006; July 26, 2006; August 30, 2006; November 29, 2006; December 19, 2006; January 24, 2007; February 28, 2007; March 28, 2007; April 25, 2007; May 9, 2007; May 23, 2007; and May 30, 2007.”

“Be it further resolved that the Board of Trustees of Community College District 513 authorizes the destruction of Closed Session audiotapes from June 28, 2006; July 26, 2006; August 30, 2006; November 29, 2006; December 19, 2006; January 24, 2007; February 28, 2007; March 28, 2007; April 25, 2007; May 9, 2007; May 23, 2007; and May 30, 2007, as all the criteria for destruction of these tapes under the Open Meetings Act has been met.”

PUBLIC COMMENT

None.

TRUSTEE COMMENT

None.

CLOSED SESSION MINUTES

It was moved by Mrs. Sweeden and seconded by Mrs. Endress to approve the closed session minutes of the December 17, 2008 board meeting, release the first paragraph, and retain the remainder of the December 17, 2008 board meeting minutes.  Motion passed by voice vote.

OTHER

Dr. Corcoran reported he had great concerns when he received a letter from the Dental Assisting Review Committee regarding the possibility of the Dental Commission withdrawing accreditation of IVCC’s dental assisting program.  Sue Isermann and Gloria Bouxsein took action and met with the dental assisting review committee and came up with a plan.  The committee chairperson contacted Gloria today and her recommendation to the committee will be to continue accreditation of our program.  Gloria will be presenting a campus update on the dental assisting program at the February Board meeting.

ADJOURNMENT

It was moved by Mr. Thompson, seconded by Dr. Scroggs, and carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 8:59 p.m.  Motion passed by voice vote.