February 8, 2023 Minutes of Regular Meeting

The Board of Trustees of Illinois Valley Community College District No. 513 convened a regular session at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, February 8, 2024 in the Board Room (C307) at Illinois Valley Community College.

Members Physically Present

Everett J. Solon, Chair

Jay K. McCracken, Vice Chair

Angela M. Stevenson, Secretary

Amy L. Boyles

Jane E. Goetz

Maureen O. Rebholz

Elizabeth G. Boyles, Student Trustee

Members Virtually Present

Rebecca Donna

Members Telephonically Present

Members Absent

Others Physically Present

Tracy Morris, President

Gary Roberts, Vice President for Academic Affairs

Mark Grzybowski, Vice President for Student Services

Kathy Ross, Vice President for Business Services and Finance

Mary Beth Herron, Director of Human Resources

Walt Zukowski, Attorney

Others Virtually Present

MOMENT OF SILENCE

There was a moment of silence to remember Ricardo Huaracha of Leonore, father-in-law of Hector Arredondo of Allied Security; Joan Demonica of Huntley, mother of Dominick Demomica, our lead architect; and Judith Krafcky, retired nursing faculty member.

Trustee Rebecca Donna was determined to be eligible to participate in tonight’s meeting electronically in accordance with the Open Meetings Act and Board Policy.

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

It was moved by Mr. McCracken and seconded by Ms. Stevenson to approve the agenda.

Student Advisory Vote: “Aye” – Ms. Boyles.  Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Mr. McCracken, Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, and Mr. Solon. “Nay” – none. Motion carried.

PUBLIC COMMENT

None

CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS

It was moved by Dr. Boyles and seconded by Dr. Rebholz to approve the consent agenda, as presented.

Student Advisory Vote: “Aye” – Ms. Boyles.  Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Mr. McCracken, Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, and Mr. Solon. “Nay” – none. Motion carried.

The following items were approved in the consent agenda:

Approval of Minutes – January 18, 2024 Board Meeting.

Approval of Bills - $2,109,669.80

Education Fund - $1,332,427.89; Operations and Maintenance Fund - $225,011.48; Operations and Maintenance (Restricted Fund) - $432,001.16; Auxiliary Fund - $38,060.62; Restricted Fund - $20,194.21; and Liability, Protection, and Settlement Fund - $61,974.44.

Treasurer’s Report

Personnel

Approved stipends for pay periods ending January 13, 2024 and January 27, 2024 and Part-Time Faculty and Staff Appointments January 2024.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

Dr. Morris stated a Case IH planter donated to the ag program was delivered this week. Kudos to the IVCC’s Red Cross Club and Student Nurses Association for record breaking blood drives on the main campus with 49 total units collected and at the Ottawa Center 41 total units collected. Alumni Matthew Klein and faculty member Wes Black were part of the Ice Climbers of Starved Rock documentary which was presented in Ottawa on February 3^rd.

This fall, 196 students earned 251 degrees and certificates. For the Fall 2023 semester, 196 students were named to the Presidential Honors list and 508 students were named to the Academic Honors list. Eagles Peak had 27 visits in January that included 17 unduplicated households and 29 children. YMCA Little Eagles had 7 visits in January serving 5 unique students.

Numerous events are planned throughout Black History Month. The Evolution of Hip Hop with Music Historian, DJ Lee, was held this week and was very well attended. All events are free to IVCC students and staff. Excellence Award nominations are now being accepted for the Stephen Charry Memorial Award for Teaching, Outstanding Part-time Faculty Award, and the Connie Skerston Memorial Award for Support Staff Distinguished Service.

Kudos to Jennifer Etscheid for reimaging the student emails into something readable and visually appealing; Dental Hygiene for being granted the status of initial accreditation; Jennifer Scheri for being named a Community Cornerstone award winner by IVAC and Economic Development for exhibiting influence and inspiration and demonstrating unwavering dedication to both the college and the business industry; and faculty members Theresa Molln, Chrissy Boughton, Cathy Lenkaitis, Samantha Whiteaker, and Emily Morgan for being recommended for tenure this evening.

Events and happenings around campus include the core values operational definitions and institutional goals are out to the campus for input and voting, the DEI Committee is working on our equity plan, and the Academic Affairs are working on the Academic Strategic Plan. Academic Challenge was held on campus on February 2 with 158 students from eight schools competing. The 100^th Celebration coffee blend is selling well with almost 50 bags sold in in just a few weeks. Fundraisers for Eagles Peak will include a SOUPer Bowl Celebration to collect donations of canned soup, stews, soup mixes, and individual microwave soups during the first half of February. The second half of February will be the 100 Years-100 Cans to collection donations of vegetables and stew. On February 24, the College will be supporting a team for the Coldest Night of the Year, a one mile walk in Ottawa to support PADS. Two student essay contests, the Paul Simon Essay Contest and the DEI Writing Contest have submission deadlines of February 23.

The final enrollment update for Spring 2024 showed budgeted credit hours at 108%, 10^th day to 10^th day at 102.96%, and day 16 (current) at 104.49%. Priority enrollment begins March 26, Summer enrollment begins on April 10, and Fall enrollment begins on April 11.

The Decennial Plan will be updated with survey results and will be sent to the Board by the end of the month. The final Decennial Committee will be held in March.

General updates included the creation of the Pasieka Family Scholarship in memory of their parents and the nominees for several ICCTA awards as noted in the Board book under Items for Information. The Facilities Master Plan noted the development of planning objectives and discussion of institutional priorities to inform the concept alternatives so DKA can build the first draft of the plan. The planning objectives were developed in the areas of campus image, campus life space, learning-centered environment, campus-wide wayfinding and organization, technology and connectivity, and framework for growth.

STUDENT TRUSTEE’S REPORT

Ms. Boyles reported the men’s basketball team is 11-12 overall, 3-1 in the conference, and have a game this evening at Carl Sandburg. The softball team will host their annual camp on February 17 and 18. Registration forms are available through the IVCC website or by contacting Cory Tomasson. The Student Government Association updated their meetings to every other Thursday at 8:00 a.m. for the semester; an informational meeting with President’s Council was held to discuss the breakdown of tuition and fees and possible dates for a student picnic; and the tradition of a Soul Food Buffet will continue to celebrate Black History Month. Ms. Boyles noted SGA Secretary, Riker Fesperman, would like to inform the Board of the growing interest in IVCC’s study abroad opportunities. At least six students expressed interest this year and the office is looking at developing scholarship opportunities to support studying abroad. A new edition of the IV Leader is available and includes an article by Ms. Boyles. Find it around campus or on the IV Leader website.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

None

TENURE RECOMMENDATION – THRESA MOLLN, WELDING INSTRUCTOR

It was moved by Mr. McCracken and seconded by Ms. Stevenson to approve the tenure recommendation of Theresa Molln, Welding Instructor, as presented. Dean Lange shared that his favorite part about Theresa is that she is compassionate towards her students and the people around her. Her desire for people to succeed is overwhelming and she makes sure her students are prepared to learn.

Student Advisory Vote: “Aye” – Ms. Boyles.  Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Mr. McCracken, Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, and Mr. Solon. “Nay” – none. Motion carried.

TENURE RECOMMENDATION – CHRISSY BOUGHTON, NURSING INSTRUCTOR

It was moved by Dr. Boyles and seconded by Dr. Rebholz to approve the tenure of Chrissy Boughton, Nursing Instructor, as presented. Dean Seghi and Director of Nursing Sue Smith shared Chrissy’s knowledge, compassion, and continuous commitment to learning and student success symbolizes IVCC’s core values. Chrissy is a skilled and empathetic instructor and we are truly blessed to have her as part of our team here at IVCC.

Student Advisory Vote: “Aye” – Ms. Boyles.  Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Mr. McCracken, Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, and Mr. Solon. “Nay” – none. Motion carried.

TENURE RECOMMENDATION – CATHY LENKAITIS, NURSING LABORATORY INSTRUCTOR

It was moved by Dr. Rebholz and seconded by Ms. Goetz to approve the tenure of Cathy Lenkaitis, Nursing Laboratory Instructor, as presented. Dean Seghi and Director of Nursing Sue Smith shared Cathy’s exemplary teaching performance has earned praise from both students and her supervisors. She goes beyond actively shaping the College’s future contributing the development of the new simulation lab and chairing the nursing skills lab manual committee.

Student Advisory Vote: “Aye” – Ms. Boyles.  Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Mr. McCracken, Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, and Mr. Solon. “Nay” – none. Motion carried.

TENURE RECOMMENDATION – SAMANTHA WHITEAKER, NURSING INSTRUCTOR

It was moved by Ms. Goetz and seconded by Dr. Rebholz to approve the tenure of Samantha Whiteaker, Nursing Instructor, as presented. Dean Seghi and Director of Nursing Sue Smith shared Sam’s recommendations stems from her outstanding teaching marked by the students admiration for her passion and innovative methods. Sam is dedicated and skilled and embodies IVCC’s mission, vision, and core values.

Student Advisory Vote: “Aye” – Ms. Boyles.  Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Mr. McCracken, Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, and Mr. Solon. “Nay” – none. Motion carried.

TENURE RECOMMENDATION – EMILY MORGAN, MATHEMATICS INSTRUCTOR

It was moved by Ms. Stevenson and seconded by Mr. McCracken to approve the tenure of Emily Morgan, Mathematics Instructor, as presented. Dean Groleau shared when he considers a word that describes Emily, the word that comes to mind is caring. In addition to a very effective lecture, modeling technique, and guided practice technique, Emily uses the latest technology. She cares and her students quickly understand that they have an instructor that wants to see them succeed.

Student Advisory Vote: “Aye” – Ms. Boyles.  Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Mr. McCracken, Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, and Mr. Solon. “Nay” – none. Motion carried.

RESOLUTION TO DESIGNATE THE FISCAL YEAR

It was moved by Ms. Stevenson and seconded by Mr. McCracken to adopt the resolution designating the fiscal year be from July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025 and approve the budget calendar, as presented.

Student Advisory Vote: “Aye” – Ms. Boyles.  Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Mr. McCracken, Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, and Mr. Solon. “Nay” – none. Motion carried.

BID REQUEST – CHILDCARE SIMULATION KIT

It was moved by Dr. Rebholz and seconded by Dr. Boyles recommends authorization to seek bids for an Early Childhood Care and Services Package simulation for the Early Childhood Education program at an estimated cost of $43,000. Student Advisory Vote: “Aye” – Ms. Boyles.  Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Mr. McCracken, Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, and Mr. Solon. “Nay” – none. Motion carried.

Ms. Stevenson noted this will be fully funded by the ECACE grant.

PURCHASE REQUEST – COMMEMORATIVE ARTWORK

It was moved by Ms. Stevenson and seconded by Ms. Goetz to approve the purchase of the commemorative artwork from Westclox Studios in the amount of $35,000, as presented.

Dr. Morris noted this will be paid using Foundation Community Technology Center designated funds.

BOARD POLICY 02.07 AUDITING CLASSES

It was moved by Ms. Stevenson and seconded by Dr. Boyles to approve the Board Policy, as presented.

Student Advisory Vote: “Aye” – Ms. Boyles.  Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Mr. McCracken, Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, and Mr. Solon. “Nay” – none. Motion carried.

BOARD POLICY 02.15 HONORS DESIGNATION

It was moved by Dr. Rebholz and seconded by Mr. McCracken to approve the Board Policy, as presented.

Student Advisory Vote: “Aye” – Ms. Boyles.  Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Mr. McCracken, Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, and Mr. Solon. “Nay” – none. Motion carried.

BOARD POLICY 02.18 PROGRAM APPROVAL

It was moved by Ms. Goetz and seconded by Dr. Rebholz to approve the Board Policy, as presented.

Student Advisory Vote: “Aye” – Ms. Boyles.  Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Mr. McCracken, Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, and Mr. Solon. “Nay” – none. Motion carried.

ITEMS FOR INFORMATION

Mr. Solon pointed out the information items on pages 72-94 of the Board book.

Mr. McCracken stated the Audit/Finance Committee heard a phenomenal audit presentation today and commended Ms. Ross and her team for their great work and a very thorough presentation.

Ms. Boyles thanked the Board for the nominating her for the ICCTA Student Trustee Award.

TRUSTEE COMMENT

Ms. Goetz noted the Fall 2023 Graduations were 24% higher for the number of student graduating and 32% higher for certificates and degree earned compared to Fall 2022. Dr. Rebholz stated the tenure presentations were personal and meaningful.

CLOSED SESSION

Mr. Solon requested a motion and a roll call vote at 6:18 p.m. to enter into a closed session to discuss: 1) the appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance, or dismissal of specific employees of the public body; 2) pending or imminent litigation; and 3) closed session minutes. 

It was moved by Dr. Boyles and seconded by Ms. Goetz to enter into a closed session.

Student Advisory Vote: “Aye” – Ms. Boyles.  Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Mr. McCracken, Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, and Mr. Solon. “Nay” – none. Motion carried. The Board entered closed session at 6:20 p.m.

It was moved by Ms. Goetz and seconded by Ms. Stevenson to return to the regular meeting.

Student Advisory Vote: “Aye” – Ms. Boyles.  Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Mr. McCracken, Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, and Mr. Solon. “Nay” – none. Motion carried. The regular meeting resumed at 7:26 p.m.

CLOSED SESSION MINUTES

It was moved by Mr. McCracken and seconded by Ms. Stevenson to approve and retain the closed session minutes of the January 18, 2024 Board Meeting.

Student Advisory Vote: “Aye” – Ms. Boyles.  Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Mr. McCracken, Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, and Mr. Solon. “Nay” – none. Motion carried.

OTHER

None

ADJOURNMENT

Mr. Solon declared the meeting adjourned at 7:28 p.m.