February 9

WESTERN PIEDMONT
COMMUNITY COLLEGE
OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
THE TRUSTEES OF WESTERN PIEDMONT COMMUNITY COLLEGE
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2016 AT 3:00P.M.
LRC 120, PHIFER LEARNING RESOURCES CENTER, WPCC CAMPUS
Item
AMENDED AGENDA
1. Call to Order and Reading of Ethics Statement
2. Introduction and Recognition of Special Guests
3. •Adoption of Regular Agenda (Amended)
Acceptance of Trustee Chair Resignation (added)
Acceptance of Chair Resignation and Approval of new Trustee Chair
(added)
4. • Approval of Minutes for Regular Meeting- December 2015 ..•..••..•.•...•. A
5. Highlight of Student Success
6. Report from Vice President for Administrative Services and Chief
Financial Officer
Report of Personnel •.••••...••..•.•••.•..•.••.••.•..•••••.••.•..••.••.•••• .•• ....•.•........... B
Presentation on WPCC Policies and Procedures
Introduction Employees
• Approval of NCCCS 3-1 form Pottery Building ••..•.•..........•......•....•....• C
•Approval of NCCCS 3-1 form campus Renovations ................••....••.... D
•Approval to Dispose of Surplus Property..................•.....•....•.••.•..•..••• E
Report on Budget Allocations, Transfers, or Reversions •••.•.•••.• ••.•• .•....• F
Update on Facilities............................................................................. G
7. Report from Vice President for Academic Affairs
Update on Academic Affairs
8. Report from Vice President for Student Development
Report from Student Trustee
Update on Student Development
Update on Western Piedmont Foundation
9. Update from WPCC Trustee Chair
Proposed Revisions to Trustee Bylaws................................................. H
1001 Burkemont Avenue •:• Morganton, NC 28655 •:• Tel. (828) 448-3 102 •:• Fax. (828) 448-3195 •:• www.wpcc.edu
an equal opportunity institution
Amended Agenda-Trustees of Western Piedmont Community College
February 9, 2016
Page2
10. Report from the President
• Approval of Revised WPCC Policy 2.24 Emergency Closing of
the College................................................................................. I
•Approval of Revised WPCC Policy 2.21 Work-Based Learning .•..•..•..•. J
• Approval of Revised WPCC Policy 2.27 Continuing Education............ K
Update on Connect NC Bond March 15 Ballot
Update on Trustee Retreat March 9
NCACCT Law Seminar, Raleigh, April 20-22
Update Presidential Activities •.••..•••.•••..•..•.••...•..•••••••.••.••.•..•..••••..•.•.••• L
Event Calendar, Notices, Communications .......•.•.••••••••..•..•.•..••••..•..•••• M
11. Adjournment
• Action Item
AMENDED MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING
THE TRUSTEES OF WESTERN PIEDMONT COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Tuesday, February 9, 2016
LRC 120, Phifer Learning Resources Center, WPCC Campus
TRUSTEES PRESENT:
Bruce Hawkins, Sr., Chair
Amparo Alfaro
Elsie Ch ildres
William Lennon
Ronald B. Lewis
Ronald F. Martin
R. Scott Mulwee
Ruth Ann Suttle
Charles E. Taylor
Ronald M . Thompson
Linda S. Wall
Nate Rosenberger, Student Trustee
TRUSTEES ABSENT:
William J. Allman
OTHERS PRESENT:
MichaelS. Helmick, President
Rhia Crawford, Vice President, Academic Affairs
Sandra K. Hoilman, Vice President, Administrative Services, and Chief Financial Officer
Atticus Simpson, Vice President, Student Development, Executive Director, Western
Piedmont Foundation
Kathy Durham, Recording Secretary
GUESTS:
David Morgan, Student
Rusty Harrison, Faculty Staff Council Chair
Susan Williams, Dean, Student Services
Lisa Miller, Director, Institutional Advancement Grants Development & Administration
Lisa Sessions, Director, Human Resources
Jenny Patton, Director, Educational Talent Search
Annette Joy, Director of Career & Testing Services
Rick Furse, Director, Customized Training
Katie Easter, Instructor, Developmental Reading/Writing (English)
Stoney Story, lnstructure, Building Construction Technology
Linda Quinto-Ellis, Instructor, Psychology
AMENDED Minutes WPCC Trustees
February 9, 2016
Page 2
1. Call to Order and Reading of Ethics Statement
Noting a quorum present, Vice Chair Bruce A. Hawkins, Sr., called the meeting of the
Trustees of Western Piedmont Community College to order. Mr. Hawkins is serving as
Acting Chair in the absence of Trustee Chair William J. Allman.
Acting Chair Hawkins read the ethics requirements and requested trustees to identify any
conflicts or potential conflicts of interest relative to the official business as listed on the
Agenda. No conflicts were noted.
2. Introductions and Recognition of Special Guests
Dr. MichaelS. Helmick, President, welcomed those in attendance and noted that
introduction of guests will follow during the meeting as part of the agenda.
3. Adoption of Regular Agenda
A MOTION was made by Mr. Thompson, SECONDED by Mr. Mulwee, and PASSED
unanimously by show of hands to amend the agenda to add two items: Approval of
Trustee Emeritus designation and Acceptance of Trustee Chair Resignation/Approval
of new Trustee Chair.
Acceptance of Trustee Chair Resignation and Approval of New Trustee Chair
Mr. Hawkins referred Trustees to a letter at their placards from Trustee Chair William
Allman withdrawing as Chair of the Trustees due to personal health concerns. Mr.
Allman plans to continue serving as a trustee. A MOTION was made by Ms. Childres,
SECONDED by Ms. Wall, and PASSED unanimously by show of hands to accept Mr.
Allman's resignation effective immediately.
A MOTION was made by Mr. Mulwee, SECONDED by Ms. Suttle, and PASSED
unanimously by show of hands to approve Mr. Bruce A. Hawkins, Sr., as Trustee Chair
to complete the remainder of the chair term ending late September 2016.
Upon the recommendation by Mr. Hawkins, a MOTION was made by Mr. Thompson,
SECONDED by Ms. Wall, and PASSED unanimously to approve William E. Lennon as
Vice Chair to complete the remainder of the vice chair term ending late September
2016.
4. Approval of Minutes for Regular Meeting- December 2015
A MOTION WAS made by Mr. Lennon, SECONDED by Mr. Mulwee, and PASSED
unanimously to approve the minutes of the regular meeting on December 14, 2015, as
presented without change.
Upon the request of Mr. Hawkins, Mr. Martin shared an update on Mr. Allman's health
condition .
AMENDED Minutes WPCC Trustees
February 9, 2016
Page 3
Approval of Trustee Emeritus Designation
Mr. Martin referred trustees to a letter from him at their placards requesting Trustee
Emeritus designation be awarded to former Trustee Claude S. Sitton. Mr. Martin's
letter confirmed that Mr. Sitton meets the criteria for this special recognition . A
MOTION was made by Mr. Martin, SECONDED by Ms. Alfaro, and PASSED
unanimously by show of hands to grant Trustee Emeritus designation to Mr. Claude S.
Sitton.
Mr. Martin stated that cu rrently there is no procedure identified to outwardly
symbol ize this designation. Therefore, he is recommending the recipient receive a gavel
crafted by the President along with a framed resolution to be presented by the
President and Trustee Chair at lunch. A MOTION was made by Mr. Martin, SECONDED
by Ms. Childres, and PASSED unanimously by show of hands to present a gavel and
framed resolution to the Trustee Emeritus designee.
5. Highlight of Student Success
Mr. Simpson introduced WPCC student David Morgan who is being recognized for his
student success. After being employed 18 years with a local furniture manufacturer,
Mr. Morgan enrolled at WPCC with assistance of the Trade Assistance Act following the
loss of his job which moved overseas. He is scheduled to graduate within the year with
a degree in Industry Systems Technology. Mr. Simpson thanked Mr. Morgan for
selecting WPCC to further his education. Mr. Morgan thanked the trustees and the
college for this opportunity. Trustees applauded Mr. Morgan' s accomplishments.
[Presentation preceded Agenda Item #10 Report from the President]
6. Report from Vice President for Administrative Services and Chief Financial Officer
Report of Personnel
Presentation on WPCC Policies and Procedures
Ms. Hoilman said the Trustees had approved policies in Section 3, Human
Resources, last September. Following that approval, the website has been updated
to reflect those changes. She asked Ms. Lisa Sessions, Director, Human Resources,
to present the new format for referencing HR policies on the website. The new
format is easier to navigate and separates policies and procedures. Administration
will continue revising the remaining six sections of the Policy Manual and will seek
Trustee approval of each section in the future. Dr. Helmick thanked Ms. Sessions
along with Chris Smith and Kathy Durham for their assistance.
Introduction Employees
Ms. Hoilman introduced the following new employees and asked each to stand :
Rick Furse, Director, Customized Training
Annette Joy, Di rector of Career & Testing Services
Stoney Story, Instructor, Building Construction Technology
AMENDED Minutes WPCC Trustees
February 9, 2016
Page 4
Linda Quinto-Ellis, Instructor, Psychology
Katie Easter, Instructor, Developmental Reading/Writing (English)
Trustees welcomed the new employees.
Approval of NCCCS 3-1 form Pottery Building
Ms. Hoilman said the college is requesting to transfer $140,000 from State Equipment
funds to capital improvement project to construct a 35' x 25' structure to house several
kilns and provide storage and instructional space for the Professional Crafts-Clay
Program. The Trustee Buildings and Grounds Committee approved the request at their
meeting on February 8, 2016. A MOTION was made by Mr. Thompson, and PASSED
unanimously by show of hands to approve Form NCCCS 3-1 for the Pottery Building.
Approval of NCCCS 3-1 form Campus Renovations
Ms. Hoilman presented a request to transfer $160,000 from State Equipment fund s to
capital improvement project to allow renovations for three areas on campus. The top
floor of the Library area in the Phifer Learning Resources Center will be renovated to
design a student-focused study location to promote collaborative learning, independent
study, and socialization. Funds will also be used for improvements in the Building
Construction Lab including insulation, bath room facilities, and other needs. Remaining
funds will be targeted for future renovation of the H Building to centralize high school
students on campus including the Burke Middle College. The Trustee Buildings and
Grounds Committee approved the request at their meeting on February 8, 2016. A
MOTION was made by Ms. Wall, and PASSED unanimously by show of hands to
approve Form NCCCS 3-1-for Campus Renovations.
Approval to Dispose of Surplus Property
Ms. Hoilman presented request to approve disposal of surplus property using
GovDeal.com. She referred trustees to Tab 6-E in their agenda packet. The Trustee
Buildings and Grounds Committee approved the request at their meeting on
February 8, 2016. A MOTION was made by Mr. Martin, and PASSED unanimously by
show of hands to approve disposal of surplus property as presented in report.
Report on Budget Allocations, Transfers, or Reversions
Ms. Hoilman presented the informational report on budget allocation, transfers, and
reversions. This included:
$807 Allotted for State Bonus award for Regional Safety Trainer located at WPCC
$3,828 Allotted for training at Richelieu Legwear in Hildebran
$4,356 Allotted for training for Va ldese Weavers in Valdese
$321,640 Carry forward funds not utilized in prior fiscal year
$80,000 Reversion for the Job-Driving National Emergency grant
$148,563 Allotted for 2015-16 Longevity awards for emp loyees 10+ years
AMENDED Minutes WPCC Trustees
February 9, 2016
Page 5
Update on Facilities
Ms. Hoilman presented a PowerPoint overview on campus projects. Highlights
included :
-Greenhouse Complex
-Mechatronics Building
-2 Story Burn Building
-Learning Resource Center Renovations
-Hunting Creek Restoration
Mr. Hawkins thanked Ms. Hoilman for her report.
{Mr. Thompson exited 3:42p.m.]
7. Report from Vice President for Academic Affairs
Update on Academic Affairs
Ms. Rhia Crawford, Vice President for Academic Affairs, informed Trustees that the
college has recently received approval from the State Board of Community Colleges to
offer the Mechatronics Program in Fall 2016. Among other new programs being
considered are Therapeutic Massage and Cosmetology. WPCC will be expanding the
Welding program by offering welding classes at Freedom High School and East Burke
High School in the Fall 2016.
Ms. Crawford said that WPCC will be part of a joint venture with Burke County Public
Schools for their Fire program at Patton High. A mobile unit will be placed at WPCC's
Emergency Services Training Center (ESTC). Fire Fighter Levell will be taught by the
high school. For students to become certified, however, they are required to take Level
II which will be taught by WPCC.
Ms. Crawford invited Trustees to visit the college on Tuesday, April 5, for Advanced
Manufacturing Week and also the PTK Induction ceremony at 6 p.m. in Leviton
Auditorium.
She is working closely with Burke Middle College to expand their offerings to include
technical programs which may increase numbers to 100 per grade level over a period of
time.
She proudly announced that notification has been received that WPCC's Developmental
Studies Program has been accredited by the National Association of Developmental
Education. Currently, WPCC is the only community college in North Carolina to receive
this accreditation.
Mr. Hawkins thanked Ms. Crawford for her report.
AMENDED Minutes WPCC Trustees
February 9, 2016
8.
Page 6
Report from Vice President for Student Development
Report from Student Trustee
Mr. Nate Rosenberger, SGA President and Student Trustee, presented highlights of
recent activities. SGA officers assisted with Spring registration on January 6 and 7. A
" Welcome Back" social was held for students. A blood drive was held on Feb . 3 and
donations were most appreciated . SGA officers promoted student attendance at the
college' s Voter Awareness event held on Feb. 4 and assisted with voter registration
materials. He said SGA was reviewing incentives to increase student participation of
campus events.
Update on Student Development
Mr. Atticus Simpson, Vice President, Student Development, and Executive Director,
WPF, shared an outlay of the operational areas within Student Development. He
highlighted three areas that positively impact students daily at the college.
The Student Services Division is led by Dean Susan Williams and assists students
enrolling in classes. The college's B term will begin soon which will offer students
another option to take classes during Spring semester. Student Services is also working
very closely with high school students eligible for the Career and College Promise. Once
implemented the new strategic enrollment management plan (SEMP) will help recruit
and retain students. Mr. Simpson recognized Ms. Williams for her leadership.
Mr. Simpson said that the college has been very fortunate to have received the
Education Talent Search grant for the past 21 years. This grant allows WPCC staff to
encourage and promote college attendance of middle and high school students. This
program has had remarkable success. Mr. Simpson acknowledged the efforts of ETS
Director Jenny Patton.
Mr. Simpson also recognized the efforts of Lisa Miller who is instrumental with grant
development, submission, and compliance. He thanked Ms. Miller for her expertise
with grants which greatly benefit students and the college.
Update on Western Piedmont Foundation
Mr. Simpson said the Foundation is continuously working to make the college stronger
with its fund raising and promotion of the college and Foundation. He invited Trustees
to attend the annual golf tournament at Mimosa Hills Country Club on Monday, May 2,
2016. He also proudly announced that Meritor, a local manufacturer, will be supporting
the college's Advanced Manufacturing Day/Week with a gift donation.
Mr. Simpson concluded his report by referring trustees to the Strategic Plan at their
placards. This Plan was finalized following months of input from a wide range of
stakeholders including the Trustees. The Plan will serve as the "Voice of WPCC" for the
coming five years. A public release of the Plan is planned over the next few months.
AMENDED Minutes WPCC Trustees
February 9, 2016
Page 7
Mr. Hawkins thanked Mr. Simpson for his report.
[Trustee Break 4:07p.m. - 4:21p.m.]
9. Update from WPCC Trustee Chair
Proposed Revisions to Trustee Bylaws
Mr. Scott Mulwee, Trustee and member of the Bylaws ad hoc committee, outlined
revisions to the Bylaws as proposed by the committee . The majority of changes were
minor edits. Highlights referenced by Mr. Mulwee included:
-Standing Committee "Governmental Relations" (New)
-Plan of Succession for Officer terms (New)
-Allowance for Special Groups Addressing Trustees (New)
-Cumulative Record of Trustee Attendance
-Increased Powers of Executive Committee
-Awarding of Trustee Emeritus Designation (New to bylaws)
-Interaction with College Students, Staff, and Faculty (New)
-Critical Incidence Response (New)
-Media Interaction (New)
-Social Media Use by Trustees (New)
-Attendance at State and National Conferences (New)
Trustees discussed revisions to bylaws. Dr. Helmick reminded trustees that bylaw
amendments will be presented for vote at the March 9 Special Meeting/Trustee
Retreat.
Comments by the Chair
Mr. Hawkins thanked trustees for the opportunity to serve as chair for the remainder of
the term previously held by Mr. Allman . He praised the leadership of Mr. Allman and
wished improved health for him and his wife.
Mr. Hawkins informed trustees of several upcoming events. The NCACCT
Law/Legislative Seminar will be held in Raleigh during April 20- 22. On Wed., March 9,
there will be a special meeting/retreat for all trustees. This meeting will be held in LRC
120 from 10 a.m.- 3 p.m . The Trustee Personnel Committee will also be meeting from
8 a.m. -9:30a.m. on Wed., March 9, at Timberwoods in Morganton. Mr. Hawkins
encouraged trustees to attend college events, especially graduation which will be held
on Saturday, May 14 at the CoMMA in Morganton.
10. Report from the President
Report from Faculty Staff Council Chair
Mr. Rusty Harrison, Faculty Staff Council Chair, updated trustees on recent activities of
the Faculty Staff Council at their January 29 meeting.
He also shared the framework of the Council, the broad area of representation across
campus and how the Council refers communications to the President for review.
AMENDED Minutes WPCC Trustees
February 9, 2016
Page 8
Dr. Helmick thanked Mr. Harrison for his report.
Remarks from the President
Dr. Helmick sadly reported that long-term Information Technologies employee, David
Grose, had passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, February 7. Dr. Helmick asked
trustees for feedback regarding the new meeting schedule format. He congratulated
Mr. Hawkins on his new role as trustee chair. He also commended Mr. Hawkins for
receiving the "Service Above Self" award from the Valdese Rotary.
Dr. Helmick stated that WPCC has no plans to implement a tuition surcharge fee. This
proposal, if approved, would allow community colleges to collect a special fee (beyond
tuition and fees) that would be used at the college's discretion.
Dr. Helmick announced a meeting will be held on Thursday, February 25, at 4 p.m. at
the Foothills Higher Education Center, regarding the Millennia! Manufacturing
Community at Burke Business Park. WPCC would be a training partner.
Dr. Helmick briefly discussed "NC Gap"- a proposal that may encourage students to
attend community colleges for their first two years if they are deferred admission to the
UNC system. He will continue to share updates as he receives.
Dr. Helmick said the State Board for Community Colleges is continuing its search for a
new System president following the resignation of Dr. Scott Ralls in September. The
SBCC is undertaking a national search and anticipates naming a successor by March 31.
Dr. Helmick informed trustees that Multiple Measures will be utilized in Fall 2016 by all
community colleges. This method will allow students entering the community college
with a 2.6 GPA and other indicators to exempt placement testing. He said the college
would be monitoring the progress of these students and its impact on enrollment and
retention.
Dr. Helmick discussed the continued decline in enrollment at Western Piedmont as well
as other community colleges in North Carolina and across the nation. The college
anticipates a 9 percent decrease in FTE. Dr. Helmick believes that growth is possible
with high school students and high school graduates. Efforts continue to recruit heavily
from these groups.
Dr. Helmick shared several explanations regarding the decrease in enrollment including:
-Loss of senior waiver
-Changes in the High School Equivalency Test
-Changes in federal funding regarding basic skills
-Changes in federal financial aid
-Shrinking of the high school population
-WPCC completers graduated and have entered/re-entered workforce
AMENDED Minutes WPCC Trustees
February 9, 2016
Page9
Dr. Helmick said the college is projecting a $1.2M decrease for 2016-17 due to lower
FTE. The FTE loss may shift the college to Level One. To counter this huge loss, the
college is critically reviewing ways to compensate for the difference. Current vacancies
are not being filled at this time and new vacancies are being evaluated as they occur.
Reorganization in certain areas is being considered so that services may be delivered
more efficiently and students may be better served. More information will follow and
the Personnel Committee will be meeting on March 9. Those employees in positions
that may not be continued after June 30 will need to be notified in the Spring. With
approximately 90 percent of the budget devoted to salaries and benefits, it is likely that
positions will have to be reduced to balance the 2016-17 budget . He illustrated using a
graph showing the~ decrease of 6,000 students over the past 10 years while
employee numbers have held steady. During the past few years the college has added
employees to meet the increasing need for technology and compliance with SACSCOC
and other regulatory agencies. Dr. Helmick said difficult decisions will need to be made
to move the college forward and promote growth while balancing the budget. He will
keep trustees informed and will present additional information at the March 9 special
meeting/retreat.
Approval of Revised WPCC Policy 2.24 Emergency Closing of the College
A MOTION was made by Mr. Mulwee, SECONDED by Ms. Suttle, and PASSED
unanimously by show of hands to approve the revision to WPCC Policy 2.24
Emergency Closing of the College as presented without change.
Approval of Revised WPCC Policy 2.21 Work-Based Learning
A MOTION was made by Mr. Lewis, SECONDED by Mr. Mulwee, and PASSED
unanimously by show of hands to approve the revision to WPCC 2.21 Work-Based
Learning.
Approval of Revised WPCC Policy 2.27 Continuing Education
A MOTION was made by Mr. Lewis, SECONDED by Mr. Lennon, and PASSED
unanimously by show of hands to approve the revision to WPCC 2.27 Continuing
Education.
Update on Connect NC Bond March 15 Ballot
Dr. Helmick presented information on the Connect NC Bond Referendum on the March
15th ballot. As a member of the local committee he has made several presentations to
community organizations during the past weeks. Using PowerPoint slides, he briefly
illustrated how the bond monies would be allocated across the State, Burke County,
and WPCC. The college would receive $5.1 million which would be used to enhance
safety and security on campus and renovate facilities to improve student opportunities
on campus. Upgrading facilities to offer real-world applications will allow the college to
continue changing lives one student at a time . The impact to WPCC and Burke County
would be substantial.
Minutes WPCC Trustees
February 9, 2016
Page 10
AMENDED
Update on Trustee Retreat March 9
A special meeting/retreat will be held on Wednesday, March 9, in LRC 120, beginning at
10a.m .
NCACCT Law Seminar, Raleigh, April 20-22
As noted in Chair's report.
Update Presidential Activities
As referenced in agenda packet.
Event Calendar, Notices, Communications
As referenced in agenda packet.
11. Adjournment
Mr. Hawkins informed trustees there were no items requiring closed session . A
MOTION was made by Ms. Suttle, SECONDED by Mr. Martin, and PASSED
unanimously to adjourn at 5:38 p.m.
Bruce A. Hawkins, Sr., Chair
Kathy F. Durham, Recording Secretary
Date Approved: _____,1!\~~"'-=.:.....;;;_-L'I-+--=Ol_a...:..J_{p_ _
1