February 11, 2021 Minutes of Regular Meeting

The Board of Trustees of Illinois Valley Community College District No. 513 convened a regular session at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, February 11, 2021 in the Board Room (C307) at Illinois Valley Community College.

Members Physically Present

Jane E. Goetz, Chair

Everett J. Solon, Vice Chair

Members Virtually Present

Angela M. Stevenson, Secretary

Amy L. Boyles

Jay K. McCracken

Maureen O. Rebholz

Naomi Ochuba, Student Trustee (left the meeting at 7:29 p.m.)

Members Telephonically Present

Members Absent

David O. Mallery

Others Physically Present

Jerry Corcoran, President

Chris Dunlap, Director of Information Technology Services

Kathy Ross, Controller

Walt Zukowski, Attorney

Others Virtually Present

Cheryl Roelfsema, Vice President for Business Services & Finance

Deborah Anderson, Vice President for Academic Affairs

Mark Grzybowski, Vice President for Student Services

Bonnie Campbell, Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs

Leslie Hofer, Director of Human Resources

Ron Groleau, Dean of Natural Sciences & Business

Jennifer Grobe, Director of Nursing Programs

Ms. Goetz informed of the following:  1) The provisions related to the Open Meetings Act allowing for Board meetings to be virtual continue due to Governor Pritzker’s most recent disaster proclamation and 2) it is the custom and practice of the college to record Board meetings and the meeting was being recorded both audio and video.

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

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

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

PUBLIC COMMENT

Tracy Lee extended thanks on behalf of faculty to everyone involved in the coordination of the vaccination clinic on campus for employees on February 10 and for all of the clinics on campus.  Ms. Lee expressed special thanks to Leslie Hofer and Bonnie Campbell for organizing the clinics. She also thanked Polly Ragazincky and Sandy Beard for assisting at the desk and the faculty members and students from the health professions who assisted. Ms. Lee thanked all involved for their time and efforts.

CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS

It was moved by Mr. McCracken and seconded by Ms. Stevenson to approve the consent agenda, as presented.

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

The following items were approved in the consent agenda:

Approval of Minutes – January 14, 2021 Board Meeting.

Approval of Bills - $1,894,540.00

Education Fund - $1,423,583.81; Operations & Maintenance Fund - $91,887.75; Operations & Maintenance (Restricted Fund) - $231,310.91; Auxiliary Fund - $67,890.17; Restricted Fund - $25,364.03; Liability, Protection & Settlement Fund - $53,736.33; and Grants, Loans & Scholarships - $767.00.

Treasurer’s Report

Personnel

Approved stipends for pay periods ending January 2, 2021 and January 16, 2021 & Part-time Faculty and Staff Appointments of January 2021.

APPOINTMENT OF SECRETARY PRO-TEM

Ms. Goetz appointed Mr. Solon as secretary pro-tem in the physical absence of Ms. Stevenson.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

Dr. Corcoran noted that on page 63 of the board agenda, Kathy Ross, the college’s controller, had an article entitled “Quality calendars key for tracking year-end to-dos” published in Keep Up to Date on Payroll, a twice-monthly business magazine, so congratulations are in order to Kathy. Dr. Corcoran reported that Heather Seghi, our dental assisting program coordinator, and her colleagues recently partnered with the American Dental Association and their “Give Kids a Smile” program which resulted in our group’s ability to provide free dental care for over 50 children in the area. Dr. Corcoran noted that Heather and her part-time faculty are pursuing additional grants from the ADA and Delta Dental to help more people and expand our dental clinic. He added that they feel as they are turning away 12 – 18 students per year who would like to enroll in dental hygiene but must be sent elsewhere, typically an hour away. Dr. Corcoran noted that we are proud of Heather and excited about her plan for expansion so stay tuned, you will be hearing more on that subject in the near future as we begin working on the fiscal year 2022 budget. Dr. Corcoran noted that he mentioned last month how pleased he had been with the fine work done in partnership with the LaSalle County Health Department in getting community members up to speed on their COVID-19 vaccinations – the job continues. Dr. Corcoran reported that we are happy that college facilities have been an asset in this regard and that so many of our employees and students have been able to help out on a volunteer basis. Dr. Corcoran offered kudos to everyone who played a role in this undertaking, especially Bonnie Campbell and Leslie Hofer for their leadership. He added that feedback from the community has been sensational. Dr. Corcoran advised that as previously noted, our 2021 Commencement will be held on Saturday, May 22 at 1:30 p.m. and this year’s address to our graduates will be delivered by the incomparable Dr. Promise Yong. Dr. Corcoran noted that when Fran and he visited with PK about this matter, we reminisced about the wonderful job he did when addressing our students at the academic awards banquet in 2017. He added that we know Dr. Yong will do an equally fine job this time around and are looking forward to the virtual event to be overseen by our Student Services and Community Relations staff and produced by our friend Matthew Klein, so mark your calendars and join us if you can. Dr. Corcoran reported that our four-college consortium’s grant application to the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity for establishing a manufacturing academy has been delivered and while he might be slightly biased, he thought it is great. Dr. Corcoran noted that Dr. Sheila Quirk Bailey, Illinois Central College president, deserves tremendous recognition for her vision in pulling us all together to create the Central Illinois Manufacturing Academy. He added that our hats also go off to presidents Dr. Charlotte Warren and Mr. Curt Oldfield of Lincoln Land Community College and Spoon River College respectfully, and our hardworking staff at IVCC for a job well done. Dr. Corcoran advised that if funded, we think this will have a profound effect on the current and future workforce needs of Central Illinois manufacturers. Dr. Corcoran extended special thanks to the 17 manufacturers, nine mayors, five chambers of commerce representatives, five community-based organizations, one economic development director, two legislators and 15 superintendents for their documented support of this major initiative.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

None

TENURE RECOMMENDATIONS

Dr. Anderson advised that the tenure process requires faculty demonstrate exemplary teaching, contributions to the college and community, and involvement with professional organizations. Faculty recommended for tenure were: Kevin Hermes, Amber Fox and Jessie Bouxsein.

Kevin Hermes – Criminal Justice Instructor

It was moved by Mr. Solon and seconded by Mr. McCracken to approve the tenure for Kevin Hermes, Criminal Justice Instructor, as presented. Dean Groleau informed that Mr. Hermes’ accomplishments include the development and implementation of curriculum, including online curricula, in criminal justice, the creation of short-term certificates in criminal justice, the reinvigoration of the student club for criminal justice students, and extensive community outreach to the criminal justice community in the Illinois Valley. Dean Groleau noted that Kevin Hermes ensures that all students are included in the learning process and that all comments are heard and respected. He added that the classroom environment created stimulates participation and active learning.

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

Mr. Hermes was present virtually to share his portfolio and celebrate his success with the Board of Trustees.

Amber Fox – Accounting Instructor

It was moved by Mr. Solon and seconded by Ms. Stevenson to approve the tenure for Amber Fox, Accounting Instructor, as presented. Dean Groleau informed that Ms. Fox’s accomplishments include the development of a 3+1 articulation agreement in Accounting with Franklin University, the introduction of active-learning projects and activities in accounting, including the use of a business simulation tool, and the development of internal controls for the MIMIC projects. Dean Groleau noted that Ms. Fox’s instructional approach results in active learning for all students enrolled in her classes.

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

Ms. Fox was present remotely to share her portfolio and celebrate her success with the Board of Trustees.

Jessie Bouxsein – Nursing Instructor

It was moved by Dr. Rebholz and seconded by Mr. McCracken to approve the tenure for Jessie Bouxsein, Nursing Instructor, as presented. Dr. Anderson informed that Ms. Bouxsein’s accomplishments include her commitment to the Nursing students as exhibited by her taking on additional clinical and seminar sessions above and beyond her load throughout her first three years. Dean Hogue, prior to her retirement, noted that “Ms. Bouxsein creates a classroom atmosphere where students are engaged, relaxed and willing to participate. She sees the individuality in each student and assists each to perform at their best.”

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

Ms. Bouxsein was present virtually to share her portfolio and celebrate her success with the Board of Trustees.

RESOLUTION DESIGNATING THE FISCAL YEAR

It was moved by Dr. Boyles and seconded by Ms. Stevenson to adopt the resolution designating the fiscal year from July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022, as presented.

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

COURSE FEES/ADJUSTMENTS

It was moved by Dr. Rebholz and seconded by Mr. Solon to change 100 course fees: 81 increases, 12 new courses, 1 decrease, removal of course fees from 5 courses, plus the assignment of a course fee to 1 existing course, as presented.

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

Dr. Corcoran thanked Bonnie Campbell for her coordination efforts in working with the Deans and Program Coordinators on reviewing and adjusting the course fees.

TRANSFER OF FUNDS – CAPITAL DEVELOPMENT BOARD TRUST ACCOUNT

It was moved by Mr. McCracken and seconded by Ms. Stevenson to approve the transfer of $539,063 to a Capital Development Board Trust Account at Midland States Bank to cover the anticipated local match for the Air Moisture Infiltration deferred maintenance project.

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

APPROVAL OF CERTIFICATE: AGRICULTURAL STUDIES

It was moved by Mr. McCracken and seconded by Mr. Solon to approve the Agricultural Studies Certificate, as presented.

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

FACULTY RETIREMENT – KAREN ZEILMAN, ART INSTRUCTOR

It was moved by Mr. Solon and seconded by Dr. Boyles to accept with regret the retirement of Karen Zeilman, Art Instructor, effective May 31, 2021.

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

TRUSTEE COMMENT

Ms. Goetz reminded of the upcoming ICCTA meetings on March 12 and 13. She noted that she planned to be in attendance and would report back to the Trustees.

Ms. Stevenson commented on the flawless execution of the vaccination clinic process at the college. Mr. McCracken extended kudos to everyone involved with the clinics on campus.  Dr. Rebholz related her husband’s positive experience with the college’s vaccination clinic and the entire process. Ms. Campbell noted that the LaSalle County Health Department has worked tirelessly on the vaccination efforts and the college is proud to partner with them.

CLOSED SESSION

Ms. Goetz requested a motion and a roll call vote at 7:00 p.m. to enter into a closed session to discuss: 1) pending or imminent litigation; 2) security procedures, school building safety and security; 3) complaint lodged against an official or employee of the public body; 4) the appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance, or dismissal of specific employees of the public body; 5) collective negotiations; and 6) closed session minutes.  Motion made by Ms. Stevenson and seconded by Mr. Solon to enter into a closed session.

Student Advisory Vote: – “Aye” – Ms. Ochuba.  Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Mr. Solon, Ms. Stevenson, Mr. McCracken and Ms. Goetz.  “Nay” – none.  Motion carried. The Board immediately entered closed session at 7:01 p.m.

Motion made by Mr. Solon and seconded by Ms. Stevenson to return to the regular meeting.

Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” –  Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Mr. Solon, Ms. Stevenson, Mr. McCracken and Ms. Goetz.  “Nay” – none.  Motion carried. The regular meeting resumed at 8:05 p.m.

CLOSED SESSION MINUTES

It was moved by Mr. McCracken and seconded by Dr. Rebholz to approve and retain the closed session minutes of January 14, 2021.

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

OTHER

Dr. Corcoran informed that Cory Tomasson, IVCC Athletic Director, and Mark Grzybowski, Vice President for Student Services were made aware of recent instances wherein three IVCC student athletes were found to have violated the IVCC Student Athlete Contract. As such, the student athletes have been removed from their respective teams and informed that their Spring 2021 Athletic Tuition Waiver has been rescinded.

ADJOURNMENT

Ms. Goetz declared the meeting adjourned at 8:10 p.m.