March 14, 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, March 14, 2024 in the Board Room (C307) at Illinois Valley Community College.
Members Physically Present
Jay K. McCracken, Vice Chair
Angela M. Stevenson, Secretary
Amy L. Boyles
Rebecca Donna
Jane E. Goetz
Maureen O. Rebholz
Members Virtually Present
Everett Solon, Chair
Members Telephonically Present
Members Absent
Elizabeth G. Boyles, Student Trustee
Others Physically Present
Tracy Morris, President
Mark Grzybowski, Vice President for Student Services
Mary Beth Herron, Director of Human Resources
Walt Zukowski, Attorney
Others Virtually Present
MOMENT OF SILENCE
There was a moment of silence to remember Bob Byrne, Jr. of Princeton, an IVCC chemistry professor for 31 years; Linda May Hiltabrand of Peru, co-founder of the Hiltabrand family scholarship; Richard F. “Dick” Janko of Peru, long-time benefactor of the College; Howard J. Hoover of Oglesby, grandfather of Trustee Amy Boyles; Cathy Buck of Oglesby, an IVCC employee from 2011-2020 in Career Services and Continuing Education departments; James B. Pagani of Peru, father of Lynn Moore in Admissions and Records; and Abel Rojas, father-in-law of Justin Denton, Director of IT.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
It was moved by Ms. Goetz and seconded by Ms. Stevenson to approve the agenda.
Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, Mr. Solon, and Mr. McCracken. “Nay” – none. Motion carried.
Trustee Everett Solon was determined to be eligible to participate in tonight’s meeting electronically in accordance with the Open Meetings Act and Board Policy.
PUBLIC COMMENT
None
CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS
It was moved by Ms. Goetz and seconded by Dr. Rebholz to approve the consent agenda, as presented.
Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, Mr. Solon, and Mr. McCracken. “Nay” – none. Motion carried.
Mr. Solon commented the farm lease is a little higher than what you would find through the University of Illinois, but the net income is higher than the other bids. Mr. Solon supports the administration’s recommendation. Mr. McCracken noted Mr. Holly did a good job for IVCC previously.
The following items were approved in the consent agenda:
Approval of Minutes – February 8, 2024 Audit Finance Committee Meeting and Board Meeting.
Approval of Bills - $3,306,697.70
Education Fund - $2,500,324.62; Operations and Maintenance Fund - $117,398.53; Operations and Maintenance (Restricted Fund) - $431,463.40; Auxiliary Fund - $112,658.56; Restricted Fund - $48,616.63; Audit Fund - $1,950.000; Liability, Protection, and Settlement Fund - $93,151.58; and Grants, Loans, and Scholarships Fund - $1,134.38.
Treasurer’s Report
Personnel
Approved stipends for pay periods ending February 10, 2024 and February 24, 2024 and Part-Time Faculty and Staff Appointments for February 2024.
PRESIDENT’S REPORT
Dr. Morris highlighted the Softball Clinic had more than 100 young players in attendance; agriculture students Elaina Harris and Shelby Einhaus, along with instructor Dr. Jennifer Timmers, attended the WCFA conference which gives the opportunity for women to explore career and educational opportunities in the ag industry; Grace Irwin has been selected as a 2024 Coca-Cola Academic Team Silver Scholar and was nominated for the All-USA Academic Team; Dental Assisting students shared their skills and knowledge by visiting local preschools for National Children’s Dental Health Month; social media posts told stories of our CTE students and graduates for CTE Month; and Project Success collected items to put together 100 Easter baskets for distribution to local foster children.
Women’s History Month is featuring social media posts on influential women in our history and Kimberly Radek Hall has organized various speakers throughout the month. Eagles Peak food bank continues to serve our students with 48 visits, 29 unduplicated households, 34 children, and 158 total people served in February. Employee award winners recently announced include Amber Robertson for the Stephen Charry Memorial Award for Teaching and Excellence; Debbie Burch for the Outstanding Part-Time Faculty Award; and Jill Wohrley for the Connie Skerston Memorial Award for Support Staff Distinguished Service. They will be formally recognized at the Recognition Event on April 4 at Senica’s Oak Ridge.
Dr. Morris gave kudos to the team that represented IVCC at the Coldest Night of the Year event and announced that our team raised $1,766.11 and was 3rd place overall for funds raised. The 18th annual Edible Car Contest had 48 cars, the most entries ever. More than 50 high school students were on campus for the Day of Writing workshop and the Illinois Valley Design Educators Association regional competition on March 8.
Monthly updates given by Dr. Morris included enrollment numbers for Adult Education as of February 26th showing 123 ABE/GED students and 155 ESL student for a total of 278 students. The Facilities Master Planning update identified the six priorities of 1) Lighting and Classroom upgrades; 2) Academic Support Center/Library; 3) Science Labs; 4) Bldg. G Athletics; 5) Bldg. J; and 6) Health Professions. Strategic Planning updates included the definitions established for each of the core values as well as the four institutional goals identified. Next steps in strategic planning include sessions to start forming options for strategic goals and objectives; determining 3-4 goals and objectives for year 1; determining measurements and KPI’s; and start goal discussions for year 2 in the fall.
Dr. Morris provided an update on mental health counseling and resources provided by Transformative Growth. Students receive four free sessions, with discounted rates available after the free sessions are utilized; 20% of students continued therapy beyond their free sessions; 26% of students chose virtual options, a 6% increase from the year before; Peer Support Program coming in Spring 2024; and Mental Health Survey data collected to inform future programming. Transformative Growth also provides Mental Health First Aid Certification opportunities for employees, co-facilitates the Behavior Intervention Team, serves on the Special Populations and DEI committees, and provides training and support for staff to assist with meeting the requirements of the Mental Health Early Action on Campus compliance.
A Foundation update on the 21st Century Scholar Society indicated there are 3 new members who were guests at the dinner, 6 employees signed up to be honorary members this year, and there are 51 members to date.
STUDENT TRUSTEE’S REPORT
None
COMMITTEE REPORTS
None
TUITION ADJUSTMENT
It was moved by Ms. Goetz and seconded by Dr. Rebholz to approve the tuition and fees increase of $5.00 from $135.00 to $140.00 per credit hour beginning the summer 2024 semester.
Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, Mr. Solon, and Mr. McCracken. “Nay” – none. Motion carried.
COURSE FEES/ADJUSTMENTS
It was moved by Dr. Boyles and seconded by Ms. Stevenson to change 73 course fees with 62 increases, 2 decreases, 3 new course fees, the removal of 1 course fee, and 5 courses have been withdrawn, as presented.
Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, Mr. Solon, and Mr. McCracken. “Nay” – none. Motion carried.
BID REQUEST – HAAS CNC MINIMILL WITH SIMULATOR
It was moved by Ms. Stevenson and seconded by Dr. Rebholz to authorize the administration to seek bids for a Haas CNC Mill for MiniMill for Manufacturing at an estimated cost of $43,000. The CNC Mill will be fully funded by the Perkins Grant.
Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, Mr. Solon, and Mr. McCracken. “Nay” – none. Motion carried.
PURCHASE REQUEST – FURNITURE UPGRADES FOR MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS
It was moved by Dr. Rebholz and seconded by Dr. Boyles to approve the purchase of furniture for the Marketing and Communications offices in Building E not to exceed $37,000.
Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, Mr. Solon, and Mr. McCracken. “Nay” – none. Motion carried.
PROPOSED EXTENSION OF CITY OF OTTAWA CANAL TIF
It was moved by Ms. Stevenson and seconded by Ms. Goetz to approve the intergovernmental agreement with the City of Ottawa related to the Canal TIF, as presented. This approval authorizes the administration to send letters of support to Representative Yednock and Senator Rezin.
Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, Mr. Solon, and Mr. McCracken. “Nay” – none. Motion carried.
PROPOSED EXTENSION OF CITY OF OTTAWA DAYTON INDUSTRIAL TIF
It was moved by Ms. Goetz and seconded by Dr. Boyles to approve the intergovernmental agreement with the City of Ottawa related to the Dayton Industrial TIF, as presented. This approval authorizes the administration to send letters of support to Representative Yednock and Senator Rezin.
Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, Mr. Solon, and Mr. McCracken. “Nay” – none. Motion carried.
PROPOSED EXTENSION OF CITY OF OTTAWA I-80 NORTH TIF
It was moved by Ms. Goetz and seconded by Ms. Stevenson to approve the intergovernmental agreement with the City of Ottawa related to the I-80 North TIF, as presented. This approval authorizes the administration to send letters of support to Representative Yednock and Senator Rezin.
Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, Mr. Solon, and Mr. McCracken. “Nay” – none. Motion carried.
PROPOSED SECOND EXTENSION OF CITY OF OTTAWA U.S. ROUTE 6 EAST TIF
It was moved by Dr. Rebholz and seconded by Ms. Goetz to approve the intergovernmental agreement with the City of Ottawa related to the U.S. Route 6 East TIF, as presented. This approval authorizes the administration to send letters of support to Representative Yednock and Senator Rezin.
Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, Mr. Solon, and Mr. McCracken. “Nay” – none. Motion carried.
AUDIT SERVICES
It was moved by Dr. Boyles and seconded by Ms. Stevenson to authorize the administration to enter into a three-year contract with Sikich, LLP for financial auditing services at the rates stated.
Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, Mr. Solon, and Mr. McCracken. “Nay” – none. Motion carried.
BOARD POLICY 01.08 BOARD MEETINGS AND OPERATIONS
It was moved by Ms. Stevenson and seconded by Dr. Rebholz to approve the Board Policy, as presented.
Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, Mr. Solon, and Mr. McCracken. “Nay” – none. Motion carried.
STAFF APPOINTMENT – JULIA “KATHY” HART, DEAN OF INSTITUTIONAL EFFECTIVENESS
It was moved by Ms. Goetz and seconded by Dr. Donna to approve the appointment of
Julia
“Kathy” Hart as Dean of Institutional Effectiveness at an annualized salary of $83,000,
effective March 18, 2024.
Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, Mr. Solon, and Mr. McCracken. “Nay” – none. Motion carried.
Dr. Morris stated Kathy has worked in our IR/IT department as an analyst and has strong knowledge and understanding of our data, which really helped her emerge as our top candidate. Kathy thanked everyone for their support and looks forward to working with Dr. Morris, the Board, and future Vice President of Academic Affairs. She is excited for the future of the College and is excited to be a part of it.
STAFF APPOINTMENT – CRYSTAL CREDI, DEAN OF STUDENT SUCCESS
It was moved by Ms. Stevenson and seconded by Ms. Goetz to approve the appointment of Crystal Credi as Dean of Student Success at an annualized salary of $77,000, effective March 18, 2024.
Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, Mr. Solon, and Mr. McCracken. “Nay” – none. Motion carried.
Dr. Morris stated this position’s primary dedication is student success. It takes an extraordinary amount of dedication to put the student at the center and Dr. Morris stated there is not a better person to choose for this position than Crystal. Crystal stated she is very excited to serve our students, college, and community in this way. She is excited for the College and these next steps forward.
ITEMS FOR INFORMATION
Mr. McCracken pointed out the information items on pages 82-109 of the Board book.
Dr. Morris noted the items for information 23.8 and 23.9 are procedures, which do not generally come before the Board, but since they are part of a Board of Trustees section of the manual, they are being shared with the Board.
TRUSTEE COMMENT
Ms. Goetz stated we should continue to nominate as ICCTA award nominees as possible each year. We have done a lot this year and it’s wonderful to recognize the people we work with. The ICCTA awards dinner will be held in June and all nominees are normally invited to attend.
Dr. Donna asked if there are any short-term plans for the safety issues in the science labs. Dr. Morris stated conversations are in progress and the architect has had conversations with the microbiology instructor.
Mr. McCracken recognized the faculty and staff for all their work during spring break week.
CLOSED SESSION
Mr. McCracken requested a motion and a roll call vote at 6:29 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; 3) complaint lodged against an employee of the public body; 4) student disciplinary cases; and 5) closed session minutes.
It was moved by Ms. Goetz and seconded by Ms. Stevenson to enter into a closed session.
Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, Mr. Solon, and Mr. McCracken. “Nay” – none. Motion carried. The Board entered closed session at 6:33 p.m.
It was moved by Dr. Boyles and seconded by Ms. Stevenson to return to the regular meeting.
Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, Mr. Solon, and Mr. McCracken. “Nay” – none. Motion carried.
The regular meeting resumed at 7:21 p.m.
CLOSED SESSION MINUTES
It was moved by Dr. Donna and seconded by Dr. Rebholz to approve and retain the closed session minutes of the February 8, 2024 Board Meeting.
Roll Call Vote: “Ayes” – Dr. Rebholz, Dr. Boyles, Ms. Goetz, Dr. Donna, Ms. Stevenson, Mr. Solon, and Mr. McCracken. “Nay” – none. Motion carried.
OTHER
None
ADJOURNMENT
Mr. McCracken declared the meeting adjourned at 7:22 p.m.