Board of Directors Meeting Minutes: May 8, 2025

Board Members Present:

Board Members Absent:

• Mr. BJ Brown
• Mr. Phillip Duncan

Call to Order

Chair Arnett called the meeting of the Somerset Community College Board of Directors to order at 1:01 P.M. He welcomed everyone in attendance.

Action Item: January 23, 2025 Minutes

Ms. Muse announced that the minutes of the January 23, 2025, meeting were included in the agenda booklet, and the book was mailed to board members in advance of the meeting.  Mr. Napier moved the minutes to be approved as distributed.  Mr. VanHook seconded the motion.  The minutes were unanimously approved.

Chair's Remarks

Chair Arnett recognized Mr. Connor Denney, outgoing SGA President, for his dedicated service and leadership. During his term, Connor made a significant impact on student life, including improvements to campus dining, vehicle safety, and enhancements to the Student Union Building and Laurel Student Lounge. In appreciation of his service, the board presented him with a gift.

Chair Arnett referred members to their agenda booklet to review the Summary Results of the Board of Directors Self-Evaluation. He noted areas of strength as well as opportunities for growth, encouraging members to reflect on their roles and engagement.  Chair Arnett praised members for working well together and asked for any questions regarding the results. With no further discussion, Chair Arnett called on Ms. Jill Meece, Vice President of Administration, to present the 2025-2026 Operating Budget Request.

ACTION ITEM: FY 2025-2026 Operating Budget Request

Ms. Jill Meece, VP of Administration, presented the FY 2025-2026 Operating Budget Request.  A copy of the budget was passed out prior to the meeting for the Board to review.  Mr. Denney made a motion to approve the budget as distributed. Ms. Harris seconded the motion. The 2025-2026 Operating Budget Request was approved unanimously.

ACTION ITEM: FY 2022-2026 SCC Strategic Plan

Dr. Bruce Gover, VP of Institutional Effectiveness, presented changes to the Strategic Plan in response to House Bill 4. While the overall Strategic Plan remains intact, specific modifications were made to align with legislative requirements. Board members were directed to review the updated sections provided in their meeting packets. Mr. Denney made a motion to approve sections as distributed in the booklet.  Mr. Napier seconded the motion. The changes passed unanimously.

ACTION ITEM: Evaluation of Dr. Castle, President/CEO

Chair Arnett reported on the annual evaluation of Dr. Castle, President/CEO. Prior to the meeting, board members were asked to fill out a questionnaire. The members briefly discussed the results of his performance and effectiveness as President and CEO. Dr. Castle exceeded expectations in the majority of categories and received praise for his leadership, strategic planning, and communication. Ms. Wilburn made a motion to approve the evaluation results. Mr. VanHook seconded the motion. The evaluation of Dr. Castle was approved unanimously.

President's Remarks

Dr. Castle provided an update on the college’s progress. He highlighted success in key areas such as enrollment, student retention, academic achievement, and workforce development. These outcomes reflect the collective efforts of faculty, staff, and administration in advancing the college’s mission.

Dr. Castle discussed recent legislative efforts, including advocacy for the Laurel Campus that secured funding for the new Laurel Technical Building. Dr. Castle emphasized the importance of maintaining strong relationships with local and state leaders to ensure ongoing support for the institution and its priorities. He also noted his commitment to keeping the Board informed of legislative updates and college developments.

Dr. Castle announced that the college will be building the first 3D-printed house in Kentucky, a groundbreaking project that distinguishes the institution as a leader in innovation.  He called on Ms. Alesa Johnson to provide an update.  The project, developed in partnership with local organizations, involves a two-day printing process and will include a formal training session and a small recognition ceremony. Board members will be invited to attend, and the event marks a significant milestone in the college’s commitment to cutting-edge education and community engagement.

Dr. Castle emphasized the importance of campus preparedness for emergency situations such as hurricanes, tornadoes, fires, or active shooter events. While acknowledging that discussions around security may seem intense, the intent is to ensure the college is ready to respond swiftly and effectively.  The college continues to conduct preparedness exercises and is in the process of hiring a new full-time security officer for the Laurel campus, which has previously operated with only one full-time security staff member.

Dr. Castle reported ongoing technology upgrades across the college.  Recent improvements include enhanced audio-visual capabilities in the boardroom and the widespread installation of JTouch interactive displays, many of which were acquired during the COVID-19 pandemic due to proactive planning. The college remains committed to updating outdated technology where feasible, ensuring continued progress and support for modern learning and operational needs.

Dr. Castle called on Dr. Hayes to provide an update on the strategic relocation of technical programs from the Somerset North Campus to the South Campus. The goal is to consolidate most Career and Technical Education programs at the South Campus for improved efficiency and resource management. The only exception will be the manufacturing/machining program, which will remain at the North Campus due to space requirements. Health Sciences programs will continue to operate from the North Campus. This move is expected to enhance student experience, streamline faculty operations, and facilitate technology upgrades by reducing duplication of equipment and allowing better use of lab spaces.

Dr. Castle recognized three retirees who have made significant contributions to the college: Dr. Elaine Wilson, former Officer of Access and Belonging; Mr. Eddie Brown, HVAC instructor at the Laurel campus; and Mr. Kurt Null, electronics instructor at the Somerset campus. 

Additionally, this year’s NISOD (National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development) award recipients were announced: Ms. Margie Childress, Professor of Business Administration, as the faculty honoree, and Mr. Todd Chmura, supervisor of maintenance and operations, as the staff honoree. Both will receive recognition, including a reserved parking space and the opportunity to attend the NISOD convention.

Adjournment

Chair Arnett announced the next meeting will be on July 24, 2025, and the meeting adjourned at 2:07 P.M.

Date Approved by Board of Directors: July 24, 2025