Northern Essex Community College Board of Trustees
Minutes of Meeting (UNOFFICIAL) – June 4, 2025
A meeting of the Northern Essex Community College Board of Trustees was held in room TC103AB in the David Hartleb Technology Center located at 100 Elliott Street, Haverhill, MA, on June 4, 2025 at 5:00 p.m.
PRESENT:
Ms. Borislow
Mr. Cousins
Ms. Fernandez
Mr. Gomez (via Zoom)
Ms. Gomez Ruiz (arrived at 5:08 p.m.)
Mr. Hamm
Ms. Hatem-Roy
Mr. Silverio
Mr. Yepez
UNABLE TO ATTEND: Ms. Quiles, Ms. Mohammed
ALSO, PRESENT: President Glenn
CALL TO ORDER: With a quorum established, Chair Borislow called the meeting to order at 5:01 p.m.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Chair Borislow asked for a motion to approve the May 7, 2025 minutes.
On a Motion presented by Trustee Fernandez and seconded by Trustee Silverio, the Board unanimously approved the May 7, 2025 minutes as presented.
CORRESPONDENCE: Chair Borislow acknowledged Shalimar Quiles’ resignation from the Board. She further noted Ms. Quiles’s exceptional engagement and contributions during her term.
Trustee Gomez Ruiz arrived at 5:08 p.m.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
a) Introduction of Newly Hired Employees:
President Glenn introduced and welcomed NECC’s newest employees: Elizabeth Farmosa, Program Coordinator & Classroom Support Specialist; Brooke Brown-Saracino, Assistant Director of Employee Engagement; Brianna Sorensen, Assistant Coordinator of Student Life; Jennifer Ball, Chief of Staff; and Maria Aybar, Program Manager of Lawrence Campus & Community Relations. The Trustees also welcomed the newest employees. President Glenn provided a brief explanation of the Trustees’ role in Northern Essex Community College’s governance.
EDUCATION REPORT:
a) NECC Libraries Updates by Jenny Fielding and Laura Mondt
President Glenn introduced interim Vice President of Academic Affairs Sharon McDermot, who introduced Library Service Coordinators Jenny Feilding and Laura Mondt.
Coordinators Feilding and Mondt reviewed space improvements over the past year that included additional study pods in Lawrence and sensory-friendly spaces in both libraries. Study room usage increased 78% over last year. The NECC libraries’ collection has over 40,000 printed items and over 75 digital databases. Students and faculty also enjoy access to external collections like the HELM Consortium. Interlibrary Loan usage has increased by almost 500% and single sign-on has increased database usage by 68%. The libraries continue outreach programming such as film screenings, book clubs, and book origami. A large part of the NECC librarians’ work includes information literacy and research training. In a recent survey, 97% of students agreed that these sessions helped improve their research skills. There has been a focus on preparing for potential IMLS database funding cuts. The library is in the process of hiring a new Assistant Dean and continues to enhance student study spaces.
Q: Trustee Fernandez applauded the library staff for their incredible work and asked about the hours of operation and student access? A: Library hours are 8:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m. during the academic year and 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. in the summer. Students (and faculty) have to digital resources 24/7.
b) Lawrence Education Attainment Task Force by Naydeen González-De Jesús
President Glenn introduced Vice President of the Lawrence Campus & Community Relations Naydeen González-De Jesús.
Vice President González-De Jesús provided some statistics about the disparities facing residents of Lawrence, MA. These included a college credential rate of 15.3% vs. 48% statewide, a poverty rate of 17% vs. 10% statewide, and a median income of $58K vs. $99K+ statewide. The Educational Attainment Task Force was formed by NECC and the Lawrence Partnership with membership K–12, higher ed, nonprofits, and industry. Their mission is to identify and address barriers to college attainment. VP González-De Jesús shared powerful map imagery of the region showing the clear boundary (i.e., Lawrence) and illustrating the disparities for college attainment and working youth in Lawrence. Current programming to help raise awareness includes Parent University, “Conozca Su Ciudad”/“Know Your City,” and We Are Lawrence. The PIÉS Latinos has been rebranded as BRIDGE (Building Routes for Integration of Degree and Global Education). VP González-De Jesús shared a success story about an immigrant from the Dominican Republic. BRIDGE helped her translate her BA in Elementary Education for the DR into US credentials that allowed her to move from a teacher apprentice position into a lead teacher position and a sizable salary increase. Due to the deep disparities, NECC is elevating the Lawrence Education Attainment mission to a mandate with an Emphasis on strategic investment in Lawrence as a Gateway City.
Chair Borislow acknowledges the amazing work that NECC and VP González-De Jesús are leading. Trustee Gomez Ruiz and Fernandez noted the importance of the map imagery for helping to shape the disparity narrative for Lawrence.
Q: Trustee Fernandez asked how the Trustees can help support this work? A: It would be helpful if Trustees could help make connections with community leaders and other people who can help advance the work. More information will be shared at the Trustees’ August Retreat.
BOARD CHAIR UPDATE:
Chair Borislow welcomed Trustee Gomez-Ruiz to her first meeting and acknowledged that this meeting marked the final session of the current board cycle. A special acknowledgment was made for Trustee Quiles, expressing appreciation for her continued dedication to the board despite her absence. Trustees were reminded of the upcoming Board Retreat, scheduled for August 8, 2025. She acknowledges the efforts by the College faculty and staff towards May’s Commencement Ceremony. The Student Speaker, Mike McDougal delivered an excellent address. Bob Hosen’s Commencement address was heartfelt and it was nice to see the over 400 graduates thank him for his gift as they crossed the stage, many reaching for a handshake.
REPORT OF BOARD COMMITTEES:
a) Audit and Finance Sub-Committee: No report.
b) Alumni Advancement Sub-Committee: Trustee Fernandez encouraged Trustees to make their annual Board Gift if they had not yet done so. She was proud to announce that the NECC Fund surpassed its goal, raising over $100,000 for the fiscal year. This milestone was achieved through a combination of the annual fundraising event, Giving Day, and continued growth in alumni support and community outreach. Trustee Fernandez applauded the Advancement team for their outstanding work and encouraged continued momentum in fundraising and engagement efforts.
c) Nominating Sub-Committee: Trustee Cousins reported that the nominations for Trustee Quiles’ replacement have been submitted and acknowledged Jenn Ball for her efforts.
d) Presidential Evaluation Sub-Committee: Trustee Gomez expressed appreciation for President Lane Glenn’s leadership and acknowledged the continued efforts made across the community, campus, and broader Merrimack Valley region. He further extended gratitude Melissa Bouse for her support in organizing the evaluation. He noted that it had been a challenging year for President Glenn and affirmed the board’s full support of his work and future initiatives.
Chair Borislow thanked the Presidential Evaluation Committee for their efforts in conducting multiple interviews with local officials, community leaders, and business owners and acknowledged the support of the interviewees. She noted the comprehensive evaluation report that was compiled and included in the board packet. The summary of the report was described as highly positive, reflecting strong leadership and performance by President Glenn.
Chair Borislow asked for a motion to approve the 2024-25 Presidential Performance Evaluation.
On a Motion presented by Trustee Fernandez and seconded by Trustee Silverio, the Board unanimously voted to approve the 2024-25 Presidential Performance Evaluation as presented.
Chair Borislow asked for a motion to approve the Presidential Compensation Recommendation.
On a Motion presented by Trustee Hamm and seconded by Trustee Gomez Ruiz, the Board unanimously voted to approve the recommendation that President Lane Glenn receive all allowable increases for presidents as determined by the Board of Higher Education, including but not limited to merit, cost of living, and/or equity increases, in acknowledgment of the President’s leadership and performance as reflected in his annual evaluation.
President Glenn acknowledged the tremendous support he receives from the NECC Board of Trustees and thanked them for their consistent attention to the needs of NECC.
REPORT OF ADMINISTRATION:
President Glenn began with some emerging updates that were not on the agenda. Commencement Student Speaker, Mike McDougal collaborated with the college’s Communications and External Relations Director to publish a letter in the Boston Globe supporting the MassReconnect program as a response to a prior article questioning the program’s effectiveness. His story highlighted the positive impact of MassReconnect on returning adult students. The National Student Clearinghouse released new findings that number of Americans with “some college, no degree” continues to rise. However, the dropout rate is slowing, and re-enrollment is increasing, especially due to initiatives like MassReconnect. Massachusetts led the nation in re-enrollment growth this past year. President Glenn noted this as encouraging news, though cautioned that upcoming budget and legislative updates may present challenges to sustaining such progress.
a) Vice Presidents Searches: President Glenn announced Joanne Landers will be joining NECC as the new Vice President of Student Affairs in early July. She joins the College from Plymouth State University. President Glenn thanked Allison Dolan-Wilson for leading the VPSA search committee and for her efforts as interim VPSA, allowing the College to complete a comprehensive national search. The College also conducted a comprehensive national search for a new Vice President of Academic Affairs, and Austin Gilliland will be taking on that role at the end of July. She joins us from Bunker Hill Community College. VP Landers and VP Gilliland will be joining the Trustees at the August Retreat.
b) Whittier Tech Project: All 11 communities involved have signed letters of support for the project. These letters will be submitted to the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) to initiate the feasibility study phase. A public signing ceremony will be held on June 16, 2025 at Whittier Tech to celebrate the milestone with mayors and town managers at their recommendation. The feasibility study process is expected to span one year, followed by additional planning and development phases. Future planning will address building size, programmatic offerings, and shared space logistics. Discussions are underway regarding potential redevelopment opportunities for the existing Whittier Tech site, should the relocation proceed. President Glenn acknowledged Mike McCarthy for his role in coordinating with MassDevelopment and other stakeholders. He further emphasized that while significant progress has been made, the project remains in early stages with many moving parts and continued collaboration ahead.
c) Budget and Legislative Updates: President Lane Glenn provided a detailed update on proposed federal changes to the Pell Grant program and their potential impact on Northern Essex Community College. The proposal from Washington suggests reducing the maximum Pell Grant from $7,400 to $5,700.This change, along with proposed eligibility modifications, could significantly reduce access to financial aid for students. Pell Grants previously operated with a $3 billion surplus, but due to recent increases in the maximum award and eligibility changes, a $3 billion deficit is now projected. These changes could result in millions of dollars in lost aid for NECC students, affecting approximately 50% of the student body. The potential impact to NECC, if enacted, could include: building closures, staff layoffs, educational and cocurricular program reductions, and limits on degree offerings. President Glenn emphasized that such outcomes would be catastrophic for NECC and other community colleges nationwide. NECC continues to advocate strongly against these changes. Encouraging signs of bipartisan pushback are emerging, including from Senator Susan Collins (ME). TRIO SSS programs and other student support initiatives are also at risk, but have historically received bipartisan support. While the proposed changes are concerning, President Glenn expressed cautious optimism that the final budget will differ significantly from the initial proposal. He will continue monitoring developments and engaging in advocacy to protect student aid.
e) Campus Updates: President Lane Glenn provided updates on campus facilities and operations. The B&E Building renovation is currently underway. Entryways are sealed off and designated as construction zones. Staff and offices have been temporarily relocated to accommodate the project. President Glenn expressed his appreciation to Mike McCarthy and the Facilities and Technology teams for their coordination and support during this transition. The renovation is expected to result in significant long-term improvements.
The proposed YMCA Health and Wellness Center project will not be moving forward. This decision was formally announced to the college community. Due to space reallocation and the expansion of the Police Academy, the YMCA Daycare Center will be relocating off-campus. The move is scheduled to take effect on August 27, 2025. NECC has worked closely with YMCA leadership to ensure the transition is smooth and financially viable.
f) Save-the-Date:
- Para Educator Graduation, Thursday, June 12, 4:30-6:00 p.m., El-Hefni Health and Technology Center, Lawrence Campus
- Lawrence Partnership 2025 Annual Meeting, Tuesday, June 17, 10:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m., Central Catholic High School
- Center for Adult Education Graduation, Thursday, June 26, 5:00-6:30 p.m., Dimitry Building, Lawrence Campus
- Board of Trustees Summer 2005 Retreat, Friday, August 8, location TBD
g) Communique: The Communique was distributed as part of the Board Packet prior to the meeting.
NEW BUSINESS:
Chair Borislow noted that the board had four motions to approve.
a) Employee Travel Policy
Chair Borislow called for a motion to approve Employee Travel Policy.
On a Motion presented by Trustee Cousins and seconded by Trustee Gomez Ruiz, the Board unanimously approved the updated NECC Employee Travel Policy to take effect with the new fiscal year (FY26).
a) Grants
Chair Borislow noted six grants (that have been funded or submitted to date) for approval totaling $5,678,510 and asked for a motion to approve the grants. They were:
Funded Grants
1) Massachusetts Department of Higher Education: Early College Allocation Funding | $474,660
2) United States Department of Labor/ Massachusetts Community College Consortium/ Bunker Hill Community College: Strengthening Community Colleges Training Grant | $63,324
Submitted Proposals
3) Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care: Career Pathways | *$309,375
4) Massachusetts Department of Public Health: Family Sign Language Instruction | *$105,000
5) United States Department of Education: Student Support Services Program | *$435,639
6) United States Office of the Director of National Intelligence/University of New Hampshire: New England Intelligence Community Centers of Academic Excellence | *$18,572
*Pending Sponsor Approval
On a Motion presented by Trustee Hatem-Roy and seconded by Trustee Fernandez, the Board unanimously approved the grant (ADM-3942-060425, ADM-3943-060425, ADM-3944-060425, ADM-3945-060425, ADM-3946-060425, ADM-3947-060425) totaling $5,678,510.00 as presented.
Chair Borislow noted five grants (that are anticipated to be submitted over the summer) for approval totaling $4,142,701 and asked for a motion to approve the grants. They were:
1) Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education: Adult Basic Education Grant Projects | *$639,436
2) Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education/Essex County Sheriff’s Department (ECSD) Education Services Program | *$2,040,675
3) Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education: Perkins Postsecondary Allocation | *$159,910
4) Massachusetts Department of Higher Education: Massachusetts Inclusive Post-Secondary Education (MAIPSE) Initiative | *$186,000
5) Massachusetts Department of Higher Education: Supporting Urgent Community College Equity through Student Services (SUCCESS) | *$1,116,677
*Pending Sponsor Approval
On a Motion presented by Trustee Cousins and seconded by Trustee Gomez Ruiz, the Board unanimously approved the grant (ADM-3948-060425, ADM-3949-060425, ADM-3950-060425, ADM-3951-060425, ADM-3952-060425) totaling $4,142,701.00 as presented.
OTHER BUSINESS: None.
ADJOURNMENT: With no other business, Chair Borislow wished everyone a great summer and adjourned the meeting at 6:10 p.m.
