MEETING OF THE
COMMUNICATIONS/COMMUNITY OUTREACH COMMITTEE
OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES
HOUSTON COMMUNITY COLLEGE
June 18, 2009
Minutes
The Communications/Community Outreach Committee of the Board of Trustees of
Houston Community College held a meeting on Thursday, June 18, 2009 at the HCC
Administration Building, 3100 Main, 2nd Floor Seminar Room A, Houston, Texas.
COMMITTEE MEMBERS PRESENT
Diane Olmos Guzman, Committee Chair
Mills Worsham, Committee Member
ADMINISTRATION
Dan Seymour, Acting Chancellor/VC Planning and Institutional Effectiveness
Renee Byas, General Counsel
Doretha Eason, Executive Assistant to the Chancellor
Cheryl Sterling, Interim Vice Chancellor, Student Services
Betty Young, President, Coleman College
OTHERS PRESENT
Kim James, Counsel, Bracewell & Giuliani
Mary Page, President, Faculty Senate
Other administrators, citizens, and representatives of the news media
CALL TO ORDER
Mrs. Guzman called the meeting to order at 12:44 p.m. and declared the Committee
convened to consider matters pertaining to Houston Community College as listed on the
duly posted Meeting Notice.
COMMUNICATIONS PROTOCOL
Dr. Eason apprised that the draft outline of the communications protocol was reviewed
at the Chancellor’s staff retreat. She noted that it has been asked that the college
presidents provide feedback on the protocol. Dr. Eason noted that a review of the
purpose of the outreach coordinators would need to take place. She noted that there is
a need for some working sessions with the Presidents in order to develop a
comprehensive document.
Mrs. Guzman noted that the draft document is a start in the desired direction. She also
noted that her Community Council is set and this could be something that could be
handed over to the Community Outreach Coordinators. She noted that the information
from her Community Council is available as an example that could be used for
establishing other Community Councils.
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Communications/Community Outreach Committee – June 18, 2009 - Page 2
Mrs. Guzman noted that the Public Relations Directors interfacing should also be
discussed. Dr. Seymour noted that the PR Directors meet monthly and hold discussion
and share best practices. He noted that one of the problems is the disparity in terms of
their functions and responsibilities as it relates to the Community Outreach
Coordinators.
Dr. Eason apprised that an update will be provided after the Chancellor’s team meeting
with the presidents. She also noted that the presidents will be able elaborate on their
needs as well.
Mr. Worsham noted that the draft provides for a good model that covers a majority of
the areas.
MARKETING PLAN
Dan Arguijo provided an overview of the Communications 2009 Marketing Plan. He
noted that a Workforce campaign “HCC Partners for Jobs” was launched June 3, 2009.
He noted that approximately $459,000 was spent to market the program last year;
however, the Perkins funds that were available last year were not available this year.
Mrs. Guzman mentioned the HCC TV programming.
Mr. Arguijo apprised that a strategy plan for HCC TV was developed in January, which
included:
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Developing partnerships
Developing a national programming video consortium with like-minded
universities and community colleges
Developing programming blocks with established video companies and
organizations
Continuing with development of HCC original programming
Mr. Arguijo noted that a survey has been conducted with other community colleges and
it was noted that the issues HCC faces are also challenging other colleges.
Mrs. Guzman asked if consideration has been given to working with non-profits. Mr.
Arguijo noted that it could be done, but the cost would still be a concern. Dr. Seymour
apprised that the current consideration is to focus on themes; however, also identifying
programs to run during the block times. He noted that there is currently a discussion on
HCC leading a national consortium to promote the themes.
Media Coverage
Mrs. Guzman asked Dr. Eason to provide an overview of the media coverage for
various activities. Dr. Eason provided a draft template developed through discussion
with Board Services and Communications. She noted that the Trustees could inform of
the level of support that they would like to have for media coverage regarding activity in
their districts. She also noted that the template includes a listing of activities that have
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Communications/Community Outreach Committee – June 18, 2009 - Page 3
taken place where the level of support is recommended based on experience. Dr.
Eason noted that some of the activities may be integrated with the discussion to be held
with the Presidents and the Community Outreach Coordinators.
(Mr. Schechter arrived at 1:21 p.m.)
Mrs. Guzman noted that other Trustees have expressed concerns regarding the
program appearances by Trustees. Mr. Worsham noted that he participated in the
Trustee Journal and commended HCC-TV on a job well done.
(Mr. Austin arrived at 1:22 p.m.)
Mr. Worsham apprised that he participated on the Larry Payne Show for a five-minute
segment. Mrs. Guzman noted that there could also be some coverage to capture
certain functions in the Trustees’ districts regarding HCC events/programs such as new
buildings and dual credit. Mr. Arguijo apprised that there is a program, which
open/close graphics have been created entitled “HCC on the Spot”, which the Trustees
could participate and get their district information to constituents.
MINORITY MALE INITIATIVE
Dr. Cheryl Sterling provided a report on the minority male initiatives.
Mr. Austin asked if the fraternity opportunities would be opened to all black male
fraternities. Dr. Sterling noted that all fraternities are welcome to participate.
Mrs. Guzman noted that there may be opportunities for inclusion of the Houston
Minority Supplier Diversity Council.
Mr. Schechter asked for an overview of the Wal-Mart program. Dr. Sterling apprised
that Wal-Mart is contributing $40,000 as a partnering opportunity and noted that further
discussion on the participation is needed.
Mr. Schechter mentioned that there may be an opportunity for students to work with
HISD who could serve as role models. Dr. Sterling informed that there are some
hindrances because some of the participants have criminal backgrounds. Mrs. Guzman
mentioned that the intent of the program is to provide an opportunity for participants
who have criminal backgrounds.
Mr. Schechter asked if discussion has taken place with the criminal district judges. Dr.
Sterling apprised that judges participated in a recent initiative and other opportunities
will be reviewed.
Mr. Austin recommended contacting the Office of Juvenile Justice.
Mr. Worsham mentioned that a vast majority of students are being excluded. He noted
that every angle needs to be pursued to present this opportunity to as many students as
possible. Mrs. Guzman recommended holding a summit. Mr. Austin noted that he
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Communications/Community Outreach Committee – June 18, 2009 - Page 4
would rather see actions as opposed to a summit. He suggested that a review of the
best means of intervention should be given consideration. He noted that a clinical
psychologist should also be brought in to engage in the discussion to provide more
interaction and deal with conflict resolution.
ADJOURNMENT
With no further business, the meeting adjourned at 1:47 p.m.
Recorded by:
Sharon R. Wright, Executive Administrative Assistant, Board Services
Transcribed and submitted by:
Sharon Wright, Executive Administrative Assistant, Board Services
Minutes Approved: