MEETING OF THE
ACADEMIC AFFAIRS/STUDENT SERVICES COMMITTEE
OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES
HOUSTON COMMUNITY COLLEGE
April 15, 2010
Minutes
The Academic Affairs/Student Services Committee of the Board of Trustees of Houston
Community College held a meeting on Thursday, April 15, 2010, at the HCC
Administration Building, 3100 Main, 2nd Floor, Seminar Room B, Houston, Texas.
COMMITTEE MEMBERS PRESENT
Richard Schechter, Committee Chair
Bruce Austin, Committee Member
Eva Loredo, Committee Member
Neeta Sane
Sandie Meyers
Mary Ann Perez
ADMINISTRATION
Mary S. Spangler, Chancellor
Art Tyler, Deputy Chancellor/COO
Doretha Eason, Executive Assistant to the Chancellor
Renee Byas, General Counsel
Charles Cook, Vice Chancellor, Instruction
Feryl Prestige for William Carter, Vice Chancellor, Information Technology
Daniel Seymour, Vice Chancellor, Planning and Institutional Effectiveness
Diana Pino, Vice Chancellor, Student Services
Margaret Ford Fisher, President, Northeast College
Fena Garza, President, Southwest College
William Harmon, President, Central College
Butch Herod for Zachary Hodges, President, Northwest College
Irene Porcarello, President, Southeast College
Betty Young, President, Coleman College
Remmele Young, Executive Director of Government Relations
OTHERS PRESENT
Jarvis Hollingsworth, Counsel, Bracewell & Giuliani
Bennie Ables, President, Faculty Senate
Other administrators, citizens, and representatives of the news media
CALL TO ORDER
Mr. Schechter called the meeting to order at 12:36 p.m. and declared the Committee
convened to consider matters pertaining to Houston Community College as listed on the
duly posted Meeting Notice.
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Academic/Student Services Committee – April 15, 2010 - Page 2
TEXTBOOK UPDATE
Dr. Pino introduced Blanca Gonzalez, President of United Student Council. Ms.
Gonzalez provided an overview of the Student Textbook Committee’s recommendation
for standardization of textbooks. She asked for the Board’s support to accomplish
standardizing textbooks and student representation during the contract negotiations.
(Mr. Austin arrived at 12:39 p.m.)
Dr. Cook provided an update of the administration’s work towards reducing textbook
costs. He further noted the capabilities of digital textbooks.
Mr. Austin inquired about the capabilities with Blackboard. Dr. Cook informed that many
books have the ability to work with Blackboard. He mentioned that this would reduce the
cost of textbooks approximately 50 percent.
Mr. Austin inquired if the students will be a part of the vendor demonstrations. Dr. Cook
informed that students would be involved. Mrs. Loredo inquired if the information is on
the website for all students. Dr. Cook noted that due to spacing issues the United
Student Council will select student representatives.
Dr. Pino apprised that the Student Textbook Committee requested that the College
Textbook Committee include two student representatives and standardization of core
academic textbooks.
Mrs. Loredo asked if faculty is involved in textbook selection. Dr. Cook responded that
representatives from the faculty senate, instructional programs, deans and chairs are
participating.
Mr. Schechter thanked Ms. Gonzalez for the student’s work towards lowering textbook
costs.
ENROLLMENT MANAGEMENT REPORT
Dr. Daniel Seymour provided an overview of the Enrollment Management Report. Dr.
Seymour noted that the following tools are used to track student enrollment:
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Daily Enrollment Reports
Comparative Enrollment Report by Location
Executive Daily Report
Enrollment Trends by Zip Code
Mr. Austin inquired if a trend analysis and/or forecast could be conducted. Dr. Seymour
apprised that it could be done from the Comparative Enrollment Report by Location.
Mr. Austin inquired if the best way to describe the student body was to develop models
of how much each student affects HCC. Dr. Seymour responded that managing as
opposed to reacting would help with the effort and noted that the enrollment reports are
designed to manage student enrollment.
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Academic/Student Services Committee – April 15, 2010 - Page 3
Dr. Seymour noted that 23% of our students are enrolled in Distance Education and dual
credit accounts for 10% of enrollment, which means that 30% of our students are never
on campus.
Mr. Austin recommended hiring someone to develop an expert system program to
compile the report on a real-time basis.
Mr. Schechter asked what percentage of dual credit classes are taught on our
campuses. Dr. Cook informed that about 20% - 25% are taught on HCC campuses and
the number continues to increase due to Early College High Schools.
Mr. Schechter inquired if HISD is sharing in the costs of building usage. Mr. Austin noted
that HISD passed a Bond referendum to fund dual credit expenses. He further noted
that the Bond election is a contract with the voters.
Mr. Austin noted that Microsoft Excel and Geographic Information System (GIS) show
geographic migratory patterns and asked to what extent HCC is involved in this
technology. Dr. Seymour informed that currently migratory patterns are not tracked;
however, it is a possibility for the future. Dr. Tyler noted that the data warehouse project
is in progress, which will lend to GIS and other activities.
Dr. Seymour provided an overview of where we are and what are the trends. He noted
that the spring semester marked the sixth semester of 10% enrollment increase and
apprised of the possible reasons for the high growth rate as follows:
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Integrated, Professional Marketing Campaign
Segmented, Target Marketing Effort
Development of Different Delivery System
Redesigned User Friendly Website
Development and Implementation of Cash-Net
Reorganization of Focus on Financial Aid
The Economy
Mr. Schechter inquired if dual credit graduates are tracked to determine which are
returning to HCC for college. Dr. Cook noted that Houston Pathways Project gives that
ability and that the report would take about a year to be fully developed. Dr. Cook
informed that 30%-40% would return to HCC.
Dr. Seymour informed that the next step is to develop a strategic enrollment
management plan, which will take into consideration the cost of dual credit versus the
30%-40% that continue their education at HCC.
Mr. Schechter noted that in terms of Distance Education, in the long-term, infrastructure
plans need to be developed now. Dr. Tyler mentioned that based on the current growth
rate that Distance Education could surpass the students physically attending classes.
Mr. Austin noted that he is concerned with the fact that the true potential of HCC has not
been met. The real test is whether HCC will have the tenacity to advance.
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Academic/Student Services Committee – April 15, 2010 - Page 4
Mrs. Loredo mentioned that due to the growth rate, entry requirements might need to be
considered, so that the students that enter HCC will successfully exit. Mr. Austin noted
that tracking students, to ensure they take classes in the proper sequence is an
alternative.
Dr. Pino provided an overview of Case Management Guidance that allows counseling to
develop student retention techniques and target first-time college students.
Mr. Schechter asked if there is sufficient infrastructure to accommodate additional
Distance Education growth. Dr. Levey confirmed that the infrastructure is sufficient to
accommodate the growth and noted that a new system is being investigated which will
accommodate growth and delivery options.
Mr. Schechter inquired if in the future Distance Education is developing learning
communities. Dr. Levey noted that a new instructional model is being developed.
Mr. Schechter asked if a report is available that identifies the percentage of students for
each college who are from other zip code areas to identify reasons why students attend
campuses outside their area. Dr. Cook noted that a question could be added to the
CCSSE survey.
Dr. Cook provided a brief overview of iTunes University, which is currently being used by
faculty for professional development.
INCREASE DISTANCE EDUCATION FEE
Dr. Tyler provided an overview of the need for increase in fees. He noted that the
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) requires a secure methodology
for Distance Education classes.
Dr. Levey apprised that this includes hybrid courses and web enhanced courses and that
the goal is for each class to have a Blackboard shelf. He noted that the requirements
include a secure user ID and password; however, there are other activities that need to
be implemented to increase authentication security such as (a) keyboard identification,
(2) grid system, and (3) interval security questions
.
Dr. Levey noted that there has not been an increase in Distance Education fees since
1989 and the increase would finance new security systems. Dr. Levey also noted that
the increase is still within the normal range of other community college distance
education fees.
Mrs. Loredo inquired of the cost. Dr. Levey stated that it would be approximately
$400,000. Dr. Spangler noted that the fee is only charged to students taking online
classes, but hybrid class students will benefit.
Mr. Schechter inquired if the fee will cover the initiation fee as well as maintenance
costs. Dr. Levey informed that the fee will cover initiation and maintenance fees.
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Academic/Student Services Committee – April 15, 2010 - Page 5
Motion – Mr. Austin moved and Mr. Schechter seconded to approve the increase to
Distance Education fee. The motion passed with a vote of 2-1 with Mrs. Loredo
opposing
Mr. Schechter recessed the meeting at 2:25 p.m.
meeting at 2:40 p.m.
Mr. Schechter reconvened the
(Present: Trustees Schechter and Loredo)
ACCOUNTABILITY SYSTEM FROM TEXAS HIGHER EDUCATION COORDINATING
BOARD (2009)
Dr. Cook provided an overview of the Accountability System from Texas Higher
Education Coordinating Board (THECB and apprised that the system is being designed
by state community colleges and the THECB. He noted that the system would allow for
the development of Associate Academic Degree programs.
Mr. Schechter noted that it would be useful to start benchmarking against Lone Star, San
Jacinto and Wharton in a variety of areas. He requested to see the data coming from the
State Accountability System.
Mr. Schechter asked for an explanation of persistence of two-year undergraduates. Dr.
Cook noted he would further research.
Mr. Schechter inquired if there is a way to capture the reasons students are attending
HCC. Dr. Cook noted students are here for workforce, language skills, certificates,
literacy, transfer, etc.
Mr. Schechter inquired if data can be gathered to present to the legislature to
demonstrate how complicated the graduation rate is for community colleges. Dr. Cook
responded that Achieving the Dream (AtD) does provide the data.
Mr. Schechter asked what is the difference between students obtaining an Associate’s
degree before transferring to a university and those transferring earlier. Dr. Cook
apprised that it is less expensive for the student and the state. Dr. Spangler informed
that students with only 30 hours may not graduate, but if they complete an Associate’s
Degree, they will at least have a degree.
Mr. Schechter asked what additional items should be included on the state’s
accountability measurement. Dr. Cook recommended keeping contact hour funding and
the establishment of a bonus fund for completers.
NEW POLICIES AND PROCEDURES FOR ACADEMIC ASSOCIATE DEGREE,
ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE DEGREE AND CERTIFICATE PROGRAM
Dr. Cook presented the THECB guidelines for the various degrees and apprised that the
mechanism is a way to identify student needs.
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Academic/Student Services Committee – April 15, 2010 - Page 6
REPORT ON CAREER/TECHNICAL EDUCATION AND CONTINUING EDUCATION
(CTE/CE)
Dr. Seymour provided an overview of CTE/CE. He noted that there are no restricted
courses at the Alief campus and the program consists primarily of workforce programs.
Mr. Schechter inquired if these are CEU courses. Dr. Cook noted that there are both
SCH and CEU programs.
Dr. Seymour provided information regarding the flat growth of workforce programs. He
noted that facilities priority is given to SCH courses over CEU courses. Dr. Seymour
informed that Southwest workforce programs are growing.
Dr. Seymour also noted that Distance Education has not been pursued for workforce
programs. He further noted that a partnership is being developed with Coleman College
and the Texas Medical Center to provide the CEU for professionals to maintain their
licenses.
Mr. Schechter expressed appreciation to Dr. Seymour for his efforts in this area. Mr.
Schechter asked if there is a demand for CEU courses that are not offered due to a lack
of facilities. Dr. Seymour noted that CEU is similar to SCH in that certain days and times
are popular for all students.
Mr. Schechter inquired if there is a demand for CEU that is not being met due to lack of
space. Dr. Seymour responded that all classes compete for prime times and what has to
be done is to do the very best possible in scheduling class time.
Mr. Schechter inquired about the status of the Alief Continuing Education Building. Dr.
Seymour noted that the building is underutilized.
(Mr. Austin returned at 3:29 p.m.)
Mr. Austin recommended participation in the College and Career Transitions Initiative
(CCTI).
UPDATE ON GRANTS
Dr. Seymour provided an overview of grants. He mentioned that the three reports
submitted show past, current and grants in the pipeline.
Mr. Schechter inquired if grants from 2009 continue in 2010. Dr. Seymour noted that
some grants carry over.
Dr. Seymour informed that this area has been reorganized to include grant writers and
program mangers. He noted that once a grant is received, it needs to be managed and
completion ensured.
Mrs. Loredo congratulated the grant writers for bringing in a large amount of money.
She noted that the total amount of money awarded and the amount expended do not
show total use of funds. Dr. Cook noted that the report is based on a period and does
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Academic/Student Services Committee – April 15, 2010 - Page 7
not provide current expenditures. Mrs. Loredo mentioned that proactive measures
should be taken and noted that the money should be distributed to the colleges.
Mr. Schechter recognized that Dr. John Galiotos has accounted for approximately 25%
of the total grants. Dr. FordFisher provided an overview of the grants Dr. Galiotos is
working on, including those in green and technology fields.
Mr. Austin mentioned that Northeast College is doing a great job in the area of green
jobs. He recommended seeking grants that deal with STEM emphases for each of our
colleges.
Mr. Schechter requested that Dr. Porcarello give an overview on the $2 million STEM
grant for which Dr. Lifang Tien has submitted an application.
UPDATE ON ALIEF AND NORTH FOREST SERVICE PLAN
Dr. Garza provided an update on the Alief Service Plan.
(Mrs. Sane arrived at 3:56 p.m.)
Dr. Garza informed that construction is on schedule.
(Mrs. Meyers arrived at 3:56 p.m.)
Dr. Garza informed that the Alief Early College is scheduled to move into the new
building.
Dr. Ford Fisher provided an update on the North Forest Service Plan. She noted that a
positive relationship has been developed with the North Forest Independent School
District.
Dr. Ford Fisher noted that enrollment in dual credit has doubled. She further noted that
the focus is now on a business incubator within the North Forest community.
(Mrs. Perez arrived at 4:02 p.m.)
Dr. Ford Fisher noted the following items are in progress:
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Master Planner
North Forest Early College High School
Full Service North Forest Campus
Mr. Austin requested Board Services to purchase Geographical Information System
(GIS) maps, which will identify communities of interest in the Northeast. Dr. Tyler
informed that the Master Planner is currently using these maps. Mr. Austin noted he
would provide the communities of interest that need to be included. Dr. Tyler informed
that he would provide the GIS maps.
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Academic/Student Services Committee – April 15, 2010 - Page 8
OVERVIEW AND UPDATE ON ACHIEVING THE DREAM (AtD)
Dr. Cook provided an overview on AtD and noted that HCC is closing the gaps for
minority and low income students.
Mrs. Loredo asked for background information for a plan to help developmental students
with testing. Dr. Cook noted that the Gates grant would be used to develop strategies
such as learning communities. He further noted that diagnostic testing would be utilized.
Dr. Cook noted that HCC has been invited to join the Carnegie Foundation for the
advancement of Teaching which focuses on how to teach math courses. Mr. Austin
expressed appreciation for the development of modular learning.
Mr. Austin inquired how would HCC integrate with the school districts as an intervention
process. Dr. Cook informed that HCC is involved with Houston Pathways; however, we
are unable to go into the high schools and teach developmental education.
Mr. Schechter suggested seeking a grant for developmental education in high schools.
Mr. Austin inquired how can HCC present proposals to the decision makers. Dr. Cook
noted that Mr. Remmele Young could work with local legislators.
Mrs. Loredo mentioned that a common concern among community colleges that a large
number of students enter, but there is a low number of students finishing.
ADJOURNMENT
With no further business, the meeting adjourned at 4:26 p.m.
Recorded by:
Melinda Davila, Board Services
Transcribed and submitted by:
Sharon Wright, Manager, Board Services
Minutes Approved: