TIPS FOR SAC CHAIRS
(These tips are suggestions and ideas from previous and current SAC Chairs and are not official PCC Policy.)
MEETINGS
Scheduling meetings

Try to schedule as far in advance as possible and let SAC know the date/location/time with as
much time as you can

Rotate locations for multi-campus SACs

Let adjunct know that they can receive compensation for SAC In-service days -- will boost
participation
Setting the Agenda

Put the call out for agenda items at least a week in advance (which will also serve as a
reminder)

Make the deadline for agenda items 2-3 days prior to meeting (there will always be exceptions
for special cases)

Post agenda no less than 24 hours in advance of meeting so that people have a chance to
examine topics

If anything about the topic for discussion/vote can be disseminated earlier, do it so that people
have a chance to familiarize themselves and not waste meeting time “coming up to speed”
Chairing the meeting


Use a flexible version of Robert’s Rules http://www.robertsrules.org/rulesintro.htm
Determine minutes-taker if not provided
Following up

Create a “to do” list for yourself with items prioritized by date and importance
COMMUNICATION (email, etc)

Keep email as brief and clear as possible. Be concise, use bullets or numbers. Stick to the
facts.

Never send an email when you’re angry.

Never address or try to solve interpersonal conflict via email -- pick up the phone and try to
meet, or at least have discussion by phone. Email is notorious for making matters worse, not
better.

Only copy others on email that really need to know or are involved in some way.
PROBLEM-SOLVING

Check-in with Adm Liaison or other expert in Curriculum, Instruction, HR, (etc), before
proceeding with a course of action that you’re not 100% sure about, especially if it involves
other people
OTHER RANDOM TIPS

Consider having the SAC create its own by-laws to address areas of ambiguity or regular
sources of stress (Term of office? How Chairs / Co-Chairs are determined? Proxy votes
allowed? etc)