March 10, 2026
Members present: A. Joyce Price-Jones, Acting Chair; Keshawn Johnson; Dr. M. Alexandra Matiella Novak; Sandra E. Moore; Jennifer Pastrone; Roxana Rodriguez; JaCina Stanton-Buttrom; Anelle R. Tumminello; and Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr.
Absent: Dr. Nadine Chien, Chair
I. Call to Order - A. Joyce Price-Jones, Acting Chair
The meeting was called to order at 4:00 p.m.
II. Roll Call and Approval of the Agenda - A. Joyce Price-Jones, Acting Chair
Ms. Price-Jones asked for the roll call, and a quorum was established. By motion Ms. Pastrone, seconded by Mr. Johnson, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the agenda.
III. Welcome and Introductions - A. Joyce Price-Jones, Acting Chair
Ms. Price-Jones welcomed attendees to the meeting, acknowledged the larger-than-usual audience, and recognized the presence of a special guest, Mr. Victor Aigbedion.
IV. Recognition of 2026 DREAM Scholar – Victor Aigbedion
Dr. Lindsay reported that Anne Arundel Community College was recognized as a Leader College at last week’s Achieving the Dream Conference, a designation awarded to institutions demonstrating a college-wide commitment to access, belonging, and student success, with measurable improvements in student outcomes. She also shared that AACC reached another extraordinary milestone, with its first DREAM Scholar, Victor Aigbedion, a dually enrolled student at Glen Burnie High School. Mr. Aigbedion is the first high school student to receive this honor and one of just eight students nationwide selected as a 2026 DREAM Scholar.
As part of this program, Mr. Aigbedion participated in an immersive leadership and learning experience at the conference. Dr. Lindsay congratulated Mr. Aigbedion and noted that he is an outstanding ambassador for both Glen Burnie High School and Anne Arundel Community College. Dr. Lindsay added that Mr. Aigbedion had the opportunity to work with Achieving the Dream’s poet-in-residence, Denise Frohman, to compose his own “I Am” poem, which he presented at the conference and performed for the Board of Trustees.
Dr. Lindsay concluded by telling Mr. Aigbedion that he is a gift to the College and remarked to the faculty and staff that his achievements exemplify why they do what they do, expressing gratitude for his sharing of the poem. Ms. Price-Jones added that his accomplishments also reflect the purpose of the Board’s service.
Mr. Aigbedion and his parents presented Dr. Lindsay with a poster commemorating the experience to express their gratitude on behalf of their family.
V. Approval of Promotions, Tenure, and Sabbaticals
A. Approval of Faculty Promotions - Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President for Learning
Dr. Millner asked the Board for approval of the President's recommendations for the award of faculty promotion. Dr. Millner reviewed the process for faculty promotion and certification of the process. Faculty recommended for promotion will advance in rank effective August 16, 2026. The increase in salary for each faculty member approved for promotion is equivalent to two full steps increase in salary, which, including FICA, totals $70,386, which is subject to change based on collective bargaining in FY2027.
By motion of Mr. Ulvila, seconded by Mr. Johnson, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the President’s recommendations for promotions effective August 16, 2026 for the following faculty members for Assistant Professor: Xi Kramer, Computer Science and Reham H. Okily, Medical Laboratory Science; Associate Professor: Darius M. Cureton, Ph.D., English; Zoe C. Farquhar, Ph.D., Communications; Oksana Fisher, Business Administration; Christopher L. Harmon, Medical Laboratory Science; Amy M. Nudell, Nursing; Lindsay R. Roark, Mathematics; and Jeffrey J. Roberson, Architecture and Interior Design; and Full Professor: Ellen M. Asbury, Nursing; Mary M. Bachkosky, J.D., Legal Studies Institute; Elizabeth A. “Beth” Baran, Engineering; Michelle A. “Shelly” Bentley, Ed.D., Education/TEACH Institute; Margaret A. Boas, English; Julie L. Grignon, Ph.D., Psychology; Carrie C. “Alice” Jackson, Nursing; Theresa I. Kotkiewicz, Business Management; Deborah A. Levine, Ph.D., Physical Science; Denise M. Lyons, Nursing; Jessica Y. Mattingly, Communications; Heidi L. Rayner, Ph.D., Nursing; and Krista Y. White, Ph.D., Biology.
B. Approval of Faculty Tenure - Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President for Learning
Dr. Millner asked the Board for approval of the President's recommendations for the award of tenure. Dr. Millner reviewed the process for the award of tenure and certification of the process. Tenure will be effective August 16, 2026. There were no fiscal implications.
By motion of Dr. Matiella Novak, seconded by Mr. Johnson, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously awarded faculty tenure effective August 16, 2026, to the following faculty members: Julie L. Grignon, Ph.D, Psychology; Christopher L. Harmon, Medical Laboratory Sciences; Cedric R. Harris, Ed.D., Computer Information Systems; Jarred R. Jenkins, Ph.D., Psychology; Deborah A. Levine, Ph.D., Physical Science; and Shyamala Sivalingam, Ph.D., Chemistry.
C. Approval of Faculty Sabbaticals for FY 2027 - Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President for Learning
Dr. Millner asked the Board for approval of the President’s recommendation for sabbatical leaves for two professors: Zoe Friedman and Lindsay McCulloch.
Associate Professor Friedman’s sabbatical will focus on creating interdisciplinary artwork, including a kinetic sculpture integrating video, experimental animation, and custom-fabricated components. The project will explore themes of connection, language, and perspective through analog and digital media. The work will serve as both a creative milestone and teaching resource, demonstrating the intersection of research, technical experimentation, and conceptual development. The sabbatical will enhance student learning, enrich the curriculum, and support the College’s mission.
Professor McCulloch’s sabbatical will focus on developing new skills in painting, printmaking, large-scale painting, and mixed media, while incorporating Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Antiracism (DEIA) principles into classroom practice. The project will explore the use of organic, natural, and Indigenous materials and support the expansion of Visual Arts courses. It will include the creation of eight artworks and proposals to exhibit at least one in a prominent gallery or museum. The sabbatical will benefit students and the College through updated studios, a public lecture and demonstration, and enhanced learning experiences.
Associate Professor Friedman will receive paid leave at full salary for the fall 2026 semester, and Professor McCulloch will receive paid leave at full salary for the spring 2027 semester. Part-time faculty will be hired to provide coverage to meet the instructional needs, which equates to 15 faculty load hours per faculty member per semester of the leave. The current part-time rates range from $1,170 to $1,364 per faculty load hour. The total cost for one sabbatical leave would not exceed $22,025, including FICA, and the two sabbaticals would not exceed $44,050. By motion of Mr. Johnson, seconded by Ms. Tumminello, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the President’s recommendation for sabbatical leave for Associate Professor Zoe Friedman, fall 2026; and Professor Lindsay McCulloch, spring 2027.
Dr. Lindsay thanked the Board and noted that sabbaticals at community colleges have historically been difficult to obtain. She emphasized the Board’s commitment to supporting faculty development, including teaching and pedagogy, and stated such opportunities would not be available without their support. Dr. Lindsay expressed appreciation for the Board’s continued support of the College.
VI. Consent Agenda
Ms. Price-Jones presented the Consent Agenda. By motion of Mr. Ulvila, seconded by Mr. Johnson, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the Consent Agenda:
VII. Board Chair and Committee Reports
A. Reports for March
1. Board Chair Report - A. Joyce Price-Jones, Acting Chair
Ms. Price-Jones provided an update on the presidential search process, reporting that the search firm, RH Perry, will conduct listening sessions on campus on April 13 and 14. The sessions will provide an opportunity for members of the College community to share perspectives on the qualities and priorities for the next president. The finalized schedule will be shared with the community, and a survey will also be distributed to gather broader input. Ms. Price-Jones encouraged participation in both, noting that feedback will help shape the process and inform the selection of the next president.
2. Appointment of Nominating Committee - A. Joyce Price-Jones, Acting Chair
Ms. Price-Jones reported that, in accordance with the Board of Trustees’ Bylaws, the chair appoints two trustees at the March meeting to serve on the Nominating Committee, which oversees the nomination process for chair and vice-chair. She announced that Dr. Alexandra Matiella Novak and she will serve on the committee. The committee will contact trustees prior to the April 14 meeting to assess interest in these roles and will present a slate of candidates at that meeting. The election will take place at the May 12 Board meeting.
B. No Reports for March
1. Audit & Finance Committee - JaCina Stanton-Buttrom, Committee Chair
2. Board Development Committee – Anelle R. Tumminello, Committee Chair
3. Board Policy Oversight Committee – A. Joyce Price-Jones, Committee Chair
4. Budget Committee – Sandra E. Moore, Committee Chair
5. Facilities Committee – Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr., Committee Chair
6. AACC Foundation – Dr. Nadine Chien, Lead Liaison
VIII. President’s Report - Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
A. Information Items
1. College Updates - Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President
Dr. Lindsay reported that she recently shared a communication with the College community addressing current challenges, including tensions between faculty and administration, noting that such issues are not unique to AACC. She emphasized that the College’s strength lies in how it addresses challenges and highlighted the Board’s direction in supporting a deliberate approach to long-term financial stability.
She explained that this work began with an administrative services review, followed by academic efforts led by Dr. Millner. Dr. Lindsay commended Dr. Millner’s leadership and reported improvements in enrollment, persistence, retention, and reduced class cancellations, indicating positive progress in student success.
Dr. Lindsay acknowledged differing perspectives between administration and faculty and affirmed her commitment to addressing these concerns while respecting shared governance. She reported outreach to The Faculty Organization (TFO) and Academic Forum leadership to strengthen collaboration, noting that some matters will be addressed through collective bargaining and with support from Riverhawks Educators. She expressed a goal of advancing key initiatives prior to her departure on June 30.
She emphasized a focus on trust, transparency, and communication, while reaffirming support for ongoing academic planning and leadership. Dr. Lindsay expressed confidence that the College community can work collaboratively to address challenges and continue its success in serving students.
She conveyed appreciation for the dedication of faculty, staff, and the Board, noting the importance of mutual respect, diverse perspectives, and shared commitment to the College’s mission. Dr. Lindsay concluded by expressing optimism about the College’s future and confidence in a strong transition to new leadership.
2. AACC Dental Hygiene Program and Clinic - Elizabeth Appel, Dean of the School of Health Sciences and Badal "BP" Patel, Director of Dental Education
Dr. Millner introduced Badal M. Patel, Director of Dental Education, who provided an overview of the Dental Hygiene program and clinic. Mr. Patel, a licensed dental hygienist with extensive clinical and educational experience, highlighted his role in developing the program and ensuring compliance with accreditation and regulatory standards.
Mr. Patel reported that the Dental Hygiene program is a five-semester, 70-credit program that has received initial accreditation from the Commission on Dental Accreditation. The program emphasizes clinical training, academic coursework, and community engagement, and has enrolled its first cohort of 10 students, with a second cohort in development. He noted a strong focus on career pathways and transfer opportunities.
He provided an overview of the on-campus clinic, which offers preventive dental services to patients of all ages at low cost, without requiring insurance. Services include comprehensive assessments, cleanings, and periodontal care, with referrals provided for more advanced treatment. Mr. Patel highlighted the clinic’s accessibility, community outreach efforts, and use of digital tools and advanced technology. He also noted that students receive training in radiology and patient care, and that equipment and facilities meet state and safety standards.
Trustees expressed appreciation for the program’s impact and accessibility. Mr. Ulvila highlighted the importance of oral health and access to care. Ms. Moore inquired about program requirements and radiology safety, which Mr. Patel addressed. Ms. Pastrone and Ms. Price-Jones noted the program’s value to the community and expressed intent to refer individuals to the clinic.
3. Academic Forum (AF)/Council - Dr. Shelley De Blasis, Chair (NO REPORT)
4. Administrative Staff Organization (ASO) - Stacy Korbelak, President (NO REPORT)
5. Professional and Support Staff Organization (PSSO) - Caitlin Silver Negrón, President
Ms. Silver Negrón reported that three PSSO members attended the Achieving the Dream Conference in Portland, Oregon, where they participated in sessions aligned with the College’s work and met with their Achieving the Dream coach for guidance. She highlighted the opportunity to support Victor Aigbedion, who represented the College by presenting his “I Am” poem and participating in a panel.
She expressed appreciation for the opportunity to attend and announced that the schedule for the spring PSSO Professional Development Day, to be held April 8, is included in her written report. She noted that the event is a collaborative, campus-wide effort featuring multiple session offerings.
Ms. Silver Negrón also reported that PSSO will hold its monthly business meeting later in the week, which will include updates on the presidential search, program spotlights, and continued emphasis on transparency and communication. She shared that the finalized PSSO Vision, Mission, and Values statements have been approved and will guide ongoing work.
Ms. Pastrone expressed appreciation for the breadth of professional development offerings, particularly the inclusion of neurodivergent-focused content.
6. Student Government Association (SGA) – Fredrick Neric, Vice President of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility
Mr. Neric introduced himself on behalf of SGA President Chris Chambers and reported that SGA will hold upcoming Executive Board elections, with promotion planned through social media and campus outreach. He also shared that, in his role related to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility, he investigated concerns regarding missing tactile paving near the Careers building, confirming it poses a potential safety risk; the issue has been identified for resolution, though no timeline has been provided.
Mr. Neric reported that students have expressed concerns about the use of artificial intelligence at the College, particularly its impact on critical thinking and instructional roles, and emphasized the desire for AI to be used as a tool. He also noted ongoing discussions regarding designated free speech areas following prior protests, as well as continued student concerns about course cancellations related to the 15-student minimum. He shared that survey results indicated concerns about potential delays in academic progress and noted SGA’s interest in working with Dr. Millner to address these issues.
Mr. Johnson encouraged continued dialogue among students, faculty, and administration, emphasizing the importance of transparency, listening, and shared governance. He affirmed his commitment to representing student concerns and keeping them at the forefront of his work.
Ms. Moore inquired whether any students had been unable to graduate on time due to course cancellations; Mr. Neric indicated he was not aware of any instances. Ms. Moore noted that the College is committed to supporting students in completing required courses.
Ms. Price-Jones reiterated that the Board’s implementation of an Academic Program Review (APR) included assurances that students would not be adversely impacted and that staffing reductions would be avoided where possible. She noted that no students have been prevented from graduating due to the policy and emphasized the Board’s ongoing commitment to transparency and student success, while thanking SGA for raising concerns.
7. The Faculty Organization (TFO) – Heather Riordan, President
Ms. Riordan expressed appreciation for the Department of Public Safety and Police for maintaining a safe campus environment. She also congratulated faculty and staff on promotions, tenure, and sabbaticals, and thanked the TFO Committee on Promotion and Tenure for its work.
Ms. Riordan reported the results of a faculty vote of no confidence in the Vice President for Learning and Provost, Dr. Millner. She noted that 190 members participated, with 131 in favor, 37 opposed, and 22 abstaining. She emphasized that the vote was intended as a means of communication and that faculty are committed to working collaboratively to rebuild relationships with administration.
In discussion, Ms. Moore inquired about participation levels and report details; Ms. Riordan provided clarification and agreed to follow up on specific data.
Ms. Price-Jones, speaking on her own behalf, expressed disappointment with the vote, noting the Board’s support for the president and the challenges associated with institutional change. She emphasized the importance of collaboration and minimizing disruption during the presidential transition.
Ms. Riordan responded that the vote was not taken lightly and reflected the faculty’s perspective, reaffirming a commitment to work collaboratively with College leadership moving forward.
8. Maryland Association of Community Colleges (MACC) Activities – Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President (NO REPORT)
B. Action Items
1. Approval of the New Programs - Dr. Tanya Millner, Provost/Vice President for Learning
i. Approval of the Graphic and Web Design, Associate of Fine Arts Degree Program
ii. Approval of the Studio Arts, Associate of Fine Arts Degree Program
iii. Approval of the Theater and Dance, Associate of Arts Degree Program
iv. Approval of the Science Transfer, Associate of Science Program with Areas of Concentration in Astronomy/Physics, Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science, Environmental Science, Plant Science, and Premedical Professionals
Dr. Millner presented four proposed programs for Board approval: the Graphic and Web Design, Studio Arts, and Theater and Dance Associate of Fine Arts degrees, and the Science Transfer Associate of Science degree with seven areas of concentration.
The programs were approved by the Committee on Educational Policies and Curriculum and the Academic Council in February 2026. Upon Board approval, the Maryland Higher Education Commission will be notified of the College’s intent to offer the programs beginning fall 2026.
It was noted that existing faculty and instructional resources will support the programs; however, increased enrollment may require additional part-time faculty, representing a potential fiscal impact.
By motion of Ms. Tumminello, seconded by Ms. Pastrone, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the Graphic and Web Design, Associate of Fine Arts Degree Program; Studio Arts, Associate of Fine Arts Degree Program; Theater and Dance Associate of Arts Degree Program; and Science Transfer, Associate of Science Degree Program with concentrations in Astronomy/Physics, Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science, Environmental Science Area, Plant Science and Premedical Professionals.
IX. New Business
X. Next Board Meeting
The next public session meeting will be on April 14, 2026, starting at 4:00pm.
XI. Vote to Close Meeting - A. Joyce Price-Jones, Acting Chair
A. To discuss personnel matters pursuant to Section 3-305(b)(1) of the General Provisions Article of the Maryland Code Section 3-305(d)(2)(i)(ii).
By motion of Ms. Pastrone, seconded by Mr. Johnson, and a roll call taken of trustees to determine their vote, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the vote to close the meeting.
XII. Adjournment
The meeting was adjourned at 5:36 p.m.
A closed session of the Board of Trustees was held on February 24, 2026, at the Anne Arundel Community College Arnold Campus, 101 College Parkway, Arnold, MD 21012, in the Cade Center for Fine Arts Building, Room 228. To discuss personnel matters pursuant to Sections 3-305(b)(1), 3-305(b)(2), and 3-305(b)(7) of the General Provisions Article of the Maryland Code Section 3-305(d)(2)(i)(ii). The following Board members voted to close the session: Dr. Nadine Chien, Chair; A. Joyce Price-Jones, Vice Chair (via Zoom); Keshawn Johnson; Dr. M. Alexandra Matiella Novak; Sandra E. Moore; Jennifer Pastrone; Roxana Rodriguez; JaCina Stanton-Buttrom; Anelle Tumminello; and Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr. The following Board members were present at the meeting: Dr. Nadine Chien, Chair; A. Joyce Price-Jones, Vice Chair (via telephone); Keshawn Johnson; Dr. M. Alexandra Matiella Novak; Sandra E. Moore; Jennifer Pastrone; Roxana Rodriguez; JaCina Stanton-Buttrom; Anelle Tumminello; and Lawrence W. Ulvila, Jr. Dr. Dawn Lindsay, President; Vollie Melson, Associate Vice President for Institutional Advancement (left at 5:59 p.m.); Dan Baum, Executive Director, Strategic Communications; Stephanie LaRue, Executive Director, Human Resources (arrived at 6:03 p.m.); Suzanne Boyer, Presidential Search Advisor (arrived at 6:03 p.m.; left at 6:53 p.m.); Steven Frenkil, Attorney, Miles & Stockbridge (via telephone; left at 6:03 p.m.),; and Monica Rausa, Special Assistant to the President were present as well. The topics discussed included the presidential and interim president search processes, protection of the privacy and reputation of an individual not related to public business, and consultation with counsel to obtain legal advice. The meeting began at 5:50 p.m. and ended at 7:11 p.m.