LAST NIGHT'S BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING

Last night's Board of Trustee's meeting was business as usual.

During the recognition part of the agenda, Mrs. Dona Usry was very generous in her praise of Bill Clover, Visual Arts, who was a tremendous help to Manna Food Pantry and their recent fund raisers "Throw a Bowl for Manna' and "Fill a Bowl for Manna." More than 400 bowls were purchased and the event raised about $15,000.

Dr. Delaino announced that enrollment was up by 6.1%. Because PJC had planned for 0% increase in enrollment, PJC's budget will not be as severely hurt in the next anticipated round of state budget cuts. Of course, the greater concern is for the 2008-2009 budget which the Legislature will be approving during the next regular session beginning in March.

Mr. O'Connor reported to the Board on the Presidential Screening Committee's meeting with Dr. Hockaday. (See previous posting.) I cannot begin to say how impressed I am with the seriousness that the BOT is showing in regard to the hiring of PJC's next president. The Board was very concerned that they have every opportunity to get as much input from the Screening Committee as possible. They also wanted sufficient time to review the applications of those recommended by the Screening Committee before they meet to determine which of the applicants will be asked to PJC for interviews. Kudos to all Board members and particulary Ms. Usry, Ms. Young, Ms. Norris, Mr. Moore and Mr. O'Connor.

The Board will hold a special meeting on February 29 to hear the report from the February 28 Screening Committee and to meet with Dr. Hockaday. The BOT will then be given the applications and other relevant materials for each of the 4-8 candidates recommended by the Screening Committee. On March 11 the Board will meet to determine which of the candidates will be asked on campus for interviews.

The Board has already submitted possible interview questions to Dr. Brigham for consideration.