The proposed strategic plan aims to position the college as a leader in fostering economic mobility and community advancement, with a focus on high-impact teaching and learning practices. The board sought feedback on the plan’s pillars, emphasizing the importance of aligning financial resources with annual goals and executing against the strategic plan. The trustees, while looking forward to the centennial celebration, expressed pride in the team’s work and highlighted the addition of action words to the strategic pillars, reflecting a commitment to excellence, innovation, and service.

In conjunction with the strategic discussions, the board delved into the development of an AI strategy for the college. The proposed AI framework includes an aspirational vision and guiding principles that align with the college’s goals. The importance of team development and strengthening the college’s IT security posture was acknowledged, with the transition from on-site servers to cloud storage as a key area of focus. The board also discussed the integration of AI in various college operations and the potential for transitioning to new enterprise software designed for the higher education sector.

The college’s Chief Information Officer provided an update on IT initiatives, including the implementation of a new help desk ticketing system and the selection of a new learning management system. A 5-year technology refresh plan was outlined, as well as the formation of an IT Advisory Group and the launch of an IT stakeholder survey. The discussion underscored the college’s top IT priorities, including data control, cybersecurity, the talent development pipeline, and the strategic use of AI.

Updates on federal and state advocacy were also provided, emphasizing the college’s focus on establishing a framework for embracing AI in academics and the formation of an academic innovation workgroup.

The board also addressed the Collegiate High Schools, approving renewals of charter agreements with Pinellas County Schools and the academic calendar for the 2024-2025 year. A budget amendment for a stabilization transfer between Collegiate High Schools was approved, and the trustees praised the leadership of the principals, the accreditation of the STEM school, and the upcoming graduation of the first class of seniors from an accredited high school.

Other topics covered during the meeting included the acknowledgment of faculty achievements, such as a published book and leadership in organizing events like a TedX talk and a solar eclipse viewing. The success of various college events, including the 17th public policy leadership speaker series luncheon, a career fair, and the 24th annual donors appreciation lunch, was commended. The board celebrated the dental hygiene and physical therapy assistant programs’ 100% board pass rates and highlighted the foundation’s achievements, including a successful donors and scholars luncheon.

Moreover, the meeting included the welcoming of two new members to the human resources department, the acknowledgment of the Dean and Professor of the SPC model UN team, and a trustee’s report on a productive trip to Washington, D.C., to discuss funding opportunities and partnerships for the college.