As you know there was a meeting of the Board of Trustees Academic Committee today in this very room. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to attend personally as I was committed to meet with Barbara Johnson of the Higher Learning Commission andthe Faculty Senate to discuss progress in the removal of COD from its probationary status. I am sure I am not mistaken in asserting that all constituencies in this college hold the removal of the stain of probation as a consummation devoutly to be wished.

One of the agenda items for today’s meeting was “impediments to teaching and learning.” CODFA leadership conducted a survey of the membership to solicit their opinions. We are interested in issues both within the college and the outside world that impact the progress of both instructors and students. A summary of key issues identified was presented at the meeting today.

It is not my intent here to discuss any of those issues but I did think it an opportune moment to encourage this board to consider what it might be able to do to advance the interests of this college in the legislative realm and in the political arena in this state. The ongoing budget impasse has wrought havoc on higher education in particular. This cannot continue. Our Association through its union is actively pressing lawmakers. But we are just one constituency. This threat to the stability of higher education impacts everyone.

State Representative Peter Breen takes credit for his role in legislation motivated by the toppled regime. He has praised the new board members for their roles. All good. But that is in the past. I would like to ask him what, if he values this college and its students as highly as he ought, will he advocate for to promote its interests to make it stronger in the future and protect it in these financially uncertain times. What might you do in this regard?