Summary of the October 7, 2025 Board of Trustees Meeting

Published on Oct 7 2025

Board Member Comments/Board Business

President of the Board Dr. Mullery appointed herself, Trustee Biggin, and Trustee Dronkers to the Ad Hoc Committee on Nominations for Board Officers. The Ad Hoc committee will present a slate of potential officers at the November 4th meeting. Officers will be voted on at the December 16th Regular Meeting of the Board. 

Consent Calendar Action Items

With Consent Agenda item 5.2 Approve/Ratify Personnel Actions, the trustees approved the employment of five new classified staff members, two managers, and two associate faculty. Jessica Dominguez will serve as an Instructional Support Specialist II for Welding (.81 FTE), Ryan Keller as an Administrative Office Assistant II (.50 FTE), Val Butcher as the Administrative Secretary II for TRiO (1.0 FTE), Kym StClair as the Student Development Advisor for TRiO (.43 FTE), and Lauren Larsen as an Enrollment Services Advisor (1.0 FTE). Leah Westbrook will begin serving as the Director for TRiO (.5 FTE) tomorrow (October 8). Clifford LaMastus will begin serving as the Manager, K16 Partnerships and Outreach (1.0 FTE) also on October 8. I want to welcome Susan Andrews (Counseling) and Sarah Griffith (Nursing) as new associate faculty colleagues. The Board also ratified my acceptance of five resignations: Dalin Campbell (Veterans Affairs Specialist), Katrina Hanson (Manager of Basic Needs, Wellbeing, and Retention), Matthew Shell (Evaluation Specialist), Chinghoua Anisa Vang (Instructional Support Specialist II and Student Services Specialist II), and Kayla Lopez (Graphic Artist). 

The Board approved my request to move forward with publishing a Request for Proposal (RFP) to identify a contractor to complete lead and asbestos abatement testing and reporting for the Mendocino and Del Norte dorms as well as the Old Administration and Forum buildings. We expect to demolish the Old Administration and Forum buildings sometime next summer and our current residence halls when the new affordable student housing complex is built. The sites will need to be assessed for lead and asbestos before demolishing the old structures. In anticipation of this work, the Board approved my request to invite proposals from qualified professionals in lead and asbestos testing and reporting for the Mendocino Dorms, the Old Admin, and the Forum buildings. Although the demolition for the dorms is a separate project and timeline from the Old Admin and Forum buildings, the sampling and reporting can be done for all buildings at once. I want to thank Leslie Marshall and Johanna Helzer for managing the abatement and demolition process for us.

I am pleased to report that the Board of Trustees conferred the title of Faculty Emeritus on retired professors Marla Gleave and Dr. Peter Blakemore. Marla Gleave started as an Associate Faculty member in 1993 and became a full-time faculty member in the fall of 1999. She dedicated thirty-two total years of service to CR. Her career highlights included: Women’s Basketball Assistant Coach 1993-1995; Women’s Basketball Head Coach 1995-2004; Women’s Volleyball Head Coach 2004-2013; Senate Co-President from 2002-2004; ASPC Chair from 2004-2008; Dean of Career & Technical Education 2014-2017; Articulation Officer 2017-2019; Curriculum committee member in three separate stints with 14 years of service; and Initial Guided Pathways committee member. Dr. Peter Blakemore was first hired at the College as a tenure-track faculty member in English in fall 2002. During his distinguished career at the College of the Redwoods, his contributions to the District were far-reaching and include the following: Faculty member in English; team-taught an English and History course with another faculty member; Chair of the English Department; President and Vice President of the CRFO; Chair of the Curriculum Committee; Co-president of the Academic Senate; Dean of Math and Science; Executive Dean of the Liberal Arts and Sciences; and Accreditation Liaison Officer and Self-Study co-author for the College’s 2023 ISER. The Academic Senate was notified of the Board’s action this afternoon. We also sent a press release to local media outlets today. 

The Board approved a recommendation to donate excavated soil from the new PE/Fieldhouse projects to Redwood Acres Fairground and to Eureka City Schools.

Action/Discussion Agenda Items

I am pleased to report that the Board of Trustees approved the 2025-28 successor faculty collective bargaining agreement. 

The Trustees approved my recommendation to demolish the Old Administration (RBC-A) and Forum (RBC-B) buildings and to solicit bids from qualified contractors to complete the demolition process. 

On the Board’s agenda was a request (agenda item 5.3) for the Board to approve Resolution #834 Authorizing the Use of the Lease-Leaseback Structure Under the State Lease Revenue Bond Student Housing Program for the Student Housing Project. President of the Board Dr. Mullery pulled the item from consideration at this board meeting since not all Trustees were present at today’s Board meeting. The Education Code Chapter 2 Article 7 section 81432 and our Board Policy 2330 states that resolutions authorizing a sale or lease of District real property to the state, any county, city, or to any other school or community college district must be unanimously approved by all members of the Board. The Board will meet at 1pm on Tuesday, October 14, 2025 in Special session to consider Resolution #834 when all the Trustees can attend.

Informational Reports

I recognized KTIS Manager Misty Knight for implementing the fall semester scholarship event on the Klamath-Trinity site and Dean Jessica Howard for her outstanding leadership in the successful Nursing Department accreditation review process.

Organizational and Administrative Reports

In her written report, Academic Senate President Bernadette Johnson shared that the Senate is working with the administration on several projects including the artificial intelligence, freedom of speech, dual enrollment, short course offerings, non-credit course development, healthcare pathways, and credit for prior learning. CRFO President Michelle Haggerty’s written report mentioned that the new faculty collective bargaining agreement going to the Board for approval today is fair and will help attract and retain quality instructor. She also mentioned that CRFO continues to work on collaboration with other parts of the district community. CSEA President Rachel Warze’s written report noted that the contract negotiations between CSEA and the District have been finalized and is moving into the ratification phase. She also reported that three classified staff members—Giselle Cabereo, Evan Hatfield, and Jennifer Machin—have been appointed to the AI Task Force. Management Council President Leigh Dooley congratulated Upward Bound on the continuation of their federal grant and Athletics for achieving their highest enrollment ever at 308 students (breaking last year’s enrollment record by 12-15%). 

In my administrative report I spoke to the formation of the joint Academic Senate/Administration AI Task Force to assess and make recommendations for the future of Generative AI in education and administrative functions at CR. The task force will research the effective practices currently in place at the College and develop proposals that best position CR to amplify learning and research outcomes using AI and prevent its misuse or negative impact. Task force membership includes: Tri-Chairs: Dean Dr. Alan Price, Professor Susan Gehr, and Giselle Cabrero; four (4) faculty members appointed by the Academic Senate: Professors Trevor Hartman, Dr. Ross Odell, Karyn-Lynn Fisette, and Dr. Laurrie McKendry; two (2) administrators appointed by the President: Dr. Rebecca Robertson and Dr. Amy Moffat; two (2) managers appointed by the Management Council: Leigh Dooley and Heidi Bareilles; two (2) classified staff appointed by CSEA: Jennifer Machin and Evan Hatfield. We also have one (1) ASCR appointed student on the task force: Amanda Mandel. 

In my report, I also noted that I sent requests to the three candidates vying to replace Mike McGuire as the representative for District 2 to visit our District. To date, Natalie Rogers, James Gore, and Damon Connolly have announced their intention to run.

The Board of Trustees passed a resolution in support of 2S/LGBTQIA+ history month at this meeting. In my written report I also acknowledged thirteen additional observations celebrated in the month of October.

Polish American Heritage Month

The first Poles migrated to America starting in the early 1800s. This month, celebrate their contributions to culture and society. Once here, they were dedicated to preserving their heritage and culture and even started a national network of Polish-language newspapers, radio, and television stations to keep their language alive. New York State has the largest Polish American population with Michigan, Wisconsin, and Connecticut having a substantial group too.

Italian American Heritage Month

Nearly 16 million Americans identify as Italian American according to the U.S. Census. Italian American Heritage Month occurs every October to overlap with Columbus Day, celebrated on the second Monday. It was first celebrated in 1989 with a proclamation from George H.W. Bush. Every year, a Columbus Day parade is held in New York City with an average million spectators.

Filipino American History Month

Filipino American History Month is celebrated as it was when the first Filipinos arrived in California in 1587. Many organizations in California and Hawaii, where many Filipino Americans reside, hold annual celebrations. Some call the month “Filipino American Heritage Month” while others regard it as a History month to focus on the events and lived experiences and their impact on society.

ADHD Awareness Month

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental learning disorder that affects adults and children. It can lead to challenges dealing with self-control, focus, and impulsive behavior. This month hopes to raise awareness about the misconceptions associated with the community. Take time to promote understanding and support to all those living with neurodiversity all year.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

This month is dedicated to increasing awareness of breast cancer, promoting screening and early detection, and raising funds for research into its cause, prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and cure. The campaign also offers support to those affected by breast cancer and commonly features pink ribbons as its symbol.

Down Syndrome Awareness Month

Each year, nearly 6,000 babies born in the United States are diagnosed with Down Syndrome, or 1 in every 700 babies. October focuses on the acceptance and inclusion of people with Down Syndrome. Learn about their unique strengths and promote a society and workplace that values diversity and offers support to those living with Down Syndrome and their families.

Global Diversity Awareness Month

This month is dedicated to celebrating and increasing awareness about the diverse cultures and populations that make up the world. It encourages individuals and organizations to learn about different cultures, as well as to promote inclusion and understanding across various cultural contexts. The celebration is an opportunity to reflect on the positive impact of diversity on society and to challenge and address issues of inclusion within communities and organizations.

National Disability Employment Awareness Month

This national campaign honors the contributions of people living with disabilities to the economy and workplace. It also raises awareness about disability employment problems and advocates for accommodations in the workplace for those living with a disability.

International Day for Older Persons

This day raises awareness about the contributions of older adults and promotes respect for their rights and well-being. It encourages global efforts to create more inclusive and supportive environments for aging populations.

American Veterans Disabled for Life Awareness Day
This observance honors U.S. veterans who have been disabled in service, acknowledging their sacrifices and resilience. It is a time to show gratitude and advocate for the support these veterans need.

World Dyslexia Day

World Dyslexia Day promotes understanding and support for those with dyslexia, focusing on education and awareness. It highlights the importance of creating accessible learning environments for all individuals.

National Coming Out Day

This day celebrates individuals who come out as LGBTQ+ and promotes support for those still on their journey. It is a reminder of the importance of visibility, acceptance, and allyship in building inclusive communities.

Indigenous Peoples’ Day

Indigenous Peoples’ Day honors the history, culture, and contributions of Indigenous communities, offering an alternative to Columbus Day. It encourages reflection on Indigenous heritage and the need for respect and recognition.

In my verbal report, I thanked Molly Blakemore, Colin Truijjo, and Tory Eagles for serving on the District’s negotiation team for CRFO. I also called the Board’s attention to the fact that our new rodeo team participated in their first competition at Feather River this past weekend. 

Julia Morrison provided a student accounts receivable update in her written administrative report. She noted that commencing with the 2020-21 year-end closing process, the District initiated a new practice of writing off all student accounts receivable that were three years or older. The total write-off amount was a little over $2 million. Prior to the write off, the student accounts receivable balance was $3.621 million. After the write-off, the balance on June 30, 2021 was $1.508 million. The Business Office has continued the practice of student debt write-off as part of the annual fiscal year-end closing process. For fiscal year 2021-22 a little over $300 thousand was written off. On June 30, 2022, the total student accounts receivable balance was $1.571 million. For fiscal year 2022-23 a little less than $200 thousand was written off. On June 30, 2023 the total student accounts receivable balance was $2.522 million. For fiscal year 2023-24 a little over $200 thousand was written off. On June 30, 2024 the total student accounts receivable balance was $2.609 million. In fiscal year 2024-25 approximately $150,000 was written off and the total student accounts receivable balance was $2.615 million. In her verbal report, Julia mentioned that she’s in the process of completing the 311 Report. Julia also said that we are in compliance with the 50% Law. We are sitting at approximately 53%.

Crystal Morse shared that Madeline Lopez, Jasmine Iniguez, Montel Vanderhorck participated in the Chancellor’s Office C3 Converge Climate Summit in Anaheim with her. The summit focused on sharing recent and best practices for community colleges’ climate action and resilience planning, as well as educating and equipping students and educators for a climate-resilient, equitable California. The themes of cross-sector collaboration, equity-centered workforce development, curriculum innovation, and sustainable campus transformation were evident throughout the summit sessions.

Marty Coelho shared that a donor committed $144,000, over three years, to support the development of the District’s five new health care programs and he along with professors Valerie Elder, Maria Morrow, Alissa Sarvinski and Silas Sarvinski toured the Sequoia Orchids and Redwoods facilities and discussed potential partnership opportunities.