Brookdale’s Governance held a Zoom meeting Feb. 13 addressing steering updates, diversity, academic standards, and Governance structure. Also, Dr. Katie Lynch presented on the need for and importance of curiosity.
Previously, at the Dec. 12 Forum, a vote was held about whether the add/drop period at Brookdale should be revised. Professor Matthew Perry stated that the add/drop period for 15-week classes should be 10 days, for 10- and 11-week classes, it should be seven days, for six- and seven-week classes, it should be three days and for 2 week classes it should be 0 days. The voting language stated, “I approve of shortening the add/drop periods as outlined by the Academic Standards’ proposed resolution.” It was found that 84 percent of those who voted are in favor of completing this action. That recommendation will be made to BCC President David Stout.
The board addressed diversity. Professor Ashley Tasy proposed a new statement saying, “Brookdale Community College fosters an environment of inclusion and belonging. We promote a safe and open culture, encourage dialogue respecting diverse perspectives informed by credible sources, and uphold the virtues of civil discourse. We celebrate all identities with the understanding that ultimately, diversity, equity, and inclusion cultivate belonging and make us a stronger Brookdale community.” It was found that most of the board voted “yes” and that the statement was passed.
The Governance structure was also something that was discussed during this meeting. Professor Christian Perez spoke about the structure and stated that trust, communication and participation help shape the Governance structure and will help reform it. The charge stated, “Explore alternative structures for collegial governance beginning in December 2023. The committee will discuss findings in the February or March forum and recommend a model to be voted by forum in March or April.” Previously on Feb. 8, Stout joined the ad-hoc Governance Structure Committee and shared his expectations about the future of Governance at Brookdale.
Dr. Lynch presented on curiosity and ways to be successful. Previously, On Jan. 23, Lynch emailed faculty members in order to create a class frequency working group. During her presentation, Lynch encouraged more people to volunteer for the ad-hoc committee and talked about some of their previous work.
The most important theme from her presentation was to be curious. On one of her slides she stated, “When we are curious, we are authentic, open-minded, inclusive, listening, honest and humble.” Dr. Lynch wants everyone who is a part of Brookdale to be curious and take that next step into something new that could be great and benefit everyone around them.