All past Board of Trustees resolutions are accessible to the public. Materials from the current year are available below and copies of past materials are available by request. Please email Eileen Hughes at [email protected] to request past board materials. Thank you.
Resolution 1-2025: Strengthening the Community College Presidential Search Process and Ensuring Transparency and Accountability
Date: February 6, 2025
To: Board of Trustees
From: L’Tanya M. Watkins, Board Chair
Subject: Strengthening the Community College Presidential Search Process and Ensuring Transparency and Accountability
MOTION
A motion by Trustee Yeger, second by Vice Chair Stilley, and WHEREAS, On November 12, 2024, the State University of New York (“SUNY”) Board of Trustees adopted a resolution regarding “Strengthening the Community College Presidential Search Process and Ensuring Transparency and Accountability” (the “Resolution”) which amends the SUNY Guidelines for Presidential Searches for Community Colleges (the “SUNY Guidelines”); and WHEREAS, The Chancellor of SUNY and other SUNY officials have taken action(s) in furtherance of the aforesaid Resolution, including implementing new requirements regarding the employment contract of community college presidents; and WHEREAS, The Board of Trustees of Rockland Community College has been advised that the adoption and implementation of said Resolution exceeds the statutory authority granted to the SUNY Board, in contravention to statute and existing policy and/or guidelines; and WHEREAS, The Board of Trustees of Rockland Community College has further been advised that the SUNY Board failed to promulgate the new rules/requirements contained in the Resolution pursuant to the State Administrative Procedure Act’s statutorily required rulemaking procedure; and WHEREAS, The Board of Trustees of Rockland Community College has determined that it is in its best interest to institute legal action, and/or take any other appropriate legal action to protect its rights, authority and autonomy as it relates to the Community College Presidential Search Process. RESOLVED, That the Board of Trustees of Rockland Community College hereby appoints Ingerman Smith, LLP, as Special Counsel for the purpose of commencing legal action against the SUNY Board of Trustees, the Chancellor of SUNY, Dr. John King, and/or any other proper parties on a cooperative basis with other community colleges and/or parties in the State Supreme Court, County of Albany, and/or other appropriate administrative agency(ies), jurisdiction(s) and/or tribunal(s), challenging the legality of the action(s) taken by SUNY related to the Resolution, the legality of the Resolution and the action(s) that the Chancellor of SUNY and others have taken in furtherance of the aforesaid Resolution and/or take any other appropriate legal action to address issues relating to the Resolution and its impact on the interests, rights, autonomy and authority of the Rockland Community College; and RESOLVED, That the Chair of the Board of Trustees of Rockland Community College is herewith authorized to execute a retainer agreement with Ingerman Smith, LLP, and any other necessary documentation relative to this appointment, on behalf of the Board.Action
Yeas: Watkins, Eckert, Gruber, Stilley, Valentine, Wortendyke and Yeger Nays: 0 Abstentions: None Motion passed: 7 yeas, 0 nays, 0 abstentions February 6, 2025
Resolution 2-2025: Approval for Reappointment of Non-Tenured Faculty for Academic Year 2025-2026 3rd Year
Date: February 24, 2025
To: Board of Trustees
From: Dr. Scott J. Kalicki, Officer in Charge
Subject: Approval for Reappointment of Non-Tenured Faculty for Academic Year 2025-2026 3rd Year
MOTION
A motion by Trustee Wortendyke, second by Vice Chair Stilley, and
WHEREAS, The Agreement by and between SUNY Rockland Community College, the County of Rockland and the Rockland Community College Federation of Teachers (RCCFT) Local 1871 requires that persons with term appointments be notified of their reappointment by the last day of February; and
WHEREAS, The SUNY Rockland Community College Reappointment, Tenure and Promotion (RTP) Policy requires that each candidate be reviewed and evaluated for renewal by a College RTP Committee; and
WHEREAS, The following non-tenured faculty have submitted to the RTP process and have been reviewed by a College RTP Committee and are recommended for reappointment by the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs; and
WHEREAS, The Officer-in-Charge has reviewed the recommendations of the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs and the College RTP Committees, and the faculty will be sent the required notification by February 28, 2025; be it therefore
RESOLVED, That the SUNY Rockland Community College Board of Trustees approves the reappointment of the following non-tenured faculty, to their third year, for one academic year beginning September 1, 2025:
Third Year:
Angela Northrup
Dina Mounitz
Gaelle Duvivier
Kathlen Shankar
Action
Yeas: Watkins, Stilley, Eckert, Valentine, Wortendyke, Yeger and Swire-Hosein
Nays: 0
Abstentions: 0
Motion passed: 7 yeas, 0 nays, 0 abstentions
February 24, 2025
Resolution 3-2025: Approval for Reappointment of Non-Tenured Faculty for Academic Year 2025-2026 4th Year
Date: February 24, 2025
To: Board of Trustees
From: Dr. Scott J. Kalicki, Officer in Charge
Subject: Approval for Reappointment of Non-Tenured Faculty for Academic Year 2025-2026 4th Year
MOTION
A motion by Trustee Wortendyke, second by Vice Chair Stilley, and
WHEREAS, The Agreement by and between SUNY Rockland Community College, the County of Rockland and the Rockland Community College Federation of Teachers (RCCFT) Local 1871 requires that persons with term appointments be notified of their reappointment by the last day of February; and
WHEREAS, The SUNY Rockland Community College Reappointment, Tenure and Promotion (RTP) Policy requires that each candidate be reviewed and evaluated for renewal by a College RTP Committee; and
WHEREAS, The following non-tenured faculty have submitted to the RTP process and have been reviewed by a College RTP Committee and are recommended for reappointment by the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs; and
WHEREAS, The Officer-in-Charge has reviewed the recommendations of the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs and the College RTP Committees, and the faculty will be sent the required notification by February 28, 2025; be it therefore
RESOLVED, That the SUNY Rockland Community College Board of Trustees approves the reappointment of the following non-tenured faculty, to their fourth year, for one academic year beginning September 1, 2025:
Fourth Year:
Richard Ahrens
Stacy Casden
Rose Frowd
Marci Manela
Karen Schaffer
Matthew Siciliano
Dr. Kamil Woronowicz
Action
Yeas: Watkins, Stilley, Eckert, Valentine, Wortendyke, Yeger and Swire-Hosein
Nays: 0
Abstentions: 0
Motion passed: 7 yeas, 0 nays, 0 abstentions
February 24, 2025
Resolution 4-2025: Approval for Reappointment of Non-Tenured Faculty for Academic Year 2025-2026 5th Year
Date: February 24, 2025
To: Board of Trustees
From: Dr. Scott J. Kalicki, Officer in Charge
Subject: Approval for Reappointment of Non-Tenured Faculty for Academic Year 2025-2026 5th Year
MOTION
A motion by Trustee Wortendyke, second by Vice Chair Stilley, and
WHEREAS, The Agreement by and between SUNY Rockland Community College, the County of Rockland and the Rockland Community College Federation of Teachers (RCCFT) Local 1871 requires that persons with term appointments be notified of their reappointment by the last day of February; and
WHEREAS, The SUNY Rockland Community College Reappointment, Tenure and Promotion (RTP) Policy requires that each candidate be reviewed and evaluated for renewal by a School RTP Committee; and
WHEREAS, The following non-tenured faculty have submitted to the RTP process and have been reviewed by a College RTP Committee and are recommended for reappointment by the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs; and
WHEREAS, The Officer-in-Charge has reviewed the recommendations of the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs and the School RTP Committees, and the faculty will be sent the required notification by February 28, 2025; be it therefore
RESOLVED, That the SUNY Rockland Community College Board of Trustees approves the reappointment of the following non-tenured faculty, to their fifth year, for one academic year beginning September 1, 2025:
Fifth Year:
Amy Burgess
Dr. Alexander Brown
Nancy Chiocchi-McMorrow
Jeannine Kennedy
Martha Krawczyk
James Lee
Clare O’Dowd
Nancy Rosen
Dr. Rebha Sabharwal
Dr. Egbert Shillingford
Action
Yeas: Watkins, Stilley, Eckert, Valentine, Wortendyke, Yeger and Swire-Hosein
Nays: 0
Abstentions: 0
Motion passed: 7 yeas, 0 nays, 0 abstentions
February 24, 2025
Resolution 5-2025: Approval for Non-Reappointment of Non-Tenured Faculty for Academic Year 2025-2026
Date: February 24, 2025
To: Board of Trustees
From: Dr. Scott J. Kalicki, Officer in Charge
Subject: Approval for Non-Reappointment of Non-Tenured Faculty for Academic Year 2025-2026
MOTION
A motion by Trustee Wortendyke, second by Vice Chair Stilley, and
WHEREAS, The Agreement by and between SUNY Rockland Community College, the County of Rockland and the Rockland Community College Federation of Teachers (RCCFT) Local 1871 requires that persons with term appointments be notified of their reappointment by the last day of February; and
WHEREAS, The SUNY Rockland Community College Reappointment, Tenure and Promotion (RTP) Policy requires that each candidate be reviewed and evaluated for renewal by a College RTP Committee; and
WHEREAS, The following non-tenured faculty has submitted to the RTP process and has been reviewed by a College RTP Committee and is recommended for non-reappointment by the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs; and
WHEREAS, The Officer-in-Charge has reviewed the recommendations of the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs and the College RTP Committees, and the faculty will be sent the required notification by February 28, 2025; be it therefore
RESOLVED, That the SUNY Rockland Community College Board of Trustees approves the nonreappointment of the following non-tenured faculty, to the fifth year, effective June 30, 2025:
Non-Reappointment:
Bryan Berndt
Action
Yeas: Watkins, Stilley, Eckert, Valentine, Wortendyke, Yeger and Swire-Hosein
Nays: 0
Abstentions: 0
Motion passed: 7 yeas, 0 nays, 0 abstentions
February 24, 2025
Resolution 6-2025: Appointment of Director of Admissions
Date: February 24, 2025
To: Board of Trustees
From: Dr. Scott J. Kalicki, Officer in Charge
Subject: Appointment of Director of Admissions
MOTION
A motion by Trustee Wortendyke, second by Vice Chair Stilley, and WHEREAS, By Resolution 23-2023, the Rockland Community College Board of Trustees delegated hiring authority up to the level of Dean and Director to the Rockland Community College President without future Board approval; and WHEREAS, The College has identified a need for a Director of Admissions, responsible for the admission and recruitment of students, and the oversight of recruitment and enrollment technologies. The Director is responsible for the hiring, evaluation and supervision of the admissions, operations and recruitment teams, as well as the recruitment and implementation of all specialty programs, such as the High School Program and Early Admits; and WHEREAS, The College has conducted a full and open search to identify the most qualified individual for the position of Director of Admissions; therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Rockland Community College Board of Trustees approves the appointment of Jason Hand to the position of Director of Admissions at an annual salary of $98,000.Action
Yeas: Watkins, Stilley, Eckert, Valentine, Wortendyke, Yeger and Swire-Hosein Nays: 0 Abstentions: 0 Motion passed: 7 yeas, 0 nays, 0 abstentions February 24, 2025
Resolution 7-2025: Approving A Retainer Agreement With Keane & Beane, P.C.
Date: February 24, 2025
To: Board of Trustees
From: L’Tanya Watkins, Board Chairperson
Subject: Approving A Retainer Agreement With Keane & Beane, P.C.
MOTION
A motion by Trustee Wortendyke, second by Trustee Swire-Hosein, and WHEREAS, The Rockland Community College Board of Trustees (“Board”) is in need of legal counsel for a confidential legal matter; and WHEREAS, The Board would like to retain Keane & Beane, P.C. to represent the board in this confidential legal matter; and be it RESOLVED, That the Rockland Community College Board of Trustees hereby authorized the Chair to enter into a Retainer Agreement with Keane and Beane, P.C. for the purpose of representing the board in this matter.Action
Yeas: Watkins, Stilley, Eckert, Valentine, Wortendyke and Swire-Hosein Nays: 0 Abstentions: Yeger Motion passed: 6 yeas, 0 nays, 1 abstentions February 24, 2025
Resolution 8-2025: Amending Resolution 2-2025 Approval for Reappointment of Non-Tenured Faculty for Academic Year 2025-2026 3rd Year
Date: March 24, 2025
To: Board of Trustees
From: Dr. Scott J. Kalicki, Officer in Charge
Subject: Amending Resolution 2-2025 Approval for Reappointment of Non-Tenured Faculty for Academic Year 2025-2026 3rd Year
MOTION
A motion by Trustee Yeger, second by Trustee Valentine, and
WHEREAS, The Agreement by and between SUNY Rockland Community College, the County of Rockland and the Rockland Community College Federation of Teachers (RCCFT) Local 1871 requires that persons with term appointments be notified of their reappointment by the last day of February; and
WHEREAS, The Rockland Community College Reappointment, Tenure and Promotion (RTP) Policy requires that each candidate be reviewed and evaluated for renewal by a College RTP Committee; and
WHEREAS, By Resolution 2-2025 the SUNY Rockland Community College Board of Trustees approved the appointment of four non-tenured faculty, to their third year, for one academic year beginning September 1, 2025; be it therefore
RESOLVED, That the Rockland Community College Board of Trustees approves an amendment to Resolution 2-2025 by adding Frederick-John Benedict and removing Kathlen Shankar from the list of those reappointed to their third year
Action
Yeas: Watkins, Stilley, Gruber, Valentine, Wortendyke, Yeger and Swire-Hosein
Nays: 0
Abstentions: 0
Motion passed: 7 yeas, 0 nays, 0 abstentions
March 24, 2025
Resolution 9-2025: Amending Resolution 3-2025 Approval for Reappointment of Non-Tenured Faculty for Academic Year 2025-2026 4th Year
Date: March 24, 2025
To: Board of Trustees
From: Dr. Scott J. Kalicki, Officer in Charge
Subject: Amending Resolution 3-2025 Approval for Reappointment of Non-Tenured Faculty for Academic Year 2025-2026 4th Year
MOTION
A motion by Trustee Yeger, second by Trustee Valentine, and
WHEREAS, The Agreement by and between SUNY Rockland Community College, the County of Rockland and the Rockland Community College Federation of Teachers (RCCFT) Local 1871 requires that persons with term appointments be notified of their reappointment by the last day of February; and
WHEREAS, The Rockland Community College Reappointment, Tenure and Promotion (RTP) Policy requires that each candidate be reviewed and evaluated for renewal by a College RTP Committee; and
WHEREAS, By Resolution 3-2025 the Rockland Community College Board of Trustees approved the appointment of four non-tenured faculty, to their fourth year, for one academic year beginning September 1, 2025; be it therefore
RESOLVED, That the Rockland Community College Board of Trustees approves an amendment to Resolution 3-2025 by adding Kathlen Shankar and removing Stacey Casden from the list of those reappointed to their fourth year.
Action
Yeas: Watkins, Stilley, Gruber, Valentine, Wortendyke, Yeger and Swire-Hosein
Nays: 0
Abstentions: 0
Motion passed: 7 yeas, 0 nays, 0 abstentions
March 24, 2025
Resolution 10-2025: Amending Resolution 4-2025 Approval for Reappointment of Non-Tenured Faculty for Academic Year 2025-2026 5th Year
Date: March 24, 2025
To: Board of Trustees
From: Dr. Scott J. Kalicki, Officer in Charge
Subject: Amending Resolution 4-2025 Approval for Reappointment of Non-Tenured Faculty for Academic Year 2025-2026 5th Year
MOTION
A motion by Trustee Yeger, second by Trustee Valentine, and
WHEREAS, The Agreement by and between SUNY Rockland Community College, the County of Rockland and the Rockland Community College Federation of Teachers (RCCFT) Local 1871 requires that persons with term appointments be notified of their reappointment by the last day of February; and
WHEREAS, The Rockland Community College Reappointment, Tenure and Promotion (RTP) Policy requires that each candidate be reviewed and evaluated for renewal by a College RTP Committee; and
WHEREAS, By Resolution 4-2025 the SUNY Rockland Community College Board of Trustees approved the appointment of four non-tenured faculty, to their fifth year, for one academic year beginning September 1, 2025; be it therefore
RESOLVED, That the Rockland Community College Board of Trustees approves an amendment to Resolution 4-2025 by adding Stacey Casden to the list of those reappointed to their fifth year.
Action
Yeas: Watkins, Stilley, Gruber, Valentine, Wortendyke, Yeger and Swire-Hosein
Nays: 0
Abstentions: 0
Motion passed: 7 yeas, 0 nays, 0 abstentions
March 24, 2025
Resolution 11-2025: Approval of Reappointment of Non-Tenured Faculty for Academic Year 2025-2026 6th Year
Date: March 24, 2025
To: Board of Trustees
From: Dr. Scott Kalicki, Officer in Charge
Subject: Approval of Reappointment of Non-Tenured Faculty for Academic Year 2025-2026 6th Year
MOTION
A motion by Trustee Yeger, second by Trustee Valentine, and
WHEREAS, The Agreement by and between SUNY Rockland Community College, the County of Rockland and the Rockland Community College Federation of Teachers (RCCFT) Local 1871 requires that persons with term appointments be notified of their reappointment by the last day of March; and
WHEREAS, The SUNY Rockland Community College Reappointment, Tenure and Promotion (RTP) Policy requires that each candidate be reviewed and evaluated for renewal by a College RTP Committee; and
WHEREAS, The following non-tenured faculty have submitted to the RTP process and have been reviewed by a College RTP Committee and are recommended for reappointment by the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs; and
WHEREAS, The Officer in Charge has reviewed the recommendations of the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs and the College RTP Committees, and the faculty will be sent the required notification by March 31, 2025; be it therefore
RESOLVED, That the SUNY Rockland Community College Board of Trustees approves the reappointment of the following non-tenured faculty, to the sixth year, for one academic year beginning September 1, 2025:
6th Year:
Dominic Dimare
Action
Yeas: Watkins, Stilley, Gruber, Valentine, Wortendyke, Yeger and Swire-Hosein
Nays: 0
Abstentions: 0
Motion passed: 7 yeas, 0 nays, 0 abstentions
March 24, 2025
Resolution 12-2025: Approval of Reappointment, Promotion and Grant of Tenure to Non-Tenured Faculty, for Academic Year 2025-2026
Date: March 24, 2025
To: Board of Trustees
From: Dr. Scott Kalicki, Officer in Charge
Subject: Approval of Reappointment, Promotion and Grant of Tenure to Non-Tenured Faculty, for Academic Year 2025-2026
MOTION
A motion by Trustee Yeger, second by Trustee Valentine, and
WHEREAS, The Agreement by and between SUNY Rockland Community College, the County of Rockland and the Rockland Community College Federation of Teachers (RCCFT) Local 1871 requires that persons with term appointments be notified of their reappointment by the last day of March; and
WHEREAS, The SUNY Rockland Community College Reappointment, Tenure and Promotion (RTP) Policy requires that each candidate be reviewed and evaluated for renewal by the College RTP Committee; and
WHEREAS, Non-tenured faculty have submitted to the RTP process and recommendation for reappointment, promotion and grant of tenure has been reviewed and are endorsed by the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs; and
WHEREAS, The Officer in Charge has reviewed the recommendations of the College RTP Committee, and the faculty members will be sent the required notification by March 31, 2025; be it therefore
RESOLVED, That the SUNY Rockland Community College Board of Trustees approves the Reappointment and grant of tenure to the following faculty effective September 1, 2025, and be it further
RESOLVED, That, per the RCCFT contract, the following shall be granted promotion to Assistant Professor, effective September 1, 2025:
Kristian Dougherty
Christopher Flatley
Sara Macel
Action
Yeas: Watkins, Stilley, Gruber, Valentine, Wortendyke, Yeger and Swire-Hosein
Nays: 0
Abstentions: 0
Motion passed: 7 yeas, 0 nays, 0 abstentions
March 24, 2025
Resolution 13-2025: Approval to amend the Academic Grading Policy
Date: March 24, 2025
To: Board of Trustees
From: Dr. Scott Kalicki, Officer in Charge
Subject: Approval to amend the Academic Grading Policy
MOTION
A motion by Trustee Yeger, second by Trustee Valentine, and
WHEREAS, The current Academic Grading policy was reviewed and modified by the Academic Standards Committee; and
WHEREAS, The Faculty Senate recommends this policy be amended in order to ensure that the policy meets the standards set forth by Rockland Community College; and
WHEREAS, The Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs reviewed the above referenced academic grading policy and recommends approval of the amendment to the policy; and
WHEREAS, The Officer in Charge endorses this recommendation; be it therefore
RESOLVED, That the Rockland Community College Board of Trustees amends this policy to read as follows:
Action
Yeas: Watkins, Stilley, Gruber, Valentine, Wortendyke, Yeger and Swire-Hosein
Nays: 0
Abstentions: 0
Motion passed: 7 yeas, 0 nays, 0 abstentions
March 24, 2025
Resolution 14-2025 (former Resolution 17-2025): Approval to Increase the Threshold for Professional Services
Date: March 24, 2025
To: Board of Trustees
From: Dr. Scott Kalicki, Officer in Charge
Subject: Approval to Increase the Threshold for Professional Services
MOTION
A motion by Trustee Yeger, second by Trustee Valentine, and
WHEREAS, Section 104-b of the General Municipal Law requires local governments to promulgate policies for purchases below the competitive bidding thresholds of the General Municipal Law; and
WHEREAS, In accordance with the revised County of Rockland procurement changes, the College wishes to increase the threshold for Professional Services from $35,000 to $75,000; therefore, be it
RESOLVED, that the Rockland Community College Board of Trustees approves the adoption of the increased threshold for professional services.
Action
Yeas: Watkins, Stilley, Gruber, Valentine, Wortendyke, Yeger and Swire-Hosein
Nays: 0
Abstentions: 0
Motion passed: 7 yeas, 0 nays, 0 abstentions
March 24, 2025
Resolution 15-2025: Approval of the Revised Incomplete Grade Policy
Date: April 28, 2025
To: Board of Trustees
From: Dr. Scott Kalicki, Officer in Charge
Subject: Approval of the Revised Incomplete Grade Policy
MOTION
A motion by Trustee Yeger, second by Trustee Swire-Hosein, and
WHEREAS, The current Incomplete Grade Policy was reviewed and revised by the Faculty Senate; and
WHEREAS, The Faculty Senate revised the Incomplete Grade Policy to ensure that the policy meets the standards set forth by Rockland Community College; and
WHEREAS, The Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs reviewed the above referenced incomplete grade policy and recommends approval of the amendment to the policy; and
WHEREAS, The Officer in Charge endorses this recommendation; be it therefore
RESOLVED, That the Rockland Community College Board of Trustees approves the revised Incomplete Grade Policy to read as follows:
See the Incomplete Grade Policy
Action
Yeas: Watkins, Stilley, Eckert, Gruber, Valentine, Wortendyke, Yeger and Swire-Hosein
Nays: 0
Abstentions: 0
Motion passed: 8 yeas, 0 nays, 0 abstentions
April 28, 2025
Resolution 16-2025: Approval to amend the policy on Academic Freedom
Date: April 28, 2025
To: Board of Trustees
From: Dr. Scott Kalicki, Officer in Charge
Subject: Approval to amend the policy on Academic Freedom
MOTION
A motion by Trustee Yeger, second by Trustee Swire-Hosein, and
WHEREAS, Rockland Community College (RCC) as a unit of the State University of New York (SUNY), observes general SUNY policies, and follows SUNY guidelines overseeing all teaching and learning activities; and
WHEREAS, As SUNY’s Academic Freedom policy only applies to the state-operated campuses there is a need for RCC to have an approved policy on Academic Freedom; and
WHEREAS, The Faculty Senate has approved the adoption of the Academic Freedom Policy (see attached) authored by the SUNY Faculty Counsel and approved by the SUNY Board of Trustees, which is included in the SUNY Policies of the Board of Trustees dated April 2024; and
WHEREAS, The Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs reviewed the above referenced policy and recommends adoption of the amendment to SUNY’s academic freedom policy; and
WHEREAS, The Officer in Charge endorses this recommendation; be it therefore
RESOLVED, That the Rockland Community College Board of Trustees approves the procedures set by SUNY regarding Academic Freedom
See the Academic Freedom Policy
Action
Yeas: Watkins, Stilley, Eckert, Gruber, Valentine, Wortendyke, Yeger and Swire-Hosein
Nays: 0
Abstentions: 0
Motion passed: 8 yeas, 0 nays, 0 abstentions
April 28, 2025
Resolution 17-2025: Approval to amend the policy on Copyright and Faculty Ownership of Intellectual Property
Date: April 28, 2025
To: Board of Trustees
From: Dr. Scott Kalicki, Officer in Charge
Subject: Approval to amend the policy on Copyright and Faculty Ownership of Intellectual Property
MOTION
A motion by Trustee Yeger, second by Trustee Swire-Hosein, and
WHEREAS, Rockland Community College (RCC) as a unit of the State University of New York (SUNY), observes general SUNY policies, and follows SUNY guidelines overseeing all teaching and learning activities; and
WHEREAS, As SUNY’s copyright policy only applies to the state-operated campuses there is a need for RCC to have an approved policy on Copyright and Faculty Ownership of Intellectual Property; and
WHEREAS, The Faculty Senate has approved the adoption of the Patents, Inventions and Copyright Policy (see attached) authored by the SUNY Faculty Counsel and approved by the SUNY Board of Trustees, which is included in the SUNY Policies of the Board of Trustees dated April 2024; and
WHEREAS, The Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs reviewed the above referenced policy and recommends adoption of the amended SUNY’s copyright policy; and
WHEREAS, The Officer in Charge endorses this recommendation; be it therefore
RESOLVED, That the Rockland Community College Board of Trustees approves the procedures set by SUNY regarding Copyright and Faculty Ownership of Intellectual Property, including the common-law exception from the work-for-hire rule for faculty work (see attached); be it therefore also
RESOLVED, That the RCC policy further clarifies that faculty own the copyright under the academic work-for-hire exception embedded in SUNY’s copyright policy.
See the Policy on Copyright and Faculty Ownership of Intellectual Property
Action
Yeas: Watkins, Stilley, Eckert, Gruber, Valentine, Wortendyke, Yeger and Swire-Hosein
Nays: 0
Abstentions: 0
Motion passed: 8 yeas, 0 nays, 0 abstentions
April 28, 2025
Resolution 18-2025: Approval of the Revised Late Withdrawal Policy
Date: April 28, 2025
To: Board of Trustees
From: Dr. Scott Kalicki, Officer in Charge
Subject: Approval of the Revised Late Withdrawal Policy
MOTION
A motion by Trustee Yeger, second by Trustee Swire-Hosein, and
WHEREAS, The current Late Withdrawal Policy was reviewed and revised by the Faculty Senate; and
WHEREAS, The Faculty Senate revised the Late Withdrawal Policy to ensure that the policy meets the standards set forth by Rockland Community College; and
WHEREAS, The Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs reviewed the above referenced Late Withdrawal policy and recommends approval of the amendment to the policy; and
WHEREAS, The President/Officer in Charge endorses this recommendation; be it therefore
RESOLVED, That the Rockland Community College Board of Trustees approves the revised Policy as follows:
See the Late Withdrawal Policy
Action
Yeas: Watkins, Stilley, Eckert, Gruber, Valentine, Wortendyke, Yeger and Swire-Hosein
Nays: 0
Abstentions: 0
Motion passed: 8 yeas, 0 nays, 0 abstentions
April 28, 2025
Resolution 19-2025: Rescinding Resolution 14-2023 - Establishment of Effective Tuition Rate Balancing
Date: April 28, 2025
To: Board of Trustees
From: Dr. Scott Kalicki, Officer in Charge
Subject: Rescinding Resolution 14-2023 – Establishment of Effective Tuition Rate Balancing
MOTION
A motion by Trustee Yeger, second by Trustee Swire-Hosein, and
WHEREAS, The Rockland Community College (RCC) Board of Trustees established an effective tuition rate balancing by way of Resolution 14-2023 in order to more effectively recruit students from neighboring states to level their in-state and out-of-state tuition rates; and
WHEREAS, The RCC Board of Trustees desires to rescind the previously approved Resolution 14-2023; therefore, be it
RESOLVED, The RCC Board of Trustees rescinds Resolution 14-2023 – Establishment of Effective Tuition Rate Balancing effective the Fall 2026 semester.
Action
Yeas: Watkins, Stilley, Eckert, Gruber, Valentine, Wortendyke, Yeger and Swire-Hosein
Nays: 0
Abstentions: 0
Motion passed: 8 yeas, 0 nays, 0 abstentions
April 28, 2025
Resolution 20-2025: Approving Best Value Procurement Method
Date: April 28, 2025
To: Board of Trustees
From: Dr. Scott Kalicki, Officer in Charge
Subject: Approving Best Value Procurement Method
MOTION
A motion by Trustee Yeger, second by Trustee Swire-Hosein, and
WHEREAS, Rockland Community College desires to utilize the Best Value (“Best Value”) Procurement Method in accordance with New York State General Municipal Law, Section 103 for the procurement of certain goods, materials, equipment, and/or services (except construction services) when the College determines that it can expect long-term savings through the use of life-cycle cost methodology, the use of more sustainable goods and materials, and reduced administrative costs; and
WHEREAS, Best Value is the basis for awarding purchase contracts, including contracts for service work, to the offeror, which optimizes quality, cost, and efficiency among responsive and responsible offerors. Such basis shall reflect, wherever possible, objective and quantifiable analysis. Such basis may also identify a quantitative factor for offerors that are small businesses, certified minority- or women-owned business enterprises as defined in subdivisions one, seven, fifteen, and twenty of section three hundred ten of the Executive Law or service-disabled veteran-owned business enterprises as defined in subdivision one of section three hundred sixty-nine-h of the Executive Law to be used in evaluation of offers for awarding of purchase contracts, including contracts for service work; and
WHEREAS, For this purpose, the term “purchase contract” includes contracts for commodities, materials, supplies, equipment and service work, but excludes contracts necessary for the completion of a public works contract covered by the prevailing wage provisions of Article 8 of the Labor Law, such as for building construction; and
WHEREAS, If minority and women-owned business enterprise (“MWBE”), small business or nonprofit status requirements are of a concern to the College regarding procurement; or if the funding source (federal or state) prefers the best value award methodology; the best value award methodology may be used; and
WHEREAS, Approving the use of the Best Value Award methodology is required in order to purchase from national cooperative purchasing contracts such as Omnia Partners, Sourcewell and E&I Cooperative, as well as certain County contracts; and
WHEREAS, The Rockland County Procurement Policy details the procedures for use of the Best Value Award methodology; now therefore be it
RESOLVED, The Rockland Community Board of Trustees authorizes the use of the Best Value Award Methodology in accordance with New York State General Municipal Law, Section 103 and the Rockland County Procurement Policy.
Action
Yeas: Watkins, Stilley, Eckert, Gruber, Valentine, Wortendyke, Yeger and Swire-Hosein
Nays: 0
Abstentions: 0
Motion passed: 8 yeas, 0 nays, 0 abstentions
April 28, 2025
Resolution 21-2025: Adopting the Memorandum of Agreement with the County of Rockland and Adopting the Rockland County’s Procurement Policy as the Official Procurement Policy of Rockland Community College
Date: April 28, 2025
To: Board of Trustees
From: Dr. Scott Kalicki, Officer in Charge
Subject: Adopting the Memorandum of Agreement with the County of Rockland and Adopting the Rockland County’s Procurement Policy as the Official Procurement Policy of Rockland Community College
MOTION
A motion by Trustee Yeger, second by Trustee Swire-Hosein, and
WHEREAS, New York General Municipal Law§ 104-b requires the Board of Trustees of Rockland Community College (“College”) to adopt internal policies and procedures governing all procurements of goods and services which are not required to be made pursuant to the competitive bidding requirements of General Municipal Law§ 103; and
WHEREAS, The Board of Trustees of Rockland Community College have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding between the College and the County of Rockland’s (“County”) Purchasing Division to manage the College’s procurement function including but not limited to reviewing purchase requisitions for compliance with the Rockland County’s Procurement Policy, obtaining the required quotations if necessary and drafting, publishing, receiving, and analyzing all competitive bids and requests for proposals on behalf of the College, making award recommendations to the Rockland Community College’s Administration and Board of Trustees and issuing Purchase Orders on behalf of Rockland Community College; and
WHEREAS, The College will remain financially responsible for all purchases and contracts; and now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That that the Board of Trustees of Rockland Community College hereby adopts the Memorandum of Understanding between Rockland Community College and the County of Rockland through its Purchasing Division to manage the college’s procurement function including but not limited to reviewing purchase requisitions for compliance with the Rockland County’s Procurement Policy, obtaining the required quotations if necessary and drafting, publishing, receiving, and analyzing all competitive bids and requests for proposals on behalf of the College, making award recommendations to the Rockland Community College’s Administration and Board of Trustees and issuing Purchase Orders on behalf of Rockland Community College; and be it further
RESOLVED, That the Board of Trustees of Rockland Community College hereby approves the adoption of the attached County of Rockland Procurement Policy to be the official Procurement Policy of Rockland Community College for the duration of the Memorandum of Understanding between the College and Rockland County.
Action
Yeas: Watkins, Stilley, Eckert, Gruber, Valentine, Wortendyke, Yeger and Swire-Hosein
Nays: 0
Abstentions: 0
Motion passed: 8 yeas, 0 nays, 0 abstentions
April 28, 2025
Resolution 22-2025: Approval to increase the Student Activity Fee for Academic Year 2025-2026
Date: April 28, 2025
To: Board of Trustees
From: Dr. Scott Kalicki, Officer in Charge
Subject: Approval to increase the Student Activity Fee for Academic Year 2025-2026
MOTION
A motion by Trustee Yeger, second by Trustee Swire-Hosein, and
WHEREAS, an increase in the Student Activity Fee from $74 to $100 for full-time students and $4.50 to $6 per credit hours for part-time students (both excluding intersessions), and,
WHEREAS, this increase would provide critical initiatives that enrich student engagement, foster a sense of community, and strengthen retention and academic success, and
WHEREAS, this fee has been unchanged for 11 years since Resolution 21 – 2014, therefore be it
RESOLVED, that the Rockland Community College Board of Trustees approves an increase in the Student Activity Fee for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Action
Yeas: Watkins, Stilley, Eckert, Gruber, Valentine, Wortendyke, Yeger and Swire-Hosein
Nays: 0
Abstentions: 0
Motion passed: 8 yeas, 0 nays, 0 abstentions
April 28, 2025
(Resolution 23-2025: Approval of the 2025-2026 Budget
Date: April 28, 2025
To: Board of Trustees
From: Dr. Scott Kalicki, Officer in Charge
Subject: Approval of 2025-2026 Budget
MOTION
A motion by Trustee Yeger, second by Trustee Swire-Hosein, and
WHEREAS, The Board of Trustees of Rockland Community College has reviewed and determined the appropriate fiscal policy to be represented in the College’s fiscal 2025-2026 budget; and
WHEREAS, the expenditures of unrestricted funds total $61,853,958 and are appropriate to meeting the mission and goals of the institution; therefore, be it
RESOLVED, that the Rockland Community College Board of Trustees approves the attached operating budget as the College’s proposed budget for fiscal year 2025-2026.
Action
Yeas: Watkins, Stilley, Eckert, Gruber, Valentine, Wortendyke, Yeger and Swire-Hosein
Nays: 0
Abstentions: 0
Motion passed: 8 yeas, 0 nays, 0 abstentions
April 28, 2025
(DRAFT) Resolution 8-2025: Approval of Reappointment of Non-Tenured Faculty for Academic Year 2025-2026 2nd Year
Date: March 27, 2025
To: Board of Trustees
From: Dr. Scott Kalicki, Officer in Charge
Subject: Approval of Reappointment of Non-Tenured Faculty for Academic Year 2025-2026 2nd Year
WHEREAS, The Agreement by and between SUNY Rockland Community College, the County of Rockland and the Rockland Community College Federation of Teachers (RCCFT) Local 1871 requires that persons with term appointments be notified of their reappointment by the last day of March; and
WHEREAS, The SUNY Rockland Community College Reappointment, Tenure and Promotion (RTP) Policy requires that each candidate be reviewed and evaluated for renewal by a College RTP Committee; and
WHEREAS, The following non-tenured faculty have submitted to the RTP process and have been reviewed by a College RTP Committee and are recommended for reappointment by the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs; and
WHEREAS, The Officer-in-Charge has reviewed the recommendations of the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs and the College RTP Committees, and the faculty will be sent the required notification by March 31, 2025; be it therefore
RESOLVED, That the SUNY Rockland Community College Board of Trustees approves the reappointment of the following non-tenured faculty, to the second year, for one academic year beginning September 1, 2025:
2nd Year:
Frederick-John Benedict