The Seminole State College Board of Regents convened May 16 for their monthly meeting. The Board approved acceptance of a bid for improvements to the Enoch Kelly Haney Center parking area, a new campus wellness policy, the adoption of a strategic plan and the hiring of a new Vice President for Academic Affairs.

 Four action items were approved by the Board. First, the Board accepted a bid for American with Disabilities Act improvements to the Enoch Kelly Haney Center parking area. Construction will begin this summer to add handicap parking spaces and improve accessibility.

Second on the action agenda, the Board approved a new campus wellness policy that was developed with input from community representatives from Gateway to Prevention. It provides added activities and opportunities to emphasize healthy lifestyles among employees and students.

Third, the Board approved the adoption of the institution’s “Chartering the Future” strategic plan. The three-year plan will help the College with program development, budgeting and the Higher Learning Commission accreditation process.

 Fourth on the action agenda, the Board approved the hire of Dr. Larry Guerrero for the position of Vice President for Academic Affairs. His first day in the role will be June 3.

Dr. Guerrero received his doctorate of education in Applied Behavioral Studies at Oklahoma State University. He received both his master’s degree in Secondary Education and his bachelor’s degree in Health and Physical Education at Oklahoma City University. For the last four years, he has served as the Executive Vice President and Provost at the University of the Southwest in Hobbs, New Mexico. During his time at the University of the Southwest, he coordinated cored curriculum, lead the evaluation and assessment for the university, and maintained accreditation.

“Dr. Guerrero is a proven educational leader with extensive Higher Learning Commission accreditation experience.  I feel confident he will help electrify our efforts in student success and preparations for our upcoming HLC visit. He will be a great addition to our administrative team at Seminole State College,” President Reynolds said.

On the consent agenda, Board members approved modifications to four academic courses, a contract with the Bio Farms Division of Hempire for an industrial hemp pilot program and the 2019-2020 events and employee holiday schedule.

Board members present at the March meeting were: Chair Marci Donaho, Curtis Morgan, Ray McQuiston, and Kim Hyden.             The next regularly-scheduled SSC Board of Regents meeting is set for Thursday, June 20, 2019.