Meeting Summary and Briefs: Prairie State College Board of Trustees for March 25, 2025

The Prairie State College (PSC) Board of Trustees meeting on March 25, 2025, was highlighted by a detailed presentation showcasing significant growth and high achievement in the college’s Allied Health and Emergency Services programs. Administrators celebrated exceptional student pass rates in nursing and other fields, as well as the expansion of paramedic and fire science training capabilities. For more details, see our full story on the thriving healthcare programs.

In a more sobering discussion, college leaders addressed their contingency planning in the face of potential federal funding cuts to the vital TRIO student support program. President Dr. Michael D. Anthony assured the board that protecting staff and student services remains the top priority. Read our in-depth article on the college’s strategic response to this financial uncertainty. The board also formally accepted a positive financial audit for fiscal year 2024. Other business included staff recognitions and approvals of routine items.

Pioneer Award Honors Pat Scott-Bagby
Pat Scott-Bagby, Administrative Assistant for Allied Health and Emergency Services, received the Pioneer Award for her outstanding contributions and exceptional performance. Dean Andy Binanti, who nominated her, praised Scott-Bagby for her dedication, professionalism, and willingness to take on critical tasks that ensure the division runs smoothly. He noted her work “inspires those around her and fosters a collaborative environment.”

College Bids Farewell to Dr. Marie Hansel
The board recognized Dr. Marie Hansel, who is officially retiring after a long and distinguished career at Prairie State College. Following her retirement in 2020, Dr. Hansel returned to serve in several crucial interim roles, including Dean of Allied Health and Interim Director of Nursing. Dr. Derek Shouba, Vice President of Academic Affairs, called her “an amazing nursing leader” and thanked her for her invaluable service, leadership, and expertise.

Librarian’s Contract Approved
The board approved a 2025-2026 academic year contract for Diane Anderson, an Instruction and Reference Librarian and Assistant Professor. Dr. Derek Shouba explained that her contract was inadvertently omitted from the list of faculty contracts approved at the previous month’s meeting. Administrators praised Anderson, with Dean William Condon calling her a “great addition to the team” that the college needs.

Faculty, Student Reports Highlight Campus Vitality
Professor Valerie Nicolson, speaking for the faculty, praised the supportive and non-competitive campus culture as a key reason for student success. She also highlighted the upcoming Humanities Day, which will feature a “Beatmaker boot camp” competition. Student Government Association President Daniela Nieves reported that recent campus events, including St. Patrick’s Day festivities and open houses, have been highly successful in promoting student engagement and involvement.

Routine Items Approved
The board unanimously approved its consent agenda, which included the minutes from the February 25, 2025, meeting and the list of bills payable for February 2025. The trustees also voted to continue the non-release of closed session minutes and to preserve the verbatim recordings of those sessions, in accordance with the Open Meetings Act.