Meeting Minutes 03/12/2025
Aiken County Commission for Higher Education
March 12, 2025
Business and Education Building, Room 276
ACCHE Members Present: Teresa Haas, Clarence Jackson, Jackie Busbee, Tim Simmons, Chip Marvin, LaWana Mckenzie, Phil Bridgmon, Dan Heimmermann
USCA Staff Present: Mary Driscoll, Christen Engel, Ernest Pringle, Cam Reagin, Ahmed Samaha, Todd Wilkinson and Julie Radford.
ACCHE Members Not Present: Corey Murphy, Sharon Marra, Debra Gantt, Sallye Rich, Joe Lewis
Chair Haas called the meeting to order at 5:03 p.m. She stated the notice of the meeting had been published in accordance with the South Carolina Freedom of Information Act.
Motion from Mr. Tim Simmons to approve minutes from the last meeting. Mr. Clarence Jackson seconded the motion. The motion was approved.
Chair’s Report: The Joint Meeting with Aiken County Council will take place next Wednesday night in the SAC Mezz at 5:30 p.m. This marks the third year of the meeting, which was established to help County Council members gain a better understanding of the university.
Additionally, Mary Driscoll will be retiring in a few months, and there is still some time remaining to work with her before her departure.
Executive Committee: No report
Finance Committee Report: All necessary paperwork and documentation have been completed, ensuring proper financial access and authorization for key individuals on Vanguard accounts. Chip has limited authority, while Teresa and Cam are authorized for signatures.
The cash balance remains stable, with only a minor variance from the usual level, posing no concern. The Vanguard stock market index has seen a recent decline due to market fluctuations, but no adjustments to cash allocation are recommended. The bond fund, designed to reduce volatility, has maintained steady performance with only slight fluctuations over recent months.
For the millage rate with Aiken County, and all payables are up to date. A review of asset balances over the past several years confirms financial stability, using a rolling average to guide spending assessments. The accounts have grown significantly, supporting major projects while preserving financial flexibility. While there are no immediate spending obligations, funds remain available for strategic initiatives.
At this time, no approvals are required, as necessary funds for annual maintenance have already been transferred.
Buildings and Grounds: Ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new softball field will be on April 5th. While the construction of the field lights will not be completed for this season, they will be installed in the future. Additionally, construction will soon begin on team offices and locker rooms, expanding the existing public restroom facility.
The AMC remains on track for completion in June 2025. Efforts are being made to ensure Senator Graham and other key officials are involved in upcoming planning meetings. Although some scheduling adjustments may push the opening of the AMC into July. The Cyber Integration Center groundbreaking will be near Memorial Day, more details will be provided at a later date.
Several maintenance projects are scheduled for the summer, including roof repairs, pond cleaning behind Ruth Patrick Science Education Center, and energy-related projects. The design phase for the soccer facility is nearly complete, with construction expected to begin in May 2025. This facility will be like the softball field, featuring artificial turf, public restrooms, and relocated bleachers on a concrete pad. Additional fundraising efforts, led by Mary, are being explored to fund team offices and locker rooms. Both men’s and women’s soccer teams will use the facility, which is estimated to be ready by Fall 2026. The soccer field will be situated at a higher elevation than the softball field, creating a distinctive visual layout.
Chancellor’s Report: The Chancellor’s report highlighted numerous positive developments at USC Aiken. Enrollment remains strong, with spring enrollment up 9.4% compared to last year. A new Vice Chancellor for Enrollment Management, previously from Augusta University, will join on April 1st. Legislative efforts are ongoing, with advocacy for tuition mitigation and funding for science building renovations. Leadership searches are ongoing for key positions, including deans for the School of Education and School of Business, as well as the Vice Chancellor for Development and Alumni Affairs. Additionally, USC Aiken will host the South Carolina Supreme Court in the fall, providing a unique educational opportunity and publicity for the campus. Engineering programs continue to expand, with over 200 students enrolled, and the proposal for a new electrical engineering degree will soon be reviewed by the Board of Trustees. Facilities development is also progressing, with discussions on public-private partnerships to enhance campus infrastructure, particularly student housing. In athletics, the men’s basketball team won the Peach Belt Tournament and secured a spot in the NCAA tournament, while a search is underway for a new women’s basketball coach following Coach Mark’s resignation. The new downtown mixed-use building on Newberry Street will feature a dedicated USC Aiken space showcasing workforce development initiatives.
Additional Announcements: Chair Haas expressed her appreciation for the information in the packet and highlighted a few key updates. She noted the recent golf tournaments, the USCA and Cleveland Classic, where USCA's Oscar Abrahamsson secured a thrilling playoff victory on hole 16, and the USCA team finished second overall, just behind Clemson. She also mentioned ongoing discussions regarding the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Wagner, noting that the school district has provided feedback and raised concerns about student data access. Additionally, there was an update on the security manual developed by CNTA. Teresa inquired about Wagner's continued interest in collaboration, mentioning previous engagements with the town’s mayor and administrator. She also highlighted a partnership with Amazon to enhance student internship opportunities.
Further, Teresa asked about the Study aboard program. Ahmed Samaha stated that the program has seen a 103% increase in participation, with students traveling to Costa Rica and Italy for short-term programs, mostly lasting about two to three and half weeks. She emphasized the importance of ensuring proper coordination and travel insurance for these experiences.
Chair Haas called attention to upcoming events, including the Aiken County Council meeting next Wednesday and commencement on May 7. She also noted that at the May 14 meeting, there would be a demonstration of the Steinway piano, then a meeting afterward.
Motion to adjourn meeting by Tim Simmons, second by Lawana. The meeting was adjourned at 5:40 p.m.