Angelina College Board Reports Enrollment Boost and New Initiatives

The board of trustees at Angelina College convened on November 6, 2023, to discuss significant developments within the institution. Vice President Joey Garza initiated the meeting at 17:30, following a moment of silence. Among the highlights was a report from Vice President Krista Brown, who outlined a range of successful initiatives impacting student enrollment and services.

According to Brown, the college has experienced a 4.6% increase in enrollment for credit classes compared to the previous year. One of the key drivers of this growth has been the launch of the ReUp Education initiative last November, which encourages former students to reenroll and complete their degrees. Since its inception in the spring semester, 382 students have reenrolled, and five students have successfully graduated.

New Programs and Initiatives Expand Opportunities

The board also discussed the implementation of a new application system on September 1, aimed at addressing issues with automated bots. Additionally, the college expanded its “Friday Night Lights” scholarship program, which now includes select home games for the Diboll Lumberjacks, Huntington Red Devils, and Nacogdoches Dragons, alongside the Lufkin Panthers.

Financial aid figures have also seen a positive trend, with a remarkable 18.8% increase in recipients between the 2023-24 and 2024-25 academic years. Currently, 142 veterans are enrolled, and 317 students are benefiting from a first-year free tuition program, representing a 2% year-over-year increase, facilitated through a partnership with Stephen F. Austin State University.

Brown highlighted an emphasis on quality education, echoing the sentiment of College President Dr. Simon, who stated, “A good SFA means a great AC.” The meeting also showcased a new marquee sign at the college’s athletic complex, along with plans for enhancing athletic facilities.

Athletics and Student Success Initiatives

The college’s men’s basketball team previously advanced to the NJCAA “Elite Eight”, a feat credited to Head Coach and Athletic Director J.J. Montgomery. Brown noted that the athletic department has launched a new website, angelinaathletics.com, and proudly reported that 91% of the department’s sophomores graduated last year.

Trustee Dr. Sid Roberts inquired about the reasons behind the enrollment increase, to which Brown attributed the success to the ReUp partnership and the diligent efforts of Enrollment Manager Casey Gerard. Although the college is not yet back to pre-COVID enrollment levels, there remains potential for growth, particularly in dual-credit programs, as noted by Angela Johnson, head of AC’s dual-credit initiatives.

Further reports included updates on Title IX issues for the 2024-25 school year, with two complaints raised—one withdrawn and one currently under investigation. Andrea Barrett presented the Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP), highlighting improvements to the first-year experience course, which now includes eight modules. This redesigned approach encourages active participation through tasks rather than traditional quizzes.

Dr. Simon emphasized the importance of the QEP despite the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges no longer mandating them. He expressed appreciation for the thoroughness of the report, thanking Barrett and Vice President Tim Ditoro for their efforts, as well as Brand and Creative Manager Jessica Deel.

The board unanimously approved several items, including the minutes from the August meeting, the purchase of a portable X-ray machine funded by Perkins Grant money, and a policy for evaluating tenured faculty annually. They also agreed to pay off the library construction loan, following the discontinuation of a Title V grant from the Department of Education.

The meeting concluded with an executive session from 18:15 to 19:22, at which point the board approved its entire consent agenda, encompassing financial and personnel recommendations. The next official meeting is scheduled for December 10, 2023, at noon, marking a continued commitment to enhancing educational opportunities at Angelina College. The meeting adjourned at 19:29.