CCC Board Approves Faculty Raises, Clinical Agreements and Technology Upgrades
May 11, 2026
The Colby Community College Board of Trustees moved through a full agenda during its May 11 meeting, approving a series of academic agreements, faculty contract changes, and technology purchases while receiving updates on graduation, cybersecurity, athletics and fundraising efforts.
Board member Hines was absent due to a prior obligation, but the remaining trustees unanimously approved all action items on the agenda.
One of the most significant items of the evening was ratification of the newly negotiated faculty agreement, which includes a $2,450 annual salary increase for full-time faculty and staff covered under the contract. College President Seth Carter said the adjustment moves CCC from last place among 19 comparable Kansas community colleges in faculty compensation to fifth overall.
According to Carter’s board summation, the raise affects 123 employees and will cost the college an estimated $427,917 annually, including benefits. Trustees also approved an increase in the overload teaching rate from $650 to $685 per credit hour, ranking CCC fifth statewide in that category as well.
The board approved several memorandums of understanding to expand clinical opportunities for students in the Physical Therapist Assistant program. Agreements were approved with ARC Physical Therapy, Dundy County Hospital, Rehab Visions, and Sidney Regional Medical Center.
The partnership with Rehab Visions is particularly notable, adding access to as many as 55 clinical sites across Kansas, Nebraska, Missouri, Iowa and other states.
Vice President of Student Affairs Nikol Nolan reported that approximately 180 to 185 graduates are expected to participate in commencement ceremonies. Nolan noted that May is among the busiest times of the year as staff work simultaneously to close out the current academic year while preparing for the next.
Vice President of Academic Affairs Angel Morrison echoed that sentiment and also addressed a recent cyberattack involving college systems. Administrators said the institution responded quickly to contain the issue and believes only minimal information was exposed. Students were notified promptly and advised on steps they could take to protect themselves.
Vice President of Business Affairs Justin Villmer provided updates on the Core Campus student information system, progress on the planned residence hall project, and remodeling work in the campus cafeteria.
Athletic Director Kenny Hernandez reported that spring sports seasons for baseball and softball have concluded, while the national track and field championships are still ahead. He also informed trustees that the Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference has adopted a rule requiring 25 percent of each roster to consist of Kansas high school graduates beginning in fall 2026. Hernandez said CCC is already comfortably meeting that threshold.
The Colby Community College Endowment Foundation reported scholarship awards are up 24 percent over the previous year, a sign of continued donor support for students.
Trustees also approved revisions to five college policies, including those related to financial compliance, financial responsibility, petty cash and proctoring.
The board authorized the purchase of $55,793.66 in telecommunications equipment from C-Tech Associates. The equipment will be funded through the Kansas Department of Corrections and used to support CCC’s educational programming at correctional facilities in Norton and Hutchinson.
A list of surplus items, including livestock and books, was approved for disposal.
Trustees also accepted several resignations and one retirement. Among those departing are Head Track and Field Coach Sandra Glover, Assistant Women’s Basketball Coach Lauren Carmack, Assistant Equestrian Coach Sara Jamison, Equine Science Instructor Shanda Mattix, Norton Practical Nursing Instructor Rikki Wait, and Accounts Payable Manager Jane McDougal, who plans to retire in October.
Following the public meeting, trustees entered executive session for a total of 40 minutes to discuss non-elected personnel matters with Carter. No action was taken afterward.
The board then adjourned, bringing to a close a meeting that highlighted both the college’s ongoing investments in faculty and infrastructure and its efforts to expand opportunities for students in the classroom and beyond.