Meeting & Agendas

Minutes of July 19, 2012 were approved as submitted on motion by Herb Coleman and second by Haydeanna Gaviria. Minutes of August 8, 2012 were also approved with spelling corrections on a motion by Alejandra Polcik, second by Melissa Curtis.

Committee members were informed regarding the ACC internal URL at which they can obtain information on meeting time, dates, minutes and resources referenced during the meetings: http://www3.austincc.edu/it/meetingminutes/admin/admmain.php Members then click on “Success Equity Committee” on the list.

Melissa Curtis invited discussion on a proposed definition of equity. The subcommittee on data has also been discussing this question. A definition of this concept would be a helpful reference as the larger committee pursues its work. As discussion ensued members expressed frustration that a definition may be too general or ethereal to be useful. It has become clear that no common or standard definition exists. It is perhaps easier to identify or list inequities than to arrive at a universal definition that applies to all situations. At best, ACC and the committee may adopt a statement on equity that over time may change as issues within the college change. The current definition under discussion and as presented by Melissa follows: Austin Community College recognizes equity as the practice of equalizing students’ academic and cultural capital so that all students have the opportunity to navigate the college experience and succeed academically. Equitable practices leverage ACC resources in such a way that students who traditionally have faced the most significant barriers to academic achievement will face fewer disadvantages and more opportunities for equitable educational outcomes. The ACC SSI Success and Equity Committee seeks to maximize opportunities for education access and success among students that may be in underrepresented classes, with a focus on students who are: Black, Hispanic, Lower economic status and Male. Ensuring equitable practices begins with an examination of systemic inequities – in institutional structure such as processes and organization, and in institutional culture – understanding that college systems influence each other and are interconnected. Critical analyses should be based upon evidence and accountability, and rooted in a culture of caring. Streamlining and organizing processes and practices will lead to a community that is committed to student access and success. Committee members agreed to think about and consider implications of the proposed definition and wait for another meeting to discuss and possibly adopt the above or similar statement.

4. Charlotte informed the group that the results of meeting held by the subcommittee on data, the following have been identified as relevant to the committee’s work: CCSSE, SENSE, Student Services Report, TIPS, and College Connection reports. A new and possibly useful data source has been gathered based on recent work by the OIEA team in response to a request by Dr. Rhodes. Willie Martinez, OIEA staff member, presented via power point various data points to support ACC’s application for Leadership College Status with Achieving the Dream. The report as yet has not been released for use by the college at large; however, new information and insight on equity is contained. The committee will await the work of the subcommittee.

5. Charlotte has researched the work on equity from Valencia Community College which has received national attention and recognition for their efforts. Richard will determine how Valencia’s Annual Equity Update Plan can be accessed by members.

Next Meeting – September 12, 2012, HBC 222, 3 pm.