In addressing you this evening, I’d like to share some of the language from MCC’s

mission statement, our Board policies and our accrediting agency, Middle States,
regarding Leadership and Governance. In the interest of brevity, these quotes are only a
portion of the complete documents.

(Quote) “The governance structure (of an accredited institution) includes an active

governing body, or Board of Trustees, with sufficient autonomy to assure institutional
integrity and to fulfill its responsibilities consistent with the mission of the institution.

MCC’s mission is to provide access to high quality education and training programs to a
diverse community. Student success is the college’s highest priority.

Regardless of how appointed, the trustees’ primary responsibility is to the institution.

(They) should not let political or other influence interfere with (their) governing
body duties. Always the advocate and, when necessary, the defender of the institution,
the (Board) is responsible for the institution’s integrity and quality.

The board members should represent different points of view, interests, and experiences
as well as diversity in characteristics such as age, race, ethnicity, and gender. Governing
board composition should attempt to reflect student body profiles.

One of the major responsibilities of the (board) is to select the chief executive officer. It
is the (Board’s) responsibility to ensure that the selection process is established,
published, and followed. (I left this paragraph out as I was short on time.)

The Board is expected to conduct its business transactions with the integrity that is
expected under the law and the traditions of an institution of higher education.” (End of
quotes)

All Board members must be willing to follow the Board’s governing documents. Our
MCC Board implemented a Conflict of Interest Disclosure Policy in September 2006.
And despite clear language in the policy that the disclosure form is to be signed and
returned within 30 days of their appointment, Richard Mackey signed on Sunday, March
30, 2008, more than six months late, and John Parrinello finally signed on May 23,
2008, almost two full academic years late.

As you make recommendations and decisions on new board appointments, please keep
these statements in mind. Thank you.