GOVERNING BOARD MEMBERS MAY NOT TALK WITH ANY MEMBER OF THE 500-1,000 PART OR FULL-TIME STAFF WHILE CONDUCTING MANDATED STATUTORY VISITS TO CAMPUSES ACCORDING TO YAVAPAI COMMUNITY COLLEGE BOARD LAWYER

By R. Oliphant
Friday, January 17th, 2025

Discussion during visit with staff may result in raising serious accreditation issues

Newly elected Yavapai Community College Governing Board member Bill Kiel raised a question during the Governing Board’s January 14, 2025 workshop about the meaning of a provision found in section A(1) of Arizona Statute 14-1444. This statute directs a District Governing Board to visit and examine the management, conditions, and needs of each campus under its jurisdiction. Representative Kiel queried whether, during such a visit, a Yavapai Community College District Board member could ask questions of any of the 500 to 1,000 persons now employed by the College.

The statute reads as follows:

The Community College Board attorney indicated that Mr. Kiel could not. Rather, any question he might have must go to the president of Yavapai Community College. Moreover, a Board member could never, for example, attend a class alone and discuss a matter with a member of the staff.

The Board lawyer intimated in a somewhat confusing fashion that discussion with a staff member during a visit, or otherwise, could well raise serious accreditation questions.

Thus, the Board attorney’s opinion, as best the Blog can understand it, appears to tie the hands of any Board member learning or asking anything directly from any member of the staff during a Board visit or otherwise. One could argue that the 500 to 1,000 part-time and full-time employees and the District Governing Board are effectively muzzled when it comes to any interaction between them at any time. 

Please view the following video clip of the attorney providing a short response to Mr. Kiel’s question during the January 14, 2025 workshop for verification.

Categories : District Governing Board

PRESIDENT RHINE FORWARDS VAGUE LETTER WRITTEN BY GOVERNING BOARD CHAIR TO STAFF AND OTHERS ALLEGING FALSE MISINFORMATION ABOUT BOARD POLICY IS BEING CIRCULATED BY “ILLEGITIMATE BLOGS, WEBSITES, SOCIAL MEDIA, AND OPINIONATED NEWS ORGANIZATIONS”

By R. Oliphant
Thursday, January 16th, 2025

Chair McCasland’s letter lacks clarity and substance while ignoring controversial Policy 310, which has resulted in numerous articles and comments raising concerns over chilling free speech by threatening to fire any of the 500 to 1,000 full or part-time College employees who dare to communicate with any Governing Board member

Robert E. Oliphant

OPINION: Yavapai Community College president, Dr. Lisa Rhine, recently forwarded a letter to the Community College’s staff and others written by Yavapai Community College District Governing Board Chair Deb McCasland. In the letter, McCasland warned about “false information” being publicly disseminated, claiming the misinformation was coming from “illegitimate blogs, websites, social media, and opinionated news organizations.”

The most obvious failure of the letter was this: At best it was extremely vague. It lacked any specifics about the alleged misinformation she claimed was being disseminated. It failed to identify any of the media sources she deemed unreliable.  It provided no context whatsoever.

The glaring omissions in the letter cast significant doubt on the credibility and intent behind the claims. These omissions are especially troubling given her sweeping condemnation of the local news media—or is she even making such a condemnation? The lack of clarity leaves readers guessing.

When making such broad accusations, it seems to me that it is critical to identify the supposed false information and provide evidence to substantiate the broad claims being asserted. The letter should have named the various alleged “illegitimate blogs, websites, social media, and opinionated news organizations.” Without this information, the letter comes across as baseless and unhelpful. It is impossible to evaluate the validity of her warnings.

Notably, the letter sidestepped addressing the controversial Governing Board Policy 310, which has sparked significant commentary in the local news in recent weeks. Policy 310, enacted by a 4-1 vote of the outgoing Board in November, includes a contentious clause stating: “Under no circumstances should an individual Board member direct or contact by any means, a staff member concerning a college or community issue.” Critics, including this Blog, argue that this policy undermines the elected Board member’s role as representatives of Yavapai County taxpayers. It also reflects a troubling lack of trust in Board members and imposes what some see as an inappropriate or at least “chilling” restraint on free speech. The College disagrees.

Of interest, the letter written by McCasland briefly referenced Board Policy 401, a restatement of an existing policy that has not attracted notable controversy. By contrast, the ongoing public discussions and commentary have focused on Policy 310 and its implications.

Moreover, McCasland appeared determined to remind employees that President Rhine wielded nearly unchecked authority over them and anything classified by her as “operations.” However, McCasland’s remarks appeared to veer off course at times. She seemed to vaguely insinuate that the “misinformation” she mentioned in her letter was somehow tied to criticism of the staff’s exceptional work. Consider her statement:

“Despite what you may read in illegitimate blogs and websites, on social media, or from unsourced and opinionated ‘news’ organizations, your work is unmatched and life-changing. I would encourage you to disregard anything that alludes otherwise. Do not even entertain it.”

Yet, the Blog has found no recent articles publicly critical of staff. This statement, then, resembles what some might call a “red herring”—an attempt to mislead or distract. The fact is that recent commentary has been directed at the College’s executive leadership, particularly the troubling fixation on secrecy, suppression of free speech, and various financial and procurement practices.

In sum, Chair McCasland’ s decision to broadly dismiss criticism as “false information” without examples or context undermines her letter’s credibility. Instead of fostering transparency and addressing valid concerns, the letter appears to deflect attention away from legitimate issues while failing to provide clarity or constructive guidance.

The letter forwarded  to staff and others by president Rhine is found immediately below:

Categories : Editorials/Essays, Food Service, MULTI PURPOSE FIELD VERDE CAMPUS, OPINIONS, Politics

YAVAPAI COMMUNITY COLLEGE MAY BE LOSING DIRECTOR OF VITICULTURE AND ENOLOGY, MICHAEL PIERCE

By R. Oliphant
Friday, January 10th, 2025

An eleven year employee involved in the developing the enology/viticulture program, he has served in his current position for over six years: reliable sources claim he has given notice to College of his intent to resign 

Although Yavapai Community College has not officially confirmed his departure, reliable sources have informed the Blog that Michael Pierce, Director of the Viticulture and Enology program, has given two weeks’ notice of his resignation.

Pierce has been with the college for 11 years, serving as Director of the Viticulture and Enology program for more than six of those years. While there has been no formal announcement, it is thought that Pierce may have accepted a position with Arizona State University.

In addition to his role at Yavapai College, Pierce lists himself on LinkedIn as the winemaker for Pierce Wines Arizona, a role he has held for over 15 years. He is currently identified as the winemaker for the company.

Pierce’s journey into winemaking began as a hobby during his college years. According to a 2015 interview with Wines and Vines, Pierce studied electronic media and visual communication at Northern Arizona University, graduating in 2004. After graduation, he initially worked in print and web design but pursued his interest in winemaking by taking online viticulture and enology courses through the University of California, Davis, extension. In 2007, he transitioned to Washington State University’s program.

Pierce told the Wines and Vines interviewer that he gained practical experience by working harvest jobs in New Zealand, Oregon, and Tasmania (Australia). In 2010, he secured a winemaking position at Arizona Stronghold Vineyards. Four years later, he joined Yavapai Community College as the Director of Enology. In 2018, his responsibilities expanded when he was named Director of the Viticulture and Enology program.

Michael Pierce’s departure, if the information provided the Blog is accurate,  marks the end of a significant chapter at Yavapai Community College, where he played a key role in developing the Viticulture and Enology program.

You may Read the full 2015 interview in Wines and Vines at:  https://winebusinessanalytics.com/sections/printout_article.cfm?content=152124&article=feature

 

 

 

Categories : Viticulture

NEWLY ELECTED YAVAPAI COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT BOARD MEMBER BILL KIEL LAUNCHES WEBSITE TO SHARE VIEWS AND FOSTER DIRECT COMMUNICATION

By R. Oliphant
Thursday, January 9th, 2025

A first in Yavapai Community College District Governing Board history: Kiel encourages open dialogue with constituents through innovative platform

Yavapai Community College District Governing Board’s newly elected First District representative, William (Bill) Kiel, has launched a website to share his personal views about the community college with his constituents. The website also invites constituents to contact him directly.

This initiative marks the first time in the Board’s history that a member has established a system to foster direct communication with the district’s residents. Mr. Kiel’s effort aims to make his personal positions about the Community College widely accessible while encouraging feedback and dialogue from his constituents.

The website already features several of his personal views on key topics, including college finances, transparency, and concerns about potential wasteful spending. Notably, one of his most interesting posts outlines his goals for the first 100 days of his term on the Board.

William (Bill) Kiel

For many, Mr. Kiel’s approach represents a welcome change in how the Community College engages with its stakeholders. With an annual taxpayer-funded budget of approximately $125 million, the institution has grown far beyond its early “mom and pop” scale. In fact, it ranks among the highest County taxpayer property tax supported institutions in Yavapai County.

You may visit his website by  going to https://vote4bill.com/1st_100_Days.html.

Categories : District Governing Board

YAVAPAI COMMUNITY COLLEGE OFFERS 50% SENIOR DISCOUNT FOR RESIDENTS 65 AND OLDER

By R. Oliphant
Thursday, January 9th, 2025

Must be U.S. citizen, eligible for in-state residency, and over 65 by the 7th day of the semester 

Yavapai Community College is offering senior citizens who are 65 and older a 50% discount on taking any credit classes.  (Note exceptions below.) 

To qualify, a senior must be a U.S. citizen, eligible for in-state residency for tuition purposes, and 65 or older by the 7th day of the semester.

Note that some courses are not eligible for the discount. For example, students enrolled in the Aviation Program are not eligible for the discounted tuition for any classes. Students enrolled in any Aviation or Unmanned Aircraft classes who are not in an aviation program are not eligible for the discounted tuition on those specific classes.

Also note that the 50% discount only applies to for-credit classes. Community Education and Non-Credit courses are ineligible for the senior discount. 

Categories : Scholarships

NO GRINCHES ALLOWED: YAVAPAI COMMUNITY COLLEGE STUDENTS, VOLUNTEERS, AND STAFF SPREAD HOLIDAY CHEER WITH FOOD, GIFTS, AND GROCERY GIFT CARDS FOR 50+ FAMILIES ON PRESCOTT AND VERDE VALLEY CAMPUSES

By R. Oliphant
Friday, January 3rd, 2025

Members of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute donate more than $2,300

There were no grinches allowed on the Prescott and Verde Valley campuses this holiday season, thanks to the efforts of students, volunteers, and the Yavapai Community College Staff Association.

According to a Community College Facebook post, the group distributed “boxes galore” filled with food, gifts, and grocery gift cards to more than 50 Community College students and their families. The deliveries were made directly to the Prescott and Verde Valley campuses.

This heartwarming project was spearheaded by the Yavapai Community College Staff Association and made possible by the generosity of YCC employees, community members, and an army of volunteers.

Members of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) contributed more than $2,300 to purchase grocery gift cards, while YCC family and friends helped fulfill children’s holiday wishes through an Angel Tree program.

Categories : Event

DISTRICT GOVERNING BOARD SCHEDULES WORKSHOP FOR JANUARY 14 AT ROCK HOUSE ON PRESCOTT CAMPUS TO BEGIN AT 9 A.M. AND RUN TO ABOUT 4:00 P.M.

By R. Oliphant
Friday, January 3rd, 2025

Topics will include election of officers and a  “refresher workshop” with two consultants intended to impress upon members their extremely narrow window of responsibility, as seen by the Administration and consultants  

The Yavapai Community College District Governing Board will hold a workshop meeting on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at the Rock House on the Prescott Campus. The meeting will start at 9 a.m. and is expected to conclude by 4 p.m. A live stream will be available on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/user/YavapaiCollege.

The workshop agenda includes the selection of District Governing Board officers and a “refresher workshop.” These workshops typically focus on emphasizing the Board members’ limited authority as defined by the Community College administration and the Association of Community College Trustees association consultants. Discussions often include strict guidelines on whom Board members may communicate with, what information they may disclose to their constituents, and warnings against interfering with the College President’s management of the institution. These restrictions are usually framed within an extremely narrow interpretation of Board policy, as presented by a consultant or consultants selected by the Board Chair, often someone with prior ties to the Community College administration.

For the first time, and in the Blog’s view,  out of an abundance of concern that the three newest trustees may stray from past policy, without consulting the Governing Board as a whole, two consultants have been selected by the Chair to present their views on the limitations of Board members’ authority. The consultants are:

  • Ken Burke: Affiliated with the Association of Community College Trustees, he recently served as a consultant to trustees at North Idaho College. North Idaho College is a public community college in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Reports indicate he emphasized that individual trustees have no independent authority and only exercise power collectively during official meetings. He also underscored that the Board’s sole employee is the college president. It is anticipated that he will express these same views at Tuesday’s workshop.
  • Dr. David Borofsky: Executive Director of the Arizona Association of Community College Trustees (AACCT) and now the Arizona Community College Coordinating Council (ACCCC), an organization listing Yavapai College President Dr. Lisa Rhine as a member. Borofsky has apparently worked closely with Board Chair Deb McCasland and Dr. Rhine in various capacities.

Notably, Dr. Borofsky drafted the controversial resolution enacting Board policy 301, which passed 4-1 by the outgoing Board in November. Board policy 310 included a prohibition stating, “Under no circumstances should an individual Board member direct or contact by any means, a staff member concerning a college or community issue.”

The prohibition, at least in the Blog’s view, undermines the role of Board members, who are elected officials entrusted with representing the taxpayers of Yavapai County. Also, in the Blog’s opinion, it reflects a profound distrust of the integrity of Board members and potentially seeks to impose an inappropriate chilling prior restraint on  free speech.

Dr. Borofsky’s tenure as a college leader appears at times to have been controversial. For example, at Dakota State University, he resigned abruptly amid student petitions questioning his leadership and alleging pressure on administrators to step down. According to news reports, Jack Warner, Executive Director of the Board of Regents, confirmed that Borofsky’s resignation was a quick decision prompted by the backlash against his management decisions. 

It is noteworthy that the the workshop will feature a presentation by the Board’s attorney at the outset of the workshop on the “Legality of College Operations.”

 

Categories : Meeting Notice

GREATER VERDE VALLEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE TO HOLD MIXER AT SOUTHWEST WINE CENTER

By R. Oliphant
Thursday, January 2nd, 2025

Event set for January 16 at 5:30. | It offers opportunities for an evening of networking, great food, and wine, hosted by the Southwest Wine Center and catered by the Sedona School of Culinary Arts. | Registration available at VerdeValleyChamber.org. 

The Greater Verde Valley Chamber of Commerce will hold a mixer at the Southwest Wine Center on the Verde Valley Campus January 16.  The event is hosted by the Southwest Wine Center and will be catered by the Sedona School of Culinary Arts.  It begins at 5:30.

The event provides an opportunity to connect with fellow business professionals in the community while enjoying great food and wine at the Community College’s Southwest Wine Center on the Verde Valley Campus. 

In the announcement of the event, the Chamber of Commerce  stated that “Raffle prize donations are encouraged! Donating is a fantastic way to promote your business. Be sure to include your business card or rack card with your donation package.”

Registration for the event is available online at VerdeValleyChamber.org.

Categories : Southwest Wine Center

LEARNING HOW TO DRAW: VERDE VALLEY CAMPUS COMMUNITY EDUCATION PROGRAM OFFERS SPECIAL LANDSCAPE DRAWING PROGRAM

By R. Oliphant
Thursday, January 2nd, 2025

Classes begin February 3, 2025 with tuition set at $118

Yavapai Community College will offer a special landscape drawing class on the Verde Valley Campus starting February 3, 2025. This class is part of the College’s community education program.

The course provides an opportunity to learn how to draw landscapes, “from plains and forests to the red rocks and more.” It will run from February 3 to March 10, with tuition set at $118.

For more details, see the Community College advertisement below.

Categories : COMMUNITY EDUCATION

YAVAPAI COMMUNITY COLLEGE PERFORMING ARTS DEPARTMENT ADDS OUTSTANDING NEW FACULTY TO ITS EXPANSIVE PROGRAM

By R. Oliphant
Friday, December 27th, 2024

Five new instructors will teach acting, voice, and technical theatre courses at the Prescott Campus; it appears that no similar performing arts programs yet exist on the Verde Campus or at any of the College’s centers

In a December 19 press release, Yavapai Community College announced it has hired five new instructors for its expanding Performing Arts Department.  They will be teaching acting, voice, and technical theatre courses. They will be joining the faculty in January.

According to the Community College press release, the following are the new faculty hires:

“Mezzo soprano Danielle Corella will teach both Private Voice (MUS 101A) and Applied Voice (MUS 151A) courses. An Arizona Opera veteran, Danielle sang the role of Gertrude in AzO’s Roméo et Juliette and Belle in their Opera Tunity production of Beauty and the Beast. She holds a Master of Music Degree from the University of Southern California and a Bachelor of Music from Westminster Choir College. She currently conducts YC’s Community Chorale.”

“Prescott Valley residents may know Ben Naasz from The Movement Studio, which he operates with his wife, Sasha. A talented actor, director, scenic designer and producer, Ben will draw from his 30-year theatrical career to teach Stagecraft (THR 141) and Lighting for the Stage and Media (THR 160). He holds a Master of Fine Arts in Theatre Technology (with an emphasis on Scenic Design) from the University of Arizona, and a BFA in Musical Theatre from Shenandoah Conservatory in Virginia.”

“With her Masters in Classical Acting from Brandeis University, where she taught movement and voice, Heather Scott earned her Meisner certificate from New York City’s Neighborhood Playhouse and is a certified theatrical combatant. Her professional credits include As The World Turns and multiple regional commercials as well as work with Disney Regional Entertainment. The co-director of the Yavapai College musicals It’s A Wonderful Life and Hello, Dolly!, Heather is also the J&LLPAC’s Director of Operations. She will teach the College’s Acting I (THR 131) and Acting II (THR 132) courses.”

“A dedicated educator and veteran actor, director, stage manager and producer, Layla Tenney is thrilled to bring her 20 years of theatrical experience to YC. She has been a prominent figure in the local arts community, teaching theatre at Prescott and Chino Valley high schools, where she directed numerous productions that inspired students and audiences alike. She has also been a creative force at the Prescott Center for the Arts since 2009, creating programs that support young artists. Layla has her Master of Arts in Theatre Education from the University of Northern Colorado, and her bachelor’s from the University of Arizona and will teach THR 231, Acting the One-Act Play.”

“Prescott-based baritone William Vallandigham is regularly featured on opera and concert stages in Arizona, Southern California and the greater Chicago area. In 2023-24, William sang Brahms and Mahler with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and appeared in Arizona Opera’s productions of Il barberie de Siviglia and Mozart’s Don Giovanni. He performed extensively with Opera Santa Barbara, with roles in The Crucible, Cosi fan Tutte, Carmen and the title role in Eugene Onegin. William’s career highlights range from Phillip Glass’s Kepler at the Spoleto Festival to orchestrated music from video game legend Nobuo Uematsu. William earned his master’s in music from Westminster Choir College, and his Bachelor of Music from Baldwin Wallace University. He will teach Musical Theatre I (THR 133) and Musical Theatre II (THR 134).”

Categories : CURRICULUM, Faculty, Performing Arts Center
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