College board hears updates, approves purchases

McCOOK, Neb. — The Mid-Plains Community College Board of Governors convened for its regular meeting Wednesday evening in McCook, where student trustees from both the North Platte and McCook campuses provided updates. Jaelyn Dicke, representing North Platte, shared highlights of student activities on her campus, while McCook’s Kyler Cox, student life secretary, reported on recent events in McCook.

New personnel at McCook Community College were also introduced, including Graphic Design and Visual Communications Instructor Alyssa Rippe, Agriculture Business Instructor Alyssa Rippe, and Learning Commons Assistant Alisha Schwartz. The Board welcomed the new employees warmly and acknowledged their roles in supporting MCC’s educational offerings.

Additionally, members of MCC's Sports Media Club were introduced, followed by students from Sheri Hink-Wagner’s Sociology and Criminal Justice class, who took the opportunity to present themselves to the Board.

In a gesture of support, Kirk Olsen, Board Member for Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD), and NPPD Account Manager Grant Flamig presented two $7,500 checks—one for North Platte and one for McCook—proceeds from NPPD’s Nebraska Open Golf Tournament, to be used for student scholarships.

Gail Knott, Dean of Outreach and Training, and Mary Pierce, Administrator of the MPCC Ogallala campus, briefed the Board on their recent achievements at the Skilled Trades Competition, where MPCC students excelled in various categories.

The Board then moved on to financial matters, approving bills for September totaling $4,262,527.71. They also approved two significant bids: $299,451.84 for new furniture for McCook’s East Campus building, and $3,750,314 for an electrical building project, awarded to Steele Construction.

After a brief closed session to discuss negotiations, the Board reconvened with no further actions and adjourned the meeting. The next Board of Governors meeting is set for Nov. 20 in North Platte.