Congress of Connecticut
Community Colleges
 October 29, 2015
Meeting with New BOR President
In one of his first interviews after beginning his appointment as BOR President, Mark Ojakian stated that his first objective was to "restore relationships" (read here). It was no surprise then that union presidents from the community colleges were invited to an introductory meeting with President Ojakian. 

Bryan Bonina (4Cs), Dennis Bogusky (AFT) and William Chagnon (AFSCME) met with President Ojakian on Tuesday, October 27. The discussion focused on the system and higher education, and each was given opportunity to share their perceptions and perspectives. Bryan described the discussion as "cordial, open, honest, and engaging."  The 4Cs welcomes this new approach to working together and building mutually beneficial relationships. 

The focus of the discussion was NOT on upcoming contract negotiations, but it was touched on briefly. It was understood that negotiations need to be reasonable with flexibility emphasized as a key component.

Can We Count on You to Protect the Community Colleges?
Campus Equity Week is currently underway and the 4Cs has been tabling at many of our campuses to share information about inequalities in higher education. Students have taken a great interest in the comparison of instructional and student services spending at UConn, CSU, and the Community Colleges. UConn is able to spend three times the amount of the Community Colleges on instruction and student services! 


There is great enthusiasm for community colleges nationwide and in our local communities. We need to utilize this focus on community colleges for the benefit of the students we serve. Now it is the time for action!

As part of our Campus Equity Week tabling, we are asking people to sign "Count on Me" cards with choices of some small (and a few larger) actions they can take to actively help us in protecting the community colleges. 

Not able to stop by one of our tables this week? No problem. You can sign a virtual "Count on Me" card online. Share this link with others!  


 
Connect 


4Cs Calendar
Saturday, Oct. 31
Campus Equity Week at Manchester, 10am-2pm, GPA Commons

Friday, November 6
Negotiating Committee Meeting, 2pm, 4Cs Office

Tuesday, November 10
4Cs Retirees Meeting , 10am, 4Cs Office

Day of Action in the Fight for $15 , 3:45pm march starting at 170 Washington St. McDonald's to the Legislative Office Building. For more information or to sign up, email Greg Jackson. 

Wednesday, November 11
Norwalk Chapter Meeting , 2:30-3:30pm, Culinary Arts Dining Room

Thursday, November 12
Housatonic Chapter Meeting, 3-4:30pm, Location TBA

Saturday, November 14
Delegate Assembly Meeting , 10-noon, 4Cs office, 907 Wethersfield Ave., Hartford. Open to all members!