2025-2026 MELA Minutes

discussions between legal counsel and ITS to address requested changes and additions that Turnitin is asking MCCB to approve. At this time, the contract has been temporarily extended through the end of the current year under the existing agreement . However, to renew Turnitin beyond the final two years of that contract, all updated terms must be fully reviewed, approved by legal, and formally executed . Following discussions with the Support Committee and exploratory conversations with ITS , the group has begun considering whether it would be beneficial to issue a Request for Information (RFI) before pursuing a formal Request for Proposal (RFP) . This would allow the association to: • Assess available alternatives in the market • Gauge vendor interest • Identify tools that are comparable to Turnitin The Support Committee has already begun researching potential alternatives and has determined that other tools may or may not offer similar functionality . The committee is continuing its evaluation process to better clearly define options and capabilities before any formal procurement steps are taken. c. Brainfuse Contract Addendum Approval and Submission : The request for additional Brainfuse tutoring hours has been approved by both the association and the presidents . The request has now been submitted to ITS , allowing them to begin the process of extending the contract hours. This extension is intended to carry the association through the remainder of the fiscal year and ensure sufficient tutoring hours are available to meet student needs. d. SmarterServices Business Case and ProctorU Reminder : An update was provided regarding SmarterServices , noting that the required business case for both the bridge agreement and the renewal has been completed and submitted . According to ITS , Dr. LeBrun is expected to appear before the ITS Board in either November or December to present the business case and obtain approval. After board approval, the agreement will proceed through the standard approval chain . No issues are anticipated with this process. Dr. Wilhite added that during a recent monthly check-in with Sean and Carolyn , SmarterServices requested a reminder be shared with the group regarding ProctorU . Any institution wishing to continue using ProctorU