2025-2026 MELA Minutes

ii) As consortium we save colleges, students, and state money through contracts and sharing courses. iii) Meetings: (1) We meet monthly on the second Wednesday. (2) Majority can determine when meetings are called. (3) Other Meetings—Annual Retreat—September in Indianola hosted by MS Delta this year, which we will include strategic planning. (4) Special meetings may be called by the President or by a two-thirds majority of the association. iv) Robert’s Rules for meetings (1) Quorum—attendance is needed for meetings for voting. Each college gets 1 vote. (2) Speaking one at a time. (3) Recognition by the chair for speakers. (4) Impartiality by chair and MCCB serves in this role. (5) Debate—We are open and free to discuss and debate. The chair would need someone to step in as chair when this need occurs. v) MELA Order of Business—Agenda for Meetings (1) Call to Order (2) Roll Call

(3) Approval of Minutes (4) Approval of Agenda

(5) New Business (6) Old Business (7) Action Items (8) Open Forum (9) Announcements (10)

Adjournment

vi) Why is it important? (1) Office roles are required for participation (2) A quorum is required for action items and voting.

(3) Our agreement states we agree to have representatives from each college participate. (4) Make sure since most meetings are virtual, it is important to be available and be visible in those meetings. This allows us to move forward with policies and contracts when we are active in the meetings. vii) Voting: (1) Majority of voting members required for voting. CELO voting member until policies updated. 10 of 15 voting members are required for a quorum for voting. (2) Any member can bring an action up for voting. Must make a motion, a second, and a discussion. (3) 8/15 for majority as an example for voting requirements. (4) Importance of being a part of the organization and participation. viii) Steps for Voting (1) Motion clearly states the motion being voted on (2) A second motion must also be made (3) Discussion after limited discussion the group then votes on the motion. (4) Vote—a majority vote is required for the motion to pass (1 vote per college). (5) Optional processes are available in Robert’s Rules, Examples to table items, Amend. ix) Your voice matters and we want you to be an active participant for MELA for moving actions forward and to help be a resource to each other.

x) Support Committee: No Report. xi) Quality Committee: No Report

d) Old Business-No Report