3.30.1 Advisory Committees Procedure
Purpose
To establish consistent structure, standards, and processes for the creation and operation of program advisory committees at Riverland Community College.
Applicability
Advisory committees are created for credit-based academic programs that prepare students for employment in specific occupations or fields that lead directly to employment.
Advisory Committee Size
12 to 15 members
Advisory Committee Membership
Advisory committees include a diverse representation of occupational experts including industry professionals, workforce development personnel, program alumni, current students, and educators including high school teachers (if applicable). Members must possess the requisite knowledge and skills relevant to the employability of graduates from the academic program.
Appointment Process
Advisory committee members are considered from recommendations by administrators, current advisory members, program staff, and professional and community organizations.
Term of Membership
Members of advisory committees are generally appointed to three-year terms on a staggering basis to ensure continuity within the committee. Terms end on June 30 and new terms begin on July 1 of each year. A member may be appointed to a consecutive three-year term upon request. Review and consideration will be conducted by the committee chair and college personnel.
Leadership
A chairperson and vice chairperson are usually selected at the beginning of each year and begin their duties immediately.
Chairperson and Vice Chairperson
The chairperson is external to the college and serves as the facilitator for the advisory committee meetings. College policies and procedures are used to guide the committee’s annual program of work plan. The chairperson works in conjunction with program faculty to develop meeting agendas and plan committee functions.
A vice-chairperson may be elected to serve in the absence of the chairperson. The chairperson and vice-chairperson usually serve a one-year term. Roles may be extended based on majority committee vote.
Recorder
A Riverland Community College Administrative Assistant will serve as recorder to:
- Prepare and distribute meeting agenda
- Organize meeting details and disseminate meeting announcement
- Record and circulate meeting minutes
- Maintain updated membership information
- Maintain agendas and meeting minutes in the college’s electronic filing system
- Distribute and collect Advisory Committee Evaluation Form annually
Agenda Items
Each meeting agenda item will be established in collaboration between the chair and program faculty and/or dean. Members may submit items for the agenda to either chair or faculty at least one month in advance of meeting.
Meeting Expectations
All committee members will adequately prepare in advance for all meetings, actively participate in committee work, provide thoughtful input, focus on student learning and outcomes, and selflessly represent industry stakeholders.
Meeting Frequency/Location
A minimum of two committee meetings will be held each year. Typically, one is held each semester. In general, meetings are held at night or during lunch; meeting times may vary based on program and industry availability. Occasionally meetings may be held at an off-campus location as determined by the individual committees.
Responsibilities and Functions of Program Advisory Committees May Include
- Program Development Assistance
- Program Curriculum and Instructional Delivery Advice
- Faculty Guidance
- Student Recruitment, Retention and Placement Recommendations/Review
- Facilities and Equipment Review
- Advisory Committee Evaluation
For a full description, refer to the Riverland Program Advisory Committee Handbook.
Recommendations and Feedback
The intended outcome of all advisory committee meetings and activities is a set of recommendations for continuous improvement. Many advisory committees write a formal recommendation letter that is signed by the committee chair on behalf of the entire committee. An advisory committee may offer recommendations, but the committee does not establish policy. Recommendations will be considered by administration while administration maintains the right to determine the feasibility of recommendations.
Advisory Committee Evaluation
The advisory committee will evaluate its performance annually related to accomplishments and progress on the annual program of work plan.
For complete advisory committee guidance, refer to the Riverland Program Advisory Committee Handbook.
Scope
All
Definitions
n/a
Does This Policy Have a Procedure?
Yes
Related Policies, Procedures, or Forms
Minnesota State Board Policy 3.30 and Procedure 3.30.1
Date Implemented: 6/13/2013
Responsible Division / Author: Academic Affairs / Vice President of Academics & Innovation
Date Revised: 9/22/16 branding language/logo; 6/2022 number and new template; 9/2025 membership