˿Ƶ (˿Ƶ Tech) President Chris Maples’ employment contract was renewed today by the State Board of Higher Education. Because of the transition occurring on July 1, when the State Board/˿Ƶ University System (OUS) cease as an entity, ˿Ƶ Tech’s Board of Trustees agreed to a one year extension, through June 30, 2016. This gives Trustees time to create and implement an evaluation process for the president position, and develop a new employment agreement for consideration in 2016. ˿Ƶ Tech’s Trustees take over full authority and governance of the institution from the State Board on July 1, 2015.
 
Earlier this week, ˿Ƶ Tech’s Board of Trustees approved a resolution authorizing the Board Chair, Lisa Graham, to approve the President’s OUS employment agreement. Dr. Graham, who is also a member of the State Board, participated in discussions regarding Dr. Maple’s contract, and countersigned the agreement.
 
Dr. Graham said, “We’re pleased that the State Board has approved President Maples’ contract, and has recognized, as we do, his effective leadership of ˿Ƶ Tech and the many ways that he has moved the campus forward. Our Board of Trustees looks forward to working with Chris, and having time to consider changes we might make in his contract that reflect his successful tenure and the welfare of the campus.”