The Hutchinson Community College Board of Trustees Thursday heard a report on the college’s participation in the annual United Way campaign, at the monthly board meeting.

Dr. Charlene Widener, the Delos V. Smith Endowed Chair for Fine Arts at HCC and the chair of the 2011 campus campaign, along with members of the HCC committee, presented a report on the various activities held on campus to encourage student, staff and administration participation in the United Way campaign for 2012. In total, HCC had more than 125 faculty and staff members participate in this year’s fund drive, which raised more than $17,000 for United Way. The total surpassed last year’s giving by more than $2000.

The board also heard a report on the HCC health insurance plan from Preferred Health Systems. The premiums for the next year are projected to remain relatively flat.

The board heard a report from Vice President of Student Services Randy Myers on the 2011-2012 residence hall rates. The increases in the rates varied, depending on the type of room and meal plan selected by the student.

The board also approved an interlocal agreement with USD 308, the Hutchinson School District to allow for the construction of a 5-kW wind turbine, to be used for educational purposes in the Renewable Energy Technology program. The Renewable Energy Technology program is offered in partnership with the Hutchinson Career and Technical Education Academy. The turbine would be located on USD property adjacent to the HCTEA building, which houses the wind and solar technology lab.

The Board also approved the official academic calendar for the college for the 2012-2013 academic year.

The next meeting of the board will be on Thursday, January 12.