The Cowley College Board of Trustees met last week in Arkansas City, approving new artificial intelligence courses and highlighting the college’s role in a new statewide workforce partnership.
Trustees unanimously approved four new courses: Introduction to AI, AI Security Operations, AI Native Networking and AI-Driven Log Analysis Troubleshooting. The additions are designed to expand cybersecurity and technology pathways.
The discussion comes on the heels of a formal partnership signed Feb. 11 in Topeka between the Kansas Association of Community Colleges and the 184th Wing of the Kansas Air National Guard.
Cowley President Dr. Michelle Schoon and Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Scott Layton represented the college at the signing ceremony, joining fellow community college leaders from across the state.
The agreement formalizes collaboration in cybersecurity, information technology, intelligence analysis, aviation maintenance and other mission-critical fields. Colleges will work with Guard leadership to expand curriculum and align training with workforce needs.
Earlier discussions outlining the partnership were held in January at Butler Community College and included U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall and Air Guard leadership.
In other business, trustees approved renewal of the college’s three-year Blackboard agreement with Anthology for $390,833.75, funded through the operating budget.
Renn Memorial Library reported 967 visitors in January. The IMPACT/ACES program collected 36 units during a recent Red Cross blood drive, exceeding its goal. Cowley also launched a Youth Choir for students in grades 3 through 7, with more than 35 participants.
