Sheridan College board approves preliminary budget, extends President’s contract

The Sheridan College Board of Trustees unanimously approved a preliminary operating budget for fiscal year 2027 and extended the president’s contract by two years during its regular board meeting on Tuesday.

The preliminary budget projects an operating revenue of $40,184,353 and includes an estimated surplus of $227,186. The budget includes funding to continue moving the Sheridan College in Johnson County new building forward and support faculty and staff pay increases, according to Sheridan College President, Dr. Walt Tribley.

All full-time faculty members on the pay scale will receive a step pay increase. Employees earning less than $100,000 per year will receive a 3% increase in salary. Those earning $100,000 or more annually will receive a 1% increase. The president will not receive a salary increase in 2027.

Tribley said the budget reflects a measured approach, focused on meeting the college’s goals, while maintaining financial stability.

“This is a moderate budget. Sheridan College is currently fiscally stable, and our job is to maintain that into the future,” Tribley said. “The budget reflects increased state appropriations supported by Governor Gordon and members of the legislature. It is aligned with our strategic plan, which is focused on continuing to be an employer of choice in the region, partnering with K-12 school districts and local industry employers in workforce development, increasing enrollment, and most importantly, continuing to provide high-quality educational opportunities for all students.”

Trustees also voted to extend President Tribley’s contract for an additional two years. Board Chair Tracy Swanson said extending the contract was a strategic decision made to support the board as well as express their appreciation for Dr. Tribley’s leadership.

“The board unanimously approved extending Dr. Tribley’s contract for an additional two years. This was done to let Dr. Tribley know we appreciate the job he is doing and to give the trustees more flexibility moving forward,” said Swanson.