2021 Most Promising Places to Work in Community Colleges


Promising Places to work logos

ABOUT THE STUDY

This study was first commissioned by the National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development (NISOD) and Diverse: Issues In Higher Education in 2014. The purpose of this commissioned study was to examine the extent to which diversity and inclusion permeates various aspects (e.g., administrative structures, commitments, work environments, staffing practices) of the work places at participating two-year community and technical colleges, all of which are NISOD-member institutions.

In its first year, the project was initially shaped by input from an advisory board. The original advisory board was comprised of Dr. Tracey Cameron, Dr. Stan Carpenter, Dr. Joan B. Hirt, Dr. Kris Renn and Dr. Sue Saunders.

The larger project, Promising Places to Work, has been administered by Dr. Terrell Strayhorn and his teams at various centers. It is now administered by Do Good Work Educational Consulting, LLC — an independent educational consulting firm committed to inclusive excellence, student access and success. The Most Promising Places to Work in Student Affairs project is in partnership with the American College Personnel Association (ACPA); findings were published in the March 5, 2020 edition of Diverse. The Most Promising Places to Work in Community Colleges project is in partnership with NISOD.

ABOUT THE SURVEY

The Most Promising Places to Work in Community Colleges (MPPWCC) survey consists of approximately 60 items, organized into 10 major sections. For example, one section elicits contact information for the survey respondent and identifying information about their respective institution (e.g., control, minority-serving institutions [MSI] status). Another section includes several items to assess the structural diversity of the institution and relevant departments in terms of gender, race, sexual orientation and disability status. There are several sections that measure the availability and extent of support services provided to community college staff on campus, such as professional development.

The survey was developed by Terrell Strayhorn and is not available in the public domain. The original survey was pilot-tested with a small sample of institutions; feedback from the pilot study helped clarify survey items, correct logic sequencing and determine the utility of the scoring algorithm. All survey rights belong to the author. All analyses presented in this edition were conducted by Strayhorn and Royel Johnson.

METHODOLOGY

Promising Places were selected based on a comprehensive analysis of results from an annual survey that was administered to all institutional members of NISOD. Scores were computed using the algorithm that considers weighted data for all points highlighted on the survey such as diversity benefits, staff demographics and diversity policies (e.g., bias monitoring, staff orientation). As the number of respondents to the annual survey grows each year, the algorithm properly adjusts for the diversity of institutions included in the final pool. For instance, the analysis is sensitive to the availability, presence and use of inclusive practices, staff supports and diversity initiatives, not the size of one’s institution or staff. For full discussion of these methods, see previous versions of this report in Diverse.

COMMUNITY COLLEGE WORKPLACES

Today’s community colleges are as diverse as the students they serve. There are more than 1,100 community colleges in the United States that educate more than 12 million students each year. Community colleges also employ thousands of staff members who work in critical functional areas, including student affairs or support services. These committed professionals strive to make the institution warm and welcoming for all other personnel and students, so that they can develop, grow, learn and thrive optimally.

This year’s list of the Most Promising Places to Work in Community Colleges includes an impressive cast of 2-year institutions that specialize in equipping students for securing the promises of a bright future. Each of them has signature programs and marquee initiatives that make them uniquely who they are. Promising Places is a national recognition that celebrates student affairs workplaces that are vibrant, diverse, supportive and committed to staff work-life balance, professional development and inclusive excellence.

In this edition of Diverse, we strive to pull back the curtain, so to speak, so that others can see the good work going on at these institutions and learn from them to affirm new or improve existing community college workplaces. MPPWCC offers institutional leaders information that can be used to improve work environments, boost morale, or continuously improve practices across the student affairs division. It also serves as a useful tool for employers, career services staff and job seekers across the country.

KEY LESSONS LEARNED

Here is what we’ve learned from readers since the initial launch of the Promising Places projects back in 2014:

  • Employers use this national recognition to celebrate their success in creating a vibrant workplace for staff and they mention the award on their job placement website, position announcements, and recruiting materials;
  • Career counselors interpret the award to mean that the campus offers high-quality support to staff, respectable compensation and benefits, and best forms of practice in terms of diversity and inclusive policies;
  • Presidents and provosts acknowledge the national recognition as a mark of distinction, celebrating the strength and success of their respective institution’s student affairs operation and incorporate this information in reports of institutional effectiveness/accreditation;
  • Vice presidents, deans and senior student affairs officers at community colleges and similar institutions use the information in this special edition of Diverse to develop new or revise existing staff programs and services. For instance, one senior administrator credited the MPPWCC project for several new benefits offered to staff at her institution including flexible work hours, a staff mentoring program and a new “Voice of the Employee” (VoE) initiative.

PROMISING PRACTICES AT COMMUNITY COLLEGES

As the Most Promising Places to Work in Community Colleges project evolves, we learn more and more about what various institutions do to increase faculty and staff diversity, to foster staff sense of belonging and to equip college student educators for their work with students. Presented here is a set of “promising practices” that have held up across each year of the study.

Promising Practice #1: Recognition of Good Work

Each year, we hear from faculty and staff who work at community colleges about the importance of good work being recognized, especially by those in leadership positions. Specifically, institutions recognized as Most Promising Places over the past few years have been known for hosting formal ceremonies that recognize the meaningful contributions of various members of the staff community. Quite often, faculty and staff described this practice as a positive feature of institutional culture that helped retain them as well as their colleagues. In addition to institutional awards and ceremonies, many faculty and staff noted that their campus leadership also nominated them for regional and national awards, honors and recognitions sponsored by professional associations. We encourage community college leaders to adopt similar practices or approaches to recognizing the good work of staff and members of the campus community.

Promising Practice #2: Commitment to Meeting the Needs of Community

The espoused mission of community colleges includes a clear focus on serving the needs of the local community. Thus, it is no surprise that faculty and staff at institutions designated as Most Promising Places underscored the importance of their institutions living up to this responsibility. Throughout the years, faculty and staff have consistently shared insights about their institution’s connection to, service of and appreciation for the communities in which they are located. For instance, some institutions provide support to the local business community through rapid responses, professional development and workplace training that meets the needs of today’s labor market. Other institutions signal the importance of community engagement by having cabinet-level leadership in the area such as a vice president of diversity and/or dean of community impact. Recently recognized MPPWCCs and this year’s featured schools host summits on racial justice, comprising keynote presentations, panel discussions and roundtables that connect community to campus. We encourage all community college leaders and their respective institutions to truly be members of their local communities, serving the needs of the people on campus and beyond.

Promising Practice #3: Investment in the Development of Faculty and Staff

Institutions represented among our Most Promising Places over the years have prioritized significant investment in the professional development of faculty and staff to better prepare them for leadership within the organization and broader community. Faculty and staff at institutions recognized as Most Promising Places over the years have discussed at length the ways in which their institutions have committed to investing in their professional development. For instance, at Montgomery County Community College, faculty and staff highlighted the Faculty Diversity Fellows program for junior minority faculty and the President’s Leadership Academy for staff members considered “rising leaders” within the institution. Likewise, Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC) staff members report that there were always resources available to support their pursuit of professional development on and off campus, including book clubs, conference attendance, employee resource groups, webinars and on-campus leadership training seminars. We learned last year that Coastline Community College hosts a college-wide training on equity mindset and two all-college flex days on topics ranging from data visualization to equity. Interestingly, CCAC staff noted that the campus offers a range of electronic supports like online diversity training, online civility courses and LYNDA online training with closed captioning.We encourage senior leaders at community colleges to make concerted investments in formal professional development activities for faculty and staff by adopting ideas listed here and in previous editions of this report.


ENGAGE US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

We invite readers to share how they’re using this year’s report of Most Promising Places to Work in Community Colleges (MPPWCC). Share with us on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram using #PPWCC21 and tag @DiverseIssues and @NISOD.

BIOGRAPHIES

Dr. Terrell Lamont Strayhorn is provost and senior vice president of academic affairs at Virginia Union University, where he also serves as professor of urban education and director of the Center for the Study of HBCUs. Additionally, he is president and CEO of Do Good Work Educational Consulting LLC, a research firm that partners with leading colleges and schools to improve policy and practice, as a way of ensuring all students’ success. Author of 11 books, more than 200 journal articles, chapters and reports, Strayhorn is an internationally known student success expert and public speaker. Diverse Issues named him an Emerging Scholar in 2011 and he has received ACPA’s Emerging Scholar, Annuit Coeptis and Diamond Honoree Awards. @tlstrayhorn

Dr. Royel M. Johnson is assistant professor of higher education at Pennsylvania State University. As a scholar, Johnson engages in interdisciplinary research on issues related to educational access, equity and student success. He is co-editor of three forthcoming books and has published two dozen academic publications. For his early career contributions to higher education and student affairs research, ACPA-College Student Educators International named him an Emerging Scholar in 2020. @royeljohnson

The project investigators presented an invited session about Most Promising Places to Work in Community Colleges on April 28th at the 2021 International Conference on Teaching & Leadership Excellence sponsored by NISOD. In the 50-minute session, we highlight the project’s background, its purposes, partners and processes. We devoted significant time to in-depth discussion of the 60-item annual survey and its 10 major sections (e.g., structural diversity, family friendliness). After fielding several questions about the survey, we highlighted key insights or “lessons learned” over the years and major recommendations for improving existing or developing new “best in class” programs, policies and practices. We acknowledged this year’s 16 MPPWCC winners and offered three tips for participating in the annual survey, as shown below.

Most Promising Place to Work in Community College Profiles


Clarendon College

Clarendon College

Located in Texas, Clarendon College certainly felt the impact of the pandemic. Enrollment dropped and several people left their positions, but President Tex Buckhaults says there have been some stellar recent hires. “Much of what we’ve accomplished over the past 18 months has been hiring good people, letting them do their jobs and providing the support they need to be successful,” says Buckhaults. “We’ve had several retirements. To me, a good sign is when people work until they’ve put in 30-plus years.”
Community College of Allegheny County

Community College of Allegheny County

A public community college in Pennsylvania with four campuses serving more than 40,000 students, Community College of Allegheny County returns to the list. It offers associate degrees, certificates and diplomas. “CCAC is once again honored to receive this prestigious national recognition,” says Dr. Quintin B. Bullock, president of the Community College of Allegheny County. “Our faculty, staff and administration are dedicated to promoting diversity and equity in support of all individuals regardless of their race, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, age, religion and mental abilities.”
Florida State College at Jacksonville

Florida State College at Jacksonville

Part of the Florida College System, Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ) serves nearly 50,000 students and offers some four-year degrees in addition to associate degrees and short-term programs. “It is an honor to receive this recognition in response to our efforts and commitment for equity, diversity and inclusion as well as to make sure all students, faculty and staff know they are valued and respected,” says Dr. John Avendano, president of Florida State College at Jacksonville. “I truly believe the collegewide commitment to student success permeates the work we do, and thanks to this united effort, the FSCJ family is positioned to serve our students well into the future. Moreover, our commitment has also provided the college community with a deep fulfillment in the work we do.”
Malcolm X College

Malcolm X College

For the second time in three years, Malcolm X College, which is part of City Colleges of Chicago, is named to the MPPWCC list. “Our work life is such a big part of our everyday life, which is why it is important to do what you love,” said President David Sanders. “[This acknowledgement is] because of the love of the work we do and the love we have for our faculty, our staff and our students. What makes Malcolm X unique and special is the fact that together we are transforming lives and have doubled-down on our commitment as a team to help our students find life success through academic excellence with intention and compassion.”
McLennan Community College

McLennan Community College

Diversity and inclusion are central tenets of McLennan Community College, which serves more than 9,000 students. It is one of only two community colleges located in Waco, Texas. “Receiving this designation from NISOD and Diverse: Issues In Higher Education is a true honor,” says Dr. Johnette McKown, president of McLennan Community College. “This directly reflects the commitment of our board, administration and employees to uphold our mission to ‘educate our students — improving their lives and enriching our community’ while continuing to reflect our core values daily: People, Inclusiveness, Integrity, Communication and Excellence Matters.”
Montgomery County Community College

Montgomery County Community College

Another college returning to the list, Montgomery County Community College is a public institution in Pennsylvania. In addition to its main campus there are two satellite campuses. “It is our honor to receive this national award for six consecutive years, and it is testament to Montgomery County Community College’s longstanding commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion,” says Dr. Victoria L. Bastecki-Perez, president of the college. “I’m proud of the steadfast, collective efforts of our board of trustees, faculty, staff and administrators and the work they have done and continue to do every day to make everyone feel at home, respected, valued and heard on our campuses.”
National Park College

National Park College

With the motto of “Find Your Place,” National Park College in Arkansas serves students in both credit and noncredit programs. “We value our employees’ dedication to our students’ success, and we know an investment in our employees will always pay off,” says Dr. John Hogan. president of the college. “National Park College is intentional about promoting diversity, equity and inclusion on our campus. It is woven into our strategic plan, our academic objectives and it is supported in our budget planning process. While we have made significant strides, we know our work must continue and we are committed to identifying additional ways we can support our underserved populations.
Nicolet College

Nicolet College

A technical college in Wisconsin returning to the list, Nicolet College’s motto is, “Nicolet is more than a college; we’re a community.” “Nicolet College is pleased to again be recognized for our work in diversity, equity and inclusion,” says Kelly Haverkampf, director of employee relations and organizational development. “Our goal is to continue strengthening a culture where all who interact with the college feel welcomed, respected and valued. Our collegewide diversity, equity and inclusion committee is leading the way in the work to embrace educational practices and activities that create a sense of belonging for every student and employee. This recognition brings visibility and validation to our work.”
Northeast Lakeview College

Northeast Lakeview College

Founded in 2007, Northeast Lakeview College (NLC) is the newest of five community colleges in the Alamo Colleges District in Texas. “A great team makes a difference, and I credit our faculty, staff and administration for their resiliency, flexibility and continued dedication to support each other and our students during challenging times,” says Dr. Veronica Garcia, president of NLC. “Recognized in Most Promising Places to Work in 2019, 2020 and 2021, I am inspired by NLC’s commitment to our value of ‘Respect for All’ and the strides we have made to create an inclusive and diverse community.”
Northwest Vista College

Northwest Vista College

Also part of the Alamo Colleges District, Northwest Vista College in Texas was established in 1995 and today has enrollment of more than 17,000 students pursuing associate degrees and technical certifications. “Northwest Vista College faculty, staff and students have worked together to create a place that has been recognized as one of the Most Promising Places to Work in Community Colleges for the third time,” says Dr. Ric Baser, president of the college. “We know that our work and our journey continue toward a more diverse, equitable and inclusive culture for all of our stakeholders. We are committed to creating an environment that is equitable for all.”
Olds College

Olds College

The one Canadian entry on the list, Olds College is an agricultural college located in the province of Alberta that is part of the Alberta Rural Development Network. The college offers more than 30 programs designed to advance the agriculture industry and states as its goal ‘transforming agriculture for a better world.’ All programs align with this social purpose. Situated in an area rich with the history of indigenous people, the college fosters mutual respect and trust.
Pierpont Community & Technical College

Pierpont Community & Technical College

Appearing among the MPPWCC for the fifth year, Pierpont Community & Technical College in West Virginia has a mission: “To provide accessible, responsive, comprehensive education that works.” Dr. Anthony Hancock, interim president of the college, says community colleges serve people on the periphery often unseen in higher education. “People that I work with here are part of this community and they see the strife and challenges that north central West Virginia has faced over time,” says Hancock. “They’ve weaved into the fabric of the community. It’s the people who are on the frontlines doing the work that make this one of the best places to work.”
Prince George’s Community College

Prince George’s Community College

Located in Maryland, Prince George’s Community College serves people from the county as well as Washington, D.C. “Our employees are one of our most valuable assets, and it is our responsibility to treat them with care,” said Dr. Falecia D. Williams, president of the college. “We often talk about improving organizational culture. This requires us to go beyond what employees can do for the organization to how we can build meaningful relationships and invest in our employees. Our talented team of faculty and staff are at the heart of fulfilling our mission to serve our students, and we are grateful for their partnership.”
Southern Crescent Technical College

Southern Crescent Technical College

A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, Southern Crescent Technical College offers not only associate degree programs, diplomas and technical certificates, but it also has free online professional development courses to facilitate career advancement. “It is such an honor to be included as one of Diverse: Issues In Higher Education’s 2021 Most Promising Places to Work in Community Colleges,” says Dr. Alvetta Peterman Thomas, president of Southern Crescent Technical College. “As a college, our faculty, staff and administrators work diligently to promote equity and inclusion and provide all students with equal access to an exceptional educational experience. Our college-wide commitment to student success remains a top priority as we strive to build strong students, strong careers and strong communities in all that we do.”
St. Philip's College

St. Philip's College

Part of the Alamo Colleges District, St. Philip’s College is both a historically Black college and a Hispanic-serving institution. “Since its inception in 1898, St. Philip’s College has always valued and sought to create a campus climate that fosters diversity and inclusiveness,” says Acting President Randall Dawson. “Our historically significant commitment was grounded in our philosophy to educate and train the children and grandchildren of recently emancipated slaves. We have always responded to the needs of our community, which is rich in ethnic, cultural and socio-economic diversity. St. Philip’s College provides student advocacy services and promotes academic excellence with an ethos to encourage leadership skills. We serve diverse populations, including those challenged with issues and concerns faced by racially minoritized and marginalized students pursuing higher education.”
Wayne Community College

Wayne Community College

In 2020, Wayne Community College, located in North Carolina, was presented Employer of the Year by the Mayor’s Committee for Persons with Disabilities of the City of Goldsboro. “This college’s human resources department and the associate vice president over it ensure that this is an attractive place to work with practices such as the myriad of professional development opportunities, support of supervisors that results in support for all employees, and the practice of putting people in positions that foster their success,” says Dr. Thomas A. Walker, Jr, president of Wayne Community College. “Attitude and atmosphere affect everyone, and a good place to work becomes a good place to learn.”