Higher Education as an Organization

Last night, we ran out of time before we had a chance to talk about the different external and internal pressures and characteristics that impact other types of higher education institutions. I briefly mentioned, for example, that community colleges have within their mission a commitment to workforce development. Here are a few other community college mission statements:

Tidewater Community College provides collegiate education and training to adults of all ages and backgrounds, helping them achieve their individual goals and contribute as citizens and workers to the vitality of an increasingly global community.

COMMITMENTS THAT INFORM THE MISSION:

Open access to high-quality, affordable education to prepare students for transfer to a four-year baccalaureate institution, as well as for entry or advancement in the workforce. Cultural diversity as a critically important strength for students to meet the changing needs of a pluralistic, democratic society. Lifelong learning to heighten the awareness of students to multiple paths for achievement while helping them pursue the choices most conducive to their individual needs. Partnerships and proactive responsiveness to develop cutting-edge programs that meet the changing needs of students and industry, while contributing to the economic, civic, and cultural vitality of the region, the Commonwealth, the nation, and the international community. A comprehensive range of programs and services recognized for excellence by leaders of business, industry, and government, and by educators in K-12 education and four-year colleges and universities.

NVCC Mission Statement
The mission of Northern Virginia Community College is to respond to the educational needs of its dynamic and diverse constituencies through an array of comprehensive programs and services that facilitate learning and workforce development in an environment of open access and through lifelong educational opportunities.


What are some other characteristics that make community colleges unique? What is evident from reading these mission statements? What about for-profits (or proprietary institutions)? Let's continue the conversation on the blog!