A study of external stakeholders’ perspectives of a Midwestern community college

Abstract

A Midwestern community college hired a new president in 2003. Since then, community college personnel endeavor to improve institutional effectiveness, program quality, and perceived stakeholder value. The president expressed a concern that the institution's progress remains relevant to the needs of the stakeholders. This study was designed to ascertain data from external stakeholders of the community college regarding their current perceived value of the community college, what value it could bring in the future, and suggestions about moving from the present to the future. The qualitative study participants included high school seniors to obtain the views of prospective community college students, high school counselors who advise high school seniors, and sponsoring community members who pay property taxes in support of the community college. Surveys, interviews, focus groups, and documentation were utilized to collect the data. The findings from the data are presented in this study to be used by community college officials to incorporate into their strategic plans.