Community College Leadership Commons^™

(In)Consequential Rhetoric: Grading Policy And Values Misalignment At First-Generation-Serving Community Colleges, Sarah N. Seiffert

Journal of Multicultural Affairs

Research indicates that first-generation (FG) students face a number of barriers to success in higher education when compared to their continuing-generation peers. Although many institutions serving a large number of FG students have implemented programs to support this population, little attention has been paid to institutional grading policies that reinforce harmful practices by attempting to standardize assessment while perpetuating inequalities. This study uses document analysis and critical policy analysis to examine the alignment between the grading policies and institutional values of 25 community colleges serving high FG student populations. Findings reveal critical tensions between the stated values of these colleges …

Truth, Trials, And Triumphs Of The Tenure Journey: Faculty Of Color In Higher Education, Derrick E. Crim

The Journal of Advancing Education Practice

Faculty of Color (FOC) face tough challenges when it comes to earning tenure and promotions. Problems like systemic inequities and biased evaluations make it harder for institutions to uphold trust and fully benefit from the diversity FOC bring. These faculty members often bring fresh perspectives shaped by their unique journeys, enriching academic spaces. Fitting into the exclusive social circles and culture of academia takes a lot of resilience and confidence. Further, issues like isolation, tokenism, and racism make things even tougher. Isolation stems from the lack of representation and supportive communities, while tokenism creates extra service demands without proper recognition. …

Impact Of Community College Size And Meeting Types On Leader-Member Conversation Quality In Career And Technical Education (Cte) Leaders: A Mixed Methods Study, Kenneth Wayne Kirkland Jr.

Dissertations

Community colleges are complex institutions with the primary mission of workforce preparation and academic transfer. In many cases, community colleges produce the majority of their local workforces. Political influences upon workforce priorities, increased national calls for transparency in higher education training, complicated infrastructure, and technical expertise requirements for faculty have created substantial challenges for career and technical education (CTE) leaders. These complexities require the 21st-century CTE leader to be as externally focused as their presidents, highlighting the importance of communication effectiveness in both leaders.

The purpose of this mixed-methods study was to investigate the influence of community college enrollment levels …

Proactive Onboarding Services Model As An Academic And Social Integration Strategy For First-Time In College Students At A Virginia Community College, Jhansi V. Eturu

Educational Leadership & Workforce Development Theses & Dissertations

A recent survey by the Education Advisory Board (EAB) found that of the 1000 community college students surveyed, 56% nearly quit before classes started due to challenges during college onboarding. Similarly, admissions data from the Virginia Community Colleges System (VCCS) indicated that more than half of the students who apply do not enroll in classes, highlighting a need to closely examine the onboarding process and support services provided to understand what is effective and what is not. The purpose of this study is to understand the predictive utility of certain student onboarding services, such as an appointment with an admissions …

Community College Student Parents And Their Experiences With Mindfulness Training, Polly Nesselrodt

Educational Leadership & Workforce Development Theses & Dissertations

Community college students who are parents (student parents) are highly motivated to succeed but face many challenges, including finances, transportation, and childcare, which leads to high levels of stress and anxiety. Mindfulness practices of returning to the breath and staying present in the body have been shown to help people manage stress and anxiety and live with greater ease. Using the stress and coping theory of Lazarus and Folkman (1984) as a theoretical framework, the purpose of this study was to examine the experiences of student parents who participated in mindfulness training. Participants attended mindfulness classes, facilitated by an instructor …

Building Micro-Credential Frameworks: A Strategic Approach For Institutional Success, Justin R. Louder

TxDLA Journal of Digital Learning

The rise of micro-credentials in higher education presents a transformative opportunity for institutions to deliver flexible, workforce-aligned learning experiences. This article explores key strategies for implementing micro-credential frameworks that align with institutional goals while ensuring quality, scalability, and employer recognition. Drawing from existing models and institutional case studies, the article outlines five critical factors for success: (1) aligning micro-credentials with institutional priorities, (2) conducting market and audience analysis, (3) ensuring academic quality and rigor, (4) leveraging technological infrastructure, and (5) fostering external partnerships. The discussion highlights best practices from leading institutions and offers actionable recommendations for practitioners looking to launch …

Ignite Collaboration For Interactive Meetings, Kelli Erwin

TxDLA Journal of Digital Learning

This article explores how intentional design, inclusive facilitation, and purposeful tools can transform meetings into interactive environments that foster collaboration, creativity, and meaningful outcomes. Designed for educators, instructional leaders, and organizational facilitators, it provides practical strategies to elevate meetings through collaboration, interactivity, and purposeful design.

Finding Solutions: Meeting Essential Needs To Overcome Health And Educational Inequities Among College Students, Nicholas Freudenberg, Rashida Crutchfield

Publications and Research

Many economic, academic, and social factors influence college completion, and scholars have documented that a significant cause of students leaving school before graduation is that many do not have their basic needs for food, housing, and health care met. These barriers undermine their academic success by forcing students to reduce the time spent on their studies, work more hours, or stop out of school to support themselves or their families. Unmet essential needs jeopardize academic and life success for students in higher education across the United States and widen racial/ethnic and class inequities in college completion and health. Our review …

Investigating The Relationship Between Noun Classes And Plant Folk Taxonomy In Chasu Language Of Kilimanjaro Region In Tanzania, Peter Rabson Mziray

Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences

The current study investigates the relationship between noun classes and plant folk taxonomy in Chasu (G 22). The study focuses on two objectives: the first objective is to describe the plant folk taxonomy in Chasu and the second objective is to determine the relationship between noun classes and plant folk taxonomy in Chasu. Data were collected from rural villages in Same and Mwanga districts by using free listing, field interviews (jungle-walk-and-identify), and written texts containing Chasu plant names. The findings reveal that Chasu folk taxonomy reflects different ethnobotanical categories; including a unique beginner which is mmea/mimea ‘plant(s)’, and three life …

The Key To Acquiring The Language Of Law, Science, And Technology In The Esl College Classroom, Patricia George-Hunter

Journal of English Learner Education

Since vocabulary plays a significant role in second language acquisition, expansive vocabulary targets should be set and pursued. This paper explores the results of introducing affixes to develop vocabulary and increase motivation for beginner to intermediate-level English language learners (ELLs) pursuing academic disciplines in law, science, and technology at a New York City community college. Participants included 23 ELLs with diverse linguistic, educational, and sociocultural backgrounds enrolled in an online synchronous Integrative Language Seminar (ILS) designed to develop all areas of English language proficiency. Pre‑, post‑, delayed tests, questionnaires, and post‑intervention interviews were conducted and analyzed to establish the language …

Professor Perspectives: Inclusion Of Students With An Intellectual Disability In Transition Programming On A College Campus, Melissa Jane Massey

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Students with intellectual disabilities (ID) are often unemployed or underemployed compared to students who do not have ID. Transition or postsecondary programming for students with ID has increased in recent years in response to the U.S. federal requirement for special education professionals to complete transition plans before students turn 16. The requirement for transition planning in Texas is age 14, and the ARD committee including the student and parent come together to develop goals for future planning. Transition plans include information on future employment, future independent living skills, and agency connections that students with ID may need to access to …

Effective Engagement In Online Asynchronous Graduate Courses: How Students Perceive Engagement In Their Graduate Programs, Matthew A. Galeota, Robert M. Mangione, Stephanie M. Foote

New York Journal of Student Affairs

An increase in online learning has created a set of new challenges for higher education institutions. Institutions seek to retain students and ensure they are engaged in their courses. This paper examines forms of engagement that traditional and nontraditional students perceive in their online asynchronous graduate courses at a public flagship university. The authors examined relevant literature and surveyed students across several online graduate education programs. The survey shows that collaborative engagement, specifically the indicator of connecting to institutional opportunities, is the lowest tallied. This suggests that online graduate programs should seek to implement more collaborative engagement indicators. The survey …

Students From Low-Income Backgrounds: Characteristics, Common Barriers, And Initiatives To Better Support Student Success, Michael Sparrow

New York Journal of Student Affairs

Students from low-income backgrounds comprise almost a third of undergraduate enrollment, but most colleges are designed poorly to support these students. This misalignment between the characteristics and needs of students from low-income backgrounds and the typical college environment leads to disproportionately low matriculation, persistence, and graduation rates for this population. This literature review provides an overview of common challenges faced by students from low-income backgrounds and characteristics of these students (including strengths). This literature review concludes by providing an overview of some student-focused initiatives from orientation, first-year seminars, peer mentoring, and others that can help mitigate these challenges and improve …

Student Exploration Of Self And Identity Within The Context Of On-Campus Employment, Jason Foster, Hermen Díaz Iii

New York Journal of Student Affairs

Utilizing constructivist interpretive inquiry, this study examined the role of student employment in the Division of Student Affairs for four current undergraduate students. Findings indicate that student employment provided an important space for student employees to develop an identity-centric sense of self, a sense of belonging, and benefit from culturally competent supervision. Implications for practice are discussed to better facilitate student affairs employment as a place of intentionality and development.

Stand For Support, Shatter The Silence: Administrative Approaches To Eradicate Bullying In Higher Education, Elaine M. Mora, Shawn P. Saladin

Journal of Research Initiatives

Bullying in higher education has become a widespread and complex issue that affects staff, faculty, and students worldwide, causing a detrimental impact on both psychological health and academic achievement. This paper provides a comprehensive examination of the phenomenon, encompassing all its manifestations, underlying causes, and significant consequences. The study, which draws on academic literature, outlines the various forms of bullying, including cyberbullying, mobbing, microaggressions, and social exclusion, and highlights the adverse effects these behaviors have on both individuals and academic communities. The research emphasizes how critical it is to comprehend the power relationships that exist in higher education settings and …

Examining The Evolution Of The Community College, Marian E. Truehill

Journal of Research Initiatives

Community colleges created opportunities for expansion to feed into four-year institutions in the United States. Community colleges served high school students, military veterans, and diverse student populations in U.S. communities. In the twenty-first century, various educational needs and rebuilding processes existed for many community colleges in the United States. Community colleges serve as educational hospitals, assisting four-year institutions in higher education.

Enhancing Critical Thinking Through Interactive Learning Approaches For First-Year University Students, Nana Yaw B. Agyeman, Venessa Vela Aphane Ms

Journal of Research Initiatives

The use of interactive learning methods is considered crucial in equipping university students with critical skills. This could successfully deal with, and address issues encountered in real-world contexts. It has been noted that most first-year university students often face challenges adjusting to university life due to their background. The research methodology utilized in this study was qualitative, as it was deemed appropriate for the research objectives. A case study design was employed to investigate the issue comprehensively. A purposive sample of eight participants was selected. Thematic analysis was employed as the method of data analysis. The study's findings suggest that …

State Of Illinois Model Programs Of Study Companion Guide, Education Systems Center

Reports, Analyses, and other Publications

This resource is intended to enhance the use of the State of Illinois Model Programs of Study Guides by focusing on the development and implementation of high-quality college and career pathways. Grounded in the state’s vision for equitable access to meaningful postsecondary opportunities, this resource supports educators, CTE directors, and administrators in designing programs of study that align secondary education with postsecondary credentials and careers. By bridging academic instruction, work-based learning, and student supports, this guide helps ensure that all learners are on a clear and unambiguous path to success after high school.

Trans* Student Experiences In Higher Education, Megan Chaffee, Deborah King

New York Journal of Student Affairs

This paper reviews literature on trans* students' experiences in higher education, examining their obstacles and institutional approaches to inclusion. The study investigates challenges regarding chosen names and pronouns, access to facilities, extracurricular involvement, and the impact of increasing anti-trans* legislation. Despite growing visibility, trans* students continue to report harassment, discrimination, and a decreased sense of belonging. The paper explores current Title IX interpretations and recommends that higher education administrators develop inclusive policies, enhance professional development, and create supportive campus environments that foster trans* students' academic success and overall well-being.

Paying The Education Debt: How Community Colleges Can Lead In Restoring Higher Education Access In U.S. Prisons, Tammy Zimmer

Instructional Leadership Abstracts

Discusses paying education debt with respect to how community colleges can lead in restoring higher education access in United States prisons.

"The question is no longer can we provide higher education in prison, it’s will we. For those of us already engaged in this work, the answer is clear. I invite you to join us."

Deaf Faculty Members’ Experiences In Higher Education Institutions, Stephanie Proctor Horvath

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Deaf faculty members bring diverse perspectives to higher education, yet their experiences remain underexplored in academic research. The critical first year of teaching can shape their career experiences, revealing both opportunities for growth and systemic barriers. The purpose of this study was to understand deaf faculty members’ experiences, focusing on their transition into academic roles, the accommodations provided in their workplaces, and the challenges they faced. This study employed a qualitative phenomenological design, utilizing semi-structured interviews with 15 Deaf faculty members, whose teaching experience ranges from 1 to 30 years. In the reflexive thematic analysis and AI-coding of this data, …

Black Women Policymakers And Black Feminist Approaches In United States Gender-Based Violence Policies: Analyzing Policy Making, Institutional, And Social Media Discourse Through The Narrative Policy Framework, Gugu Selela

All Dissertations

This research study examines how gender-based violence (GBV) policy in the United States marginalizes Black women through race-neutral language and punitive frameworks. Despite facing disproportionate violence, Black women are often excluded from policy narratives, debates, and institutional priorities. Grounded in Black Feminist Thought and the Narrative Policy Framework, this study investigates how exclusion operates across legislative, digital, and institutional domains, and how Black women in public service resist and reshape GBV policy through care-centered, survivor-informed practices. Focusing on the U.S. South, the study uses a qualitative, multi-method design. It analyzes ninety-three Senate committee transcripts from South Carolina, North Carolina, and …

A Case Study Of The Perceived Support Needs Of Community College Faculty, Ramona C. Shelton

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

This qualitative case study explored the perceptions of community college faculty members in Tennessee regarding the supports they feel they need to be successful academicians both inside and outside of the classroom. Thirteen faculty members participated in the study, representing the 4 faculty ranking categories at the institution: adjunct/part-time, new full-time, junior/untenured, and senior/tenured. Interviews were semi-structured to allow the participants the opportunity to share their honest experiences on what support needs they have, how those needs have been met, and what support areas they expect to emerge in the future. Four academic administrators also participated in the study in …

Latina Senior-Level Leaders In 2-Year Public Higher Education Institutions In Texas: A Life Story Narrative Study, Monica Yvette Escobar-Leblanc

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The study was designed to understand the personal and academic experiences of Latinas in senior-level leadership positions in 2-year public higher education institutions in Texas and the impact, if any, of these experiences on their leadership development. Although Latina undergraduate college enrollment has continued to increase, Latinas remain significantly underrepresented in senior-level leadership roles in higher education institutions. Using a life story narrative approach and LatCrit as the theoretical lens, this study examined leadership development across the life span from adolescence to middle adulthood. The thematic analysis of the four Latinas' life story narratives, employed in 2-year public higher education …

Between Compliance And Commitment: Community College Administrators And The Politics Of Dei Policy Implementation, Carol Birth

Graduate Theses and Dissertations

This qualitative case study explores how community college administrators navigate the complex and politically charged landscape of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policy implementation in the face of evolving state legislation. Grounded in Michael Lipsky’s theory of Street-Level Bureaucracy, the research examines how mid- to senior-level administrators perceive their interpretations, mediations, and actions on DEI mandates in contexts where such policies are contested or pressured. Using semi-structured interviews with administrators across multiple community colleges, the study investigates the tension between institutional commitment to DEI values and the necessity to comply with external political and legal directives. The study contributes to …

Collaborative Action In Education: Empirical Explorations Of The Role Of Partnerships In College Readiness Programs, Jose A. Sanchez

Dissertations

Education gaps exist in the United States in large part because not everyone has equal access to the educational resources or role models that will prepare them to seek a college education. To help combat this phenomenon, Federal and State Governments have promoted college readiness programs via collaborative partnerships between school districts, on the one hand, and colleges and universities, on the other.

To better understand the role that partners can play in creating and sustaining college-readiness programs, this study focused on the history and current practices of collaborations involving oversight of college readiness programs in two school districts. Partnership …

Unheard Echoes: Undocumented Students’ Success Amidst Challenges At U.S. Higher Education Community Colleges, Elvia Ortiz Segura

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

This qualitative descriptive study explored the lived experiences of undocumented Latinx students at a southern U.S. community college, identifying support services that assisted students with barriers that emerged in their academic journey. The problem of the study was the complex challenges undocumented students face in higher education and how they are addressed and supported. The research used a qualitative descriptive methodology to magnify student voices and influence institutional policies. Using Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory as the theoretical framework, this study examined how family, culture, policy, and institutional systems influenced undocumented students’ educational journeys. Data were collected through semistructured interviews with …

Efforts Of Public 2-Year Higher Education Institution Leadership Reducing Nonexempt Student Affairs Employees’ Intention To Quit, Christopher M. Viser

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

This narrative qualitative study examined the influence of leadership support and workplace factors on the intentions of nonexempt student affairs employees to leave a public 2-year higher education institution (HEI) in Texas. The study addressed the issue of workplace factors contributing to these employees’ developing intentions to quit their jobs. The research focused on identifying the workplace factors that most significantly influenced nonexempt student affairs employees and explored how leadership support influenced employee experiences. The study used narrative inquiry as its methodology to gather employee narratives through semistructured interviews conducted via Zoom, a communication platform. Nine participants were selected for …

Fostering An Inclusive Environment For New Students Through The South Pacific Division Community Support System At The Adventist International Institute Of Advanced Studies: An Appreciative Inquiry, Anasa Tabua

Adventist Human-Subject Researchers Association

This study uses Appreciative Inquiry to explore how the South Pacific Division (SPD) community support systems at the Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies (AIIAS), grounded in Social Capital Theory, foster inclusivity for new students. It examines existing systems, identifies strengths, and explores enhancement strategies. The findings offer implications for other AIIAS communities and Adventist institutions seeking to enhance support systems and foster inclusive environments.

Fostering Inclusive Teaching: Care-Centred Approaches In Business Schools Of The Visegrad Countries, Agnieszka Brzozowska

Studia i Materiały Wydział Zarządzania Uniwersytet Warszawski

Purpose: This study aims to explore the experiences of business students in the Visegrad Group countries during the transition to online learning prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic, with a focus on the social aspects of their educational experiences.

Design/methodology/approach: Utilizing qualitative research methods, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 40 students across four business schools in the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, and Slovakia. The interviews were analysed thematically to identify key insights regarding students' perceptions of online education and the importance of social interactions.

Findings: The findings reveal that students significantly missed interpersonal relationships during online learning, highlighting a strong …