Approaching a Comprehensive Institutional Plan for Western Iowa Tech Community College. Phase II: Creating a New Vision

Developed in response to the need for a revision of the institutional mission statement and objectives of Western Iowa Tech Community College (WITCC) in order to respond to the changing student population, external economic factors, and local community needs, this report reviews economic and legislative issues affecting the college, describes activities of the various departmental units to address specific need areas, and presents recommendations. The introductory section identifies the following four challenges which the college must meet in the coming century: (1) establishing a comprehensive arts and sciences program; (2) maintaining a current vocational-technical curriculum; (3) developing a systematic approach to resource development; and (4) devoting more attention to appropriate student services. The next section examines economic and employment conditions of the Siouxland community, reviewing workforce trends, career placement of community college graduates, and community economic development projects. Next, the report reviews statewide policy issues affecting WITCC. The following six sections present summaries of recent planning efforts and activities at WITCC in the areas of occupational and career education; community and continuing education; arts and sciences; resource development; student services; and efforts addressing collegewide concerns. The final section presents a series of 20 recommendations suggesting, for example, that the Arts and Sciences unit be given Instructional Division status; advising and counseling services be expanded; and credit and non-credit courses be articulated throughout the college curriculum. (PAA)