Strategic Plan

Strategic Plan
Strategic Plan
Message From the President
I am excited to share our 2024-2027 Strategic Plan, a roadmap designed to elevate
COM to new heights. This plan, the result of extensive college-wide collaboration,
outlines our commitment to student success, employee well-being and community impact.
This strategic plan also aligns with key state initiatives such as Texas House Bill
8 and Talent Strong Texas. These initiatives emphasize student success and workforce
training, empowering COM to prepare students for high-value careers and expand access
to postsecondary education.
Legacy of Excellence: A Future of Success is our guiding vision. Our COM 2024-2027
Strategic Plan outlines our path for achieving this vision, driving student success,
fostering a supportive campus and strengthening our community.
Sincerely,
Dr. Helen Castellanos Brewer
President, College of the Mainland
Mission, Vision & Values
Mission
College of the Mainland is a learning-centered, comprehensive community college dedicated
to student success and the intellectual and economic enrichment of the diverse communities
we serve.
Vision
College of the Mainland will be a valued and vital community partner by enriching
our community and preparing our students to thrive in a diverse, dynamic and global
environment.
Values
Student Success and Academic Excellence
Continuous Improvement and Accountability
Mutual Respect and Civility
Innovation and Adaptability
Campus and Community Collaboration
Accreditation
College of the Mainland is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and
Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate and baccalaureate degrees
and certificates. Contact the SACSCOC at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097
or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of College of the Mainland.
Strategic Goals & Outcomes
Key Performance Indicator Reports
Goal 1: Student Success
Empower our students to clarify their educational paths, ensure their learning and
meet their end goals.
Strategic Activities
Enhance Early Engagement:
Connect with prospective students early in their decision-making process, providing
resources and guidance for career exploration and informed educational choices.
Simplify Enrollment Pathways:
Ensure clear pathways for full- and part-time enrollment in all programs, including
prior learning assessment and transfer options.
Optimize Communications:
Improve communications and outreach to prospective students, providing timely and
personalized support throughout the application and enrollment process.
Strengthen Onboarding:
Support new students with student-centered onboarding processes.
Propel Academic Success:
Improve student achievement, completion rates and post-graduation outcomes, including
employment and continuing education.
Foster Lasting Connections:
Reinforce student ties to COM after graduation or transfer.
Expected Outcomes
Expand Access & Enrollment:
Increase the number of students in credit, continuing education and adult basic education
programs/courses.
Optimize the Student Journey:
Make the transition from prospective student to enrolled students seamless and user-friendly,
reducing barriers and increasing accessibility.
Promote Persistence & Completion:
Ensure students persist through the completion of their educational goals.
Drive Successful Outcomes:
Ensure students efficiently complete their programs, find employment, continue their
education and remain connected to COM.
View the Key Performance Indicators for Goal 1
Goal 2: Employee Success
Create an environment that retains and attracts administrators, faculty and staff
that are committed to serving students.
Strategic Activities
Invest in Employee Growth:
Foster a culture of continuous learning and development by providing comprehensive
professional development opportunities for all faculty and staff. These opportunities
will support skill enhancement, career advancement and the acquisition of new knowledge
and competencies relevant to the institution’s strategic goals.
Develop High-Impact Leaders:
Implement a Leadership Academy designed to equip current and emerging leaders with
the skills and competencies necessary for effective project and team leadership, resulting
in improved organizational performance.
Formalize Employee Recognition:
Develop and implement a structured employee recognition program that provides consistent
and meaningful appreciation for employee contributions, fostering a positive and motivating
work environment.
Expected Outcomes
Employee Development
: Foster growth by providing opportunities for employees to enhance their skills and
abilities through professional development programs.
Employee Fulfillment:
Increase satisfaction and motivation through structured recognition programs and
targeted financial incentives that promote continuous learning and improvement.
Leadership Cultivation:
Develop the leadership potential of current and emerging leaders, preparing them
to contribute effectively to the College’s success.
View the Key Performance Indicators for Goal 2
Goal 3: Campus Amenities & Infrastructure
Develop and maintain a modern, sustainable and technologically advanced campus environment
that supports the success, well-being and safety of students, employees and the broader
community.
Strategic Activities
Bond-Funded Projects
Complete Bond-Funded Projects:
Effectively manage and oversee all phases (design, construction and occupancy) of
the 2023 Bond-funded facilities construction and improvement projects, ensuring on-time
and on-budget completion. This includes:
Construction of new Library Classroom Building, Corporate and Continuing Education
Building and Public Safety Building. Renovations to College Services, Industrial Education
and Welding buildings.
Implement a robust project management process to track progress, manage risks and
ensure quality control.
Prioritize sustainable building practices and incorporate environmentally friendly
features in all new construction and renovations.
Establish Quality Assurance Program:
Develop and implement a comprehensive quality assurance and customer satisfaction
program for campus amenities and infrastructure. This program will:
Establish clear standards for the maintenance and upkeep of facilities, grounds and
technology.
Implement regular inspections and assessments to identify and address maintenance
needs proactively.
Create a system for collecting and responding to feedback from students, employees
and community members regarding campus amenities.
Regularly review and update standards and procedures to ensure continuous improvement.
Upgrade Technology Infrastructure:
Invest in technology upgrades and enhancements to support student learning, employee
productivity and operational efficiency. This includes:
Upgrading network infrastructure to provide reliable high-speed internet access across
campus.
Implementing modern classroom technology to enhance teaching  and learning.
Exploring and adopting emerging technologies that can enhance campus experience and
support institutional goals.
Expected Outcomes
Safe & Functional Environment:
Provide a safe, operational, efficient, and aesthetically pleasing campus environment
that promotes the well-being and productivity of students and employees.
Enhanced Learning & Working Spaces:
Create modern and engaging learning spaces equipped with the latest technology to
support student success. Provide employees with functional and comfortable workspaces
that promote collaboration and productivity.
Improved Security:
Enhance campus security through the implementation of advanced security systems,
including automated lockdown capabilities, upgraded lighting, and surveillance technology.
Increased Accessibility:
Ensure that campus facilities and technology are accessible to all members of the
community, including individuals with disabilities.
Community Engagement:
Provide welcoming and accessible campus amenities that encourage community use and
engagement.
View the Key Performance Indicators for Goal 3
Goal 4: Campus Safety & Wellness
Ensuring safety, security and wellness initiatives for the COM community and its property
to enable the pursuit of academic and professional goals.
Strategic Activities
Enhance Physical Security
Infrastructure Improvements:
Invest in security technology upgrades: Install and maintain security cameras, access
control systems and emergency notification systems across all campus buildings and
grounds.
Improve lighting: Ensure adequate lighting in all areas, particularly parking lots,
walkways and building entrances.
Secure building access: Implement a system for controlling access to buildings, including
key card access, security personnel and visitor management protocols.
Emergency Preparedness:
Collaborate with neighboring industries to monitor and mitigate  environmental risks.
Develop and regularly practice comprehensive emergency response plans for various
scenarios (e.g., fire, active shooter, natural disaster).
Conduct regular safety drills and training for students, faculty and staff to ensure
preparedness in emergencies.
Establish clear communication channels and protocols for disseminating information
during emergencies.
Safety Audits & Assessments:
Build an environmental monitoring program with regular assessments and reporting.
Conduct regular safety audits and risk assessments to identify potential hazards and
vulnerabilities.
Implement corrective actions to address identified risks and improve safety measures.
Promote a Culture of Safety
Awareness & Education
Develop and implement ongoing safety awareness campaigns and educational programs
for students, faculty and staff.
Provide training on topics such as crime prevention, personal safety, bystander intervention
and sexual assault prevention.
Promote awareness of available resources and support services, including counseling,
mental health services and victim advocacy.
Reporting & Response:
Establish protocols for responding to environmental incidents, including air quality
monitoring and hazardous material assessments.
Integrate technology to enhance tracking and reporting of safety-related incidents.
Establish clear and accessible reporting mechanisms for safety concerns and incidents.
Ensure prompt and effective response to all reported incidents, including investigation
and appropriate disciplinary action.
Foster a culture where individuals feel comfortable reporting safety concerns without
fear of retaliation.
Community Partnerships:
Collaborate with local law enforcement agencies to enhance campus security and information
sharing.
Engage with community organizations to provide resources and support to students and
employees.
Strengthen partnerships with emergency management agencies and environmental experts
for coordinated response efforts.
Support Wellness & Mental Health
Mental Health Services:
Provide accessible and affordable mental health services to students and employees,
including counseling, support groups and crisis intervention.
Promote mental health awareness and reduce stigma through education and outreach programs.
Wellness Programs:
Offer wellness programs and initiatives that promote physical and emotional well-being,
such as stress management workshops, fitness classes and healthy lifestyle education.
Create a supportive campus environment that encourages healthy habits and work-life
balance.
Threat Assessment & Intervention:
Establish a threat assessment team to identify and respond to individuals who may
pose a risk to themselves or others.
Provide intervention and support services to individuals in need, including referrals
to mental health professionals and community resources.
Expected Outcomes
Reduced Crime & Safety Incidents:
A measurable decrease in the number of reported safety incidents on campus.
Increased Sense of Safety:
Students, faculty and staff feel safe and secure on campus.
Improved Emergency Preparation:
The campus community is well-prepared to respond effectively to emergencies.
Enhanced Community Well-Being:
Increased awareness of and access to wellness and mental health resources.
Stronger Community Partnerships:
Effective collaboration with local law enforcement and community organizations.
View the Key Performance Indicators for Goal 4
Goal 5: Community Engagement
Establish and maintain connections with our community and industry.
Strategic Activities
Community Outreach & Engagement
Community Events: Host community events on campus, such as festivals, concerts, lectures
and workshops.
Volunteer Opportunities: Encourage students, faculty, and staff to volunteer their
time and expertise to support local organizations and causes.
Advisory Boards: Maintain active community advisory boards to provide input on college
programs and initiatives.
Communication and Marketing: Utilize various communication channels (website, social
media, newsletters) to keep the community informed about college events, programs
and resources.
Addressing Community Needs
Execute community needs assessments to identify key challenges and opportunities.
Partnerships for Economic Development: Collaborate with local businesses and government
agencies to support economic development initiatives and workforce development strategies.
Community Health and Wellness: Offer health and wellness programs and services to
the community, such as health screenings, fitness classes and mental health counseling.
Cultural and Civic Engagement: Promote cultural awareness and civic engagement through
events, programs and partnerships with community organizations.
Corporate & Continuing Education Market Research
Identify Corporate Training and Continuing Education Needs: Conduct thorough research
to identify the specific training needs of local businesses and industries. Analyze
workforce trends, skills gaps and emerging technologies to determine in-demand training
topics.
Competitive Analysis: Research existing corporate training providers in the area to
understand the competitive landscape, pricing strategies and program offerings.
Corporate & Continuing Education Program Design & Development
Grow opportunities for on-demand and workforce-essential learning such as micro-credentials.
Curriculum Development: Develop high-quality, relevant curriculum that aligns with
industry needs and incorporates adult learning principles. Deliver various formats,
such as in-person workshops, online courses, hybrid models and on-site training at
company locations.
Instructor Expertise: Recruit experienced instructors with industry expertise and
strong teaching skills. Provide training and support to ensure they are knowledgeable
about adult learning methodologies and effective instructional practices.
Flexibility and Customization: Offer flexible scheduling options and tailor programs
to meet the specific needs of individual companies. Be prepared to customize curriculum,
delivery methods and training schedules to accommodate different requirements.
Corporate & Continuing Education Marketing & Outreach
Build Relationships: Establish strong relationships with local businesses, industry
associations, and economic development organizations. Attend industry events, network
with key decision-makers and participate in community initiatives.
Targeted Marketing: Develop targeted marketing materials and campaigns that highlight
the benefits of your training programs for businesses and employees. Utilize various
channels, such as email marketing, social media, website promotion and print advertising.
Showcase Success Stories: Highlight successful partnerships and testimonials from
satisfied clients to build credibility and demonstrate the value of your training
programs.
Open Houses and Information Sessions: Host regular open houses and information sessions
to increase awareness of continuing education and corporate training offerings, providing
opportunities for prospective students and businesses to learn about programs, meet
instructors and explore learning pathways.
Corporate & Continuing Education Operational Efficiency
Streamlined Processes: Develop efficient processes for enrollment, registration, payment,
and record-keeping. Utilize technology to automate tasks and improve communication
with clients and participants.
Cost-Effectiveness: Develop competitive pricing strategies that are attractive to
businesses while ensuring program sustainability. Explore funding opportunities and
partnerships to reduce costs and expand access to training.
Quality Assurance: Implement a system for evaluating program effectiveness and gathering
feedback from participants and businesses. Continuously improve programs based on
data and feedback to ensure high quality and relevance.
Build Long-Term Partnerships
Client Relationship Management: Develop strong client relationships through ongoing
communication, responsiveness to needs and personalized service.
Advisory Boards: Establish an advisory board with representatives from local businesses
and industries to provide guidance on program development and ensure alignment with
workforce needs.
Continuing Education Units (CEUs): Offer CEUs or other professional credentials to
enhance the value of training programs and support employee career advancement.
Expected Outcomes
Strengthened Community Connection:
Foster stronger relationships with the COM community through meaningful interactions
and partnerships.
Increased Community Outreach & Engagement:
Achieve a higher rate of participation from community members at campus events.
Increased Enrollment & Revenue:
Achieve an increase in enrollment in corporate and customized training programs annually.
Enhanced Program Quality & Relevance:
Achieve a high satisfaction rate among corporate training participants in terms of
program quality, relevance and instructor effectiveness.
Improved Workforce Development Impact:
Partner with local employers to develop training programs that address identified
skills gaps in high-demand industries.
Increased Visibility & Relevance:
Attract clients by building a strong reputation that instills confidence in COM’s
Continuing Education programs to deliver quality training.
View the Key Performance Indicators for Goal 5
Legacy of Excellence: A Future of Success
Strategic Plan | 2024-2027
The 2024-2027 Strategic Plan is a roadmap designed to elevate COM to new heights.
This plan, the result of extensive college-wide collaboration, outlines our commitment
to student success, employee well-being and community impact.
DOWNLOAD STRATEGIC PLAN (3MB)
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