Upload
others
View
2
Download
0
Embed Size (px)
Citation preview
1
A Member of The Texas State University System
Soaring to New Heights
Strategic Institutional Effectiveness Plan
2010 - 2015
2
Table of Contents Accreditations ............................................................................................................................... 4
History, Location and General Information .................................................................................. 5
Planning Documents
Institutional Vision / Strategic Focus ............................................................................................ 8
Annual Key Performance Indicators ........................................................................................... 11
Mission, Core Values, and Principles ......................................................................................... 12
Institutional Goals ....................................................................................................................... 13
Planning & Evaluation Process (graphic representation)............................................................ 14
Planning & Assessment Cycle (graphic representation) ............................................................. 15
Planning, Budget and Assessment Timeline ............................................................................... 16
Institutional Effectiveness ........................................................................................................... 17
Strategic Planning and Unit Assessment Process .......................................................... 17
Institutional Planning
College Unit Planning
Educational Program Level Assessment
Institutional Effectiveness Planning Meeting
Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats
Campus Community ................................................................................................................... 24
Campus Educational Units and Services .................................................................................... 24
Environmental Scan (LSC-PA)
Faculty Profile, 2011-2012 ............................................................................................ 27
Two-Year College Enrollment Totals (state-wide) ........................................................ 28
Student Demographics, 2011-2012 ................................................................................ 30
Southeast Texas Regional Information
Service Area Demographics and Economic Trends ...................................................... 32
3
LSC-PA Student Demographics .................................................................................... 33
Campus Enrollment Trends ........................................................................................... 33
Economic Trends ........................................................................................................... 35
Appendices .......................................................................................................................... 41
Campus Standing Committees for Planning and Assessment
President’s Council ........................................................................................... 42
Planning and Assessment Committee ............................................................... 43
Academic Standards and Curriculum Committee ............................................. 44
General Education Committee .......................................................................... 45
Survey Data Analyses
Noel-Levitz Survey Results, Spring 2010 ........................................................ 46
Noel-Levitz Survey Results, Spring 2011 ........................................................ 52
Noel-Levitz Survey Results, Spring 2013 ........................................................ 58
4
Accreditations
Lamar State College-Port Arthur is accredited to award associate degrees by the Commission on
Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
1866 Southern Lane Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097
(404) 679-4501
This institution is approved by the Texas Education Agency for the training of veterans under all
classifications. The College also is a member of, approved by or accredited by the:
Accreditation Review Council on Education in Surgical
Technology and Surgical Assistance
American Bar Association
Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs
National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation
Texas Commission on Alcohol and Drug Abuse
Texas Department of State Health Services
Texas Department of Human Services
Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation
Texas Department of Family and Protective Services
Texas State Board of Nursing
U. S. Department of Education
Veterans Administration
5
History, Location and General Information
Lamar State College-Port Arthur, a two-year, state-supported institution, is
located in Port Arthur, an industrial and cultural center of Southeast Texas. The College
offers freshman- and sophomore-level work in numerous academic and
technical/vocational fields. The campus sits between the 1000 and 1800 blocks of
Procter Street and Lakeshore Drive.
Port Arthur has modern public schools, churches, shopping districts and
recreation areas serving a community of approximately 70,000 persons. Principal
industries in the area are oil refining, chemical production, shipping and shipbuilding.
The metropolitan area, known as the Golden Triangle, includes Port Arthur and
the cities of Beaumont, Bridge City, Groves, Orange, Port Neches, Nederland and Vidor,
all of which are located within 25 miles of Port Arthur and form the heart of the upper
Texas Gulf Coast where approximately 350,000 people live.
John W. Gates of New York City, one of the founders of Texaco, established Port
Arthur Business College in 1909, to train people for the petrochemical industry, then in
its infancy. The College became Port Arthur Collegiate Institute in 1911, when the
school was presented to the Board of Education of the Methodist Episcopal Church
North, a forerunner of the present United Methodist Temple.
The church operated the growing campus until 1918, when it was turned over to a
non-profit Texas corporation, which had no capital stock and was overseen by a self-
perpetuating board of trustees. The name of the school was changed back to Port Arthur
Business College and finally, in 1932, to Port Arthur College.
6
Another milestone in the school’s history was reached July 31, 1974, when W.
Sam Monroe, president of Port Arthur College and a Lamar University regent, presented
a resolution to merge the college into Lamar University. The 21 trustees agreed that a
merger would be in the best interests of both institutions and their constituencies.
The 64th Texas Legislature authorized the merger and appropriated $600,000 for
creation of the Lamar University Center at Port Arthur. On August 21, 1975, the trustees
presented the deed for Port Arthur College to the Lamar University Board of Regents.
Classes began on the Port Arthur campus on August 28, 1975.
In the years following the merger, enrollment increased from 151 students to a
peak of more than 3,000 and the curriculum expanded to more than 50 areas of study.
In 1977, the 65th Legislature approved House Bill 1134 renaming the school
Lamar University-Port Arthur and dropping the “Extension Center” designation.
In 1983, the 68th Legislature passed three bills that directly affected the college:
1. Senate Bill 409 deleted the restrictive language of House Bill 130 (passed in
1971 by the 63rd Legislature), making Lamar University-Port Arthur eligible,
on an equal basis with other state institutions, for state funds to be used to buy
land and/or building.
2. Senate Bill 410 provided Lamar University regents with the authority to levy a
fixed student fee and the authority to bond against said fee for construction of
a Student Center on the Port Arthur campus. This legislation was validated by
a majority vote of the Lamar University-Port Arthur student body in
November 1983.
7
3. Senate Bill 620 created the Lamar University System. Lamar University-Port
Arthur thus became a component institution of that system on August 29,
1983.
In 1985, two bills affected the school:
1. Senate Bill 578 provided that Lamar University-Port Arthur be a beneficiary
institution and receive money from the Higher Education Assistance Fund.
2. The General Appropriations Act of 1985 directed that a formula be developed
by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to provide operational
funding to Lamar University-Port Arthur on the same basis as other state-
supported institutions of higher education.
Senate Bill 78 in 1989 removed restrictions imposed by earlier legislation on the
acquisition of real estate and the construction of facilities on campus.
Senate Bill 843 in 1991 clarified the degree-granting authority by allowing Lamar
University-Port Arthur to issue associate degrees in its own name.
On September 1, 1995, the Teas Legislature dissolved the Lamar University
System, and Lamar University-Port Arthur and its three sister institutions in Orange and
Beaumont joined the Texas State University System, which is headquartered in Austin
and also includes Sam Houston State University, Texas State University-San Marcos and
Sul Ross State University. House Bill 1297, signed in June 1999, changed the name of
the school to Lamar State College-Port Arthur.
8
LAMAR STATE COLLEGE – PORT ARTHUR INSTITUTIONAL VISION/STRATEGIC FOCUS
2011-2015
VISION STATEMENT
Lamar State College-Port Arthur will continue and intensify its efforts toward becoming a distinguished, comprehensive two-year college recognized for its quality instruction, related educational services, and proactive strategies for meeting student and community needs
STRATEGIC FOCUS
I. ACCESS
The College will:
A. Provide quality instruction, related services and facilities which are flexible and adaptive for students who are first-time-in-college, returning for personal or professional enhancement, or seeking career changes or promotion, and any organizations seeking to upgrade the skills of their workforce.
B. Enhance financial affordability for students through vigorous pursuit of additional scholarships and the exploration of community partnerships, resources, and programs that reduce “time-to-degree.”
C. Adapt and continuously improve instruction and related services conducive to the enhancement of student learning through research and planning, the application of technology, new and renovated facilities, and/or the addition of instructional locations and modes of delivery.
D. Conduct and enhance traditional and non-traditional communication, informational and motivational efforts, and retention and matriculation strategies that will accommodate a student body reflective of the demographic patterns of communities in our service area and promote an environment favorable to student success.
9
II. FOCUS ON STUDENT LEARNING
The College will:
A. Offer the first two years of a traditional college education, which will include the general education and core curriculum courses required for baccalaureate degree programs. Moreover, the curriculum will contain courses that provide multiple perspectives about the individual and the world in which he or she lives; that stimulate a capacity to discuss and reflect upon individual, political, and social aspects of life so students understand ways in which to exercise responsible citizenship, and that enables students to integrate knowledge and understand the interrelationships of the disciplines.
B. Use as a guideline in the development of all associate degree plans and programs the judgments that satisfy core curriculum foundational component area requirements essential to the learning process in all disciplines.
C. Improve the potential for employment by providing instruction and support services that will result in the acquisition by graduates of the skills, education, motivation, and demeanor required in the workplace and thus the ability to contribute immediately to their employment.
D. Contribute to the improvement of the quality of life in the region by providing instruction and related services that will result in a skilled labor force, which will lessen the unemployment rate, reduce the reliance on social support services, and invigorate the local economy.
E. Remain proactive toward establishing and maintaining articulation agreements and transfer policies to assure the transferability of courses to other post-secondary schools.
F. Recognize and inform the public that learning is a lifelong activity and shall develop courses and programs that meet the current and emerging needs of adult learners.
G. Heighten public awareness regarding the value and affordability of a college education, emphasizing the wide variety of educational opportunities, instructional programs and support services made available to students pursuing certificates and associate degrees.
H. Conduct academic and technical programs that provide for quality and accountability, emphasizes personal contact, and includes procedures for ongoing evaluation that will result in the improvement of instruction and services.
I. Provides a comprehensive program of preparatory courses in composition, mathematics and reading to help students acquire the basic skills necessary to complete a college-level course of study.
10
III. FUNDAMENTAL BELIEFS
The College will:
A. Foster the understanding that education, as distinct from training, demands knowledge of various contrasting views of human experience in the world. Each discipline, using its own methodology, offers a different perspective of human experience. Taken together, these disciplines provide a breadth of vision against which students can establish and reflect on their own goals and values.
B. Recognize that all students require personal attention during their enrollment and pledge to meet their individual needs for personal and educational services, financial aid, and educational opportunities.
C. Assure access to students by providing a qualified faculty and staff, on- and off-campus, automated methods of registration and advisement that can be available to students at remote sites, and information for educational opportunities using a variety of traditional and electronic media.
D. Assert that the foundations for student success are the successful completion of courses and programs of study leading to academic performance for successful transfer to a four-year institution and/or degree or certificate completion.
IV. COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
The College will:
A. Identify and develop project-based learning opportunities for students enrolled in those courses befitting the guidelines of practical learning.
B. Become an integral member of community-based organizations where mutual benefits exist for our school, our students, our faculty, our staff and the communities in our service area.
C. Encourage faculty and staff to become active participants in community-based activities that allow the establishment of reciprocal partnerships.
D. Continue as active participants in regional economic development activities, extracurricular activities for schools and communities, state and service projects, and other activities through which our students can gain experience and insight into the interdependencies of the citizen and the community.
E. Provide opportunities for faculty dialogue pertaining to cultural diversity, pluralism, and multicultural awareness throughout the campus and communities.
F. Provide access through the Small Business Development Center information to entrepreneurship and business opportunities.
11
ANNUAL KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS LINKED TO STRATEGIC FOCUS
Strategic Focus Key Performance Indicators
SF I: ACCESS
Financial Aid: Students
Receiving Pell Grants
Space Usage Efficiency
High School Graduates
(Jefferson County only) Enrolled in Higher Education
Enrollment Profiles
Semester Credit Hours & Contact
Hours (by Semester)
SF II: FOCUS ON STUDENT LEARNING
Transfer Rates
Assessment Plan Implementation
Number of Programs Assessed
Cohort Graduation Rates
Job Placement
Rates
Graduates Employed or
Enrolled
Licensure Pass Rates
Persistence and Retention Rates
Number of Degrees/Certificates
Awarded
SF III: FUNDAMENTAL BELIEFS
FTSE/FTFE Ratio
Student Ratings of Faculty and Staff
Effectiveness
Student Ratings of Advising Services
Percentage of Course
Completers
SF IV: COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
Enrollment in Continuing Education
Non-Credit Hours Number of Industry
& Community Partnerships
Number of Client Contacts for SBDC
12
Lamar State College - Port Arthur
Mission
Lamar State College - Port Arthur, a member of The Texas State University System, is an open-access, comprehensive public two-year college offering quality and affordable instruction leading to associate degrees and a variety of certificates. The College embraces the premise that education is an ongoing process that enhances career potential, broadens intellectual horizons, and enriches life.
Core Values
• Shared commitment by faculty, staff and administration to a mission characterized by student learning, diversity, and community involvement
• General education/core curriculum that develops the values and concepts that allow the student to make a meaningful contribution in the workplace or community
• Academic and technical programs designed to fulfill our commitment to accommodate students with diverse goals and backgrounds, using a variety of delivery methods, on and off campus
• Technical education programs that provide for the acquisition of the knowledge, skills and behavior necessary for initial and continued employment
• Student achievement characterized by attainment of individual goals and measured by successful accomplishments and completion of curriculum
• Co-curricular opportunities that develop social, financial and civic acuity
Principles
Lamar State College - Port Arthur operates in the belief that all individuals should be: • treated with dignity and respect; • afforded equal opportunity to acquire a complete educational experience; • given an opportunity to discover and develop their special aptitudes and insights; and, • provided an opportunity to equip themselves for a fulfilling life and responsible
citizenship in a world characterized by change.
13
LAMAR STATE COLLEGE-PORT ARTHUR Institutional Goals
Educational Opportunities Provide educational opportunities that are flexible in scheduling, location, delivery method and content for instructional programs
General Education / Core Curriculum Offer freshman and sophomore general education/core curriculum courses, which will transfer to traditional baccalaureate degree programs, with opportunities to acquire higher order intellectual skills in inquiry, problem solving and critical thinking
Information Literacy Provide opportunities to acquire information literacy skills, common to all disciplines, that allow a student to recognize when information is needed; to have the ability to locate and evaluate information; to establish the authenticity, validity, and reliability of information; and to effectively use needed information
Employment Support Provide instruction and/or support services that will improve the potential for employment and/or occupational advancement as well as meet the needs of employers
Administrative and Educational Support Provide students with personal attention in a broad range of student service activities, educational support services for instructional programs, and provide responsible oversight of the College’s physical and financial resources
Community Involvement Continue and enhance institutional advancement efforts targeted toward the needs of local communities, cooperate with community agencies in economic development and community partnerships, and provide cultural enrichment opportunities, both on and off campus
14
STRATEGIC INSTITUTIONAL EFFECTIVENESS PLAN PLANNING & EVALUATION PROCESS
PLANNING DOCUMENTS
MISSION, CORE VALUES & PRINCIPLES
INSTITUTIONAL GOALS
INSTITUTIONAL VISION/STRATEGIC FOCUS
ANNUAL INSTITUTIONAL EFFECTIVENESS PLANS
OPERATIONAL OBJECTIVES/OUTCOMES STRATEGIES TO ACCOMPLISH OUTCOMES
ASSESSMENT METHOD/INSTRUMENT
LINK TO BUDGET/RESOURCE ALLOCATION
END-OF-FISCAL-YEAR EVALUATION
(Findings)
USE OF RESULTS FOR IMPROVEMENT
15
Evaluation of Annual Plans
(September-October)
Review planning documents every 3 to 5 years
(November - December)
Operational Planning (February - March)
Mapping to Resource Allocation and Integration to
Campus Budget (April - June)
Gather evidence for assessment of all campus Units
(May)
Assessment Reports & Budget Worksheet Reviews
(May - June)
Establish Findings & Use of Results for Improvement
(August)
Planning & Assessment Committee
President’s Council
Program & Curriculum
Review
Adopted Budget
PLANNING & ASSESSMENT CYCLE
16
Planning, Budget and Assessment Timeline
February - March
Submit drafts of administrative, educational support and educational services unit operational plans
April Distribution of budget worksheets to account managers Campus Planning/Budget Hearings Submission of revised unit plans
May Submit budget worksheets to President and VPAA Curriculum review/evidence (artifacts) gathered from educational units Develop assessment reports for educational units
June Vice President for Academic Affairs reviews and revises proposed budgets President reviews and revises proposed budgets Finance Office reviews budgets as approved by President and VPAA Printed budget submitted to TSUS Office
August Approval of budgets by Board of Regents Development of action plans for program improvement by educational units
September – October
Evaluation of annual plans for administrative, educational support and educational services units for previous year
November – December
Review of campus planning documents by President’s Council and Planning & Assessment Committee (every three to five years)
17
Institutional Effectiveness
Gathering of data for service area demographics and the economic environment provides a
foundation for the formation of strategic planning in an institution of higher education such as Lamar
State College-Port Arthur (referred to as LSC-PA or “the College”). Once the data is analyzed, the Office
of Institutional Effectiveness together with administrators (the President, the Vice Presidents, and
Directors) has the information in hand to begin conceptualizing assessment needs and transformation of
the data into credible and analytical strategies for both internal and external constituencies. Another
major component and point of emphasis in the planning and assessment process for the entire campus is
the Mission and institutional-level goals of LSC-PA.
Strategic Planning and Unit Assessment Process
Strategic planning is a crucial foundation for the continuous improvement process of the
College’s long-term planning, budgeting and evaluation system. The strategic planning cycle includes
defining and periodically reviewing the mission of LSC-PA, the institution’s strategic goals, and the
setting of the more focused institutional goals. (See Appendix for institution’s planning documents.) The
cycle involves evaluation of institutional performance to determine how effective the institution is in
fulfilling its mission and achieving goals.
Faculty, staff and administrators for all college units (educational programs, academic support
units, and administrative units) are engaged and collaborate for a systematic and integrated planning and
assessment process. The logical, organized use of quantitative and qualitative measures applied to
assessment and evaluation demonstrate that data gathered during the strategic planning cycle is used to
guide decision making and provide information about the integration and use of instruction, methodology,
and technology throughout the College. A completion of the plan demonstrates continued use and re-
evaluation of unit plans and goals for the future, crucial to institution success in a full realization of the
mission and achieving strategic goals.
18
Institutional Planning
The LSC-PA planning process is designed to produce an ongoing strategic plan. The process,
beginning with the President’s Council, followed by the Planning and Assessment Committee, and
ultimately the Board of Regents, aids the College in examining internal as well as external conditions
affecting the institutional environment. The College’s mission, core values, and principles are reviewed
regularly. The mission establishes the foundation for the continued process of quality improvement in
programs, services, and facilities.
The Planning and Assessment Committee, after initial review and approval by the President and
the President’s Council, reviews the mission and institutional goals. Once the Committee approves the
mission and sets goals for a five-year-period, the President’s Council continues with the review. The
President’s Council sets an overall focus for the institution by concentrating on facilities, programs and
services, and finances. Integration of planning, assessment and budgeting are emphasized and outlined at
this level. After this final review and approval step at the institution level, the planning elements are
presented to the Board of Regents.
College Unit Planning
Unit planning is achieved through completion of Annual Institutional Effectiveness Plans. These
plans, inclusive of objectives, expected outcomes, strategies to accomplish expected outcomes, success
criteria and budget requests, are aligned with strategic and institutional goals as the guidelines for unit
plans. This phase of the process directly ties resource allocations and budgeting to strategic planning.
In the Academic Affairs division, after submission to its Vice President for Academic Affairs,
unit plans are presented by designated representatives of each college unit before a planning and budget
committee. This presentation includes proposed annual plans and the anticipated impacts on the pending
budget. The presentations serve not only as pre-assessment of plans and budget impacts but also provide
each unit a chance to hear information about other units.
19
At the conclusion of a fiscal year, each unit’s plan is evaluated on a goal-by-goal basis each year,
with results of the evaluation serving as a foundation for the next year’s plan. To complete the process,
action plans, included in the annual plan evaluation, are determined for continuous improvement to meet
the objectives. The planning cycle effects changes and impacts departmental goals and budgetary impact.
Educational Program Level Assessment
The program assessment manager, typically the department chair or their designee, in
coordination with the Director of Assessment, designs and coordinates the assessment of their program.
The managers assign specific faculty members to gather representative artifacts from student work.
Artifacts include material from face-to-face classes, as well as from online and hybrid/blended courses.
Artifacts are collected from all classifications of students.
Programs collect artifacts based on the commonly accepted “Rule of Ten”. According to the Rule
of Ten, the sample must be either 10 artifacts or 10% of the population, whichever is greater. Thus, a
program like process control, which may contain only 12 to 15 students, will collect a total of 10 artifacts
per PSLO. In contrast, a program like Liberal Arts, which may hold several hundred students, will
collect a sampling of artifacts equal to one tenth of their total enrollment.
The artifacts for collection are designed on the classroom level in coordination between the
instructor and the program assessment manager. A variety of different types of artifact are used.
Specifically designed embedded questions or scales. Some teachers have specifically designed a question or questions embedded as scales in their tests. These questions are designed to have a correct answer which illustrates each student’s competency on the PSLO being measured. These questions or scales are graded by the instructor as they grade the assignment and the grades from these assignments are provided directly via the Assessment Artifact Submission Form. Specifically designed projects. Some teachers have created projects or assignments specifically designed to gather data about specific PSLO’s. These projects are graded by the teacher and data from the project is provided via the Assessment Artifact Submission Form.
20
Collection of existing data. Some teachers use existing classroom projects or assignments that they feel are applicable to the analysis of the PSLO in question. Because these projects/ assignments were not specifically designed as PSLO data collection tools, the artifacts are subject to peer rating to insure their validity. The faculty member who collects the artifacts also creates a matrix by which the artifacts are to be scored in light of the PSLO being assessed. The faculty member distributes the artifacts and the scoring matrix to raters who are either familiar with the discipline or who share similar projects or processes with the discipline. These raters rate each artifact in accordance with the grading matrix and provide their rating via the Assessment Artifact Submission Form.
Each program assessment manager collects the assessment artifact submission forms and
forwards them to the Director of Assessment who analyzes the data.
When the artifact scoring is completed, the Director of Assessment returns the findings to the
program managers. The program managers in turn consult with the faculty to determine ways to improve
the programs. Those improvements are clearly identified in annual Educational Programs Assessment
Summary tables. Throughout the semester, the Assessment Coordinator conducts faculty development
activities to train the faculty at large about outcomes-based assessment.
Institutional Effectiveness Planning Meeting
The objectives set from these goals are innovative designs for each unit to try and improve in
their own division or department something new or different that is a challenge and unique approach
leading to a stronger improvement. The standard college indicators are always measured and reported in
various manuals including the Fact Book, self-study of specific areas, and specific internal publications
for a department to the Legislative Budget Board and to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.
These indicators can include but are not limited to completion rates, retention rates, successful completion
of licensure exams and student transfer data.
Strategic planning sessions were held in the fall of 2011 in two afternoon sessions. The
President, Vice Presidents, Director of the Physical Plant, and the Director of Institutional Effectiveness
participated in the session to review the Mission, institution goals, long-range plans for the next five
21
years, and perceived strengths and weaknesses of the College. In the last planning session, the key areas
identified for guiding the College’s plans, goals and objectives for the future:
STRENGTHS: • Size – small enough to get things done • Fewer layers of bureaucracy • Expectations of students’ ability and our response to them for success (2-yr
philosophy) • Responsive to industry needs • Support of community • Campus appearance: Age of buildings (within 15 years) • “Paid for” buildings • Good relationship with community leaders • Academic Partnerships relationship • Dedicated staff—ready to take on responsibility • Safety • Cost( but with increase in tuition contributing to weakness) • Student-centered foundation • Accessibility to other buildings • Good thoroughfares to campus • Building construction because will last and be of service for long term • Strong able physical plant staff • PA Foundation and Alumni Association combined endowments are strong
22
WEAKNESSES: • Need to enhance user-friendly staff, atmosphere and accessibility with renewed emphasis
on student centeredness • Transferability of courses • Safety of campus’s surrounding area – community location • Industry projects completion resulting in lack of economic strengths • Under-prepared students • Late registration • Class availability
OPPORTUNITIES:
• Residential housing • Improved curb appeal of Woodrow Wilson • Benefit in membership in TACC • Possible expansion of athletics to other sports, especially with women’s • Improvements to Student Services physical location (third floor of Student Center) • Use of My.Lamarpa for electronic communication and/or registration • Appeal to demographics who are younger and with families—recruitment and industry
expansion • Continued advertising efforts to outside area with emphasis on what we have to offer for
employment training and opportunities • Student Success Center addition; • Advertising and recruitment to strong programs (music, athletics) from areas outside
immediate area • Strong support of current system office
THREATS:
• Travel outside campus • Coordination with school districts for recruitment and/or co-enrollment • Physical location—mentality and public opinion of being in Port Arthur versus City of
Beaumont; • Proximity of other colleges/university • Changes in state law and regulations and effect on funding • Government cutbacks (loans to inmates) • Improved facilities in area school districts • Tuition increases • State of the economy • Political climate—redistricting and representation; city government financial support;
system level—operational autonomy of institutions; state support decline in funding
23
Planning has been accomplished for many years at the college at various levels and with various
successes. However, it is the belief that our mission, goals and unit objectives tied with a Strategic
Institutional Effectiveness Plan will guide and direct us into the next years with correct planning focus.
The administration undertook planning sessions that would focus on areas aforementioned and guide the
college into specific program areas with the support of programs, services, facilities and clarification of
financial support. In addition, key performance indicators (located in the Appendices) were identified to
measure the goals and objectives of the College as it moves forward with its planning and evaluation
process. The faculty and staff, with a thorough understanding of the planning and budgeting, financial
aspects, physical facilities, and services can assist in the program development and growth for the next
five years. Additionally, unit planning is undertaken to consider new programs and issues relevant not
only for the next year but for the upcoming five years.
24
LAMAR STATE COLLEGE-PORT ARTHUR CAMPUS COMMUNITY
Lamar State College-Port Arthur served an enrollment of 2,519 in the spring of 2011 and
2,257 credit students in the fall of 2011. The faculty is composed of a total of 121 faculty
members, 51 as full-time and 70 as part-time. The full-time staff of 134 consists of 18
administrators, 46 professional positions, and 70 classified employees. The College has been
fortunate to attract a number of highly qualified capable individuals to fill its faculty and staff
positions. Membership in the Employees Retirement System of Texas has provided an attractive
benefit package to agency employees. Compensation rates for both faculty and staff must
continue to increase if the institution is to retain its best employees.
The chief executive officer of the campus is the President. Seven administrative officers
report directly to the President: Vice President for Academic Affairs; Vice President for Finance;
Vice President for Student Services; Director of the Physical Plant; Athletic Director; Director of
Human Resources; and Director of the Museum of the Gulf Coast. Instructional programs are
under the direction of the Vice President for Academic Affairs and include college preparatory
courses, general education/core curriculum, degree programs in academic and technical divisions
as well as certificate programs within the technical division.
CAMPUS EDUCATIONAL UNITS AND SERVICES
Educational Units
Academic Affairs consists of the division of Academic Programs, division of Technical
Programs, Inmate Education, Information Technology Services, Library Services, the Small
Business Development Center, Distance Learning and Office of Institutional Effectiveness that is
inclusive of Assessment, Research and Resource Development. The instructional program
25
support units include Academic Programs (4 departments), Student Success Center, Continuing
Education and Technical Programs (3 departments) with Special Populations, Carl Perkins
Grants and external programs. The open atmosphere and size of the campus allow for a
participative, decision-making leadership style.
Instructional departments include Mathematics & Science; Developmental Education;
Commercial Music; Health, Fitness & Sports; Liberal Arts; Allied Health; and, Business &
Technology. The College currently offers seven academic degree programs and seventeen
technical programs. Other services available at Lamar State College-Port Arthur include the
Small Business Development Center’s offering of economic development assistance to the
community by providing counseling, training and technical assistance to prospective or current
owners and managers of small business; services to current and prospective students for career
planning and job placement; and articulation agreements with area high schools.
Museum of the Gulf Coast
The Museum of the Gulf Coast, located at 700 Procter Street, uses creative approaches
and outstanding programs to tell the history of the Upper Gulf Coast and its rich cultural
heritage. The Museum is a 501(c)(3) organization funded and operated by the Port Arthur
Historical Society, the city of Port Arthur, and the College. One of the Museum’s primary
functions is to provide LSC-PA students with a significant resource in the humanities, further
supplementing their education.
Small Business Development Center
The Lamar State College Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is an integral
element of the College's mission of community service. The SBDC provides small businesses
with the practical assistance needed to survive, grow, and prosper. The SBDC works to support
economic development in Port Arthur, Groves, Nederland, and Port Neches by providing
26
counseling, training, and technical assistance to owners and managers of new and existing small
businesses.
Athletics
The College has two Division I intercollegiate sports programs – the Seahawks men’s
basketball team and the Seahawks women’s softball team, which compete in Region XIV, a
Division I conference of the National Junior College Athletic Association.
Gates Memorial Library
Gates Memorial Library offers many support services to LSC-PA faculty, students, and the
general public. The online public access catalog is available 24 hours a day on or off campus and is part
of a system that automates the major library components. Collections are developed in support of all of
the College’s educational programs. The total volume count numbers more than 55,000. A eBook
collection provides an additional 29,000 titles. The total periodical count numbers more than 38,000
subscriptions in both paper and electronic formats. Special areas feature a law collection, a textbook
collection, a career collection, a children’s collection, a Texana collection, a rare book collection and a
best-seller collection.
Student Success Center
The Student Success Center provides help for students needing assistance with study skills or
remediation in the areas of mathematics, English, and reading. Computer-aided tutorial programs and
peer tutors are available to all students. The Center also administers approved tests for Texas Success
Initiative (TSI), the ASE exam and other diagnostic tests.
27
ENVIRONMENTAL SCAN
Lamar State College – Port Arthur Faculty Profile
2011-2012 Fall Spring TOTAL FACULTY COUNT 115 123
Full-Time 60 59 Part-Time 55 61
RANK
Professor 2 2 Associate Professor 2 3 Assistant Professor 2 3
Instructor 51 51 Adjunct 57 64
HIGHEST DEGREE
Doctorate 15 18 Masters 53 59
Bachelor 18 21 Associate 18 16 Certificate 4 4
Demographics
GENDER Female 65 71
Male 49 52 AGE
20-30 15 13 31-40 11 16 41-50 23 26 51-60 37 37 61-65 12 13
66 and up 16 18 ETHNICITY
White Only 99 106 Black Only 11 12
Hispanic Only 1 1 Asian Only 1 1
American Indian/Alaskan Native Only 0 0 International/Unknown 1 2
28
Two-Year College Enrollment Totals
Fall Headcount (THECB)
College District Fall 2011 Fall 2012 # difference % difference
Alamo 62,517 59,640 -2,877 -4.6% Alvin 5,193 5,195 2 0.0% Amarillo 11,329 11,414 85 0.8% Angelina 5,836 5,478 358 -6.1% Austin 42,004 40,152 -1,852 -4.4% Blinn 18,080 17,495 -585 -3.2% Brazosport 4,194 4,095 -99 -2.4% Central Texas 10,737 13,548 2,811 26.2% Cisco 4,363 3,838 -525 -12.0% Clarendon 1,343 1,257 -86 -6.4% Coastal Bend 3,900 3,885 -15 -0.4% College of the Mainland 4,468 4,007 -461 -3.9% Collin 27,179 27,205 26 0.1% Dallas 78,549 78,415 -134 -0.2% Del Mar 12,022 11,022 -1,000 -8.3% El Paso 28,146 29,980 1,834 6.5% Frank Phillips 1,031 1,182 151 14.6% Galveston 2,214 2,194 -20 -0.9% Grayson 5,166 4,909 -257 -5.0% Hill 4,307 4,389 82 1.9% Houston 51,413 47,784 -3,629 -7.1% Howard 4,666 4,555 -111 2.4% Kilgore 6,355 6,237 -118 -1.9% Laredo 10,046 9,170 -876 -8.7% Lee 6,416 6,216 -200 -3.1% Lone Star 68,254 78,023 9,769 14.3% McLennan 10,180 9,310 -870 -8.5% Midland 6,061 5,554 -507 -8.4% Navarro 10,383 10,150 -233 -2.2% North Central Texas 9,831 10,175 344 3.5% Northeast Texas 3,324 3,357 33 1.0% Odessa 5,112 5,036 -76 -1.5%
29
Panola 2,561 2,633 72 2.8% Paris 5,936 5,514 -422 -7.1% Ranger 1,736 1,907 171 9.9% San Jacinto 33,382 33,106 -276 -0.8% South Plains 10,505 9,697 -808 -7.7% South Texas 29,513 30,825 1,312 4.4% Southwest Texas 5,664 5,935 271 4.8% Tarrant 56,806 65,955 9,149 16.1% Temple 5,692 5,492 -200 -3.5% Texarkana 4,484 4,045 -439 -9.8% Texas Southmost 10,053 6,130 -3,923 -41.6% Trinity Valley 7,482 7,170 -312 -4.2% Tyler 11,540 9,819 -1,721 -14.9% Vernon 3,247 3,137 -110 -3.4%
Victoria 4,514 4,420 -94 -2.1% Weatherford 5,513 5,632 119 2.2% Western Texas 2,286 2,192 -94 -4.1% Wharton 6,998 7,408 410 5.9% Community College Total 732,681 735,884 3,203 0.4% Lamar Institute of Technology 3,025 2,914 -111 -3.7% Lamar State – Orange 2,760 2,643 -117 -4.2% Lamar State – Port Arthur 2,169 2,712 543 25.0% Lamar Total 7,954 8,269 315 4.0% Texas State Technical Colleges 12,353 11,459 -894 -7.2% Two-Year Colleges Total 752,988 755,612 2,624 0.3%
Chart data are drawn from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and compiled into chart format by the Texas Association of Community Colleges. http://www.tacc.org/documents/Fa11_CB.pdf
30
2011-2012 Student Demographic Profile
Semester Fall Spring Summer I Summer II Female 684 731 Male 1485 1692 Under 17 77 35 17 – 24 1315 1257 25 – 64 758 1118 65 and up 19 13 Multi-Racial 27 25 White only 896 955 Black only 672 822 Hispanic only 377 396 Asian only 153 153 American Indian/ Alaskan Native
10 11
International only 3 1 Native Hawaiian/Other Pacific Islander only
5 3
Unknown 26 57 Special Populations Academic Disadvantaged 650 604 Economic Disadvantaged 559 634 Individual w/Disability 42 55 Limited English Proficiency 0 1 Displaced Homemaker 0 0 Single Parent 2 1 Non-Disclosure 4 3 Data for Student Demographic and Enrollment Profile are drawn from the College’s CBM001 Report for Fall 2011 and Spring 2012. Data for Contact Hours and Semester Hours are drawn from the College’s CBM004 Report for Fall 2011 and Spring 2012.
31
SOUTHEAST TEXAS REGIONAL INFORMATION
Southeast Texas Economic Development Foundation has gathered data and information that
provides an overall view of LSC-PA’s region. The Southeast Texas region consists primarily of Hardin,
Jefferson and Orange counties. Past census data reveals the population of this area to be a cumulative
population of about 390,586. Approximately 63 percent of the county population resides in Jefferson
County, the county in which LSC-PA is located. In the fall of 2009, the average age of an LSC-PA
student was 25 years. Of the Southeast Texas population, 38,515 persons are reported to be between 25
and 34 years of age. Approximately 66,000 people are between the ages of 20 and 34 years of age. A
graphical representation depicts the approximate numbers for all age groups.
From: http://www.setedf.org
32
The Southeast Texas Economic Development Foundation has provided yearly growth projections
from data gathered in the last census. The projections for the next three years are:
2013 397,550
2014 401,525
2015 405,541
SERVICE AREA DEMOGRAPHICS AND ECONOMIC TRENDS
Jefferson County Demographics
The table below provides pertinent data from the U. S. Census Bureau for Jefferson
County. Jefferson County is the location of Port Arthur, the home of Lamar State College-Port
Arthur.
Age 18 – 64 159,873
Race White
African American
Asian/Pacific Islander
American Indian/Alaska Native
Some Other Race
Hispanic/Latino
131,574
85,291
8,713
1,381
20,353
42,899
Gender Male
Female
128,946
123,327
33
LSC-PA Student Demographics
Ongoing recruitment efforts are extended in every attempt to reach students from the service area
of Southeast Texas, particularly Jefferson County, and assist them in their efforts to attend and
matriculate through college. The table that follows holds student demographic data from the fall semester
of 2010. Data for the College is compared with that of Jefferson County and the City of Port Arthur.
Jefferson County Port Arthur LSC-PA
Gender Female Male
123,327 (49%) 128,946 (51%)
Female Male
27,329 (51%) 26,489 (49%)
Female Male
1,548 (65%) 826 (35%)
Age
15-19 20-24 25-64 65 +
18,380 (9%) 19,123 (9%)
133,019 (66%) 32,002 (16%)
15-19 20-24 25-64 65 +
3,946 (10%) 3,730 (9%)
26,875 (66%) 6,460 (16%)
Under 17 17-24 25-64 65 +
110 (5%) 1,426 (60%)
815 (34%) 23 (1%)
Race
White Black Hispanic Asian American Indian/ Alaskan Native Native Hawaiian/ Pacific Islander
135,476 (49%) 87,375 (31%) 42,899 (15%)
9,483 (3%)
2,536 (<1%)
284 (<1%)
White Black Hispanic Asian American Indian/ Alaskan Native Native Hawaiian/ Pacific Islander
19,448 (32%) 21,921 (36%) 15,917 (26%)
3,180 (5%)
398 (<1%)
13 (<1%)
White Black only Hispanic only Asian only American Indian/ Alaskan Native Native Hawaiian/ Pacific Islander Other
1,488 (60%) 756 (31%)
2 (<1%) 193 (8%)
25 (<1%)
6 (<1%)
16
Campus Enrollment Trends
Lamar State College-Port Arthur has experienced a somewhat stable enrollment trend over the
last five years. In summary of recent enrollment (Fall 2011 through Spring 2012), the total headcount of
students enrolled in credit courses was 2,169 in fall and 2,423 in spring. The total semester credit hours
were 23,178 in fall and 25,201 in spring. Total contact hours were 439,872 in fall and 573,504 in spring.
The following data table provides enrollment and semester/credit hours for the last six year period.
34
Fall Semesters
2006-2007 2007-2008 2008-2009 2009-2010 2010-2011 2011-2012
Headcount 2,387 2,279 1,985 2,162 2,374 2,169
Semester
Credit Hours 21,760 20,812 18,312 20,080 23,154 23,178
Contact Hours 456,080 466,720 389,824 431,856 490,704 439,872
Spring Semesters
2006-2007 2007-2008 2008-2009 2009-2010 2010-2011 2011-2012
Headcount 2,193 1,998 1,852 2,117 2,519 2,423
Semester
Credit Hours 19,787 18,514 17,198 20,317 24,710 25,201
Contact Hours 421,808 399,792 384,224 445,472 558,928 573,504
35
Economic Trends
Jefferson, Hardin, and Orange Counties
Over the last four years, three major refinery expansion projects have helped keep the Southeast
Texas economy in considerably better health than the rest of the nation. By spring 2013, the last of the
construction work on those projects should be complete. The good news looking forward is that gas prices
are expected to be stable for the next 20 years, thanks to “fracking,” which is attracting much interest
from prospective petrochemical producers. Construction related to LNG export facilities in the region is
also a bright spot for the future.
INDUSTRY
The Valero Port Arthur Hydrocracker project is nearing completion and commissioning activities
are well under way. The new hydrocracker is expected to be in operation in December 2012.
CB&I’s project on Island Park (just south of the I-10 Neches River bridge in Beaumont) appears
to be complete. All components constructed for the Refinería de Cartagena (REFICAR) in Columbia
having been barged off. The project that started in October of 2010 employed about 500 workers at peak.
According to the Beaumont Enterprise, Motiva new crude unit should be fully functional by
spring 2013 after months of rework from a fire on June 9th. The project commissioned on May 31st
doubled the refinery’s capacity to 600,000 barrels per day. The five-year, $10 billion and 14,000
construction-worker project was the largest single expansion in the U.S. in four decades. The project’s
estimated economic impact to the region during construction is estimated in excess of $17 billion. It also
created 300 permanent jobs.
GT Logistics recently hosted its official ribbon cutting at its Port Arthur facility and announced
they have been meeting with seven international companies considering manufacturing or distribution
facilities at the site. The companies represent a combined potential for $2.3 billion in investment.
36
Clearing and grading of land for the controversial Keystone Pipeline project has begun in
Jefferson and Hardin counties. Property owners are awaiting appeals court hearings on the legality of
using their property for the project.
Construction projects expected for the not too distant future include: Jefferson Refinery with 300
construction jobs and 200 full-time jobs and Cheneire’s $10 billion export LNG facility in Cameron
Parish, Louisiana, which will bring benefits to Southeast Texas in terms of workers, suppliers, and service
industries. Golden Pass has applied for federal permits to also become an LNG exporter and is awaiting
response.
REGIONAL AIRPORT
American Airlines will begin servicing four roundtrip flights per day from Jack Brooks Regional
Airport to DFW beginning February 14, 2013. Flight booking began November 4th. Various entities in
the region combined resources to provide a $1.5 million revenue guarantee to attract American’s service.
Hopefully, there will be enough passenger traffic that the fund will not have to be tapped. United ended
its air service from Beaumont to Houston in July of 2012.
HURRICANE FUNDS, FACILITIES, and INSURANCE
Jefferson County and 13 other Texas coastal counties are preparing for the Texas legislative
session starting in January 2013. The Texas Windstorm Insurance Association (TWIA) is the state-run
insurer of last resort for the 14 Texas counties from which private insurers have withdrawn coverage.
Texas State Insurance Commissioner Eleanor Kitzman recently told Texas lawmakers that by most
insurance company standards, TWIA is not solvent. Seven areas to be considered for legislation include:
statewide catastrophic insurance, the claims handling process, the need for adjusters to know the Texas
rules, incentives for private insurance companies to come back to the market by establishing a cap,
mediation before litigation, enforcement of building codes (particularly in unincorporated areas), and
representation of consumers on the Windstorm Oversight Committee.
37
During the last eighteen months (18), the South East Texas Regional Planning Commission (SETRPC)
Disaster Recovery Division has supervised the reconstruction of 715 homes in Hardin, Jefferson and
Orange Counties with Round 1 Hurricane Ike Housing Funds. Round 1 is nearing completion with funds
from a second round expected to be awarded by the end of the year. While Round 1 activities were
concentrated on the reconstruction of single family homes, Round 2 will have a broader focus with the
inclusion of multi-family and single family rental units. Round 2 funds will be reserved for very low, low
and moderate-income families. Housing has not been the only focus of recovery funds. Funds have also
been awarded to local cities and counties to address local infrastructure projects as well as a small
economic development project. It is estimated that more than $500 million dollars have been awarded for
Hurricane Ike Recovery.
Orange County’s Convention and Expo Center should be completed by the end of December. The
$10.5 million dollar project on FM 1442 was funded through a grant from
Community Development Block Grant Funds, insurance proceeds, some FEMA dollars and other funds.
The facility will house several different offices for Orange County and it will serve as a shelter for first
responders during times of emergency such as hurricanes. A new state of the art Emergency Operations
Center will also be located in the building. The space is dual purpose and can also be used as a convention
and expo Center capable of seating 650 in banquet style. Redundant fiber optic, redundant electric feed,
and an on-site water well are key features supporting its operation under emergency conditions.
Kountze and Lumberton are also building similar dual purpose structures using federal FEMA
funds. Kountze is funding $150,000 of the $600,000 price tag for its 5,000 sq. ft. dome shelter, which will
be made of reinforced steel and spray-on concrete. The dome will be built on U.S. 69 near the Kountze
Trade Days facility and should be completed by the summer of 2014. Lumberton’s 20,000-sq. ft. dome
shelter will be built at Lumberton High School and used as an auditorium by the school district when it’s
not in emergency use. The city applied for a grant on behalf of the school district, which is responsible for
the $633,000 matching funds to pay for the $2.4 million facility.
38
DEVELOPMENT
The City of Orange’s riverfront project is progressing quite well. Stabilization of the shoreline is
complete. Concrete foundations for the boardwalk have been poured and finished, and the boardwalk is
being installed in the eastern section of the project near Front Avenue and 2nd Street. Additionally, the
concrete foundation base for the performance pavilion has been poured at the former Jack Tar Hotel site.
New storm drainage lines are being installed along Front Avenue, 5th Street, Division Avenue, and 6th
Street. Substantial completion of the $6.1 million Orange Boardwalk & Pavilion project is scheduled for
the end of February 2013 with final completion by the end of March 2013.
Lamar Orange broke ground recently on a new $10 million, 32,000 sq. ft. nursing facility. Almost
half of the total enrollment at the college is made up of the nearly 1,000 students in allied health sciences.
They will benefit from new labs, lecture halls, computer rooms, and a simulation lab with two adult
rooms, a birthing room, a pediatric room and a home setting environment. The facility should be
completed by fall of 2013.
Orange County will host a Bass Masters event from March 14-17 in 2013. The event is expected
to boost the economy because of the spending expected from as many as 15,000 visitors it will bring in.
The four-day tournament will attract the top 99 anglers in the world as well as television and news media.
Silsbee is expecting two new assisted living centers to be built – one at the old Silsbee Doctor’s Hospital
location and another that will break ground in November at the U.S. 96 bypass near the 327 intersection.
SALES TAX
Sales taxes reported in November, representing sales in September, showed a healthy 5.1%
increase over September of 2011. The large increase for Kountze is attributed to success of the once a
month Trade Days which has grown to over 250 vendors.
39
EMPLOYMENT
A record level of employment of 172,702 was reached for the area in September (based on
records going back to 2000.) The number of unemployed workers dropped for the third month in a row –
a decrease of 3,302 from June to September.
REAL ESTATE
There’s good news and bad news as related to real estate in the Beaumont area. For the third
quarter, the numbers of homes sold increased by nearly 30% over 2011 and consequently the months of
inventory decreased. The bad news is that the median and average price decreased by 5.5% and 9.9%
respectively. Lower prices are driving the market.
Information in this report was provided by the named industries or through publicly
available sources.Prepared by Karen Bourdier – Entergy Texas economic development
group
Jefferson County
Data from the U. S. Census Bureau (2010) indicates the following about the economic
environment of Jefferson County, Historically, the majority of LSC-PA’s student population resides in
Jefferson County. The income data below are lower than those at the State of Texas level.
Household/Per Capita Income
Number of Households (2007 – 2011) 91,432
Persons per Household (2007 – 2011) 2.56
Per Capita money income (2011 dollars) $22,643
Median household income (2007 – 2011) $42,883
Persons below poverty level (2007 – 2011) 18.9%
40
This table provides a quick view of business and employment within businesses as reported in the
2010 U. S. Census Bureau.
Business Facts
Private nonfarm establishments (2011) 5,813
Private nonfarm employment (2011) 100,093
Private nonfarm employment, percent change (2010-2011)
1.3%
Non-employer establishments (2010) 15,112
Total number of firms (2007) 17,648
41
APPENDICES
42
CAMPUS STANDING COMMITTEES FOR PLANNING AND ASSESSMENT
PRESIDENT’S COUNCIL
President Dr. Sam Monroe
Vice President for Dr. Gary Stretcher Academic Affairs
Vice President for Mary Wickland Finance
Vice President for Tom Neal Student Services
Dean, Academic Programs Dr. Charles Gongre
Dean, Technical Programs and Institutional Effectiveness Dr. Nancy Cammack
Athletic Director Scott Street
Dean, Library Services Peter Kaatrude
Director, Human Resources Linda McGee
Director, Assessment, Research And Resource Development Dr. Ben Stafford
Director, Museum of David Beard the Gulf Coast
Coordinator, Institutional Petra Uzoruo Research & Reporting
Director, Physical Plant Steve Arnold
Director, Small Business Linda Tait Development Center
43
Planning and Assessment Committee The purpose of the Planning and Assessment Committee is to help the College improve in
the ways it most frequently interacts with students: recruiting, enhancing learning, ensuring success, promoting satisfaction with College programs and services, and retention. The committee develops goals and objectives that support the attainment of the College's Mission Statement. Members are appointed by the President. The Director of Institutional Effectiveness will serve as chairperson. This committee will:
• Review the Mission, Goals and Values Statement of the College • Review and/or submit annual Institutional Goals to the President, the President’s
Council and subsequently all faculty and staff • Review data used for planning and decision-making throughout the campus
including administrative units, educational units and educational support units as follows:
Administrative: Office of the President, Office of the Vice President of Academic Affairs, Business Office; Physical Plant, Human Resources, Small Business Development Center,
Educational: Academic Programs, Technical Programs, all instructional departments, Continuing Education, and Inmate Education
Educational Support: Information Technology Services, Library Services, Student Services, Athletics and Museum of the Gulf Coast
• Coordinate all unit goals with overall institutional goals
• Support the efforts of other committees established for specific assessments and evaluation (i.e., Academic Standards and Curriculum Committee and General Education
• Submit an annual report of committee activities to the institution, which must include an end-of-year report of assessment activities for the goals and objectives, measurements of success, evaluation of assessment measures, and use of the results for improvement. The annual status report will also provide guidelines for future goal establishment and activities.
• Other responsibilities as directed by the President or Vice President for Academic Affairs
44
ACADEMIC STANDARDS AND CURRICULUM COMMITTEE
The Academic Standards and Curriculum Committee advises the Vice President for
Academic Affairs on academic policies and procedures and the development and modification of
curricula. Members of the committee are appointed by the Vice President for Academic Affairs.
The committee includes representatives from both instructional divisions. Library Services,
Institutional Effectiveness, Faculty Senate, and Student Services are represented by ex officio
members.
Membership shall be as follows: VPAA (Chair)
Dean of Institutional Effectiveness
Instructional Deans (2)
Department Chairs (7)
Ex officio Members
Faculty Senate President
Student Services (Advising)
Dean of Library Services
45
GENERAL EDUCATION COMMITTEE
The General Education Committee is the council that reviews and approves all courses
included in the component areas of general education / core curriculum. This committee also has
the primary responsibility for review and approval of course choices within the College’s degree
plan options for all educational programs. Members are appointed by the Vice President of
Academic Affairs. The instructional deans will serve as co-chairpersons. This committee will:
• Review and approve the relevancy and value of the College’s general education /
core curriculum choices to all associate degree plans
• Maintain a list of core component areas and course choices therein deemed
compliant with state law and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board
• Monitor changes in state law and rules of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating
Board for compliance of all the College’s core curriculum inclusive of goals,
objectives, and competencies
• This committee shall act as the developer of proposals and/or all reporting of
compliance and/or changes to the core curriculum
• Other responsibilities as directed by the President or Vice President of Academic
Affairs
Membership includes: Instructional Deans
Faculty from Technical Programs (3)
Faculty from Academic Programs
Mathematics (1) Social/Behavioral Science (1)
Communication (2) Physical Education (1)
Music (1) Natural Sciences (1)
Computer Science (1)
46
SURVEY DATA ANALYSES
NOEL-LEVITZ SURVEY RESULTS Spring 2010
The Noel-Levitz Student Satisfaction Inventory survey is administered to a carefully selected sample of students in April of each year. The results annually provide valuable information about Lamar State College-Port Arthur students as well as their perceptions of the College and its services and programs.
Gathering current satisfaction data from the student population makes decision making more data-driven and allows for more strategic management of resources, initiatives and retention activities.
Student Demographics (with majority percentages)
The student sample (307 participants) can be characterized according to the following demographical data.
Gender / Female 67.89% Age / 19 to 24 55.59%
Enrollment Status / Day 85.71% Class Load / Full-Time 72.20%
Class Level / 2nd year 35.67% Current GPA / 3.0 – 3.49 30.27%
Current Residence / Parent’s home 51.03% Residence / In-State 97.94%
Organization Memberships / None 82.93% Tuition Source / Financial Aid 46.26%
Institution / First Choice 61.59% Plans to Transfer / Yes 56.21%
Ethnicity-Race / White 43.92%
Educational Goal /
Associate degree 57.68%
Employment / Full-Time off campus
Part-Time off campus
Not Employed
30.20%
33.56%
30.54%
47
Scales (in order of importance)
Available student responses range from 1 to 7, as follows.
Importance Satisfaction
1 – not important at all 1 – not satisfied 2 – not very important 2 – not very satisfied 3 – somewhat unimportant 3 – somewhat dissatisfied 4 – neutral 4 - neutral 5 – somewhat important 5 – somewhat satisfied 6 – important 6 - satisfied 7 – very important 7 – very satisfied
In general, averages for importance are typically in the range of 5 to 6 and average satisfaction scores are typically in a range of 4 to 5.
The scales, as generated by the survey team at Noel-Levitz, provide “the big picture” of areas that matter to students. Listed below are the Institutional Summary of the scales from most important to not important and from very satisfied to not satisfied. Those items that identify each scaled area are listed as an attachment to this report.
IMPORTANCE LSCPA Average National Average
Registration Effectiveness 6.39 6.45
Campus Climate 6.33 6.38
Instructional Effectiveness 6.32 6.39
Student Centeredness 6.28 6.33
Safety and Security 6.26 6.26
Academic Advising Effectiveness 6.25 6.30
Campus Services 6.18 6.21
Admissions & Financial Aid Effectiveness 6.09 6.17
48
SATISFACTION
LSCPA Average National Average
Instructional Effectiveness 5.44 5.58
Campus Climate 5.43 5.58
Campus Services 5.41 5.56
Registration Effectiveness 5.37 5.54
Student Centeredness 5.28 5.43
Academic Advising Effectiveness 5.18 5.27
Admissions & Financial Aid Effectiveness 5.06 5.18
Safety and Security 5.04 5.17
Strengths
The following are survey items that ranked above the average mid-point for importance and in the upper 25 percent of satisfaction. These items that met these criteria are listed from strongest to weakest.
Campus is safe and secure Quality of instruction is excellent Able to register for classes with few conflicts Tuition paid is a worthwhile investment Student feel welcome Faculty are usually available outside of class Computer labs are adequate and accessible Available online access to services Convenient ways of paying school bills Library services Campus staff are caring and helpful Campus is well-maintained
When reviewing the satisfaction ratings for all survey items, the item, “Library resources and services are adequate”, is ranked with the highest point of satisfaction on our campus. This survey item also received the highest, most positive mean difference, indicating that not only were LSCPA students highly satisfied with library resources but ranked those services as highly important.
49
Those scaled areas that can be identified as strengths for the LSCPA campus are, in order: Campus Climate, Campus Services, Instructional Effectiveness, and Registration Effectiveness. See attachment to this report for details of these scaled areas.
Challenges
These survey items are identified as those that ranked above the average mid-point in importance but fell into the lower 25 percent in satisfaction.
Advised correctly for course requirements and pre-requisites Sufficient availability of courses within program of study Advisors able to help establish realistic goals Student parking space is adequate Advising Office offers adequate information regarding career choices Administrators are available to hear students’ concerns
An area to be given attention in future planning is that of Academic Advising. The majority (7 out of 9) of the survey items for Academic Advising and Admissions & Financial Aid fell in the bottom half of the students’ perception of satisfaction.
50
Student Centeredness
Campus staff are caring and helpful Students feel welcome Administrators available to hear students’ concerns Seldom get “run-around” when seeking information
Instructional Effectiveness
Quality of instruction is excellent Faculty are fair and unbiased Faculty provide timely feedback about academic progress Faculty use variety of technology and media in classroom Faculty usually available outside of class Classes deal with practical experiences and applications Sufficient courses available within program of study
Safety and Security
Security respond quickly to calls for assistance Parking lots are well-lighted and secure Campus is safe and secure for all students Adequate student parking space
Academic Advising Effectiveness
Academic advisor is available Academic advisor knowledgeable about program requirements Advisor help apply program of study to career goals Academic advisor knowledgeable about transfer requirements Receive ongoing feedback about progress toward academic goals
Admissions & Financial Aid Effectiveness
Financial aid awards are announced in time for college planning Admissions staff provide personalized attention Financial aid counseling is available Admissions counselors accurately portray program offerings in recruiting practices Institution help identify resources to finance education
51
Campus Services
Adequate library resources and services Counseling services are available Computer labs are adequate and accessible Equipment in lab facilities is up to date Adequate services to help decide upon career Tutoring services are readily available Campus provides online access to services Assessment and course placement procedures are reasonable
Registration Effectiveness
Classes are scheduled at convenient times Able to register for classes with few conflicts Registration processes and procedures are convenient Convenient ways of paying school bills Able to take care of college-related business at convenient times
Campus Climate
Campus staff are caring and helpful Campus is safe and secure Students feel welcome Administrators are available to hear students’ concerns Tuition paid is worthwhile investment Seldom get “run-around” when seeking information Campus is well-maintained
52
NOEL-LEVITZ SURVEY RESULTS Spring 2011
The Noel-Levitz Student Satisfaction Inventory survey is administered to a carefully selected
sample of students in April of each year. The results annually provide valuable information about Lamar
State College-Port Arthur students as well as their perceptions of the College and its services and
programs.
Gathering current satisfaction data from the student population makes decision making more
data-driven and allows for more strategic management of resources, initiatives and retention activities.
Student Demographics (with majority percentages)
The student sample (approximately 360 participants) was selected from a total of 23 classes, with the majority (61 percent) being MATH courses and the remainder primarily consisted of intermediate level and nursing courses. The sample can be characterized according to the following demographical data (majority percentages only reported).
Gender = Female 67.59% Age = 19 to 24 54.14%
Enrollment Status = Day 90.42% Class Load = Full-Time 78.79%
Class Level = 1st year 43.09% Current GPA = 3.0 – 3.49 28.09%
Current Residence =Parent’s home 44.82% Residence = In-State 97.46%
Organization Memberships = None 82.30% Tuition Source = Financial Aid 51.59%
Institution = First Choice 66.76% Plans to Transfer = Yes 57.66%
Ethnicity-Race = White 48.04%
Educational Goal =
Associate degree 51.97%
Employment = Full-Time off campus
Part-Time off campus
Not Employed
28.10%
32.78%
31.96%
53
When comparing the demographics with those of the 2010 participants, data shows increases of 5
percent or more in those indicating a Class Level (year) of “1 or less” versus their 2nd year, those who
enrolled at LSC-PA as their first choice of college, those who selected “White/Caucasian” as ethnicity/race,
those carrying a full-time load, and those who have “financial aid” as the primary source for paying tuition
and fees. A notable decrease was shown for those whose primary residence is something other than
“parent’s home”; in other words, the choice of “parent’s home” showed the decrease.
Scales (in order of importance and level of satisfaction)
Available student responses range from 1 to 7, as follows.
Importance Satisfaction
1 – not important at all 1 – not satisfied 2 – not very important 2 – not very satisfied 3 – somewhat unimportant 3 – somewhat dissatisfied 4 – neutral 4 - neutral 5 – somewhat important 5 – somewhat satisfied 6 – important 6 - satisfied 7 – very important 7 – very satisfied
In general, the LSC-PA average for importance is 6.22 and average satisfaction score is 4.71.
The scales, as generated by the survey team at Noel-Levitz, provide “the big picture” of areas that
matter to students. Listed below is the Institutional Summary of the scales from most important to not
important and from very satisfied to not satisfied.
IMPORTANCE LSC-PA Average National Average Registration Effectiveness 6.37 6.45 Campus Climate 6.32 6.37 Academic Advising Effectiveness 6.31 6.30 Instructional Effectiveness 6.27 6.38 Student Centeredness 6.27 6.33 Safety and Security 6.20 6.27 Campus Services 6.17 6.22 Admissions & Financial Aid Effectiveness 6.17 6.18
54
When comparing the averages, LSC-PA indicated a level of importance most closely with the
national average for “Academic Advising Effectiveness” and “Admissions & Financial Aid Effectiveness.”
The most significant increase for the LSC-PA students is the area of “Admissions & Financial Aid.” The
students are placing more importance on this area than they indicated in 2010.
SATISFACTION LSC-PA Average National Average Campus Services 5.53 5.57 Instructional Effectiveness 5.49 5.58 Campus Climate 5.49 5.57 Registration Effectiveness 5.42 5.56 Student Centeredness 5.37 5.42 Academic Advising Effectiveness 5.27 5.26 Admissions & Financial Aid Effectiveness 5.10 5.20 Safety and Security 5.10 5.14
In analyzing the satisfaction levels of the LSC-PA students, a most positive note is that all areas
showed a notable increase in ranking. A very encouraging point of the analysis is that the area of
“Academic Advising Effectiveness” showed the most increase in satisfaction by the LSC-PA students
compared to 2010.
Strengths
The following are survey items that ranked above the average mid-point for importance and in the upper 25 percent of satisfaction. These items that met these criteria are listed from strongest to weakest. The rankings provided are first by importance, then satisfaction.
The campus is safe and secure for all students. (Campus Climate) 6.47 / 5.63 The quality of instruction I receive in most of my classes is excellent. (Instructional Effectiveness) 6.47 / 5.74 Faculty are usually available to students outside of class (during office hours, by phone, or by e-mail). (Instructional Effectiveness) 6.45 / 5.76 Students are made to feel welcome here. (Campus Climate) 6.41 / 5.75 I am satisfied with the library services provided by LSC-PA. (Campus Services) 6.39 / 5.99 There are convenient ways of paying my school bill. (Registration Effectiveness) 6.37 / 5.72 Computer labs are adequate and accessible. (Campus Services) 6.36 / 5.82 This campus provides online access to services I need. (Campus Services) 6.34 / 5.79 Library resources and services are adequate. (Campus Services) 6.29 / 5.95 On the whole, the campus is well-maintained. (Campus Climate) 6.26 / 5.75
55
When reviewing the satisfaction ratings for all survey items, the Campus Item, “I am satisfied with
the library services provided by LSC-PA” and “Library resources and services are adequate”, are ranked
with the highest points of satisfaction on our campus. These survey items also received the highest, most
positive mean difference, indicating that not only were LSC-PA students highly satisfied with library
resources and services but ranked those services as highly important.
Scaled areas that can be identified as strengths for the LSC-PA campus are, in order:
Campus Services (similar to Academic Services) (satisfaction = 5.53)
Assesses services students utilize to achieve their academic goals. These services include the library, computer labs, tutoring, and study areas.
Campus Climate (satisfaction = 5.49)
Assesses the extent to which the institution provides experiences that promote a sense of campus pride and feelings of belonging. This scale also assesses the effectiveness of the institution’s channels of communication for students.
Instructional Effectiveness (satisfaction = 5.49)
Assesses the students’ academic experience, the curriculum, and the campus’s overriding commitment to academic excellence. This comprehensive scale covers areas such as the effectiveness of the faculty in and out of the classroom, content of the courses, and sufficient course offerings.
Registration Effectiveness (satisfaction = 5.42)
Assesses issues associated with registration and billing. This scale also measures the institution’s commitment to making this process as smooth and effective as possible.
Academic Advising Effectiveness (satisfaction = 5.27)
Assesses the comprehensiveness of the academic advising program. Academic advisors are evaluated on the basis of their knowledge, competence, and personal concern for student success, as well as on their approachability.
Safety and Security (satisfaction = 5.10)
Assesses the institution’s responsiveness to students’ personal safety and security on campus. This scale measures the effectiveness of both security personnel and campus facilities.
56
Admissions and Financial Aid Effectiveness (satisfaction = 5.10)
Assesses the institution’s ability to enroll students in an effective manner. This scale covers issues such as competence and knowledge of admissions counselors, as well as the effectiveness and availability of financial aid programs
Challenges
These survey items are identified as those that ranked above the average mid-point in importance but fell into the lower 25 percent in satisfaction. The rankings provided are first by importance, then satisfaction.
I was advised correctly about my course requirements and/or pre-requisites. (Academic Advising Effectiveness) 6.43 / 5.26 There are sufficient courses within my program of study available each term. (Instructional Effectiveness) 6.41 / 5.25 Registration processes & procedures are convenient. (Registration Effectiveness) 6.37/ 5.13 I am able to register for the classes I need with few conflicts. (Registration Effectiveness) 6.37 / 5.29 Advisors help me establish realistic educational goals. (Academic Advising Effectiveness) 6.34 / 5.24 This institution helps me identify resources to finance my education. (Admissions & Financial Aid Effectiveness) 6.31 / 5.10 My academic advisor is knowledgeable about transfer requirements of other schools. (Academic Advising Effectiveness) 6.26 / 5.14
An area to be given attention in future planning is that of Admissions and Financial Aid, with the largest number of low satisfaction rankings. Note that #50 was the lowest ranked item. Therefore, as an example, note that financial aid counseling is #14 from the bottom:
Financial aid counseling is available if I need it. (36 / 50) 5.29 Admissions staff provide personalized attention prior to enrollment. (38 / 50) 5.18 This institution helps me identify resources to finance my education. (42 / 50) 5.10 Admissions counselors accurately portray program offerings in their recruitment practices. (45 /
50) 5.09 Financial aid awards are announced in time to be helpful in college planning.
(49 / 50) 4.83
57
Other notable scaled areas with items ranking low in satisfaction are:
Registration Effectiveness
I am able to register for the classes I need with few conflicts. (28 / 50) 5.29 Registration processes and procedures are convenient. (41 / 50) 5.13
Academic Advising Effectiveness
My academic advisor is knowledgeable about transfer requirements of other schools. (40 / 50) 5.14 I receive ongoing feedback about progress toward my academic goals. (47 / 50) 4.92
Instructional Effectiveness
Faculty provide timely feedback about my academic progress. (26 / 50) 5.31 There are sufficient courses within my program of study available each term. (34 / 50) 5.25
Safety and Security
Parking lots are well-lighted and secure. (31 / 50) 5.27 Security staff respond quickly to calls for assistance. (36 / 50) 5.21 The amount of student parking space on campus is adequate. (50 / 50) 4.30
Campus Services
There are adequate services to help me decide upon a career. (30 /50) 5.29 Counseling services are available if I need them. (32 / 50) 5.27
Tutoring services are readily available. (43 / 50) 5.10
Campus Climate / Student Centeredness
Administrators are available to hear students’ concerns. (39 / 50) 5.17 I seldom get the “run-around” when seeking information on this campus. (48 / 50) 4.91
58
NOEL-LEVITZ SURVEY RESULTS
Spring 2013
The Noel-Levitz Student Satisfaction Inventory survey is administered to a carefully selected
sample of students in April of each year. The results annually provide valuable information about
Lamar State College-Port Arthur students as well as their perceptions of the College and its services and
programs.
Gathering current satisfaction data from the student population makes decision making more
data-driven and allows for more strategic management of resources, initiatives and retention
activities.
Student Demographics (with majority percentages)
The student sample (approximately 459 participants) was selected from a total of 35 classes; with the majority (71 percent) being MATH courses and the remainder primarily consisted of intermediate level and nursing courses. The sample can be characterized according to the following demographical data (majority percentages only reported).
Gender = Female
69.91% Age = 19 to 34
75.11%
Enrollment Status = Day
91.23% Class Load = Full-Time
81.90%
Class Level = 2nd year
37.17% Current GPA = 3.0- 3.49
35.70%
Current Residence = Parent's home
44.96% Residence = In-State
96.44%
Organization Memberships = None
79.25% Tuition Source = Financial Aid
57.54%
Institution = First Choice
62.39% Plans to Transfer = Yes
56.98%
Ethnicity-Race = White
37.80%
Educational Goal= Associate degree
Employment= Full-Time off campus Part-Time off campus Not Employed
32.54% 31.25% 29.31%
59
When comparing the demographics with those of the 2010 participants, data shows increases
of 3 percent or more in those indicating students carrying a full-time class load (up by 3.11%), with a
current GPA of 3.0 to 3.49 (up by 7.61%), and those receiving financial aid (up by 5.95%). A decrease
was noted for those students classified as White (down by 10.24%), those who selected LSC-PA as first
choice (down by 4.37%), and those involved in student organizations (down by 3.05%).
Scales (in order of importance and level of satisfaction)
Available student responses range from 1to 7, as follows.
Importance Satisfaction
1 = not important at all 1 = not satisfied 2 = not very important 2 = not very satisfied 3 = somewhat unimportant 3 = somewhat dissatisfied 4 = neutral 4 = neutral 5 = somewhat important 5 = somewhat satisfied 6 = important 6 = satisfied 7 = very important 7 = very satisfied
In general, the LSC-PA average for importance is 6.32 and average satisfaction score is 5.52 (up by 81%).
The scales, as generated by the survey team at Noel-Levitz, provide "the big picture" of areas
that matter to students. Listed below is the Institutional Summary of the scales from most important to
not important and from very satisfied to not satisfied.
IMPORTANCE
LSC-PA Increase National Average from 2010 Average Average
Campus Services 6.23 0.06 6.23 Admissions & Financial Aid Effectiveness 6.25 0.08 6.22 Student Centeredness 6.29 0.02 6.33 Safety and Security 6.30 0.10 6.26 Instructional Effectiveness 6.33 0.06 6.40 Campus Climate 6.35 0.03 6.38 Academic Advising Effectiveness 6.38 0.07 6.32 Registration Effectiveness 6.42 0.05 6.46
60
When comparing the averages, LSC-PA indicated a level of importance most closely with the
national average for "Campus Climate" and "Campus Services." The most significant increase for the
LSC-PA students is the area of "Safety and Security", followed closely by “Admissions & Financial
Aid Effectiveness” and “Academic Advising Effectiveness.” Students place most importance on these
three scale categories.
SATISFACTION
LSC-PA Increase National Average from 2010 Average Average
Campus Climate 5.66 0.17 5.67 Campus Services 5.64 0.11 5.66 Registration Effectiveness 5.63 0.21 5.63 Instructional Effectiveness 5.62 0.13 5.66 Student Centeredness 5.54 0.17 5.51 Academic Advising Effectiveness 5.48 0.21 5.34 Safety and Security 5.41 0.31 5.25 Admissions & Financial Aid Effectiveness 5.15 0.05 5.29
In analyzing the satisfaction levels of the LSC-PA students, a most positive note is that all areas
showed a notable increase in ranking. A very encouraging point of the analysis is that the area of "Safety
and Security," following by “Academic Advising Effectiveness” and “Registration Effectiveness” showed
the most increase in satisfaction by the LSC-PA students compared to 2010.
Strengths
The following are survey items that ranked above the average mid-point for importance and in the
upper 25 percent of satisfaction. The items that met these criteria are listed from strongest to weakest. The
ranking averages provided are first importance, then satisfaction.
The quality of instruction I receive in most of my classes is excellent. (Instructional Effectiveness) 6.55 / 5.79
The campus is safe and secure for all students. (Safety and Security) 6.53 / 5.92
Classes are scheduled at times that are convenient for me. (Registration Effectiveness) 6.52 / 5.80
61
My academic advisor is available when I need help. (Academic Advising Effectiveness) 6.46 / 5.76
This campus provides online access to services I need. (Campus Services) 6.40 / 5.83
Computer labs are adequate and accessible. (Campus Services) 6.39 / 6.01
I am satisfied with the library services provided by LSC-PA. (Campus Item—added) 6.38/5.99
The campus staff are caring and helpful. (Campus Climate) 6.36 / 5.75
Students are made to feel welcome here. (Campus Climate) 6.36 / 5.93
Faculty are usually available to students outside of class (during office hours, by phone, or by e-mail). (Instructional Effectiveness) 6.35 / 5.73
On the whole, the campus is well-maintained. (Campus Climate) 6.34 / 5.91
When reviewing the satisfaction ratings for all survey items, these five are ranked with the highest
points of satisfaction on our campus.
Computer labs are adequate and accessible. (6.01)
Students are made to feel welcome here. (5.93)
The campus is safe and secure for all students. (5.92)
Library resources and services are adequate. (5.91)
On the whole, the campus is well-maintained. (5.91)
These survey items also received the lowest performance gap (difference in importance ranking
and satisfaction ranking) indicating that not only were LSC-PA students highly satisfied with library
resources and services but ranked those services as highly important.
Library resources and services are adequate. (0.38)
Computer labs are adequate and accessible. (0.38)
I am satisfied with the library services provided by LSC-PA. (0.39)
Students are made to feel welcome here. (0.43)
On the whole, the campus is well-maintained. (0.43)
62
Top 10 Individual Survey Items in Satisfaction (alone)
Computer labs are adequate and accessible. (Campus Services) 6.01
I am satisfied with the library services provided by LSC-PA. (Campus Item—added) 5.99
Students are made to feel welcome here. (Campus Climate) 5.93
The campus is safe and secure for all students. (Campus Climate) 5.92
Library resources and services are adequate. (Campus Services) 5.91
On the whole, the campus is well-maintained. (Campus Climate) 5.91
This campus provides online access to services I need. (Campus Services) 5.83
Classes are scheduled at times that are convenient for me. (Registration Effectiveness) 5.80
The quality of instruction I receive in most of my classes is excellent. (Instructional Effectiveness) 5.79
My academic advisor is available when I need help. (Academic Advising Effectiveness) 5.76
Challenges
These survey items are identified as those that ranked above the average mid-point in importance
but fell into the lower 25 percent in satisfaction. The ranking averages provided are first importance, then
satisfaction.
I am able to register for the classes I need with few conflicts.
(Registration Effectiveness) 6.53 / 5.58
I was advised correctly about my course requirements and/or prerequisites.
(Campus Item—added) 6.51 / 5.54
The Advising Office helps me to easily determine how close I am to graduation.
(Campus Item—added) 6.43 / 5.47
Advisors help me establish realistic educational goals.
(Campus Item—added) 6.40 / 5.43
63
This institution helps me identify resources to finance my education.
(Admissions and Financial Aid Effectiveness) 6.32 / 5.06
I receive ongoing feedback about progress toward my academic goals.
(Academic Advising Effectiveness) 6.31 / 5.21
Financial aid counseling is available if I need it.
(Admissions and Financial Aid Effectiveness) 6.30 / 5.27
The scale area to be given attention in future planning is that of Admissions and Financial Aid
Effectiveness, with the largest number of low satisfaction rankings. The bottom 5 individual items are:
Financial aid awards are announced in time to be helpful in college planning. (4.62)
The amount of student parking space on campus is adequate. (4.68)
This institution helps me identify resources to finance my education. (5.06)
My advisor made me aware of a college orientation class. (5.12)
I seldom get the “run-around” when seeking information on this campus. (5.12)
64
SSI Survey Item 2008 2009 2010 2011 2013 1. The campus staff are caring and helpful. 5.82 5.83 5.55 5.63 5.75 2. Classes are scheduled at times that are convenient for me. 5.87 5.61 5.38 5.51 5.80 3. My academic advisor is available when I need help. 5.22 5.70 5.39 5.50 5.76 4. Security staff respond quickly to calls for assistance. 5.21 5.35 5.05 5.21 5.50 5. Financial aid awards are announced in time to be helpful in college planning. 5.33 5.47 5.02 4.83 4.62 6. Library resources and services are adequate. 5.92 6.00 5.88 5.95 5.91 7. Admissions staff provide personalized attention prior to enrollment. 5.33 5.76 5.26 5.18 5.45 8. The quality of instruction I receive in most of my classes is excellent. 5.73 5.81 5.65 5.74 5.79 9. I am able to register for the classes I need with few conflicts. 5.66 5.49 5.42 5.29 5.58 10. Parking lots are well-lighted and secure. 5.36 5.49 5.28 5.27 5.56 11. Counseling services are available if I need them. 5.18 5.38 5.21 5.27 5.44 12. Faculty are fair and unbiased in their treatment of individual students. 5.57 5.57 5.41 5.50 5.51 13. The campus is safe and secure for all students. 5.72 5.89 5.67 5.63 5.92 14. My academic advisor is knowledgeable about my program requirements. 5.36 5.59 5.40 5.39 5.66 15. Financial aid counseling is available if I need it. 5.46 5.57 5.14 5.29 5.27 16. My advisor helps me apply my program of study to career goals. 5.34 5.38 5.19 5.40 5.46 17. Admissions counselors accurately portray program offerings in their recruiting practices. 5.11 5.33 5.04 5.09 5.31 18. Computer labs are adequate and accessible. 5.72 5.66 5.67 5.82 6.01 19. Registration processes and procedures are convenient. 5.18 5.43 5.28 5.13 5.52 20. Students are made to feel welcome here. 5.71 5.96 5.68 5.75 5.93 21. The amount of student parking space on campus is adequate. 4.32 4.25 4.17 4.30 4.68 22. My academic advisor is knowledgeable about transfer requirements of other schools. 5.12 5.13 4.99 5.14 5.31
65
SSI Survey Item 2008 2009 2010 2011 2013 23. This institution helps me identify resources to finance my education. 5.31 5.35 4.83 5.10 5.06 24. The equipment in the lab facilities is kept up to date. 5.49 5.51 5.36 5.56 5.62 25. Faculty provide timely feedback about my academic progress. 5.42 5.30 5.26 5.31 5.46 26. There are adequate services to help me decide upon a career. 5.41 5.34 5.06 5.29 5.37 27. Tutoring services are readily available. 5.27 5.16 4.90 5.10 5.30 28. This campus provides online access to services I need. 5.85 5.72 5.73 5.79 5.83 29. There are convenient ways of paying my school bill. 5.63 5.82 5.52 5.72 5.65 30. The assessment and course placement procedures are reasonable. 5.47 5.50 5.37 5.37 5.60 31. Faculty use a variety of technology and media in the classroom. 5.51 5.50 5.41 5.40 5.58 32. I am able to take care of college-related business at times that are convenient for me. 5.49 5.62 5.28 5.44 5.59 33. Administrators are available to hear students' concerns. 5.29 5.36 4.94 5.17 5.36 34. Faculty are usually available to students outside of class (during office hours, by phone, or by e-mail). 5.72 5.83 5.62 5.76 5.73 35. I receive ongoing feedback about progress toward my academic goals. 5.23 5.11 4.89 4.92 5.21 36. Tuition paid is a worthwhile investment. 5.66 5.71 5.42 5.55 5.59 37. I seldom get the "run-around" when seeking information on this campus. 5.20 5.26 4.94 4.91 5.12 38. Most classes deal with practical experiences and applications. 5.68 5.62 5.41 5.48 5.69 49. On the whole, the campus is well-maintained. 5.97 5.97 5.80 5.75 5.91 40. There are sufficient courses within my program of study available each term. 5.69 5.41 5.32 5.25 5.59
66
STUDENT DEMOGRAPHICS
Survey Item 2008 2009 2010 2011 2013 Gender = Female
71.38% 67.54% 67.89% 67.59% 69.91%
Primary Enrollment Status = Day
90.57% 91.25% 85.71% 90.42% 91.23%
Class Level (years in attendance at college) =
1 or less 2nd year
38.94%
36.96%
---
49.06%
33.33%
35.67%
43.09%
34.81%
33.91%
37.17%
Current Residence = Parent’s home
Own house
46.38% 31.91%
50.95%
51.03%
44.82% 31.09%
44.96% 28.29%
Organization Memberships (includes athletics) =
None
77.48% 75.48% 82.93% 82.30% 79.25%
Institution = First Choice
64.03% 65.77% 61.59% 66.76% 62.39%
Ethnicity/Race = White / Caucasian
Black/African American
40.86%
31.89%
46.67%
25.93%
43.92%
26.01%
48.04%
24.86%
37.80%
26.13%
Current Educational Goal =
Associate degree
47.84% 54.23% 57.68% 51.97% 62.47%
Age = 19 to 24
60.53% 62.22% 55.59% 54.14% 50.65%
67
Survey Item 2008 2009 2010 2011 2013 Current Class Load =
Full-Time 65.56% 71.16% 72.20% 78.79% 81.90%
Current GPA = 2.5 – 2.99 3.0 – 3.49
3.5 or above
23.57% 34.34%
30.15% 29.01%
---
30.27%
25.51%
23.03% 28.09%
27.53%
23.95% 35.70%
23.06%
Residence Classification = In-State
97.37% 98.47% 97.94% 97.46% 96.44%
Primary Source of Tuition & Fees = Financial Aid
Self support
43.10%
30.69%
43.65%
28.11%
46.26%
26.59%
51.59%
57.54%
21.58%
Plans to Transfer = Yes
58.09% 59.92% 56.21% 57.66% 56.98%
Employment / Full-Time off campus
Part-Time off campus
Not Employed
40.79%
36.18%
17.11%
28.25%
39.03%
27.51%
30.20%
33.56%
30.54%
28.10%
32.78%
31.96%
32.54%
31.25%
29.31%