The role of the community college in the educational growth and development of rural America can be enhanced by (1) strengthening the bond with rural public school districts; (2) developing a rural studies curriculum; and (3) becoming a major factor in the rural development process. (MB)

Reviews findings of a National Center for Higher Education Management Systems study, which investigated the effects of enrollment and revenue declines on small independent four-year colleges, and discusses implications for two-year colleges facing similar problems. Looks at strategies that helped more resilient colleges meet financial problems…

In the face of declining enrollments, the small rural community college can no longer afford not to include a full-time public information officer on the administrative staff. An investment in a public information office, with an expert officer supported by a full- or part-time secretary, can build a valuable cadre of college advocates in the…

Presents management models showing the evolution of public expectancy as reflected in legislated policy: the petty cash model, the public utility model, and the business model. Discusses the John A. Walker Community Center at Wilkes Community College (North Carolina) as an example of the integrated planning/resource development (i.e., business)…

Predicts difficult times ahead for small/rural community colleges. Maintains community college leadership must set examples of positivism, high quality services and programs, and concentrate on maintaining a productive instructional climate; meet community needs; enhance delivery of instruction and resources; use financial resources effectively;…

Considers the cultural heritage and special needs of small town and rural Americans, and stresses the importance of developing curricula and delivery systems that assist people to maintain and renew their rural life-styles and environmental conditions. (MB)

Essays by Marv Weiss and Bruce Bryden; Jerry Young; D. Kent Sharples; and Kermit Lidstrom and Jordis Conrad identify issues and problems of particular concern to small, rural colleges, including student retention, faculty recruitment, image building, and the colleges' role in economic development. (DMM)

The final recommendations are presented for the Minnesota Higher Education Coordinating Board's study to assess the future viability of Minnesota's community colleges and vocational-technical institutes (V-TEC). After introductory material noting that the study was initiated in anticipation of enrollment declines and fiscal hardships, the report…

The presentations comprising this report examine the approaches that representatives of small and rural community colleges have used in creating and maintaining positive working relationships with state legislative bodies. After introductory remarks by Herbert E. Phillips, Milton O. Jones discusses the fiscal constraints at small colleges that…

Studies organizational problems which are unique to small/rural colleges. Suggests four basic guidelines for organizing the college in order that management responsibilities can be met: employment of administrative generalists, judicious use of paraprofessional, cooperation and collaboration of nearby institutions, and abolishment of traditional…

Two papers concerning staff development for small/rural community colleges are presented. In the first, practices at small/rural colleges are contrasted with those at larger and more urban colleges. It is noted that (1) small colleges try to keep pace with institutional growth and development needs mostly in the area of curriculum, disregarding…

Points out the vital role of the small/rural community college in providing equal access for higher education services to rural communities; unique community service activities (e.g., cultural enrichment programs, professional workshops, and prison education); and cooperative service projects with four-year institutions. (DMM)

Puts forward the thesis of convergence of community colleges and proprietary schools, which suggests that career and community colleges are becoming increasingly alike in providing a specialized form of education and training beyond secondary school. Compares aspects of the two institutions, and provides groundwork for informed discussion on the…

Argues that the apparent convergence of community colleges and proprietary schools is in large part caused by changes in federal student aid policy. Suggests that the apparent convergence masks real and profound differences between these institutions in the areas of mission, governance, size, articulation with other sectors, costs, and market…

Describes the effects of preparing for an accreditation visit on small colleges, focusing on best use of limited resources and appropriate responses to the review agency's report. Offers suggestions for college presidents on garnering collegiate and community good will during the accreditation process. Suggests that accreditation costs and…