Learning Resources

Abstract: Drawing on our research and advocacy efforts at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona (Cal Poly Pomona), we identified cross-division investments that have increased coordination and collaboration to provide holistic support and facilitate degree attainment for student parents. Efforts included securing internal and external funding, establishing a staff position dedicated to student parent support, designing a family-friendly study area in the university library, establishing a family-friendly campus team, supporting the establishment of the Parenting Broncos Club, and increasing overall awareness throughout campus.

Abstract: As universities become more proactive in ensuring student success, the role of faculty is no longer primarily delivering the content of their discipline. It also includes reducing failure rates, creating a sense of student belonging, and engaging in high-impact practices. That work is perceived to be chiefly the responsibility of tenured faculty—and the effect of adjunct faculty is sometimes overlooked. This article argues for increased inclusion of adjunct faculty when planning for programs and policies that improve student success, retention, and graduation rates. Initiatives that worked for a public university are shared.

Abstract: Planning approaches are in a dynamic relationship with organizational culture. This article uses a case study of academic planning at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona to draw a correspondence between types of organizational culture and planning approaches. The case study shows the differing conceptions of organizational culture held by stakeholders and links them to alternate planning approaches. Unresolved conflicts about organizational culture impeded agreement on a planning process. Understanding the dynamics of organizational culture can help academic planners design contingent processes that draw from multiple planning approaches. The article concludes with suggestions for academic planners on how to design and implement such processes.