Analyzing Successful Partnerships

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Introduction

Due to growth in American higher education, institutions have become compartmentalized and fragmented due to specialization. Responding to increases in enrollments, expansion of technology, and government regulation, as well as expanding population diversity and programs of study, institutions have become more specialized in addressing these issues (Blimling & Whitt, 1999, p. 136).

Specialization refers to departments which grew in answer to those expansion issues. Technology advancements and development of programs of study which are related to the growing needs of society have given impetus to this specialization. Results of this fragmentation are institutions comprised of a learning environment lacking connection or community.

Reconnecting academics to the college community via coalitions or partnerships are needed for this integration of the on-campus to the off-campus. Creating more student oriented learning environments compared to faculty oriented aids in building an inclusive community for a more positive college experience for students.

Currently, functional departments work individually to meet the needs of students while simultaneously working to achieve the school’s mission (Blimling & Whitt, 1999, p. 135). This paper seeks to elaborate how cross-functional dialogue can create a shared vision for a learning environment which is complementary both in and out of the classroom. Additionally, brought to light how bridging the gap between faculty and campus life benefits all participants in the cross-functional partnership.

Cross-Campus Coalitions

College life according to Blimling & Whitt (1999) is made up of many disconnected experiences for students. This disconnect has evolved as insti...

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...tions which aid students to discover their role in their education aids the student and advances the mission of the institution.

References

Blimling, G. S., & Whitt, E. J. (1999) Good practice in student affairs: Principles to foster student learning. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.

Harrell, I. (2011, March) Interview question. AACC Dean of Student Affairs.

Targeted News Service. (2011) North georgia earns carnegie's community engagement classification. Targeted News Service, pp. n/a. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/822626358?accountid=28180

US Fed News Service. (2011) University of wyoming president honored with national award for role in innovative alcohol prevention work. US Fed News Service, Including US State News, pp. n/a. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/822785251?accountid=28180

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