Community College Leaders: Changing Student Demographics

The student population in community colleges is growing rapidly and becoming more diverse. The culture composition of the student population in community colleges has expanded, and includes larger percentages of African Americans, Asian/Pacific Islanders, Hispanic Americans, and Native Americans than are found in other higher education institutions. The changing demographics can offer challenges for community college leaders in relation to multicultural sensitivities, communication skills, and learning success strategies. Through face-to-face interview, 10 community college leaders shared their lived experiences that contributed to them identifying with and understanding the various educational, family, financial, and cultural challenges these students encounter. The results of the study might help administrators, faculty, staff, and trustee boards continue valuing and promoting an environment of inclusion by improving the policies and practices related to student diversity and student success.