4CD Strategic Goals 2025-2030

Foster a culture of inclusion, belonging, and student-focused engagement.

Cultivate increasingly inclusive learning and work environments across 4CD where students and employees feel connected, engaged, and valued. Provide equitable opportunities for all community members to contribute, collaborate, and grow.

Priority 1

Implement the CREED⁵ Framework across 4CD to reinforce our common purpose, promote a research-driven approach, encourage open and effective dialogue, and ensure deliverables are broadly communicated.

Suggested Strategies and Progress Measures

1. Host CREED trainings throughout 4CD, with an emphasis on utilizing the framework in participatory governance settings.

2. Regularly assess the utilization and impact of the CREED Framework and identify opportunities for continuous improvement.

5. The CREED Model was developed by Dr. Alvin B. Tillery, Jr., Professor of Political Science and Director of the Center for the Study of Diversity and Democracy at Northwestern University. The five CREED pillars are: Common Purpose, Research, Equanimity, Empathy, and Deliverables.

Priority 2

Ensure broad and active participation in 4CD’s governance structures, with diverse representation across roles, backgrounds, and perspectives. Intentionally elevate the voices of students and those most impacted by decisions.

Suggested Strategies and Progress Measures

1. Assess 4CD employee engagement in participatory governance to determine who is engaged, how they contribute to decision- making, and identify opportunities to enhance involvement.

2. Regularly review and share findings from student surveys (e.g., the Survey of Entering Student Engagement [SENSE], Community College Survey of Student Engagement [CCSSE], etc.), focus groups, and other mechanisms used to gather student input, ensuring that student perspectives are amplified and inform decision-making across 4CD.

Priority 3

Expand and enhance districtwide professional development opportunities, including employee mentoring programs.

Suggested Strategies and Progress Measures

1. Revitalize and sustain the 4CD Leadership Institute (4CDLI) or a similar leadership development program.

2. Assess faculty, staff, and administrator engagement in professional learning using qualitative and quantitative measures.

3. Design and scale districtwide professional learning opportunities that align with districtwide strategic priorities, address Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC) requirements, and support progress toward Vision 2030 goals.

Priority 4

Plan and build safe, flexible, and inspiring spaces that reflect the identities and cultures of our students, employees, and communities.

Suggested Strategies and Progress Measures

1. Regularly monitor progress on implementing District Facilities Plans, which include projects that prioritize accessibility, safety, and the use of universal design principles to create inclusive environments.

2. Evaluate and implement new facility projects and renovations in alignment with 4CD standards and codes, including Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) guidelines.

3. Incorporate culturally significant design elements into new and renovated spaces, including artwork, symbols, bilingual signage, and visual representations that celebrate the heritage and traditions of diverse cultural groups.