Students Award CCC With High Marks

Thursday, January 25, 2007

Clinton Community College received high marks from students on the Student Opinion Survey administered on campus in the spring of 2006. Utilizing a survey provided and analyzed by the American College Testing (ACT) services, 27 State University of New York (SUNY) community colleges asked students to complete the survey, which is administered every 3 years.

The survey provides comparison data of student opinions in areas of: 1) college impressions and plans, 2) college services and facilities, and 3) environment, experiences and outcomes. Students rate their academic experiences as well as the impact of their college experience on student success, growth, aspirations and commitments.

CCC President, Dr. Maurice Hickey, said over 428 Clinton students participated in the survey, and he was pleased with the college’s scores in a wide range of areas. Students rated Clinton Community College #1 in their satisfaction with: 1) the availability of computers when you need them, 2) course related laboratories, 3) online courses, 4) new student orientation and 5) billing and payment. In addition, among the 27 community colleges, students rated the college #1 in: 1) class size, 2) campus acceptance of differences, 3) racial harmony and 4) the diversity of the student body. Other areas rating high on the list include: 1) the availability of courses you want at times you can take them, 2) personal safety and security, 3) the social support network and 4) a sense of belonging on campus.

“Our ratings demonstrate our student-centered approach to helping students find success in college,” said Dr. Steve St. Onge, vice president of student affairs. “Our high marks in overall college satisfaction, new student orientation programming, and opportunities for campus involvement define the advantages of our college,” Dr. St. Onge said.

December graduate and student representative to CCC’s Board of Trustees in 2006, Matthew Ormsby, when asked about the survey, said “I love it here at Clinton. I think the (survey) results show how good every aspect of the college experience has been here. The faculty can help you, easily, with more one-on-one time instead of just being a number in class. Clinton definitely prepares you more for the future.”

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"It's very gratifying to note the high regard the students have for our faculty, said Dr. Paul Almonte, vice president for academic affairs." The survey affirms what I've witnessed in my short time here at Clinton: that we have a remarkably dedicated group of teachers who care deeply about their students' success. The faculty should rightfully take great pride in these results."

The survey, which provides community colleges the opportunity to compare their assessments with the other participating SUNY community colleges, serves as a valuable tool in identifying areas of the College where success is achieved and in providing feedback on areas the College can benchmark for development or future growth. CCC students reported they have: 1) worked hard to meet instructor’s expectations, 2) gone to class with course readings and assignments completed, 3) have been required to think critically in completing assignments and 4) received feedback from instructors on the quality of their work. Students also responded they have access to the latest technology, they developed a self–understanding, they can write clearly and effectively, and they feel a sense of belonging.

“I was very pleased to see that our students rated Clinton Community College number one in so many important categories,” said Dr. Hickey. “Knowing our students have expressed confidence and satisfaction in their learning experiences is one measure of success. High ratings in additional areas demonstrate the scope of the survey and further assure us we are carrying out our mission in providing the best value, quality and support possible to our students.”

Clinton Community College's beautiful campus is conveniently located off Route 9 at Bluff Point in Plattsburgh, New York. The College is proud of its quality of education, low tuition, small classes, outstanding faculty and excellent facilities. Approximately 2,300 students attend the college known for its academically acclaimed programs in nursing, criminal justice, liberal arts, and technology. For students who wish to pursue a 4-year degree, the college offers a joint admissions program with Plattsburgh State University as well as other 1+1 and 2+2 transfer agreements. For additional information contact Admissions at (518) 562-4170, 800-552-1160, or visit: www.clinton.edu.