Our Mission, Vision, and Core Values
College Vision and Mission
In March 2019, the Board of Trustees adopted a new vision statement for Richland Community College: to be the best and first choice for education.
The Board of Trustees adopted a new mission statement in March 2019: To empower individuals through learning and to forge partnerships that grow communities.
Richland Community College achieves its mission and purpose by offering the following programs:
- The first two years of a baccalaureate education;
- Technical courses, certificates, and degrees designed to provide job training, retraining, and upgrading of skills;
- Basic educational skills designed to prepare students to engage in college-level study;
- Continuing and community education courses and programs designed to provide and encourage opportunities for lifelong learning;
- Student development programs and services designed to help students identify educational and career goals, set realistic career paths, and develop skills necessary to achieve intellectual and personal growth;
- Academic programs and services that provide supplemental support to both teaching and learning;
- Community education activities and programs that complement, enhance, and contribute to the growth and enrichment of students and the community, both inside and outside of the classroom; and
- Community service activities and programs that promote linkages with business, industry, and governmental agencies designed to meet the changing needs of the market place and promote economic growth in Central Illinois.
Core Values
Also in 1989, an Administrator’s Creed was developed to establish a viewpoint, framework, and tone from which the College’s leaders would lead. The Administrator’s Creed was reviewed in 2008; at that time, the Values and Tenets for Richland Community College Employees, utilizing the College’s Core Values, definitions, and affirmation statements, replaced the Administrator’s Creed.
The moral character of an educational organization is reflective of its leadership. Among those involved in the art and science of teaching, it is imperative that both teachers and leaders demonstrate a strong commitment to good principle and ethical behavior.
The fundamental contributions of education to society demand commitment to exemplary values. At Richland Community College, these values are embodied in our Core Values, which were adopted by the Board of Trustees in 2003. In 2008, the Core Values replaced the Administrator’s Creed and were reaffirmed by the Board of Trustees in April 2015. In 2022, at the urging of the Board of Trustees, the Core Values and definitions were refined to reflect the growing emphasis on diversity. They were approved by the Board in December 2022.
These Core Values serve as the guiding principles for Richland Community College and its employees.
Commitment -- We are dedicated to meeting the needs of the communities we serve.
Respect -- We recognize the expertise of all members of the College community and encourage individual contributions.
Excellence -- We strive to develop and pursue higher standards.
Integrity and Accountability -- We are accountable to the communities we serve and are truthful, sincere, transparent, and responsible for our actions.
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) -- We foster an environment where diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging are incorporated across all levels of the organization and recognize the importance of eliminating barriers for students, employees, and community members.