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Blue Ridge Community College 2014-2015 Catalog and Student Handbook
The College Founded in 1967, Blue Ridge Community College is one of 23 community colleges within the Virginia Community College System. The College offers credit courses and programs through the associate degree level, as well as non-credit, workforce development, and continuing education opportunities.
Mission Blue Ridge Community College anticipates the educational needs of the central Shenandoah Valley, providing access to comprehensive programs and services, within an environment of academic excellence.
Vision Blue Ridge Community College—a model educational institution recognized for:
The College
• • • •
excellence and innovation in programs and services; leadership contributions at the local, state, national, and international levels; a supportive environment for learning and working; and students, alumni, and employees who make a positive difference in our community and beyond.
Values In fulfilling our mission, the College is guided by the following values: Learning • • • • • •
promoting outstanding teaching and learning; delivering challenging and rigorous academic programs; encouraging life-long learning, including scholarly activity and professional development; emphasizing general education that is broad-based and not bound by discipline; advocating free exchange of ideas and beliefs; and providing educational access.
Excellence • • • • •
encouraging initiative and innovation; rewarding exemplary achievement; expecting personal responsibility; evaluating and improving effectiveness; and creating innovative support services.
Community Relationships • • • • •
anticipating and responding to community needs; enhancing educational programs through community partnerships; collaborating with other educational institutions and organizations; providing opportunities for the intellectual growth and enrichment of the community; and expecting active participation in community service.
Culture • • • • • • •
embracing the challenge of change; encouraging a welcoming atmosphere that nurtures inclusion and respect; maintaining a governance structure that ensures shared decision-making; promoting transparent and effective communication at all levels; fostering the development and practice of leadership; modeling integrity and ethical behavior; and providing an attractive, accessible, and functional environment for learning and working.
What Faculty Expect of Students Enrolling in classes at Blue Ridge Community College is a serious investment of money, time, and effort. To be successful, students must be aware of the challenges ahead of them and be willing and able to work toward meeting those challenges. Knowing what faculty expect helps students get the most out of the learning experience in the classroom and online. Students should demonstrate: 1. Desire to learn Display a positive attitude by viewing each class as an opportunity to learn something new.