College Management Philosophy

Policy

Total Quality Management policy adopted by Board of Trustees February 11, 1992

Board of Trustees Policy Manual – Chapter IV

Purpose

To promote the quality of all its programs and services, the Board of Trustees ratified the college’s commitment to institutional excellence through teamwork and a process of continuous improvement.

To Whom Does This Policy Apply

All faculty, staff and students.

References

See Policy above

Definitions

None

Procedure

TCC shall deliver high quality programs and services which meet or exceed the expectations of its students, faculty, staff, and community. A unified management team is critical to the leadership of Tacoma Community College.  For a unified management team to exist, managers must create an environment where:

• A participatory management style is practiced at all levels.
• Managers strive for consensus in decision making while basing decisions on the best information available relative to the College’s mission, philosophy, and goals.
• All staff take part in the development of goals and understand the College mission, philosophy, and goals.  Managers have the responsibility to understand and accept those statements as a frame of reference for their performance of assigned duties.
• Institutional and departmental goals are monitored, and result in performance outcomes. 
• The College budgeting process provides for a plan that supports essential core costs, and strives for funding the achievement of the institutional goals, mission, and objectives. College employees will practice good stewardship of State funds.
• Communication is encouraged between managers and faculty/staff, especially regarding decision making processes.
• Positive attitudes are cultivated that incorporate dedication, appreciation, and positive regard toward students.
• Effective interpersonal relations with fellow employees are valued, encouraged, and expected, and should be based on mutual trust and respect.
• Clear expectations are provided for managers.  Clear expectations, including well-developed job descriptions and annually-prepared objectives are combined with regular feedback and acknowledgment of employees’ accomplishments.
• Managers and staff are encouraged to be self-directed and to use their capacities for completion of responsibilities.
• Creativity and innovation are encouraged and supported.
• Constructive change and the ability to respond positively to changes are desirable, although change simply for the sake of change is not encouraged.
• All College employees are encouraged to take advantage of opportunities for professional growth and development.

The above items are not intended to limit the many elements inherent in the participatory management style.  Instead, they help form a framework for effective management.