Articles - Spring 2008 - return to index
Survey confirms college mission
-By Mary Spilde, President
About 600 people recently participated in a community perception survey of Lane Community College. Their opinions will help set the future direction of the college.People see affordable access to higher education and career training as core to Lane’s mission, especially for those working hard to improve their lives.
Respondents said affordability is crucial. They valued Lane’s training programs, particularly in health care, and our transfer program. The opportunity to earn a GED also ranked high.
Most people thought of main campus when asked about Lane, even though our Downtown Center in Eugene serves 4,000 people a year. We also have centers in Cottage Grove and Florence. People appreciate the access that outreach centers offer.
It’s understood that Lane is at a turning point. Respondents supported the idea of renewing the 1995 bond to pay for building repairs and maintenance. Support increased as people learned more about the college, and discovered that the bond wouldn’t increase their tax rates. Lane’s board may go to voters with a bond proposal this fall.
Lane’s mission is still on track: to provide affordable, quality, lifelong educational opportunities.
—Mary Spilde, President
