Metropolitan Community College-Kansas City

Background

Established in 1915 as the Kansas City Polytechnic Institute, Metropolitan Community College-Kansas City (MCC) is the oldest public institution of higher education in Kansas City, Missouri, and the first community college in the state. MCC's mission is to prepare students, serve communities, and create opportunities for all. The college offers over 120 associate degree and certificate programs across its five campuses: MCC-Blue River, MCC-Longview, MCC-Maple Woods, MCC-Penn Valley, and MCC-Online. Annually, MCC educates approximately 20,000 students through credit and noncredit courses, playing a significant role in the region's educational landscape.

Key Strategic Focus

MCC focuses on providing accessible, affordable, and high-quality education tailored to meet the diverse needs of its student body and the local community. The college emphasizes career and technical education, workforce development, and academic transfer programs. Key areas of specialization include health sciences, automotive technology, engineering, and information technology. MCC leverages modern educational technologies, including online learning platforms, to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes. The primary markets targeted are recent high school graduates, adult learners seeking career advancement, and individuals pursuing vocational training.

Financials and Funding

For the 2023-2024 academic year, MCC's annual operating budget is $123.1 million. The college's revenue sources include tuition and fees, state appropriations, and grants. Tuition rates are competitive, with in-district students paying $121 per credit hour, out-of-district students $237 per credit hour, and out-of-state/international students $320 per credit hour. MCC students collectively received over $28 million in grants, scholarships, and third-party aid in the 2022-2023 academic year.

Pipeline Development

MCC continually develops and updates its academic programs to align with industry demands and workforce needs. Recent initiatives include the establishment of the Advanced Technical Skills Institute (ATSI) at 29th & Troost, designed to provide education in 11 areas such as building maintenance and construction, computer-integrated machining and manufacturing, HVAC, industrial electrical and maintenance, and welding. This initiative aims to address the urgent need for qualified workers in the construction and manufacturing industries.

Technological Platform and Innovation

MCC integrates various technological platforms to enhance educational delivery and operational efficiency. The college utilizes online learning management systems to offer distance education, with 2,963 students enrolled exclusively in online classes. MCC's technological infrastructure includes tools for content management, IT infrastructure monitoring, and visualization software, supporting both academic and administrative functions.

Leadership Team

The leadership team at MCC is composed of experienced professionals dedicated to advancing the college's mission:

• Dr. Kimberly Beatty, Chancellor: Appointed in 2017, Dr. Beatty brings over 30 years of experience in higher education, focusing on diversity, access, and equity.

• Dr. John M. Chawana, Vice Chancellor, Institutional Intelligence, Planning, and Transformation: Oversees strategic planning and institutional research.

• Dr. Ryan Crider, President, MCC-Longview: Leads the Longview campus, emphasizing student success and community engagement.

• Dr. Ellen Crowe, Interim President, MCC-Maple Woods: Guides the Maple Woods campus, focusing on academic excellence and program development.

• Dr. Sue Gochis, Vice Chancellor, Student Success and Engagement, and President, MCC-Blue River: Directs student services and oversees the Blue River campus.

• Dr. Tyjaun A. Lee, Interim Vice Chancellor, Administrative Services: Manages administrative operations and services.

• Dr. Thomas W. Meyer, Vice Chancellor, Instruction, and Chief Academic Officer, and President, MCC-Online: Leads academic affairs and online education initiatives.

• Dr. Larry Rideaux Jr., Vice Chancellor for College & Community Relations: Oversees external relations and community partnerships.

• Dr. Tammy Robinson, President, MCC-Penn Valley: Heads the Penn Valley campus, focusing on urban education and community outreach.

Leadership Changes

In 2017, Dr. Kimberly Beatty was appointed as the eighth chancellor of MCC, bringing a renewed focus on diversity, access, and equity. Under her leadership, MCC has expanded its community engagement and workforce development initiatives.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The Kansas City metropolitan area hosts several higher education institutions, contributing to a competitive educational landscape. MCC's primary competitors include:

• Johnson County Community College (JCCC): Located in Overland Park, Kansas, JCCC serves approximately 18,638 students, offering a wide range of associate degrees and certificate programs.

• University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC): A public research university with an enrollment of about 16,383 students, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs.

• Kansas City Kansas Community College (KCKCC): Serving around 4,807 students, KCKCC offers associate degrees and certificate programs, focusing on community engagement and workforce development.