Reading Area Community College (RACC) Market Research Report
Background
Overview
Reading Area Community College (RACC), established on October 1, 1971, is a public, accredited, open-enrollment institution located in Reading, Pennsylvania. Sponsored by Berks County, RACC offers associate degrees, certificates, and diploma programs, along with career-focused training, transitional coursework, skills training for business and industry, personal enrichment programs, and public service activities. The college serves a diverse student body, including individuals from various age groups, ethnic backgrounds, and international origins. Popular programs include nursing, respiratory care, criminal justice, and business. Additionally, the Community Education/Workforce Development division provides programs such as dental assisting, home health aide, and GED preparation.
Mission and Core Values
RACC's mission is to build communities of learning committed to educational growth and the economic vitality of the region. The core values include:
- Excellence: Striving for excellence in all actions.
- Student Learning and Personal Growth: Promoting student learning and personal growth through teaching and mentoring.
- Welcoming and Safe Environments: Creating environments where intellectual curiosity and learning can flourish.
- Diversity: Valuing the diversity in the community and the richness it brings.
- Resource Connection: Connecting students to resources within the College and the community that best meet their educational needs.
- Lifelong Learning: Commitment to lifelong learning for both students and staff.
Vision
RACC aims to serve as the "Community's College" by providing affordable and quality educational experiences that help students succeed in completing the first two years of college, preparing for a career in two years or less, or obtaining nationally recognized business and industry training.
Key Strategic Focus
Strategic Goals
1. Student Learning and Success: Strengthening RACC's culture of collaboration to make student learning and success a campus-wide effort.
2. Proactive Community Partner: Increasing responsiveness to community needs by providing workforce training, contracted training, and both credit and non-credit career and transfer programs.
3. Viable and Effective Workplace: Enhancing fiscal viability and leveraging resources to improve the capacity of employees to deliver programs and services that enable students to meet their educational goals.
4. Known for Excellence: Enhancing recognition for excellence in teaching, learning, and community leadership.
Areas of Specialization
RACC specializes in programs such as:
- Nursing
- Respiratory Care
- Criminal Justice
- Business
The college also offers career-focused training and skills development for business and industry.
Key Technologies Utilized
RACC employs advanced tools like SAP, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Teams, demonstrating a commitment to innovation in education.
Primary Markets Targeted
RACC serves the educational needs of Berks County residents, offering programs that cater to both traditional students and working adults seeking career advancement or personal enrichment.
Financials and Funding
Funding History
RACC has received significant financial support, including a $6.5 million state grant and a $1 million grant from the Neag Foundation, indicating financial stability and the ability to invest in educational programs and infrastructure.
Endowment
As of the end of the 2022 fiscal year, RACC's endowment was valued at approximately $13.1 million, with a return of $268,000 (2.05%).
Salary Expenditure
In 2022, RACC's total salary expenditure was $48.3 million, with $18.3 million allocated to salaries, representing 38% of overall expenditures.
Pipeline Development
Program Offerings
RACC offers a range of programs, including associate degrees, certificates, and diplomas in fields such as nursing, respiratory care, criminal justice, and business. The college also provides career-focused training and skills development for business and industry.
Recent Developments
In 2020, RACC introduced Weekend College, offering classes on Fridays and Saturdays to accommodate working adults.
Technological Platform and Innovation
Proprietary Technologies
RACC utilizes a tech stack comprising advanced tools like SAP, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Teams, demonstrating a commitment to innovation in education.
Significant Scientific Methods
The college has implemented a new learning management system—Canvas—and designed professional development that addresses pedagogical and technical skills for faculty to increase student engagement and success in online courses and programs.
Leadership Team
Key Executives
- Dr. Susan D. Looney: President since July 2018.
- Michael Gregory: Director of Teaching and Learning.
Leadership Changes
In April 2024, Dr. Suzanne Wenderoth joined the RACC Board of Trustees.
Competitor Profile
Market Insights and Dynamics
RACC operates in the higher education sector, specifically within the community college segment, serving Berks County, Pennsylvania. The college offers affordable and accessible education, catering to a diverse student population.
