Philosophy
VERNON COLLEGE PHILOSOPHY: Vernon College is a constantly evolving institution, dedicated primarily to effective teaching and regional enhancement. With this dedication to teaching and to the community, the College encourages open inquiry, personal and social responsibility, critical thinking, and life-long learning for students, faculty, and other individuals within its service area. The College takes as its guiding educational principle the proposition that, insofar as available resources permit, instruction should be adapted to student needs. This principle requires both flexibility in instructional strategies and maintenance of high academic standards. Strong programs of assessment and accountability complement this educational principle. VC accepts the charge of providing a college atmosphere free of bias, in which students can exercise initiative and personal judgment, leading to a greater awareness of personal self-worth. It strives to provide every student with opportunities to develop the tools necessary to become a contributing, productive member of society.
Vision
VERNON COLLEGE VISION: Vernon College will promote a culture of success for our students and communities through learner-centered quality instructional programs and exemplary services.
Values
VERNON COLLEGE VALUES: Vernon College promotes a culture of success through our shared values and commitment to:
Accessibility
Accountability
Building Relationships
Diversity
Inclusion
Innovation
Leadership
Quality
Student Success
Teamwork
Our values define who we are and guide us in conducting our business every day. Our values are our morals – what is important to us at our college.
Mission
VERNON COLLEGE MISSION The mission of Vernon College is teaching, learning, and leading. Vernon College is a comprehensive community college that integrates education with opportunity through our instructional programs and student support services by means of traditional and distance learning modes. Therefore, to fulfill its mission, the College will provide access, within its available resources, to:
- Career technical/workforce programs up to two years in length leading to associate degrees or certificates;
- Career technical/workforce programs leading directly to employment in semi-skilled and skilled occupations;
- Freshman and sophomore courses in arts and sciences, including the curricula leading to associate and baccalaureate degrees;
- Ongoing adult education programs for occupational upgrading or personal enrichment;
- Compensatory education programs designed to fulfill the commitment of an admissions policy allowing the enrollment of disadvantaged students; ;
- A continuing program of counseling and guidance designed to assist students in achieving their individual educational goals;
- Career technical/workforce development programs designed to meet local and statewide needs;
- Support services for educational programs and college-related activities;
- Adult literacy and other basic skills programs for adults; and
- Other programs as may be prescribed by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board , such as 60x30TX or local governing boards in the best interest of postsecondary education in Texas.
Approved by College Effectiveness Committee September 10, 2021
Officially approved and adopted by the Board of Trustees on October 13, 2021
Strategic Plan 2022-2026
Mission as adapted from the Texas Education Code, Sec.130.003(e)