Creative Idea #3:
Transforming Cultures
Within most
community colleges, culture is
a redoubtable
force. According
to Baker (1998),
“Leaders are faced
with an elaborate
culture that tries
to keep out new ideas.” The organization
protects itself:
1. It prevents foreign organisms from
entering if it can;
2. It attacks ideas and concepts that do
enter; and
3. It discredits or distorts organisms it
cannot kill. (p. 10)
Richland College in Dallas has found
a way to let in foreign organisms while
Richland College, Dallas
maintaining synergy within the organization. By embracing new ideas and
concepts, President Stephen K. Mittelstet has transformed the culture, creating a world-class institution. Among its
many awards, the college has received
the Texas Award for Performance
Excellence and the Malcolm Baldrige
Quality Award for organizational
excellence.
Part of Richland’s success can be
attributed to its establishment of a
Performance Excellence Model for improved strategic planning and informed
decision-making.
Over the years, Mittelstet has created
a unique and innovative culture based
on 10 core values: integrity, mutual
trust, wholeness, fairness, considerate and meaningful communications,
mindfulness, cooperation, diversity,
responsible risk-taking, and joy.
According to Mittelstet, “Culturally,
an organization must be intentional
in helping employees and students
enjoy teaching, learning, serving, and
building community—even in turbulent waters. Joy permeates Richland’s
