Leaders setting the PACE: How three NC community colleges have administered and used the PACE Climate Survey for community college employees

Participated as a panelist for Leaders Setting the PACE: How Three North Carolina Community Colleges Have Administered and Used the PACE Climate Survey for Community College Employees at the 2022 North Carolina Community College Conference. This presentation explored how community college leaders can utilize employee climate survey data to strengthen organizational effectiveness, improve workplace culture, support employee engagement, and inform strategic decision-making. The session highlighted lessons learned from the administration and analysis of the PACE (Personal Assessment of the College Environment) Climate Survey and demonstrated how institutions can leverage employee feedback to foster continuous improvement and organizational excellence.The panel examined the role of institutional research, assessment, and data-informed leadership in understanding employee perceptions related to communication, leadership effectiveness, professional development, workplace satisfaction, organizational climate, and institutional priorities. Participants explored how survey findings can provide valuable insights that support strategic planning, workforce development, employee retention, leadership development, and organizational change initiatives. Discussions emphasized the importance of creating transparent processes that encourage employee voice, collaboration, and shared ownership of institutional improvement efforts.Particular attention was given to the use of survey data as a tool for strengthening organizational culture, supporting employee well-being, enhancing workplace engagement, and promoting effective governance. The panel highlighted strategies for translating data into actionable plans that improve communication, increase employee satisfaction, strengthen institutional trust, and align organizational practices with mission-driven goals. Participants examined how colleges can use assessment processes to identify strengths, address challenges, and create more inclusive and supportive work environments.The presentation also explored the broader connections between institutional effectiveness, workforce readiness, employee development, organizational learning, and student success. By strengthening workplace culture and employee engagement, community colleges are better positioned to support high-quality educational experiences, respond to community needs, and fulfill their missions of workforce development and economic advancement.This panel presentation informs my teaching, research, and service by advancing my work in organizational leadership, institutional effectiveness, workforce development, strategic planning, assessment, employee engagement, and continuous improvement. The experience reflects a commitment to data-informed decision-making, organizational excellence, leadership development, and the creation of strong institutions that support both employee success and student achievement.