Graduate Studies
First Advisor
Crystal Garcia
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
Committee Members
Deryl Hatch-Tocaimaza, Elvira Abrica, Justin Olmanson
Department
Educational Administration (Community College Leadership)
Date of this Version
4-2025
Document Type
Dissertation
Citation
A dissertation presented to the faculty of the Graduate College at the University of Nebraska in partial fulfillment of requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy
Major: Educational Administration (Community College Leadership)
Under the supervision of Professor Crystal Garcia
Lincoln, Nebraska, April 2025
Abstract
This dissertation examines the implementation of Holistic Student Supports at a community college that served as an early adopter of this approach, providing insights into the decade-long process of transformational change. Against the backdrop of community colleges' ongoing efforts to improve completion rates, this study investigates how one institution navigated the implementation process, made necessary adaptations, and sustained reform efforts over time. Through document analysis, semi-structured interviews, and a focus group, this study documents the evolution of this initiative from its inception in 2010. Kotter's Eight-Step Change Model frames the analysis, which confirms the model's applicability and extends it by identifying steps that are particularly crucial for transformational change in the context of community colleges. Key findings reveal effective leadership structures, strategic resource allocation approaches, the progressive integration of data-informed decision-making, and the management of institutional change processes. This study offers valuable lessons for community college leaders seeking to implement similar Holistic Student Supports models to address barriers to student success and increase graduation rates. It also contributes to the broader understanding of the field into how institutions can successfully navigate and sustain comprehensive organizational change.
Advisor: Crystal Garcia
Recommended Citation
Holden, Calie Marie, "The Reality of Transformation: A Case Study of an American Community College Implementing Holistic Student Supports" (2025). Dissertations and Doctoral Documents from University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 2023–. 291.
https://digitalcommons.unl.edu/dissunl/291
Included in
Community College Leadership Commons, Educational Leadership Commons, Holistic Education Commons, Student Counseling and Personnel Services Commons
Comments
Copyright 2025, Calie Marie Holden. Used by permission