| This study examined the preferred method of preparation for promotion to Chief Student Service Officer (CSSO) positions in the California Community Colleges system and to identify themes for succession planning. Also, the study compared ethnicity and gender of CSSOs and their relationship to (a) professional development, activities, skills, and programs; and (b) perception of, value, effectiveness, and need for a mentor.;Traditionally, college presidents have obtained their positions by progressing through the faculty ranks, although more are rising through nontraditional paths such as student services. This study gathered data via a survey instrument sent to each CSSO of the 109 California community colleges and interviews conducted with four selected community college presidents who had previously served as CSSOs. A total of 68 (67% return rate) CSSOs responded to the survey, resulting in the following findings: The average age was 54 years, with 60% planning to retire from their current positions. From those not entering retirement, 68% were planning on a college presidency for their next position. Of the 68 respondents, all had secured graduate degrees, with 52% having earned a terminal degree, primarily in educational leadership or higher education administration. Nearly half had over 25 years in higher education, while only 28.4% had over 25 years in community colleges. The respondents had been in their current positions for an average of 2.42 years and, 73.1% had been at their current institution for 5 or fewer years. All respondents valued mentoring, while 53.8% stated that a mentor had helped to direct their career path. Participation in leadership and professional development programs was widely sought via professional development programs, although actual participation was limited due to fiscal constraints and institution commitments.;By identifying the preferred method of preparation for CSSOs in California community colleges, this study contributes to the body of literature regarding best practices to encourage institutions to identify, develop, and coordinate professional development and mentoring programs to identify, select, and mentor the next generation of leaders. |
