Edison State Community College
Edison Engages Community to Help Shape Future 

Edison State Community College is reaching new heights by implementing SOAR, a comprehensive strategic planning method in a series of focus group meetings on the campus throughout the month of January. SOAR, an acronym for Strengths, Opportunities, Aspirations, and Results, engages stakeholders to help construct the future of the college. Results and insights from the focus groups will inform and guide the College in shaping its strategic plan. 

“The SOAR process helps us to collaborate with our community partners; create a mutual understanding of the needs of the communities and businesses; and commit to actions that will address their needs,” said Dr. Cris Valdez, Edison President.  

Edison is placing a greater emphasis on strengths and opportunities. “By listening to the perspectives of the stakeholders we will be able to enhance our ability to balance their needs,” said Mona Walters Dean of Institutional Planning and Effectiveness. “This also improves our capability to adapt to shifts in the market conditions.” 

As a community college, Edison is responsible for serving the higher education needs of Darke, Miami and Shelby Counties. By including the perspective of various stakeholder groups such as business, industry, health care, educational partners, alumni and parents, Edison faculty and administration are better informed and prepared to address the needs and concerns of the communities. 

“Our hopes are to better serve Darke, Miami, and Shelby counties by gathering input from key constituents which will allow us to better hear, understand and address their needs,” said Dr. Valdez. 

As the planning process continues, Edison will host a series of public listening events and will present the final plans to the community as well. For more information about these events, see the Edison website: www.edisonohio.edu