2024 - 2029 Strategic Plan

Built for Success

CSM’s 2024-2029 Strategic Plan marks a pivotal step in our commitment to student-centered excellence.

This plan is the result of extensive community engagement and reflects our dedication to expanding access, enhancing momentum, and fostering social and economic mobility for students. By aligning our goals with the needs of our students and community, we aim to create meaningful pathways to success that will also strengthen our Southern Maryland region.

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Goal 1: Access

We welcome everyone by removing barriers.

By 2029, CSM will enroll 8,384 credit students.
- CSM 2024 Baseline Credit Students = 7,622
By 2029, CSM will enroll 7,719 non-credit students.
- CSM 2024 Baseline Non-Credit Students = 7,017

Strategies

Strategy 1.1

Target outreach to underserved populations.

Strategy 1.2

Increase efforts to create access for adult learners.

Strategy 1.3

Nurture and grow sustainable relationships with our public, private, and homeschool K-12 partners.

Goal 2: Momentum

We take persistence seriously, examining our culture, policies, and practices.

By 2029, 78% of students who are enrolled in fall will return the following spring.
- CSM 2024 Baseline = 72% | National Average¹ = 72%
By 2029, 56% of students who are enrolled in fall will return the following fall.
- CSM 2024 Baseline = 50% | National Average² = 55%

Strategies

Strategy 2.1

Increase student engagement and feelings of belonging.

Strategy 2.2

Implement professional learning opportunities to help faculty and staff support student retention.

Strategy 2.3

Strengthen academic advising and student support services.

Strategy 2.4

Implement pathways that reduce time to completion.

Strategy 2.5

Review scheduling practices and implement strategic scheduling.

Goal 3: Mobility

We offer educational pathways to improve lives.

By 2029, 38% of first-time, full-time students will earn a degree or certificate within three years.
- CSM 2024 Baseline = 32% | National Average³ = 29%
By 2029, 25% of first-time, part-time students will earn a degree or certificate within six years.
- CSM 2024 Baseline = 19% | National Average⁴ = 19%
By 2029, 62% of students will transfer to a four-year institution within one year after earning their associate degree.
- CSM 2024 Baseline = 56% | National Average⁵ = 44%

Strategies

Strategy 3.1

Strengthen partnerships to increase career and transfer opportunities.

Strategy 3.2

Advance STEM curriculum and programming to create a workforce that supports regional economic development.

Strategy 3.3

Enhance liberal arts curriculum and programming to strengthen critical thinking, cultural competency, and civic engagement.

Mission Statement

The College of Southern Maryland enhances lives and enriches our region through accessible, high-quality instruction and services that support our students along their personal paths to success.

Vision Statement

The College of Southern Maryland is an inclusive, student-centered community where all are empowered to succeed.

Belonging Statement

The College of Southern Maryland recognizes the unique contributions of our community and commits to cultivating a culture of belonging wherein everyone is valued and respected.

Institutional Values

The following institutional values guide our actions as members of CSM.

Collaboration

We are stronger when we work together.

Equity

We provide each individual with the opportunity, resources, and access needed to be successful.

Excellence

We commit to high standards and clear expectations.

Inclusivity

We respect contributions and differing abilities of everyone, providing space for all.

Innovation

We value creativity and ingenuity, embracing new ideas and perspectives.

Integrity

We are honest, transparent, and accountable.

Respect

We treat others with dignity.

Sources

Source: National Community College Benchmark Project, 2024
Source: National Student Clearinghouse (2024). “Persistence and Retention Report”
Source: National Center for Education Statistics (2022). “Undergraduate Retention and Graduation Rates”
Source: American Association of Community Colleges (2020). “Trends in Community College Enrollment and Completion Data”
Source: Community College Research Center/Aspen Institute/National Student Clearinghouse (2024). “Tracking Transfer: Community College Effectiveness in Broadening Bachelor’s Degree Attainment”

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