Title: COMMUNITY COLLEGE AND ONE-STOP CENTER COLLABORATION: THE ROLE OF COMMUNITY COLLEGE COLLABORATIVE AGENTS

Abstract

This study examined the role of community college collaborative agents in the development of one-stop delivery system collaborations from the perspective of the collaborative agent, community college leaders, and one-stop partners. A qualitative case study research design was used to examine community college sites that voluntarily chose to engage in a one-stop delivery system from its initial stages and provide programs and services on-site at the one-stop centers.

Results show the college's comprehensive mission is the rationale by which the college leaders justify participating in the one-stop system. Internal and external factors bring changes in a college's involvement in the one-stop system and uncertainties impact the collaborative agent role. A history of collaboration with external partners is a critical factor in a college's participation in the system. One-stop partners perceive the community college collaborative agent role as exemplifying the level of the college's commitment to the collaboration. One-stop partners and college collaborative agents perceive the agent's role in terms of personal attributes and skills whereas college leaders view the role in terms of program implementation. The agents, leaders, and partners describe the collaborative agent's role in facilitating the collaboration process and maintaining commitment by his/her ability to execute connections.

Recommendations for policy and practice include having community colleges assess their mission as involvement in a one-stop delivery system collaboration is encouraged, defining college participation, understanding the collaboration process, and providing adequate support systems to ensure effective collaboration. Criteria for the selection and training of a community college collaborative agent are also recommended.