Review of Planning Retreat survey results.

Overall, respondents described the planning retreat as valuable, engaging, and well organized. The most frequently mentioned strengths were the student panel, the education ecosystem/partner panels, and the opportunity to interact with colleagues. Participants appreciated hearing directly from students and external partners, including CSUCI, Cal Lutheran, Conejo Valley schools, and other education partners. Many also noted that table discussions, assigned seating, networking, and collaborative activities helped them connect with colleagues and reflect on shared goals.

Respondents especially valued the student panel, describing it as insightful, effective, and a strong reminder of the purpose behind the college’s work. The partner and ecosystem panels were also viewed positively, with several respondents saying they helped broaden understanding of student pathways and community partnerships. A few respondents also appreciated the accessibility activity, the dance break, and the overall variety of the program.

Suggestions for improvement centered mainly on time, space, and deeper engagement. Several respondents felt the retreat tried to fit in too much, which caused some activities and discussions to feel rushed. Many requested more time for table conversations, group activities, and Q&A with panelists. Respondents also suggested sending the CCVC goals in advance, creating a clearer focus for lunch or discussion time, and allowing more time for actual strategic planning, visioning, and goal development.

Several comments pointed to logistical improvements, including using a larger venue, spacing out activity stations or posters to avoid bottlenecks, placing panelists on a riser for better visibility, and improving food or venue conditions. Some respondents also suggested broadening future panels to include more diverse student voices, area employers, business leaders, and additional education partners.

A few respondents encouraged a more balanced approach to student feedback, noting that future student panels could include more questions about challenges, needs, suggestions, and areas for improvement, not only positive experiences. Other suggestions included making the accessibility portion more practical, such as demonstrating how to check Canvas shells for accessibility or showing what it is like to use a screen reader. One respondent also raised concerns about leftover food waste and the use of AI during the retreat.

MC Integrated Planning Committee

Meeting Information