Designs for Distinction


ARCC Strategic Plan

Message from ARCC President, Patrick M. Johns

Dear Friends of Anoka-Ramsey Community College,Pat M. Johns

In his poem, "The Road Not Taken," Robert Frost wrote about two roads, one of which “made all the difference.”  Anoka-Ramsey Community College embarked on two roads in 2004—however, the College took both roads, confident that both would make “all the difference” to our students and the community. Those roads were institutional distinction and collaboration.

While distinction and collaboration may sound oxymoronic, both were necessary pathways to increase access and opportunity for area residents.   The six objectives of the College’s strategic plan, Designs for Distinction, paved the way for our College to be both distinctive and collaborative.  ARCC’s portal program, new degree programs, and acclaimed niche programs are just a few examples of how Designs for Distinction helped the College lay the foundation for student success on both roads.  Both roads have served students well these past five years.

Now the College is embarking on another strategic planning process.  This year we will identify new trends, new needs, and changing demographics to update Designs for Distinction.  We are planning not only for the immediate three to five years, but we are leaping ahead to project how the College might plan for the next twenty years.
Designing the College’s future is an exciting challenge, plus a marvelous opportunity to be visionary and creative!  We would like you to be part of this endeavor!  You are cordially invited to join the discussions!!  Anoka-Ramsey Community College is your college!  Your input can help shape the College and its response to community and workforce needs.

Developing articulate, responsible, critical, creative thinkers and contributors to the community is the College’s vision. To that end, the College will embrace opportunities – including the challenging ones – to help our students reach their educational, career, and personal goals. Designs for Distinction is our road map.  You are invited to help drive and shift the College into new gears!  Please join us.  Please take advantage of this invitation to participate in updating Designs for Distinction.  You can help the College remain dynamic, realize its mission, and serve the community and students!


Patrick M. Johns, President