Higher education was the topic of a survey of northern Coconino County communities by Coconino Community College, and the Arizona Hospitality Resource and Research Center at Northern Arizona University. The survey was conducted as part of the college’s three-year Strategic Plan, to gather information about the college’s image and community expectations for the college. A similar survey was conducted last year at the Grand Canyon, Tusayan, Williams areas, and other western Coconino County communities. A survey will be conducted in southern Coconino County in 2012 that will include Flagstaff, Leupp, and Sedona.
The recent survey for northern Coconino County was sent to 11,000 households in Page, Fredonia, Tuba City, Cameron, Kaibeto, the Gap, and Tonelea in January and February 2011. 400 responses were received. 31% had attended CCC and 83% of that group reported having a positive experience.
62% of the respondents were from the Page area; 40% said they were Native American. While people recognized the benefits of CCC and degree opportunities in the community, they also listed additional opportunities they would like to have in the area. Responses indicated residents would like more evening classes and lifelong learning offerings.
Dr. Steve Chambers, Director of Institutional Research at the College said, “Overall the survey indicates that we have a good reputation in the northern Coconino County region. Surveys like these are an invaluable tool for us because they not only give us an idea of where we might be able to improve our services, but they also give us an idea of what residents want, such as classes and programs that are in demand that we are currently not offering.”