Document Type
Doctor of Education Capstone
Original Publication Date
2024
Client
Brightpoint Community College
Location
Chesterfield, Virginia
Date of Submission
April 2024
Abstract
Community colleges strive to provide affordable and accessible educational opportunities to all. Tuition revenue plays a significant role in college operating budgets and is critical for supporting academic functions. Student dropout threatens the fiscal security of community colleges while running counter to the mission of educating communities. This exploratory case study set out to understand the student melt issue due to non-payment at Brightpoint Community College taking place between enrollment and the start of classes. The research team aimed to understand how students engage with the current payment process, what are the underlying factors leading to missed payments, and what process and communication challenges exist. A point of emphasis was made to explore student’s financial lives and their potential influence on dropout decisions. Through staff interviews, student focus groups, and analysis of institutional data the capstone team provided clarity on the situation and identified four themes associated with communication, technology, resource needs, and institutional support. Shared student and staff commentary strengthened the themes and served as evidence of their impact on the effectiveness of the current payment process. Recommendations focused on simplifying processes for students and staff alike as well as investing in resources that empower staff to provide the personalized support necessary to ensure student success.
Rights
© The Authors