Every educational institution has its vision statement. Both colleges and universities formulate them as a base for activity. Moreover, having a vision is a key to steady development and progress (Snyder, 1993). A vision statement is not merely an aim; it is the combination of the institution’s values, its primary purpose, the ways to achieve it and the depiction of the institution’s future when the objective is achieved (Angelica, 2013; Ewy, 2009).
Both colleges and universities see the basis of their vision statement in becoming a leader at the local level as well as national and international. Speaking of colleges, they are usually more practical and aim at being leaders in providing knowledge for meeting society needs in careers and services (Mission, Vision and Values, 2015, para. 1; Mission, Vision & Core Values Statements, 2015, para. 1). In the case of universities, their vision statements are the desire to become national and international leaders in educating and changing the global system for the better (University Mission, Vision and Values, 2015, para. 2). So, the main difference between the two is that the colleges are more local while the universities are national or international in their vision statements. To my mind, such visions can be attainable if the process of achieving the ultimate target is driven by an effective leader. They should not be altered because aimed changes at different levels they can initiate system shifts on all levels from local to international.
So, formulating a vision statement is an indispensable part of the ongoing development and progress of the educational institution. Whether a college or a university, it is necessary to keep to it to achieve progress on different levels of the educational system.
References
Angelica, E. (2013). The Wilder Nonprofit Field Guide to Crafting Effective Mission and Vision Statements. Nashville, Tenn: Fieldstone Alliance.
Ewy, R. W. (2009). Stakeholder-Driven Strategic Planning in Education: A Practical Guide for Developing and Deploying Successful Long-Range Plans. Milwaukee, Wis: ASQ Quality Press.
Mission, Vision & Core Values Statements. (2015). Web.
Mission, Vision and Values. (2015). Web.
Snyder, N. (1993). Vision, Values, and Courage: Leadership for Quality Management. New York, NY: Free Press.
University Mission, Vision and Values. (2015). Web.