Session Abstract: In AY2023-24, Austin Community College (ACC) launched a North Star initiative to redefine student success through a collaborative Theory of Change (ToC) integrated into the College's strategic plan. This session explores the critical role of the Office of Institutional Research and Analytics in using internal and external data to build evidence-based pillars for institutional transformation. The presenter will introduce the ToC framework, share ACC’s journey of refining these strategies through stakeholder partnership, and discuss lessons learned. Attendees will understand how a North Star goal drives institutional success and how IR offices can act as strategic partners to increase campus-wide data literacy. By the end of this session, participants will be able to recognize the significance of integrating a ToC into strategic planning and identify specific methods for facilitating deep data engagement among college employees to support institutional goals.
Keywords: Strategic Planning, Stakeholder Engagement, Data Literacy, Evidence-Based Strategies
