Date of Award

2024

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Education

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine how institutional mission is expressed in the physical environment. Theoretical frameworks from institutional identity, campus ecology, and organizational strategy literature inform the paradigm of this inquiry. Content analysis was utilized to examine the mission statements and campus master planning documents of ten small, independent, colleges located across the United States. This methodology accounts for the examination of written text as well as additional content such as images, graphics, and sketches utilized to communicate information. The analysis of institutional mission statements resulted in seven themes: (a) liberal arts, (b) residential education, (c) undergraduate education, (d) academic excellence, (e) personal and civic responsibility, (f) global, diverse, and interconnected world, and (g) size. When each institutions campus master plan was examined through the lens of mission themes, mission fulfillment was found in the following areas: (a) academics, (b) stewardship, (c) engagement, (d) size, and (e) mission extension. This study connects institutional identity and campus ecology with organizational strategy – specifically campus master planning. The implications of this study contribute future practice recommendations for consideration to higher education administrators. First, mission-centric development of the campus physical environment is possible. Institutions can be guided by mission statements in their development and resistance to external influences. Second, clear and specific language in mission statements aids in their implementation. Articulating distinct characteristics provides clarity of an institutions purpose and aims for use by administrators in decision-making and to constituents in their distinguishment of institutions from one another.

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