McLennan Always Cares
Creating a Culture Where Students and Employees Thrive
At McLennan Community College, we recognize that a student’s sense of belonging begins the moment they engage with us—whether online, over the phone, or on campus. That’s why we are proud to champion the Caring Campus initiative - McLennan Always Cares.
Caring Campus is a national effort focused on increasing student success and retention by fostering a more connected, supportive environment. By practicing intentional behaviors that show students they are valued, we reinforce that McLennan is a place where everyone belongs and is encouraged to reach their full potential.
Below are the five key behavioral commitments we’ve adopted as part of the McLennan Always Cares framework, along with highlights from the working groups leading the way.
Nametags - Making Connections Visible
This group works to ensure students and visitors know who to turn to for help by designing standardized and welcoming name tags. In addition, the group is sharing expectations for professional and accessible email signatures. These efforts aim to increase approachability, build trust, and promote clear communication both on campus and in digital spaces.
Current Projects:
- Redesign and distribution of employee name badges
- Provide resources for the use of inviting and informative email signatures
Ten Foot Goal - Proactive Help Within Ten Feet—or Ten Seconds
The Ten Foot Goal represents a proactive commitment to take initiative in offering support to students who may require assistance—whether they are visiting campus in person or connecting with them through phone, email, or text. Reaching out proactively helps ensure they know we are here to answer any questions they may have and promotes a friendly and welcoming environment.
Current Projects:
- Design and distribute infographics
- Create templates to facilitate quick responses
- Develop customer service training related to the 10-Foot Goal
Cross-Departmental Awareness - One College. Many Doors. One Purpose.
This team works to strengthen knowledge of campus departments, services, and processes so that no matter where a student begins, they are guided confidently to the support they need. Cross-campus collaboration ensures we break silos and share ownership of the student experience.
Current Projects:
- Design resources to assist in connecting departments, people, and functions
- Create video resources to showcase departments and their functions
Warm Referrals - Welcoming. Attentive. Responsive. Mindful.
At MCC, a W.A.R.M. referral means we don’t just send students elsewhere—we guide them with care. This group encourages a culture of empathy and personal connection when helping others find support. Every interaction becomes an opportunity to build trust and show students they matter.
Current Projects:
- Create of list of bilingual faculty and staff
- Design and implement Referral Cards
- Develop customer service training related to Warm Referrals
First Week - The Start of Something Great
The First Week team leads efforts to create a warm and engaging welcome for students during their first days on campus. By planning events, offering helpful info, and being visible and supportive, we foster a sense of belonging that leads to greater retention and long-term success.
Current Projects:
- Invigorate our current greeter program to welcome students back to campus during the first week
- Increase student events by hosting a Learning Commons Carnival on August 27 and a Block Party on August 28
- Celebrate employees by hosting a Thank MAC It’s Friday event the first week of classes- Friday, August 29
Get Involved
Every staff member plays a part in making MCC a Caring Campus. Whether you join a working group, commit to a small behavioral change, or simply support your colleagues in this mission, you are helping build a stronger, more connected community.
Contact Us:
Crystal Johnson
254-299-8610
cajohnson@mclennan.edu
Kelli Nehring
254-299-8520
knehring@mclennan.edu
Mandy Morrison
254-299-8287
mmorrison@mclennan.edu