Leveraging Data to Enhance Student Support: Addressing Basic Needs at Ozarks Technical Community College

ABSTRACT Addressing non‐academic barriers such as food and housing insecurity is critical to improving student success at community colleges. At Ozarks Technical Community College (Ozarks Tech), participation in the Community College Survey of Student Engagement (CCSSE) and other national research initiatives guided the development of an internal survey to assess Ozarks Tech students' non‐academic barriers, engagement with support services, and gaps in service utilization. Building on these insights, including the Community College Center for Student Engagement (CCCSE) 2022 national report, Mission Critical: The Role of Community Colleges in Meeting Students' Basic Needs , our survey included questions on access to food, housing, and other barriers while allowing students to request assistance. Responses were tied to known student data, providing a comprehensive understanding of student needs. Survey findings enhanced Ozarks Tech's promotion of holistic student care and anchored our strategic plan. Future efforts include assessment of support services with student outcomes and exploring additional barriers to success.