Reimagining Online Student Support With a Human‐Centered Approach in Community Colleges

ABSTRACT In this article, we synthesize enrollment trends and research on online learning in community colleges to argue that student success depends on integrated, relationship‐rich support systems. We review Holistic Student Supports and Guided Pathways models alongside the Community of Inquiry framework to demonstrate how teaching, social, and cognitive presences can be operationalized across student support services. We analyze persistent barriers, such as complex navigation, basic‐needs insecurity, and limited digital literacy, and highlight exemplars, including unified virtual one‐stop hubs, proactive case management, and synchronous help. We propose a playbook for institutions seeking to strengthen online student support. Key actions include aligning modality with task, implementing equity‐focused intake, enabling risk‐responsive coaching and course‐mix planning, investing in professional learning that fosters presence, and utilizing a one‐page scorecard for rapid‐cycle improvement. We argue that integrating technology with human connection can enhance engagement, persistence, and completion in online and hybrid community college settings.