Exploring Generative AI Adoption Among Community College Faculty and Staff: Practices, Perceptions, and Challenges

Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) presents new opportunities for teaching, learning, and professional productivity in higher education. However, evidence on its adoption among community college faculty and staff remains limited. This descriptive, exploratory study examined GenAI practices, perceptions, and institutional support needs using aggregated findings from a 2026 institutional survey conducted at a U.S. community college. Results indicated that 84.8% of respondents reported previous experience with AI technologies, although comfort levels and perceived understanding varied. GenAI was more frequently reported for writing, professional communication, and general workplace tasks than for learning management system course design and student support. Respondents also expressed interest in hands-on professional development and clearer institutional guidelines, alongside concerns about academic integrity, information accuracy, and data privacy. Drawing on conceptual perspectives related to self-efficacy, perceived usefulness, and facilitating conditions, the study highlights the importance of examining professional applications, employee perceptions, and institutional support needs together. These findings provide descriptive insights that may inform professional development and responsible GenAI integration in community college settings.