career in the public sector, Carole
"private sector" attitude during her
24-year presidency. Drawing on her
background in business and as a
professor of business, Cowan has
always put Middlesex students first.
customers," explained Cowan. "It's a
matter of finding out what students
want, what they need, and trying to
provide it to them in a positive
learning experience.
about things, because people have
choices. Our students can go anywhere
they want to go to Northern Essex
or MassBay, or wherever."
like a private college. "We have to
remember that Middlesex is a
community college that is funded by
the commonwealth at 30 percent of
its budget. That means that 70 percent
of the budget has to come from
enrollment. So, that's your customer.
you're not going to be serving anybody,
because you don't have a business plan
that works for the institution. You have
to think about balancing the books like
a private institution."
savvy attitude toward other aspects
of the college, as well. "That's why
our physical plant is so important,
and the services we give students
are important.
physical appearance of the campus. I
believe a well-maintained campus helps
build the self-esteem of our students.
When they come on campus, we look
like a college, we don't look like a
dungeon with unkempt properties.
admissions, or registering for classes
or paying bills. It's the customer
experience they shouldn't be waiting.
You should have systems in place to
move people along in an efficient way.
That has just always been in the
back of my head."
students with a good "product."
"You always have to be concerned
about the product you're providing
students, which means the best