Organizational Culture At Palo Verde Community College (PVC)

Introduction Organizational culture has been defined as the ““the deep, basic assumptions and beliefs that are shared by organizational members,” (Clegg, 208). Organizational culture can be interpreted in many ways, often an organization has multiple cultures. A strong organizational culture, is one in which employees share the same values. Moreover, a strong organizational culture justifies employee actions and helps create a shared purpose within the organization. An organization that demonstrates a strong corporate culture is Palo Verde Community College (PVC). PVC was established in 1947 and is located in Blythe, California. PVC offers a variety of programs and extends their services to a diverse population. As of 2017, PVC educates 20,556

For instance, a strong organizational culture can differentiate the organization from others. According to Cecilia Garcia, the Chief Human Resources Officer, “PVC is one of the 5th smallest districts out of 113 throughout the state of California,” (Personal Interview). She believes the college differs from others, because of their strong culture of success. As previously noted, PVC offers a variety of services to students. The organization has adapted to the needs of their students and the community. For example, the college offers night classes and distance education for those who work full time, but wish to further their education. The college has also established a head start for students and employees who need childcare while attending school. Furthermore, PVC has partnered with Ironwood State Prison, a state peneterary approximately 30 miles from the college, to offer classes to those currently incarecerated. PVC’s culture of student success has extended to those seeking rehabilitation. According to PVC’s website they are, “in a unique position and very fortunate to be a part of the very successful project,” (paloverde.edu). The strong organizational culture allows the college to create unique programs that fits their community’s needs. Based on my experience, PVC also establishes a more personal bond with their students. Often times at UCR relationships are impersonal and it almost as if

When employees identify with the organization, it is easier for their values and norms to align with the culture. Throughout my interviews, I found that employees at feel they identify well with the organization. For example, Kandus Lechausse, the payroll technician, believes she identifies with the organization, because her professional goals are in harmony with the organization goals, (personal interview). She has a strong desire to see students succeed and knows that by keeping employees satisfied they will provide students with the resources they need. Furthermore, many employees at PVC obtained their degree from the college before becoming employed full time. Diana Navarro, the Administrative Assistant to the VP of Instruction and former student, believes she identifies with the organization by creating more opportunities for students. During my time as an intern, Mrs. Navarro was creating an online program for students to apply for jobs at PVC. At the time, students were not required to submit resumes before seeking student employment. During her time as a student she wished she would have had more experience with resumes and interviews, (personal conversation). Thus, she was able to convince the organization to change their procedures and give the students more exposure to interviews. Helping students with resumes and preparing for employment allows her to identify in the