New Year, New Mission

The Rockwell Career Center is an integral part of Bauer College’s community and culture, from guiding Bauer students in developing skills, experience and meaningful career paths to fostering connections with industry partners.

The center and staff are entering the new year with a new mission and vision statement in mind, one that captures the spirit of RCC and the numerous ways in which they not only enhance the student experience but also establish Bauer as a nationally and globally recognized business school.

Mission:

The Rockwell Career Center’s mission is to enhance C. T. Bauer College students’ journeys through professional development and experiential learning that deepens self-awareness and prepares them to navigate purposeful, successful careers. We collaborate with faculty & staff, alumni, employers and the broader community to elevate Bauer’s impact across Houston and the global business community.

Vision:

Our vision is to cultivate the next generation of industry-ready business professionals whose talent sets the standard for excellence in a rapidly evolving marketplace. We will create an inclusive ecosystem where every Bauer student has equitable access to opportunities and feels supported in discovering their professional identity. We will realize the ongoing attainment of our vision through strong partnerships with employers, alumni and the Houston business community, by becoming the preferred hub for developing and recruiting emerging talent and future leaders.

RCC was established in 1997 as the Elizabeth D. Rockwell Career Services Center, and since then, their mission statement has not changed.

At the core, their goals remain the same: to prepare students for success in their professional careers. However, in an ever-evolving job market, RCC realized that they needed an approach that is personalized to meet every student’s needs, no matter where they are in their career journey.

In response to transitions in leadership at the college, to broader global shifts impacting the employment landscape, staff and career counselors at RCC felt that it was both timely and necessary to reevaluate the role they play at Bauer.

“This period of change presented an opportunity to ensure our mission clearly reflects who we are, where we are headed and the communities we serve,” RCC Executive Director Kelly Collins said. “By refining our mission, we are reaffirming our commitment to adaptability, relevance and inclusivity, while positioning ourselves to respond thoughtfully to an ever-evolving world.”

Collins stepped into the role of Executive Director in June 2025. Beginning the new year as director with this new mission and vision statement for RCC, she said she is excited to see the impact these changes will have on students.

“This period of change presented an opportunity to ensure our mission clearly reflects who we are, where we are headed and the communities we serve.”

Kelly Collins, RCC Executive Director

RCC is also focused on fostering collaboration within the community, she added.

Industry partners, as well as Bauer faculty and staff, have contributed to providing a fulfilling school experience through experiential learning and professional development, so students are ready to impact the global and local economies.

“Our employer and alumni partnerships are foundational to these opportunities we provide students,” Collins said.

Maintaining a legacy that started with Elizabeth Rockwell, RCC starts the new year off with a mission statement that emphasizes long-term success for Bauer students.