Broward College and Indian River State College Named Finalists for Prestigious Aspen Prize
September 13, 2016
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Broward College and Indian River State College Named Finalists for Prestigious Aspen Prize
~ Award recognizes high achievement and performance ~
Tallahassee, Fla., September 13, 2016 – Today, Broward College and Indian River State College were named as finalists for the Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence. The Aspen Institute named the two colleges as part of the top 10 community colleges in the nation based on exceptional levels of student success. Florida is one of only three states with multiple finalists.
“Congratulations to Broward College and Indian River State College on being named as finalists for one of the nation’s most respected awards,” said Commissioner of Education Pam Stewart. “The award puts a spotlight on Florida college excellence and the crucial role they play in preparing students for success.”
The Aspen Prize is awarded every two years and recognizes exemplary community college institutions across the nation. Awarded since 2011, the Aspen Prize focuses on college achievement in four areas: student learning, certificate and degree completion, employment and earnings for graduates, and access and success for minority and low-income students.
A rigorous review process, including performance, improvement and outcome data, as well as multiple site visits, will determine the grand prize winner and up to four finalists with distinction. The winner will be named in January 2017.
“Our colleges lead the nation in providing a high-quality, affordable education that prepares students to succeed in a global economy,” said Florida College System Chancellor Madeline Pumariega. “I am proud to celebrate two of our colleges being named as finalists for the 2017 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence. Our colleges being honored for their dedication to student success and the vital role they play in Florida’s economy is a testament of the great work of the Florida College System.”
Valencia College was the inaugural Aspen Prize winner in 2011, and in 2015, Santa Fe College was named the winner. In 2013, Florida had two finalists in the top 10.
For more information, visit 2017 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence.
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