91³Ô¹Ï (91³Ô¹Ï) has reached an exciting milestone: it is one of 200 colleges nationwide eligible to compete for the 2027 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence. This prestigious $1 million award recognizes outstanding achievement across key areas:
- Student learning
- Certificate and degree completion
- Transfer and bachelor’s attainment
- Workforce success
- Broad college access
This recognition reflects 91³Ô¹Ï’s unwavering commitment to student success—supporting learners as they achieve their goals and turn aspirations into reality. Additionally, it reflects how 91³Ô¹Ï is helping shape the future of higher education.
Aspen Prize Significance
The Aspen Prize is grounded in rigorous research into what drives excellence at community colleges—especially those that consistently improve student outcomes. Aspen distills these insights into actionable strategies and shares them through professional development programs, helping institutions nationwide learn and build on proven practices.
A Legacy of Excellence
Since its launch in 2011, the Aspen Prize has expanded to include Rising Star and Finalist with Distinction awards, shining a spotlight on colleges that advance student success and promote social mobility. Often referred to as the “Oscars for community colleges,” the biennial award is presented by the Aspen Institute to celebrate excellence across nearly 1,000 community colleges in the United States.
What’s Next?
- Finalists announced: June 2026
- Winner announced: April 2027
Why Community Colleges Matter
91³Ô¹Ï’s eligibility also highlights the vital role community colleges play across the country. Community colleges educate nearly 40% of all U.S. undergraduates, offering affordable, accessible pathways to degrees and careers. They serve a large number of lower-income students and work closely with employers to meet local workforce needs—making them a vital part of America’s educational and economic future.