Tallahassee Community College has been named among the top 10 colleges in the nation by the Aspen Institute, a nonprofit think tank based in Washington D.C.
“It is humbling to be identified by the Aspen Institute as one of the Top 10 colleges in the nation,” said Jim Murdaugh, TCC President. “I am extremely proud of our faculty and staff and what we've accomplished, but there is no finish line for this work.”
TCC was a finalist for the prestigious Aspen Prize, which is awarded every two years. The prize recognizes outstanding institutions selected from a pool of more than a thousand community colleges nationwide. This year’s winner is San Antonio College.
During the virtual award ceremony, First Lady Jill Biden commended the finalists.
“The best institutions don’t just teach, they empower. They meet students where they are and help them to get to where they want to go,” Biden said. “That’s what the Aspen Prize is all about, recognizing the schools that are leading the way, showing us that all students can learn, achieve, and thrive if only they have the opportunities and support they need.”
The 18-month Aspen Prize review process considers extensive data surrounding student success. The prize honors institutions with outstanding achievement in six areas:
- Teaching and learning
- Certificate and degree completion
- Transfer and bachelor’s attainment
- Workforce success
- Equitable outcomes for students of color and students from low-income backgrounds
- Leadership and culture
