URGENT UPDATE: Barton Community College has been officially named as one of the 200 colleges eligible for the prestigious $1 million Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence in 2027. This recognition, announced by the Aspen Institute, highlights the college’s outstanding commitment to student success and achievement.
The selection of Barton Community College is based on rigorous analysis of its student outcomes data, which includes retention, completion, transfer, and bachelor’s attainment rates. This announcement marks the ninth cycle of the Aspen Prize, which has been awarded since 2010.
President Dr. Marcus Garstecki expressed his pride in this significant achievement. “It is an incredible honor for us to be recognized among the nation’s top community colleges,” he stated. “This distinction reflects our unwavering dedication to student success and completion.” He emphasized that the recognition underscores the extraordinary commitment and innovation displayed by faculty and staff at Barton.
The Aspen Prize aims to reward colleges that showcase successful student outcomes, thereby offering a roadmap of best practices for others to follow. “The Aspen Prize rewards colleges that achieve the kind of outcomes that actually matter to students—completing college degree programs that lead to lifelong success,” stated Josh Wyner, executive director of the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program.
Barton Community College is among a diverse group of institutions serving a wide range of students across urban, rural, and suburban areas in the United States. These colleges vary in size and focus, with some emphasizing workforce programs and others prioritizing transfer pathways to four-year institutions.
The 200 eligible colleges will participate in a rigorous application process over the next 20 months, culminating in the announcement of the Aspen Prize winner in spring 2027. The evaluation will include an assessment of student outcomes data, including transfer and completion rates, as well as post-graduation employment and wages.
“This process will gather extensive data and involve experts to identify which colleges stand out,” Wyner added. The prize not only honors exceptional colleges but also draws attention to effective practices that can improve the overall landscape of community college education.
As the competition heats up, Barton Community College aims to build on its tradition of excellence and continues to prioritize student-centered education. This recognition is a testament to the college’s efforts in providing high-quality education that leads to significant life-changing opportunities for its students.
For more information on the selection process and the Aspen Prize, visit as.pn/prize.