The Aspen Institute College Excellence Program named Snead State Community College as one of 150 community colleges eligible to compete for the $1 million Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence.

Awarded every two years, the Aspen Prize is the nation’s signature recognition of high achievement and performance among America’s community colleges. Based on strong and improving student outcomes — including teaching and learning, certificate and degree completion, transfer and bachelor’s attainment, workforce success, and equity for students of color and students from low-income backgrounds — 15 percent of community colleges nationwide have been invited to apply for the Aspen Prize.

“We are honored to be selected to compete for this prestigious recognition,” said Snead State President Dr. Joe Whitmore. “This presents the College with an opportunity to be a part of a select group of excellent schools, and it emphasizes the commitment we make each day to provide quality education and training for our students.”

By focusing on student success, the Aspen Prize aims to celebrate excellence. Those receiving the Aspen Prize are selected after a reviewing process where each applicant is accessed based on the impact and effectiveness of their student success strategies and the continuous improvement on those key strategies.