Saint Paul College has earned national recognition for excellence in student outcomes and institutional performance.

Last week, SPC was named as one of the 200 institutions eligible to compete for the $1 million Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, the nation’s premier recognition of high achievement and performance among two-year colleges. The 200 colleges were selected based on their student outcomes data, including retention, completion, transfer, and bachelor’s attainment rates.

This honor places Saint Paul College in the top 20% of more than 1,000 community colleges nationwide, affirming its commitment to student success, equity, and workforce development.

“We’re guided by our mission and the students we serve, and don’t do this work for awards or rankings,” said President Deidra Peaslee. “Yet, it’s deeply meaningful to be recognized by an organization like the Aspen Institute and to be listed among such an inspiring group of community colleges. There’s real honor in being named. We’re proud every day that Saint Paul College is our home—and I am proud of the faculty, staff, and students who make this the incredibly impactful place it is.” 

Saint Paul College has a strong track record of national recognition for its commitment to student success. The College was previously recognized by the Aspen Institute in 2021. Being acknowledged again reflects Saint Paul College’s sustained efforts to improve student retention, completion, transfer, and post-graduation success. 

“The Aspen Prize rewards colleges that achieve the kind of outcomes that actually matter to students—completing college degree programs that, in turn, lead to lifelong success,” said Josh Wyner, executive director of the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program. “Aspen Prize winners offer a powerful message: Community colleges can deliver the kind of life-changing education that makes the American Dream real.” 

The 200 eligible colleges have been invited to submit an application and participate in a rigorous review process that will culminate in the naming of the Aspen Prize winner in spring 2027.

Over the coming 20 months, the colleges that apply for the Aspen Prize will be assessed based on (1) student outcomes data, ranging from student transfer and completion rates to employment and wages after graduation and (2) whether they have engaged in scaled practices that led to high and improving student outcomes.  

To read more about the selection process, visit as.pn/prize.