THE FOLLOWING IS A DANVILLE AREA COMMUNITY COLLEGE RELEASE
DANVILLE – Danville Area Community College (DACC) has been recognized as one of only 200 community colleges nationwide eligible to compete for the $1 million Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, the most prestigious award for two-year colleges in the United States. The Aspen Institute announced the eligibility list this week based on strong student success outcomes, including student retention, graduation, transfer success, and bachelor’s degree completion.
This marks the first time not only that 200 colleges have been invited to apply, but also the first time DACC has been invited to apply. The Aspen Prize highlights institutions that are making a measurable difference in student achievement and long-term economic mobility.
DACC stands proudly among 21 Illinois community colleges selected—more than any other state in the nation—underscoring the strength of the Illinois community college system and DACC’s commitment to student success.
“We are honored to be named to this distinguished group of colleges,” said Greg Wolfe, Chair of the DACC Board of Trustees. “This recognition reflects the hard work of our faculty, staff, and students, and our ongoing mission to support student achievement, strengthen workforce readiness, and help our community thrive.”
Since 2010, the Aspen Prize has identified and celebrated high-performing community colleges that deliver outstanding student outcomes and help drive economic opportunity. More than 6 million students attend community colleges across the nation, yet the Aspen Institute notes that outcomes vary and continued improvement is vital. The prize process showcases programs and strategies that create real results for students.
Selected colleges now enter a rigorous 20-month review process, which includes detailed data analysis and input from higher education and workforce experts. The Aspen Prize winner will be announced in Spring 2027.
DACC President Dr. Randall Fletcher celebrated the announcement, saying, “This recognition affirms the transformative work happening at DACC. From workforce programs to transfer pathways, our goal is to deliver life-changing opportunities for every student who walks through our doors.”
To view the full list of eligible colleges and learn more about the Aspen Prize, visit the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program website.
Danville Area Community College is a comprehensive community college serving Illinois District 507, which consists of Vermilion County and parts of Champaign, Iroquois, Edgar, and Ford counties, since 1946. The College offers Associate degrees and certificates in both university transfer and applied career and technical programs. DACC’s historic, 76-acre main campus is located at 2000 East Main Street, Danville. The College has a higher-learning center in Hoopeston at 847 E. Orange. To apply to DACC, call 217-443-3222 or visit the Web site at www.DACC.EDU.
