UPDATE: Barton Community College has just been named one of the 200 institutions eligible for the prestigious $1 million Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, a significant recognition highlighting outstanding performance among U.S. two-year colleges. This announcement by the Aspen Institute marks a major milestone for the college as it sets its sights on the 2027 Aspen Prize.
This recognition is not just an accolade; it underscores Barton’s commitment to student success and excellence. Dr. Marcus Garstecki, President of Barton Community College, stated, “It is an incredible honor for us to be recognized among the nation’s top community colleges.” He emphasized that this distinction reflects the college’s dedication to student achievement, noting, “Our students are at the center of everything we do at Barton.”
The Aspen Prize, which began in 2010, is awarded based on rigorous metrics including student retention, completion rates, and transfer and bachelor’s attainment statistics. The 200 selected colleges span urban, rural, and suburban areas, serving diverse student populations from hundreds to tens of thousands. This broad representation highlights the vital role community colleges play in the educational landscape, educating nearly six million students nationwide.
Joshua Wyner, executive director of the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program, remarked, “The Aspen Prize rewards colleges that achieve outcomes that actually matter to students,” advocating for programs that lead to degree completion and subsequent lifelong success. He added, “Aspen Prize winners offer a powerful message: Community colleges can deliver the kind of life-changing education that makes the American Dream real.”
This is an urgent moment for Barton Community College as it prepares for a rigorous application process over the next 20 months. The colleges will be evaluated on a variety of factors, including their student outcomes data and the effectiveness of their educational practices. This assessment will guide the selection of finalists, culminating in the announcement of the Aspen Prize winner in spring 2027.
The recognition of Barton Community College serves as a beacon of hope and motivation for current and prospective students. As the college embarks on this journey, it aims to enhance its programs and continue fostering a culture of excellence and support for student achievement.
With applications now open, Barton will be working diligently to showcase its strengths and innovations in the educational field. Dr. Garstecki expressed excitement about the opportunity, stating, “We are excited to advance through the application process and continue building on our tradition of excellence.”
Stay tuned for more updates as Barton Community College navigates this competitive process, aiming to not only win the Aspen Prize but also to set a standard for community colleges across the nation. For further details on the Aspen Prize and the selection process, visit as.pn/prize.
