BCC Vying for Top Collegiate Honor

April 25, 2012 - Brevard Community College is in the running for the 2013 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence.

The prestigious award is given to the top community college in the nation in recognition of innovative strategies, workforce achievement and high levels of student success.

BCC is among 120 two-year institutions from 31 states that have advanced to the second round in the competition in which more than 1,000 colleges were eligible.

In doing so, BCC made the grade in these Aspen Prize benchmarks:

• Student success in graduation and transferring to 4-year institutions
• Consistent improvement in student outcomes over time
• Equity in outcomes for students of all racial, ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds

BCC's President, Dr. Jim Richey, said the notification is more proof of the College's strong national reputation and fact that BCC ranks 29th in the U.S. in the number of AA degrees awarded.

"The reason for our success is our outstanding faculty and staff, who work closely with our students to make sure they are getting a high-quality education," said Richey. "That focus and dedication is making an important difference in our students' lives."

The College's increased emphasis on career planning also will pay big dividends for students by helping them find good jobs upon graduation, and helping local businesses looking to hire highly-skilled employees to grow their companies, said Richey.

"My goal is for BCC to win the Aspen Prize," said Richey. "With our strong record and the new, student-centered initiatives we have underway, I know we can do it."

BCC is among 15 institutions in the Florida College System still vying for the Aspen Prize. The winner will be selected in December.

Last year's winner was Valencia College in Orlando, which received a $600,000 prize.

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Brevard Community College is committed to engaging our diverse
population in quality, affordable, accessible learning opportunities which
successfully meet individual and community needs.