GCCC Noted Among Top 100 Community Colleges for Postsecondary Student Success
[Garden City, KS] October 28, 2024 -- Garden City Community College (GCCC) has been named one of the top 100 community colleges nationwide eligible for recognition by the U.S. Department of Education’s Postsecondary Success Recognition Program. This program, launched in April 2024 as part of the "Raise the Bar" initiative, identifies institutions demonstrating excellence in promoting student success through equitable access and impactful educational outcomes. As a college invited to apply for this official recognition, GCCC is among the top 5% of public two- and four- institutions in the country.
The Department of Education evaluated institutions nationwide using publicly available data to identify those excelling in key areas, including:
- Enroll low-income students and students of color in their state;
- Help those students graduate or transfer successfully; and
- Prepare them to enter the career of their choice and enjoy upward mobility, including recouping their costs and earning a premium over high school graduates in their state.
GCCC’s inclusion on this prestigious list highlights its commitment to student success and equity. "We are honored to be recognized for our efforts in supporting our diverse student population and ensuring they have the opportunities and resources needed for success," said Dr. Ryan Ruda, President of GCCC.
As a next step, GCCC will complete the application process to be further evaluated for official designation as a Postsecondary Success recipient. Dr. Marc Malone, Chief Academic Officer at GCCC, who is leading the application effort, commented, "The data compiled by the Department of Education shows our students do well both in terms of college completion and in terms of financial benefits earned using their college credential. The application process is a really great opportunity to pause and reflect on the really amazing transformational work that is happening at the college to make all of that possible.”
GCCC remains dedicated to providing accessible and effective education that prepares students for successful careers and lifelong learning.
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Garden City Community College exists to produce positive contributors to the economic and social well-being of society.
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