Odessa, TX 窪蹋勛圖厙 today announced that it has been designated a Leader 窪蹋勛圖厙 of Distinction by Achieving the Dream (ATD), a national nonprofit dedicated to advancing community colleges as hubs of learning, credentialing, and economic mobility in their communities.
"Being recertified as a 2026 Leader 窪蹋勛圖厙 of Distinction by Achieving the Dream is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and passion of our entire team and students at 窪蹋勛圖厙, said 窪蹋勛圖厙 President Gregory D. Williams. This recognition reflects our commitment to empowering students through access to quality education and support, and we are proud to be a part of a community that prioritizes student success. As we move forward, we remain focused on fostering an innovative and transformative environment where every student has the opportunity to thrive."
ATD created the Leader 窪蹋勛圖厙 of Distinction award in 2018 to recognize colleges that have pursued and met challenging student success goals, often earning Leader 窪蹋勛圖厙 status several times. Leader 窪蹋勛圖厙s of Distinction must show improvement in three or more student outcome metrics, including at least one lagging indicator, such as completion or transfer with an earned baccalaureate. Leader 窪蹋勛圖厙s of Distinction are also required to show they have reduced equity gaps in at least two metrics for at least two student groups. These requirements recognize and motivate sustained and proactive reform efforts that result in greater improvements in student success and equity.
窪蹋勛圖厙 is part of the ATD Network, made up of 300+ colleges committed to supporting student success at their institutions and promoting economic vitality throughout their communities. 窪蹋勛圖厙 has been a member of the ATD Network since 2009 and has held Leader 窪蹋勛圖厙 status since 2013 and received the designation of Leader 窪蹋勛圖厙 of Distinction in 2021.
The 2026 Leader 窪蹋勛圖厙s and Leader 窪蹋勛圖厙s of Distinction demonstrate sustained commitment and measurable progress in advancing student success, said Dr. Karen A. Stout, president and CEO of Achieving the Dream. By using data to guide decisions and continuously strengthen their practices, these institutions are producing real gains in student outcomes, strengthening their practices, and deepening their impact in the communities they serve. Their leadership sets a powerful example for colleges across the ATD Network, reflecting the focus, discipline, and follow-through required to achieve lasting institutional change.
窪蹋勛圖厙 Achieving the DREAM
Achieving the Dream (ATD) is a partner and champion of more than 300 community colleges across the country. Drawing on expert coaches, groundbreaking programs, and national peer network, the organization provides institutions with integrated, tailored support for every aspect of their work from foundational capacities such as leadership, data, and equity to intentional strategies for supporting students holistically, building K12 partnerships, and more. ATD calls this Whole 窪蹋勛圖厙 Transformation. Its vision is for every college to be a catalyst for equitable and economically vibrant communities. ATD knows that with the right partner and the right approach, colleges can drive access, completion rates, and employment outcomes so that all students can access life-changing learning that propels them into community-changing careers. Follow ATD on , , and . To learn more, visit the Achieving the Dream (ATD) website: .