Minnesota State Community and Technical College (M State) has once again secured its position as one of the top community colleges in the United States, being named among the 200 institutions eligible for the prestigious Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence. This recognition marks the ninth consecutive cycle for M State, which has consistently demonstrated high achievement and performance within the realm of two-year colleges.
The Aspen Institute College Excellence Program evaluates colleges based on crucial student outcome data, including retention, completion, transfer rates, and the attainment of bachelor’s degrees. Since its inception in 2010, the Aspen Prize has aimed to highlight institutions that excel in fostering student success. M State is one of only two colleges in Minnesota to have been recognized in every cycle of the award.
“This recognition is a testament to the unwavering commitment of our leadership, faculty, and staff to student success,” stated Carrie Brimhall, President of M State. “Being named among the top community colleges in the nation—every cycle since this prize began—is a reflection of our mission to empower students and strengthen communities through high-quality, affordable education.”
A New Milestone for the Aspen Prize
In a notable change this year, the number of colleges eligible to apply for the Aspen Prize increased to 200, up from 150 in previous cycles. These institutions span urban, rural, and suburban areas across the country, serving student populations ranging from a few hundred to tens of thousands. Some colleges focus primarily on workforce programs, while others emphasize degree attainment and university transfers, with M State offering a blend of all three.
According to Josh Wyner, executive director of the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program, “The Aspen Prize rewards colleges that achieve the kind of outcomes that actually matter to students—completing college degree programs that, in turn, lead to lifelong success.” He emphasized that winners of the Aspen Prize send a powerful message about the potential of community colleges to deliver transformative education.
As an eligible college, M State will engage in a rigorous review process leading to the announcement of the Aspen Prize winner in spring 2027. The top ten finalists will be revealed in June 2026. The complete list of eligible colleges can be found at the Aspen Institute’s dedicated website.
About the Aspen Institute
The Aspen Institute, established in 1949, is a global nonprofit organization dedicated to igniting human potential and fostering understanding. With its headquarters in Washington, D.C., and a campus in Aspen, Colorado, the Institute works to address some of society’s most pressing challenges through dialogue, leadership, and action.
The Aspen Institute College Excellence Program focuses on enhancing higher education leadership and practices to improve student outcomes, ultimately aiming to advance economic mobility and cultivate talent for the benefit of individuals and society as a whole. For more information, visit the Aspen Institute’s official website.
With its consistent recognition and commitment to educational excellence, M State continues to play a vital role in shaping the future of its students and the communities it serves.
