Achieving the Dream Awards “Leader College of Distinction”
Achieving the Dream announced that Lee College has earned Leader College of Distinction status for achieving higher student outcomes and narrowing equity gaps.
“The metrics ATD established for Leader College of Distinction are meant to encourage colleges to sustain aggressive efforts that result in far greater student success and equity,” said Dr. Karen A. Stout, president and CEO of Achieving the Dream. “The honor recognizes network colleges that have stayed focused on the change process and seen real improvements in student achievement across the institution.”
ATD created the Leader College of Distinction award in 2018.
Leader College of Distinction showed improvement on three student outcome metrics, including at least one lagging indicator such as completion. In addition, they showed narrower performance discrepancies in at least two metrics between disaggregated groups, such as gender, race/ethnicity, or socioeconomic status. The metrics are: (a) completion of gateway math and/or English in Year 1, (b) persistence from Year 1 to Year 2 (fall-to-fall retention), (c) courses attempted/completed with a C- or higher grade within one year of initial enrollment; (d) completion of a certificate or degree within four years of initial enrollment; and ( e ) transfer to a four-year institution and achievement of a baccalaureate degree within six years of initial enrollment.
Leader Colleges of Distinction will have their own identity as part of the ATD Network, including a new logo. Leader Colleges of Distinction also will receive priority to participate in ATD’s innovation initiatives. They will be asked to present and facilitate more sessions at ATD events and institutes and asked to serve as mentor colleges.