Aspen Prize calls GCC a top community college

What’s happening: Gogebic Community College has advanced to the next round in a $1 million prize for America’s top community colleges. Listed as one of the 200 community colleges available for the Aspen Prize, GCC will compete for the award in various categories like retention, completion, transfer, and bachelor’s attainment rates in the hopes of bringing a campus-changing financial benefit to Ironwood.

The recognition comes as GCC was once again awarded competitive grants from Xcel Energy Foundation and was named the best community college by WalletHub in Michigan, taking 14th overall.

What is the Aspen Prize: This is the ninth year of the Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, which is presented by the nonprofit Aspen Institute. The award is one of the nation’s highest honors for community colleges, celebrating institutions that excel in student achievement, equitable access, and preparing graduates for in-demand careers. 

This year’s prize expands the field to 200 eligible colleges, comparing small, rural campuses like GCC to large urban centers serving tens of thousands of students. It is funded through the support of Ascendium Education Philanthropy and the Joyce Foundation.

What they’re saying: “This recognition from the Aspen Institute is a tribute to the incredible spirit of the Gogebic Community College family — our students, faculty, staff, trustees, and community partners who believe deeply in the power of education to transform lives. Being named among the top 200 community colleges in the nation reminds us that when a community comes together with a shared purpose — to help students learn, grow, and succeed — great things happen. This honor belongs to all of us,” GCC President Chris Patritto said.  

What’s next: The next phase in the selection process requires each institution to submit a detailed application followed by experts in community colleges, higher education and workforce development. The top 25 colleges will be announced in April 2026, followed by the announcement of the 10 finalists in June.