SWCC one of two Iowa community colleges eligible for federal success program

Southwestern Community College (SWCC) is one of 200 colleges and universities across the country, including only one other community college in Iowa, eligible for the U.S. Department of Education's Postsecondary Success Recognition Program.

U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona's Raise the Bar initiative supports colleges that excel at pursuing a variety of missions. As part of that work, the Postsecondary Success Recognition Program, launched in April 2024, utilized data and evidence to identify exemplars across the country.

The U.S. Department of Education recently published a list of 200 institutions that "clearly have a story to tell that demonstrates what institutions do matters to ensure student success." The list includes 100 predominantly bachelor's degree granting institutions and 100 predominantly associate degree or certificate granting institutions.

These institutions were identified using publicly available data to measure performance on key indicators related to equitable access, success, and post-college outcomes at public and non-profit institutions across the country.

Key metrics considered for each institution were enrolling low-income students and students of color in their state; helping those students graduate or transfer successfully; and preparing them to enter the career of their choice.

As one of the 200 institutions recognized, SWCC will now have the opportunity to apply for the Postsecondary Success Recognition Program. The application aims to better understand how institutions are using data and evidence-based practices as part of an intentional, campus-wide strategy to ensure all students are earning credentials of value, including underrepresented students.

"Southwestern has had a clear focus on student success for many years now, and this recognition opportunity is a true testament to the ongoing dedication and diligent work being completed by our faculty and staff each and every day," said Lindsay Stoaks, SWCC president.

Institutions selected for the program will be announced in 2025.