Local Pride: Western Technical College in La Crosse A Semifinalist for Prestigious National Award

Western Technical College in La Crosse, Wisconsin, has been named a semifinalist for the 2025 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence. This award recognizes community colleges that excel in teaching, graduation rates, student transfers, workforce success, and equitable outcomes for all students. The Aspen Prize is awarded every two years.

The college is now among the top 20 community colleges in the U.S., competing for a $1 million prize to support student retention initiatives. The selection began in October when the Aspen Institute invited 150 colleges to apply, based on their performance in retention, completion, transfer rates, and equity.

Roger Stanford, the President of Western, stated that the college is focused on supporting student success through various programs, including educational justice and faculty development. He emphasized the college's commitment to helping students succeed after graduation in their careers and further education.

Josh Wynder, executive director of the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program, commended the semifinalists for their dedication to education and its role in improving students' future opportunities. He stressed the importance of educational achievements leading to successful career placements and further studies.

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