Tallahassee State College Named One of the Top 200 Community Colleges in the Nation

Tallahassee State College (TSC) has been named among the top 200 community colleges in the United States by the Aspen Institute and is now eligible to compete for the prestigious $1 million Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence. This national distinction recognizes institutions with outstanding student outcomes in retention, completion, transfer, and attainment of bachelor’s degrees.

The Aspen Prize is regarded as the premier recognition of excellence in the nation’s community college sector. Nearly 1,000 public colleges across the U.S. are evaluated, and this ninth cycle marks the first time 200 colleges have been named eligible, reflecting a competitive and rigorous selection process.

“We are incredibly proud to be named among the top 200 community colleges in the nation,” said Dr. Jim Murdaugh, president of TSC. “It affirms the work happening every day to support our students, strengthen our workforce, and elevate opportunity throughout our region.”

TSC continues to advance innovative workforce programs, high-demand bachelor’s pathways, and strong university transfer pipelines, including its Aspire and Ignite programs with Florida State University and Florida A&M University.

According to the Aspen Institute, eligible colleges represent the breadth and diversity of the nation’s community colleges, serving students in urban, suburban, and rural communities. Those invited to apply undergo a rigorous review process over the next 20 months, which includes an examination of student outcomes, institutional practices, employment and earnings outcomes, and multi-day site visits for finalists.

The winner of the Aspen Prize will be announced in Spring 2027 in Washington, D.C.

To learn more about the Aspen Prize, visit as.pn/prize.