Wisconsin is the only state with three colleges in the national top 25
MADISON – Three of Wisconsin's technical colleges, Chippewa Valley Technical College, Mid-State Technical College and Northeast Wisconsin Technical College have just been announced among the top 25 semifinalists for the Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence in the current awards cycle.
The $1 million Aspen Prize, awarded every two years, recognizes community colleges that demonstrate high and improving levels of student success. Evaluation criteria include teaching and learning, certificate and degree completion, transfer and bachelor’s attainment, workforce success, and access and equity. Out of nearly 1,000 community colleges nationwide, three from the Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS) earned a place in the top 25 – more than any other state.
The recognition builds on an already remarkable run for Wisconsin. In 2025, Southwest Wisconsin Technical College earned the Aspen Prize, while Northeast Wisconsin Technical College placed among the top 10. Across just two award cycles, 25% of Wisconsin’s technical colleges have ranked in the Aspen Institute’s top 25 – an extraordinary testament to the system’s commitment to student success and statewide impact.
Following the semifinalist announcement, a committee of 15 national higher education experts will select 10 finalist institutions. Finalists are chosen based on an in-depth review of Round 2 data and interviews with college leadership teams.
“Excellence isn’t a finish line for us, it’s a commitment,” said WTCS President Layla Merrifield. “Each of Wisconsin’s 16 technical colleges works every day to deliver real value to students, employers and communities.”
And the results show it:
- 97% of students report being satisfied or very satisfied with their experience
- 98% of employers say their local technical college is important to their business success
- 76% of Wisconsin residents believe our colleges benefit the state.
“We’re proud of this recognition because it highlights the meaningful impact our colleges have on students and the communities they serve,” Merrifield added. “Until every student, employer and community member feels that impact, we’ll stay focused on student success – raising the bar so every student finds a great career and every employer has the skilled talent they need to thrive.”
About the Wisconsin Technical College System
The Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS) offers more than 500 programs awarding two-year associate degrees, one- and two-year technical diplomas, short-term technical diplomas, certificates and related education for apprenticeships. The System is the major provider of customized instruction and technical assistance for Wisconsin employers. With nearly 300,000 people enrolling in a technical college each year, it is the largest higher education system in the state.
###
