OSU-OKC in the running for prestigious prize

Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City (OSU-OKC) is among America’s top 150 community colleges eligible to compete for the prestigious $1 million Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence.

The Aspen Institute College Excellence Program released the names of the eligible colleges Wednesday from a pool of nearly 1,000 two-year colleges nationwide. The only other Oklahoma school that made the list is Carl Albert State College, with campuses in Poteau and Sallisaw.

OSU-OKC President Natalie Shirley said being recognized as a contender for the Aspen Prize is the realization of a five-year goal.

“We have been intentional about creating initiatives that have more than doubled our graduation rate over the past five years and increased student retention by 10 percentage points, which mean brighter futures and more earning power for our students,” Shirley said a news release.

The 10 finalists for the 2019 Aspen Prize will be named in May. Following site vists, the grand prize winner, finalist (s) with distinction, and rising star (s) will be named in spring 2019.