North Iowa Area Community College has been recognized as one of the top community colleges in the country.
The Aspen Institute has named NIACC among 200 institutions eligible to compete for the $1 million Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence — the nation’s top honor for two-year colleges. The prize recognizes schools with strong student success outcomes, including retention, completion, and successful transfer to four-year programs.
NIACC President Joel Pedersen says the selection reflects the college’s continued commitment to student achievement.
Pedersen says the recognition is a testament to the dedication of students, faculty, and the communities NIACC serves.
Community colleges educate nearly six million students nationwide, but many struggle with graduation and post-college success rates. The Aspen Prize highlights institutions that are working to close those gaps and expand opportunities for students.
The review process for the award will continue over the next 20 months, with a winner announced in spring 2027.
