In a testament to how community colleges can transform lives and regional economies, Southwest Wisconsin Technical College has been named the winner of the 2025 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, the nation's most prestigious recognition for community colleges.
The rural college earned the $700,000 top prize by demonstrating exceptional student outcomes, particularly in graduation rates and economic mobility for graduates.
Southwest Wisconsin Tech has established itself as a national model through its remarkable 54% graduation rate—nearly 20 percentage points above the national community college average of 35%. The college has achieved these results while serving many lower-income students, showing how intentional support systems can close equity gaps in higher education.
"Their emphasis on work-based learning and hands-on training in every program shows how an engaging, high-quality education can change lives while strengthening a regional economy," said Aspen Prize co-chair Tim O'Shaughnessy, CEO of Graham Holdings Co.
What sets Southwest Wisconsin Tech apart is its mission-driven approach captured in the promise to "never graduate anyone into poverty." This commitment has led the college to restructure or replace programs to align with living-wage careers in the region.
The economic impact is clear. Five years after completion, Southwest Wisconsin Tech graduates earn nearly $14,000 more than the average new hire in the region.
The college isn't resting on its laurels. College leaders are working to raise their graduation rate to an ambitious 70% through multiple strategies, including ensuring every student develops a career-aligned success plan with appropriate support to complete their program.
