Tallahassee State College Named Finalist for 2027 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence

June 9, 2026

Only Florida college among 10 finalists competing for nation's premier community college award

Tallahassee State College has been named a Finalist for the 2027 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, one of the nation's most prestigious recognitions for community colleges.

Selected by the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program, TSC is one of just 10 community colleges nationwide competing for the 2027 Aspen Prize and $1 million in shared Aspen Prize funds. TSC is also the only Florida college to advance to the finalist stage.

The Aspen Prize recognizes colleges that achieve exceptional results in student success, including degree and certificate completion, transfer, employment outcomes, and expanding access and achievement for all students. TSC advanced to the finalist stage following a rigorous review process that began with more than 1,000 community colleges nationwide.

"This recognition reflects the extraordinary work of our faculty, staff, administrators, and community partners who are committed every day to helping students achieve their goals," said Dr. Jim Murdaugh, President of Tallahassee State College. "To be recognized among the top 10 community colleges in the nation-and as the only Florida institution to reach this stage-is a tremendous honor. More importantly, it reflects the success of our students and the dedication of the people who support them every day."

In April, TSC was named one of 25 semifinalists and was the only Florida college selected. Advancing to the finalist stage places the College among an elite group of institutions recognized nationally for delivering measurable results that improve students' lives and strengthen their communities.

TSC has earned national recognition for its commitment to student success and innovation. The College was redesignated earlier this year as an Achieving the Dream Leader College of Distinction, a recognition awarded to colleges demonstrating sustained improvements in student outcomes. TSC is also a recipient of the Aspen Institute's prestigious Leah Meyer Austin Award, one of the highest honors presented to community colleges for outstanding student outcomes.

Among Florida colleges, TSC is nationally recognized for its transfer success. The College serves as the leading transfer institution to both Florida State University and Florida A&M University and has been recognized by the U.S. Department of Education for having the highest transfer-out rate among federal financial aid recipients in Florida.

"At Tallahassee State College, we believe higher education should create opportunity and transform lives," Murdaugh said. "This recognition affirms that our students are succeeding in the classroom, completing their credentials, transferring to universities, and entering high-demand careers. We are proud of what they have accomplished and grateful to everyone who plays a role in their success."

Over the coming months, Aspen Institute representatives will conduct site visits and further evaluations of each finalist institution. An independent jury will review the findings and select the winner of the 2027 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, which will be announced in spring 2027.

For more information about the Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, visit as.pn/prize.