Northeast Wisconsin Technical College also a Top 10 finalist
MADISON – The Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS) is proud to celebrate Southwest Wisconsin Technical College, of one of its 16 colleges, for winning the 2025 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence.
The Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence is the nation’s premier recognition for America’s community colleges. According to the Aspen Institute, Southwest Wisconsin Technical College was awarded the prize for its mission-driven approach to ensuring every student achieves success. The college has increased graduation rates and redesigned programs to equip graduates with the skills needed for high-demand, well-paying jobs in the region, ensuring long-term career success.
“The Aspen Prize is the pinnacle of success for community colleges,” said Layla Merrifield, WTCS president. “I am thrilled to celebrate this achievement for Southwest Wisconsin Technical College and recognize Northeast Wisconsin Technical College as a finalist. For two of Wisconsin’s 16 technical colleges to be honored by the Aspen Institute, out of 1,000 community colleges nationwide, is a testament to the strength of our colleges and the respect we receive on a national level.”
The Aspen Institute selects a winner every two years. This cycle began in 2023 when, out of nearly 1,000 community colleges nationwide, the Aspen Institute invited 150 community colleges to apply, based on data showing strong student outcomes in key areas such as retention, completion and transfer. Eight of the 16 Wisconsin technical colleges were among those top 150 colleges. Southwest Wisconsin Technical College and another WTCS college, Northeast Wisconsin Technical College, were named two of ten finalists.
“I couldn’t be more impressed with the work our colleges do,” continued Merrifield. “To win the top prize, Southwest Tech worked to make data-driven progress on their post-transfer success, retention, completion and post-graduation employment outcomes. Congratulations to the entire Southwest Tech community.”
