Central New Mexico Community College (CNM) has been named by the Aspen Institute as one of 200 community colleges in the United States eligible to compete for the 2027 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence. The Aspen Prize is a $1 million award that recognizes achievement and performance among two-year colleges. Selection is based on a review of student outcomes, including retention, graduation, transfer, and bachelor’s degree attainment rates.
This is the fifth time CNM, located in New Mexico, has been selected to compete for the Aspen Prize. CNM is the only community college in the state to receive this recognition for the 2027 cycle. CNM President Tracy Hartzler said the college is committed to providing affordable education and workforce training. Hartzler also stated that CNM’s graduation rates for both full- and part-time students have increased, and that graduates report earning about 26% more after completing their programs.
The 200 colleges selected for this cycle represent a range of community colleges across the country, including urban, rural, and suburban areas. These institutions differ in size and focus, with some emphasizing workforce development and others focusing on transfer pathways to four-year degrees. Josh Wyner, executive director of the Aspen Institute, said the prize recognizes colleges that deliver outcomes for students, such as degree completion and improved career prospects…