The Alamo Colleges District has been recertified as a Leader College of Distinction by Achieving the Dream (ATD), a national organization that works to promote student success and economic mobility at community colleges.
The Leader College of Distinction designation, introduced by ATD in 2018, recognizes colleges that show ongoing excellence in advancing student success. Institutions receiving this recognition must demonstrate consistent improvement in early metrics such as course success rates and student retention, as well as longer-term outcomes like graduation rates. They are also required to maintain a strong culture of data-informed decision-making and institutionalize effective practices.
“Being named a Leader College of Distinction reflects our commitment to student success and our moonshot of partnering to end poverty through education and training,” said Dr. Mike Flores, Alamo Colleges District Chancellor. “For more than two decades, our partnership with Achieving the Dream has helped guide the work we do to remove barriers, improve outcomes, and ensure that more students complete credentials that lead to high-demand, high-opportunity careers.”
The district joined the Achieving the Dream Network in 2004 and is among over 300 colleges nationwide focused on closing achievement gaps through data-driven strategies.
Dr. Karen A. Stout, president and CEO of Achieving the Dream, commented: “The 2026 Leader Colleges of Distinction demonstrate sustained commitment and measurable progress in advancing student success. By using data to guide decisions and continuously strengthen their practices, these institutions are producing real gains in student outcomes, strengthening their practices, and deepening their impact in the communities they serve. Their leadership sets a powerful example for colleges across the ATD Network, reflecting the focus, discipline, and follow-through required to achieve lasting institutional change.”
This recent honor builds on Alamo Colleges District’s long-standing role within ATD’s network. In 2024, it received the Achieving the Dream 20th Anniversary Network Legend Award for being one of the original 15 members since 2004 committed to advancing equity and student achievement.
Alamo Colleges District continues its efforts through programs such as AlamoPROMISE—which offers free tuition for eligible graduates from Bexar County high schools—expanded advising services tailored to individual students’ needs, and credential pathways aligned with workforce demands.
