The U.S. Department of Education has announced the winners of its inaugural Postsecondary Success Recognition Program (PSRP). This initiative, launched in April 2024 by Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona, aims to honor higher education institutions that excel in enrolling underserved student populations, facilitating successful transfers and completions, and preparing graduates for careers that enhance economic mobility.
Secretary Cardona stated, “Imagine a world where schools with the most Pell Grant recipients are ranked highest, where ‘prestige’ is defined by preparing graduates well to enter the workforce and lead fulfilling lives and careers—sometimes right in their own communities. Imagine universities that are raising the bar for access and equity becoming household names. This award envisions a world where that is possible.”
The program recognized six colleges and universities for their commitment to advancing student success while supporting equitable outcomes. These institutions represent a diverse cross-section of communities across rural, suburban, and urban areas.
Among predominantly associate degree or certificate-granting institutions, CUNY Hostos Community College in New York was acknowledged for its transfer focus; Miami Dade College in Florida for its career focus; and Salish Kootenai College in Montana for both career and transfer focus.
For predominantly bachelor’s degree-granting institutions, San Jose State University in California was recognized as a master’s institution; University of South Carolina – Upstate as a bachelor’s institution; and University of Texas at Arlington as a doctoral institution.
The selection process involved using publicly available data to measure institutional performance on key indicators related to equitable access, success, and post-college outcomes. The Department invited 200 institutions to apply based on these indicators. A panel of nearly 50 peer reviewers scored applications from over 120 applicants. The top 20 institutions then participated in interviews conducted by RTI International, leading to the selection of six winners.
Georgia State University received a special trailblazer award for inspiring improvements across more than 100 colleges through its National Institute for Student Success (NISS).
Under Secretary of Education James Kvaal emphasized the program's impact: “Since the very beginning of the Biden-Harris Administration, Secretary Cardona challenged the idea that our best colleges and universities are the most selective in granting opportunity – not those who do the most to share that opportunity.”
Leaders from winning institutions expressed pride in their recognition. Miami Dade College President Madeline Pumariega highlighted their role as "the workforce engine" of their community. USC Upstate Chancellor Dr. Bennie L. Harris noted their commitment to helping students achieve their goals while fostering community contributions.
CUNY Hostos Community College President Daisy Cocco De Filippis stressed their mission's importance: “As a community college in the South Bronx...our mission is to provide social mobility through education.” San Jose State University President Cynthia Teniente-Matson expressed pride in being among the inaugural winners: "We are honored to be among the inaugural winners...and look forward to celebrating this achievement."
Georgia State President M. Brian Blake described receiving recognition as emblematic of innovation and commitment: “It’s so emblematic of our innovation and commitment to advance access to higher education.”
The Postsecondary Success Recognition Program highlights initiatives enhancing completion rates and fostering upward mobility for students across various demographics.
