November 01, 2023

VINCENNES, Ind. – Vincennes University is honored for the recognition of its unwavering commitment to excellence and equity in student success, and is proud to announce that VU is once again recognized as an Aspen Prize Top 150 U.S. Community College. VU is the only Indiana institution to be included in this year’s award process.

With this distinction, VU has been granted the special opportunity to compete for the prestigious 2025 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence and $1 million in shared prize funds. Awarded by the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program, the $1 million Aspen Prize aims to elevate the community college sector and draw attention to what exemplary colleges can do to promote economic mobility for students and talent development for communities.

Only 15 percent of junior colleges and community colleges are chosen for the opportunity to apply for this significant honor. The selective process underscores VU’s commitment to achieving high and equitable student outcomes.

According to VU President Dr. Chuck Johnson, “We have witnessed remarkable improvements in graduation rates, academic performance, and student satisfaction. This announcement by the Aspen Institute is a testament to the Board of Trustees’ commitment to the University’s ongoing pursuit of excellence in higher education and a recognition of the transformative impact our outstanding faculty and staff have on the lives of our students.”

Through innovative programs, a student-centric approach, and an enduring commitment to improving student success outcomes, VU has continued to see improvements in student success across all populations of students.

This marks the second time since 2019 that VU has been eligible to participate in this biennial award process. The recognition highlights VU’s mission of providing high-quality and affordable education while cultivating a supportive environment for student success.

VU Provost Dr. Laura Treanor said, “Our mission is to offer the highest quality instructional environment possible. Our dedicated faculty and staff have a laser-sharp focus on creating environments that foster student growth, engagement, and achievement, and I am delighted that our work is being acknowledged with this prestigious recognition."

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