Stanly Community College announces its designation as a Leader College of Distinction by Achieving the Dream (ATD).

“I am incredibly proud of Stanly Community College’s being named a Leader College of Distinction by ATD. This prestigious recognition reflects our commitment to promoting student success within our community. At SCC, we have consistently pursued and achieved challenging goals, with a dedicated focus on improving student outcomes and reducing equity gaps,” said Dr. John Enamait, president of SCC. “SCC’s unique approach to student success, characterized by a collaborative strategy involving faculty and staff, has yielded transformative results. Our institution has witnessed a significant demographic shift, with more students opting for part-time enrollment while balancing work and family responsibilities. This departure from the national trend, where full-time students traditionally excelled, underscores our innovative effectiveness in supporting part-time students. This recognition reaffirms SCC’s dedication to fostering an environment where all students can thrive.”

ATD created the Leader College of Distinction award in 2018 to recognize colleges that have pursued and met challenging student success goals, often earning Leader College status several times. Leader Colleges of Distinction must show improvement in three or more student outcome metrics, including at least one lagging indicator, such as completion or transfer with an earned baccalaureate.

Leader Colleges of Distinction must also show they have reduced equity gaps in at least two metrics for at least two student groups. These requirements recognize and motivate sustained and proactive reform efforts that result in greater improvements in student success and equity.

SCC is part of the ATD Network, comprised of more than 300 colleges committed to advancing equity and supporting student success at their institutions and throughout their communities. SCC has been a member of the ATD Network since 2012 and has held Leader College status since 2017.

ATD is a partner and champion of more than 300 community colleges across the country. Drawing on expert coaches, groundbreaking programs and national peer network, the organization provides institutions with integrated, tailored support for every aspect of their work — from foundational capacities such as leadership, data and equity to intentional strategies for supporting students holistically, building K–12 partnerships and more. ATD calls this Whole College Transformation. Its vision is for every college to be a catalyst for equitable, anti-racist and economically vibrant communities.