Forsyth Tech News
Forsyth Technical Community College Named a Finalist for the 2027 $1 Million Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence
Today, the Aspen Institute named Forsyth Technical Community College a finalist for the 2027 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence — the nation’s signature recognition for community colleges. Forsyth Tech is one of only 10 finalists, selected from nearly 1,000 community colleges across the country.
Backed by $1 million in award funds, the Aspen Prize honors colleges that help students complete credentials leading to bachelor’s degrees and jobs that pay family-sustaining wages.
10
Finalists selected from nearly 1,000 colleges nationwide
45%
Graduation rate — up from 19% over six years
45%
Completion rate for minority students — up from 12%
Forsyth Tech advanced from a field of 25 semifinalists named in April. Its selection rests on student outcomes built over six years under Vision 2025. The college’s graduation rate grew from 19% to 45%. Completion for minority students grew from 12% to 45% — effectively closing a gap that was once seven points wide.
Forsyth Tech graduates celebrate at the 2026 Commencement ceremony.
“This recognition belongs to our students. They finished what they started, and a national jury saw it. Our job now is to make sure the next student has the same chance.”Dr. Janet N. Spriggs, President, Forsyth Technical Community College
“Student outcomes like those we see at the 10 finalists cannot be achieved without major reforms to programs of study, student advising systems, and other college practices that we know make a difference.”Josh Wyner, Executive Director, Aspen Institute College Excellence Program
Wyner added that the Aspen Institute is excited to learn more about how these colleges accomplished their outcomes so the work can be elevated and enable 1,000 community colleges nationally to achieve similar success.
How the Aspen Prize Selection Works
170 applicants
Colleges across the country applied, submitting data and applications revealing student outcomes in learning, credential completion, labor market success, and transfer & bachelor’s attainment.
April 2026
25 semifinalists named by an independent 15-member selection committee.
June 2026
10 finalists announced — including Forsyth Tech — following nearly two years of data review.
Fall 2026
Expert teams conduct in-depth site visits to each finalist and review graduate earnings data.
April 2027
Winner announced by an independent jury. The complete list of finalists is available at as.pn/prize.
Forsyth Tech is a primary talent pipeline for employers across Forsyth and Stokes counties. For many North Carolina community college students, the Next NC Scholarship covers tuition and required fees, leaving most students with no cost out of pocket.
Graduates and their families celebrate at Forsyth Tech’s 2026 Commencement ceremony.
Share the Good News
Resources & Assets
Find social media copy, graphics, photos, and other resources to help spread the word about Forsyth Tech’s Aspen Prize finalist recognition.
View All Assets & Information forsythtech.edu/aspen-prizeThe Aspen Prize is generously funded by the Ascendium Education Group and the Joyce Foundation.
About Forsyth Technical Community College
Founded in 1960, Forsyth Technical Community College serves Forsyth and Stokes counties from nine campus locations with more than 200 degrees, diplomas, and certificates. Forsyth Tech ensures that everyone, no matter where they start, can rise, thrive, and lead.
About the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program
The Aspen Institute College Excellence Program aims to strengthen higher education leadership and practice to improve student outcomes. For more information, visit highered.aspeninstitute.org.