Recognition Highlights South Orange County Community College District’s Excellence in Student Success, Equity, and Workforce Development
Orange County, Calif. — The South Orange County Community College District (SOCCCD) is proud to announce that both of its colleges—Irvine Valley College (IVC) and Saddleback College—have been named among the Top 200 community colleges in the nation by the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program and invited to apply for the 2027 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, the nation’s signature recognition of high achievement and performance among two-year colleges.
The Aspen Prize, awarded every two years and accompanied by a $1 million award, honors institutions demonstrating exceptional outcomes in teaching and learning, certificate and degree completion, transfer and bachelor’s attainment, workforce outcomes after graduation, and equitable access and success for students from all backgrounds.
“This is a moment of tremendous pride for our district,” said Carolyn Inmon, President of the SOCCCD Board of Trustees. “Having both of our colleges recognized among the nation’s best underscores the exceptional leadership, faculty, and staff who make Irvine Valley College and Saddleback College so impactful. Together, they are shaping lives, strengthening families, and advancing economic mobility across South Orange County.”
Irvine Valley College
For Irvine Valley College, this marks another major milestone in a long tradition of academic excellence and innovation.
IVC was selected based on strong student outcomes in retention, completion, and transfer rates, along with evidence of continuous improvement and equitable practices. As part of the rigorous selection process, IVC will now advance to the next stage of the Aspen review, where data and institutional practices will be evaluated through 2027.
Saddleback College
Saddleback College was also named among the Aspen Top 200, reflecting its sustained commitment to equity-driven student success and innovation.
In recent years, Saddleback has strengthened student outcomes through strategic initiatives such as expanding Zero Textbook Cost offerings, disaggregating course completion data to close equity gaps, and increasing proactive case management and basic needs support.
Districtwide Commitment to Excellence
“This dual recognition speaks volumes about the power of collaboration and innovation within our district,” said Dr. Julianna M. Barnes, Chancellor of the South Orange County Community College District. “It affirms that our colleges are not only delivering exceptional education but also transforming communities through access, excellence, and opportunity. IVC and Saddleback continue to demonstrate that public higher education can lead the way in creating equitable outcomes and economic mobility.”
The Aspen Institute will announce semifinalists and finalists in 2026, with the 2027 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence awarded in Washington, D.C.
About the South Orange County Community College District
SOCCCD serves more than 60,000 students annually through Irvine Valley College, Saddleback College, and the Advanced Technology & Education Park (ATEP). The district plays a pivotal role in the region’s economy, workforce development, and higher education landscape. Guided by a commitment to student success, equity, and innovation, SOCCCD continues to lead transformative efforts that empower learners and strengthen communities across Orange County.
For more information, please visit www.socccd.edu.