Community College of Denver (CCD) has been named to the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program’s Unlocking Opportunity Network, making CCD the only Colorado institution chosen to join this important national initiative.

The Unlocking Opportunity Network is designed to help community colleges ensure students graduate with credentials that truly lead to good-paying jobs or smooth transfers into bachelor’s degree programs. Over the next three years, CCD will partner with the Aspen Institute and the Community College Research Center to strengthen advising, expand access, and better align programs with high-demand careers.

“Being named to the Unlocking Opportunity Network is a powerful recognition of CCD’s commitment to student success and workforce alignment,” said Tina Garcia, CCD’s Vice President of Student Services. “This work will help us ensure that every student has access to high-value programs that lead to meaningful careers or seamless transfer opportunities, strengthening Colorado’s communities and economy”

Out of more than 1,000 community colleges nationwide, CCD is one of just 55 institutions selected to join this initiative. The effort builds on the success of a 10-college pilot group that has already shown measurable progress in improving outcomes for students. The expansion is supported by JPMorganChase and other national funders, and reflects the Aspen Institute’s vision of ensuring that community colleges deliver on the promise of opportunity for every student

“Every year, millions of students rely on community colleges for a low-cost pathway to what they assume will be a high-value credential,” said Josh Wyner, Executive Director of the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program. “The leaders at each of the 55 colleges that have signed up for Unlocking Opportunity have made clear that they will spend the next three years working towards the kinds of reforms needed to make that assumption a reality for thousands more students”

With its proven record of graduating students with less debt, strong transfer agreements with Colorado universities, and innovative degree and certificate programs, CCD is proud to represent the state in this national network. Participation in Unlocking Opportunity reaffirms CCD’s role as a leader in student success, workforce development, and community impact.

Learn more about CCD’s programs and initiatives at ccd.edu.