PITTSFIELD, MA — Berkshire Community College (BCC) announced today that it has been
designated a 2026 Leader College of Distinction by Achieving the Dream (ATD), a national organization committed to advancing community colleges as accessible
hubs of learning, credentialing, and economic mobility.
Of the 32 Leader Colleges of Distinction that were awarded, 13 colleges, including
BCC, have earned the honor for the first time, demonstrating sustained and substantial
outcomes in the advancement of student success. Nineteen colleges have recertified
their status as Leader Colleges of Distinction.
"This recognition as a 2026 Leader College of Distinction by ATD affirms what we know
to be true about BCC — that when we commit to equity, accountability, and continuous
improvement, our students succeed," Ellen Kennedy, President of BCC said. "I am deeply
proud of our faculty and staff, whose dedication to removing barriers and expanding
opportunity makes BCC a place where every student can build momentum toward a meaningful
career and a brighter future in the Berkshires and beyond."
ATD created the Leader College of Distinction designation in 2018 to recognize institutions
that have demonstrated sustained excellence in advancing student success outcomes
over time. Leader Colleges of Distinction must demonstrate these criteria in early
momentum metrics, such as course success rates and student retention, as well as in
milestone momentum outcomes, such as rates of completion, a strong culture of data-informed
continuous improvement, and evidence that effective practices are institutionalized.
These colleges achieve success by tailoring strategies to the specific needs of their
local communities, particularly students who are missing or left behind.
BCC has been part of the ATD Network since 2021 and has held Leader College status
since 2025.
"The 2026 Leader Colleges of Distinction demonstrate sustained commitment and measurable
progress in advancing student success," said Dr. Karen A. Stout, president and CEO
of Achieving the Dream. "By using data to guide decisions and continuously strengthen
their practices, these institutions are producing real gains in student outcomes,
strengthening their practices, and deepening their impact in the communities they
serve. Their leadership sets a powerful example for colleges across the ATD Network,
reflecting the focus, discipline, and follow-through required to achieve lasting institutional
change."
About Achieving the Dream
Achieving the Dream (ATD) is a partner and champion of more than 300 community colleges
across the country. Drawing on our expert coaches, groundbreaking programs, and national
peer network, we provide 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. We call this Whole College Transformation. Our vision is for
every college to be a catalyst for equitable and economically vibrant communities.
We know that with the right partner and the right approach, colleges can drive access,
completion rates, and employment outcomes — so that all students can access life-changing
learning that propels them into community-changing careers.
