MADISON – The Aspen Institute has named Chippewa Valley Technical College (CVTC) one of just 10 finalists for the 2027 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, the nation’s premier recognition for community and technical colleges.
CVTC was one of three Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS) colleges named as semifinalists earlier this year. Mid-State Technical College and Northeast Wisconsin Technical College were also among the top 25 semifinalists in the current awards cycle, selected from nearly 1,000 community and technical colleges nationwide.
“The Aspen Prize represents the highest level of recognition for community and technical colleges, and it is grounded in what matters most – student success,” said WTCS President Layla Merrifield. “We are incredibly proud of Chippewa Valley Technical College for earning a spot among the top 10 colleges in the country. This distinction reflects not only strong outcomes, but a deep commitment to meeting students where they are, supporting them every step of the way, and preparing them for meaningful careers that strengthen their communities.
“What makes this recognition especially powerful is that it speaks directly to the student experience – whether that’s access to high-quality instruction, hands-on learning aligned with workforce needs, or the support systems that help students persist and complete their programs,” Merrifield continued. “Having three Wisconsin colleges in the top 25 this cycle–and 2025 Aspen Prize winner Southwest Wisconsin Technical College–validates that our System delivers best-in-class outcomes, using innovative, student-centered approaches.”
The $1 million Aspen Prize, awarded every two years, honors community colleges that demonstrate high and improving levels of student success. Evaluation criteria include teaching and learning, certificate and degree completion, transfer and bachelor’s attainment, workforce success, and access and equity.
CVTC’s recognition builds on an already remarkable run for Wisconsin. In 2025, Southwest Wisconsin Technical College earned the Aspen Prize for its work ensuring every student has a clear enrollment and financial plan, along with strong connections to employers offering competitive wages.
About the Wisconsin Technical College System
The Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS) offers more than 500 programs awarding two-year associate degrees, one- and two-year technical diplomas, short-term technical diplomas, certificates and related education for apprenticeships. The System is the major provider of customized instruction and technical assistance for Wisconsin employers. With nearly 300,000 people enrolling in a technical college each year, it is the largest higher education system in the state.
