From over 1,000 to 120 based on national data. In the first round of the selection process, Aspen convenes a Data and Metrics Advisory Panel (Data Panel) which works with the National Center for Higher Education Management Systems to develop a model for selecting 120 public two-year institutions (out of over 1,000 potential candidates) around the country that have demonstrated the highest levels of performance on metrics in three key areas: (1) student success in persistence, degrees awarded, completion, and transfer; (2) consistent improvement in these areas over time; and (3) equitable outcomes for students of all racial/ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds.

The model was developed using publicly available data from the National Center for Education Statistics’ Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System and the U.S. Census Bureau. To learn more about the Round I Model developed to determine the eligible 120 institutions, please click here.