Mohawk Valley Community College announced today that is 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. 
“We are honored to be recognized by Achieving the Dream as a Leader College of Distinction,” said MVCC President Dr. Randall VanWagoner. “This designation is a testament to the transformative work of our faculty and staff and the meaningful progress we’ve made in improving student outcomes. Since joining ATD, we’ve seen measurable gains in student retention and completion, reaffirming our commitment to access, equity, and ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive.”
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 sustained and expanding success 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 advance student success strategies that respond to their local context with emphasis on students who are missing or left behind.
MVCC has been part of the ATD Network since 2014 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 expert coaches, groundbreaking programs, and national peer network, the organization provides 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. ATD calls this Whole College Transformation. Its vision is for every college to be a catalyst for equitable and economically vibrant communities. ATD knows 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. Learn more at the ATD website.