Advancing Institutional Equity and Belonging

Disclaimer: This Award recognizes a commitment to strengthening postsecondary outcomes and ensuring that all students—regardless of background—have the opportunity to thrive. While our colleges share a common commitment to student success that reflects the full breadth of today’s learners, based upon your local and state contexts, you may bring a wide range of perspectives on how best to achieve meaningful and lasting change. Community colleges interested in applying for this award are encouraged to consult with legal counsel to ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws. This award is not intended to promote or aid noncompliance with any applicable law, regulation, or rule.

The AACC Advancing Institutional Equity and Belonging Award, formerly named Advancing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Award, recognizes the college that has contributed significantly and over a sustained period to advancing equity in community college leadership, the community, and higher education as well as creating an environment where students and employees of all backgrounds get a seat at the table and feel heard, seen, and recognized for their contributions.

The criteria used to evaluate applications are as follows:

• Demonstrates an ongoing commitment with dedicated resources and measurable outcomes to increase equitable outcomes within the college for each student, and in the greater community.
• The college's mission statement articulates dedication to equity for each student and personnel.
• Fosters an environment of belonging for students, employees, and the community.
• Models innovative and progressive practices that support an equitable environment for each student and the college personnel.
• Maintains and advocates for policies that support equity and belonging at the local, state, and national levels.

Exclusions:

• Previous winners in this category are eligible to apply again five years after winning the award.

Exceptions:

• Award finalists in a previous year can apply in the same category for the subsequent year. However, the finalist must submit an enhanced application. Enhanced means that the applicant must show further strengthening of the diversity and equity initiatives on the campus.

General Guidelines and Nomination Instructions:

• Nominees must be current AACC member colleges and pay next year's membership fee.
• The nomination form must be signed electronically by the CEO of the nominating institution.
• Each award is given annually, and the honoree(s) will be recognized at the AACC Annual.
• Nominating package (excluding required photos) must be submitted through the nomination form AND include the following:
  • Visit the Awards Application page to access the nomination form.
  • Minimum two letters of support on official letterhead, one signed by the nominating college CEO.
  • Additional support materials (i.e., news coverage, fact sheet, descriptions) NOT TO exceed five (5) pages - with all identifying information (names, institution name, location) redacted.
  • Five publication-quality photos - No PDFs: (1) publication-quality headshot of the CEO [300 dpi resolution or higher], (1) publication-quality photo of the college (signature building), and (3) photos of activities that promote equity and belonging at the college.