San Jac recertified as Achieving the Dream Leader College of Distinction
Originally named a Leader College of Distinction in 2020, San Jacinto College is one of a select group of institutions nationwide to earn recertification, reflecting sustained excellence in student success outcomes and a long-standing commitment to data-informed continuous improvement.
“This recognition affirms the intentional work our faculty and staff do every day to remove barriers, support student completion, and ensure success for every learner who walks through our doors,” said Dr. Brenda Hellyer, Chancellor of San Jacinto College. “Being recertified as a Leader College of Distinction shows that our commitment to student success is not a moment – it’s a culture.”
ATD created the Leader College of Distinction designation in 2018 to recognize institutions that demonstrate sustained and expanding success in student outcomes, including course completion, retention, and credential attainment. Leader Colleges of Distinction also exhibit strong cultures of evidence-based decision-making and have institutionalized practices that support students – particularly those historically underserved in higher education.
San Jacinto College has been part of the ATD Network since 2014 and has maintained Leader College status through multiple assessment cycles.
“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.”
San Jacinto College’s recertification places it among 19 colleges nationwide recognized in 2026 for maintaining Leader College of Distinction status, underscoring the College’s ongoing focus on equity, student momentum, and workforce-aligned outcomes.
About San Jacinto College
Surrounded by monuments of history, evolving industries, maritime enterprises of today,
and the space age of tomorrow, San Jacinto College has served the people of East Harris
County, Texas, since 1961. The College is ranked second in the nation among more than
1,100 community colleges, as designated by the Aspen Institute and was named an Achieving
the Dream Leader College of Distinction in 2020 and 2026. As a Hispanic-Serving Institution
that spans five campuses, plus an online college, San Jacinto College serves approximately
45,000 credit and non-credit students annually. It offers more than 200 degrees and
certificates across eight major areas of study that put students on a path to transfer
to four-year institutions or enter the workforce. The College is fiscally sound, holding
bond ratings of AA+ by Standard & Poor’s and Aa2 by Moody’s. San Jacinto College is
accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
