Moorpark and Ventura Colleges Named Among Top 200 U.S. Community Colleges Eligible for Aspen Prize
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CAMARILLO, Calif. - Californer -- Two of Ventura County's leading institutions, Moorpark College and Ventura College, have once again earned national recognition for their commitment to student success — named among the Top 200 community colleges eligible to compete for the 2027 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence.

Widely regarded as the nation's premier recognition of high achievement and performance among community colleges, the Aspen Prize honors colleges that deliver exceptional results in student learning, degree completion, transfer and equitable outcomes.

For Moorpark College, this marks the fourth consecutive cycle of eligibility, following Top 10 finalist distinctions in both 2023 and 2025. Ventura College has also been honored in the 2019, 2023 and 2025 cycles as one of the nation's Top 150 colleges. The colleges' continued eligibility reflects a deep and consistent record of excellence — measured not just in data, but in the lives transformed across Ventura County.

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"Moorpark College strives to expand opportunity for everyone who wishes to unlock their potential through education and career training, supplying the resources and support they need to build a successful future and provide for their family," said Dr. Julius Sokenu, president of Moorpark College. "This recognition is about more than just prestige or accomplishment. Placing top 10 in the nation for the 2023 and 2025 Aspen Prize was an incredible honor, and being nominated again this year feels even more momentous, as it signifies our continued growth and strength in ensuring our students' success."

"At Ventura College, transformation begins when opportunity meets determination," added Dr. Luca Lewis, acting president of Ventura College. "Being named among the nation's top community colleges affirms what we have seen every day for the past century — students finding purpose, faculty and staff sparking possibility and a community united by progress."

Established by the Aspen Institute, the Aspen Prize honors community colleges that demonstrate what's possible when equity and excellence go hand in hand. This year marks the first time the pool of eligible colleges has expanded to 200 nationwide, reflecting broader participation. Over the next 20 months, institutions will be evaluated for their student outcomes and the sustainability their efforts and overall impact.

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"Our colleges' continued recognition by the Aspen Institute reflects the excellence found throughout Ventura County," said Dr. Rick MacLennan, chancellor of the Community Colleges of Ventura County. "It's a powerful affirmation of the life-changing work happening across our colleges campuses—expanding opportunity, fueling economic mobility and strengthening the communities we proudly serve."

The full list of the top 200 eligible institutions and more information on the selection process are available on the Aspen Prize homepage (https://highered.aspeninstitute.org/programs/aspen-prize-community-college-excellence).