Congressman Mike Turner & Regional Leaders Celebrate Sinclair's Selection as a U.S. Top 25 Community College

Today, Sinclair Community College, joined by federal and regional partners, formally announced its selection by the Aspen Institute as a Top 25 community college in the United States. This prestigious designation places Sinclair in the running for the $1 million 2027 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, the nation’s signature recognition of high achievement and performance among two-year institutions.

The announcement was made during a press conference held at Sinclair’s downtown Dayton campus in the Great Hall of Building 12, where speakers highlighted the significance of this national recognition for the Dayton region’s workforce and economic trajectory. Sinclair was chosen from a pool of over 1,000 community colleges nationwide based on its exceptional results in student learning, certificate and degree completion, transfer and bachelor’s attainment, and for its access and opportunity for all students.

“Being named a Top 25 community college by the Aspen Institute is a validation of the tireless work our faculty and staff perform every day to ensure our students succeed,” said Dr. Steve Johnson, President & CEO of Sinclair Community College. “This is not just a Sinclair win; it is a win for the entire Dayton region. It signals to the nation that we are producing the high-caliber talent necessary to fuel a modern economy.”

U.S. Congressman Mike Turner joined the celebration, emphasizing the federal importance of strong

community college systems. “Sinclair is engaged in the leadership of our community. Businesses seek to anchor their workforce development needs here. There are many who see their academic place go right through the path at Sinclair Community College.”

Regional business and development leaders also weighed in on the impact of the announcement. Jeff

Hoagland, President & CEO of the Dayton Development Coalition, noted, “Whether it’s aviation, defense, or high-tech manufacturing, Sinclair’s reputation for producing highly skilled graduates gives us the leverage we need to win projects and bring high-paying jobs to the Dayton area. Sinclair is a world-class partner that allows us to tell prospective employers they’ll find the sustainable, elite talent pool they need to grow for decades to come.”

Chris Kershner, President & CEO of the Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce, added, “Sinclair is a critical economic engine for our region. By aligning their curriculum directly with the needs of local industry—from advanced manufacturing to artificial intelligence (AI) to healthcare to advanced air mobility—Sinclair ensures that Dayton businesses have a 'day-one ready' workforce.”

The Sinclair Board of Trustees expressed their pride in the institution’s direction. Bruce Feldman, Board of Trustees Chair, remarked, “To our faculty, staff, and administration: this honor belongs to you. To our Sinclair students and community leaders: this honor is for you. As a Board, we remain more committed than ever to ensuring Sinclair stays at the forefront of innovation, of access, and of opportunity.”

Vanessa Ward, Sinclair Trustee and CEO of the Omega Community Development Corporation,

highlighted the equity aspect of the award. “Sinclair is a vital partnership to the success of the Hope Zone Promise Neighborhood. By bringing Sinclair’s world-class educational resources directly into Northwest Dayton, we are removing barriers. I want to express my deep appreciation to Sinclair for their unwavering commitment —ensuring that every child and family in the Hope Zone has the support they need to dream big and the tools they need to achieve those dreams right here in our community.”

Also in attendance at today’s press conference were State Representative Tom Young (District 37) and Montgomery County Commissioner Carolyn Rice.

The Aspen Prize, which is awarded every two years, honors colleges with outstanding performance in five critical areas: teaching and learning, certificate and degree completion, transfer and bachelor’s attainment, workforce success, and access for all students.