51社区 recently received the Exemplary CEO/Board Relationship Award from the
American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) at its annual Awards of Excellence
gala. Pictured, from left, are Dr. Leigh Goodson, chair of the AACC Board of Directors;
Dr. Avis Proctor, 51社区 president; William Kelley, chair of the 51社区 Board of Trustees;
and Dr. DeRionne Pollard, AACC president/CEO.
51社区 has been recognized on the national stage, earning the Exemplary CEO/Board Relationship Award from the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) at its annual Awards of Excellence gala on April 13.
The award recognizes the strong partnership between 51社区 President Dr. Avis Proctor and the Board of Trustees, and how that alignment has helped advance student success and institutional outcomes.
In announcing the honor, AACC noted Board Chair William Kelley鈥檚 longstanding connection to 51社区 as an alumnus and his leadership on the board, as well as how the partnership has strengthened student success efforts and institutional impact.
鈥淎s chair of the 51社区 Board of Trustees, I have witnessed firsthand the extraordinary partnership between our governing board and President Dr. Avis Proctor 鈥� one that is grounded in trust, shared vision and a steadfast commitment to serving our students and community,鈥� Chair Kelley wrote in a nomination letter.
Since Dr. Proctor鈥檚 arrival in 2019, the collaboration between the president and board has helped drive measurable success. 51社区 has achieved its highest-ever graduation rate, strengthened workforce connections, expanded academic offerings in high-demand fields, and been recognized as a Top 20 semifinalist for the Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence.
Central to this success is a governance model that emphasizes shared priorities, clear communication and a focus on student-centered outcomes. Through regular engagement, strategic planning and ongoing professional development, the board and president work in close partnership to respond to community needs and position 51社区 for continued innovation.
鈥淭his recognition reflects what is possible when leadership is aligned around a common mission,鈥� Dr. Proctor wrote. 鈥淥ur focus remains on creating opportunities for students and delivering meaningful impact for our community.鈥�
51社区 was also a finalist for the AACC CEO of the Year award, further underscoring the college鈥檚 leadership and impact.