Grayson College Recertified by Achieving the Dream as a 2026 Leader College of Distinction
Grayson College announced today that it has been recertified as a 2026 Leader College of Distinction by Achieving the Dream (ATD), a national organization committed to advancing community colleges as accessible hubs of learning, credentialing and economic mobility.
“This recognition reflects the intentional work of our faculty and staff to ensure students have the support and opportunities they need to succeed,” said Dr. Jeremy McMillen, president of Grayson College. “At Grayson College, student success is at the heart of everything we do. Being named a Leader College of Distinction affirms our commitment to using collaboration and innovative strategies to help every student achieve their goals.”
ATD created the Leader College of Distinction designation in 2018 to recognize institutions that have demonstrated sustained excellence in advancing student success outcomes over time.
Leader Colleges of Distinction must demonstrate sustained and expanding success in early momentum metrics, such as course success rates and student retention, as well as milestone momentum outcomes, such as completion rates. Institutions recognized with this designation also demonstrate a strong culture of data-informed continuous improvement and evidence that effective practices are institutionalized across the college. These colleges advance student success strategies that respond to their local context with emphasis on students who are missing or left behind.
Grayson College has been part of the Achieving the Dream Network since 2014 and has held Leader College status since 2018. In 2019, the college earned the prestigious Leader College with Distinction designation in recognition of its sustained commitment to improving student success outcomes.
“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.”
About Achieving the Dream
Achieving the Dream (ATD) is a partner and champion of more than 300 community colleges across the country. Drawing on expert coaches, groundbreaking programs and a national peer network, the organization provides institutions with integrated, tailored support for every aspect of their work, from foundational capacities such as leadership, data, and equity to intentional strategies for supporting students holistically, building K–12 partnerships and more. ATD calls this Whole College Transformation. Its vision is for every college to be a catalyst for equitable and economically vibrant communities. ATD knows that with the right partner and the right approach, colleges can drive access, completion rates and employment outcomes.
About Grayson College
Founded in 1965 to serve Grayson and Fannin counties, Grayson College is a student-centered institution dedicated to preparing learners for success in higher education and the workforce. Serving more than 5,200 students annually, the College offers a broad range of academic and workforce programs that align with the region’s economy and evolving training needs.