Bellevue College Recognized by Achieving the Dream as a 2026 Leader College of Distinction

Bellevue College announced today that it has been designated 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 designation as a Leader College of Distinction by Achieving the Dream belongs to Bellevue College’s entire community,” said Bellevue College President David May. “Our vision is rooted in transforming lives and strengthening our region through education. Together, we are building systems that not only help students enroll, but persist, graduate, and contribute meaningfully to the Eastside region and beyond. We are building a future-focused, vibrant community as a result.” 

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 in milestone momentum outcomes, such as rates of completion; a strong culture of data-informed continuous improvement; and evidence that effective practices are institutionalized. These colleges advance student success strategies that respond to their local context with emphasis on students who are missing or left behind. 

Bellevue College has been part of the ATD Network since 2017 and has held Leader College status since 2025. 

“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.” 

Achieving the Dream is a partner and champion of more than 300 community colleges across the country. Drawing on their expert coaches, groundbreaking programs, and national peer network, they provide 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. They call this Whole College Transformation. Their vision is for every college to be a catalyst for equitable and economically vibrant communities. They know that with the right partner and the right approach, colleges can drive access, completion rates, and employment outcomes — so that all students can access life-changing learning that propels them into community-changing careers.