College of Lake County celebrates being 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.

“Being reaffirmed as a Leader College of Distinction reflects CLC’s sustained measurable gains in student success outcomes,” said CLC President Dr. Lori Suddick. “This recognition demonstrates that the College’s data-informed strategies and student-centered efforts are working. More importantly, it represents the unwavering commitment of faculty and staff to meet students where they are and get them where they want to go. College of Lake County is deeply committed to ensuring every learner in Lake County has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.”

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.

CLC is part of the ATD Network, made up of 300+ colleges committed to supporting student success at their institutions and promoting economic vitality throughout their communities. CLC has been a member of the ATD Network since 2019 and has held Leader College of Distinction Status since 2025, and Leader College status since 2023.

CLC Board of Trustees Chair Amanda Howland said, “I am extremely proud of our faculty, staff, administration and trustees for their commitment to continued excellence. I am honored that we have been recertified as a Leader College of Distinction. This recognition is a result of everyone’s focus on student retention, completion and success.”

“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.”