October 8, 2025
This fall, Higher Education Innovation (HEI) granted the Community College of Aurora (CCA) the Institutional Award for Entrepreneuring Excellence. This national honor recognizes higher education institutions with a proven record of outstanding student assistance and that contribute to a successful future for higher education.
Namely, CCA received the award for initiatives like the Student Success Division’s Hunger-Free Campus designation and the work of the Dr. Linda Speier Bowman Teaching and Learning Transformation Hub. Through The Hub, CCA develops intentional degree pathways and addresses retention barriers, one example being the implementation of zero-textbook-cost offerings.
“We are so very proud of our HEI 2025 award-winners,” said HEI President Dr. Mary Landon Darden. “It is difficult, particularly in these days, to take risks, step out of comfort zones, and attempt bold transformation. These great institutions and leaders have the courage and know-how to do just that.”
HEI considers the role of forward-looking college faculty and leaders when selecting award recipients. Some faculty that HEI named at CCA are Dr. Tanya Cook, a nationally recognized expert on fandom activism, and Tom Dillon, who organizes participation in the Colorado Space Grant Consortium.
The award also recognizes CCA President, Dr. Mordecai I. Brownlee, for committing to forward-thinking innovations like the new Center for Applied Science and Technology and the Centennial Campus for Healthcare and First Responders. These initiatives also led to a student enrollment increase for fall 2025.
“This recognition affirms what we know to be true — that through intentionality and integrity, we lead with innovation, courage, and care,” said Dr. Brownlee. “Every advancement reflects our commitment to expanding upward economic mobility and transforming lives. I could not be prouder of our faculty, staff, instructors, and students who together embody the entrepreneurial spirit that positions CCA as a force shaping the future of higher education.”
CCA accepted its award during the HEI Presidents’ Conference last week at the HEI President’s Conference at Florida Polytechnic University.
About the Community College of Aurora
The Community College of Aurora (CCA) provides high-quality instruction and student support services to Aurora, Centennial, and Denver, Colorado. With a vision to aspire to be a college where every student succeeds, CCA is the most diverse college in the State of Colorado. Focused on creating social and economic mobility for its students, the college offers courses on three campuses, online, and through its high school concurrent enrollment programs. For more information, visit www.ccaurora.edu.
About Higher Education Innovation (HEI)
HEI is a research-driven organization helping colleges and universities adapt to a rapidly changing landscape. Through leadership workshops, consulting, and the annual Presidents’ Conference, HEI equips higher education leaders to be more innovative, entrepreneurial, and responsive to societal needs. Its mission is to organize the future of higher education by supporting institutions in becoming more affordable, flexible, and relevant from access through completion.
Contact:
Courtney Butler
Executive Director of Strategic Communications and Special Initiatives
Strategic Communications and Alumni Engagement
P: 303-340-7201 | E: [email protected]