Halifax Community College has been designated a 2026 Leader College by Achieving the Dream, a national organization committed to advancing community colleges as accessible hubs of learning, credentialing, and economic mobility.

Dr. Patrena B. Elliott, president/CEO of HCC, said, “We are honored to be recognized as an ATD Leader College, a distinction that affirms our commitment to student success and institutional excellence. This recognition reflects the work of our faculty, staff, and partners who remain focused on removing barriers, closing equity gaps, and ensuring our students have the support they need to persist, complete, and succeed. We are proud of this milestone and energized to continue advancing outcomes that strengthen our students, our workforce, and our community.”

Leader Colleges are recognized for meaningful progress in expanding access; improving early momentum metrics, such as retention; advancing relevant student success strategies with evidence of implementation and early results; and growing institutional capacity through culture and capacity-building efforts.

Halifax Community College has been part of the ATD Network since 2020.

“The 2026 Leader Colleges 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.”