South Puget Sound Community College (SPSCC) has been named the 2026 recipient of the ACT Impact & Success Award, recognizing the college’s exemplary commitment to advancing student achievement and expanding access to education. The award was presented at the ACT Awards Dinner held on May 7, 2026.
The ACT Impact & Success Award honors institutions that demonstrate leadership in strengthening educational programs and services while advancing equitable opportunities for students, particularly those who are first-generation or from low-income backgrounds.
“This award reflects SPSCC’s deep commitment to student success,” said Dr. Timothy Stokes, SPSCC President. “We are proud of the work our staff and faculty have done to remove barriers, strengthen pathways, and ensure every student has the support they need to achieve their goals.”
Over the past three years, SPSCC has implemented strategic, student-centered initiatives that have significantly improved outcomes for historically underrepresented populations while expanding access, support, and workforce pathways. Programs such as the required College and Career Success 101 course, high-touch advising, and the IGNITE program have strengthened persistence. Expanded wraparound services through the Personal Support Center—including emergency housing, food access, and essential resources—have helped remove barriers to success. At the same time, SPSCC has broadened opportunities for adult learners through flexible course offerings and workforce-aligned programs like I-BEST and the Residential Construction Academy, and deepened community engagement through initiatives such as the Navigators program and Welcome Center, which have increased enrollment, financial aid completion, and overall student access to higher education.
The ACT Impact & Success Award highlights SPSCC’s role as a statewide leader in creating inclusive, student-centered systems that drive meaningful outcomes for learners and communities.
