GateWay Community College has announced its participation in the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program’s expanded Unlocking Opportunity network. This initiative aims to reform programs and improve student outcomes for degrees that lead to well-paying jobs.
According to GateWay Community College, it will join 54 other colleges in a national effort through the Aspen Institute’s Unlocking Opportunity network. Over the next three years, participating institutions will review current programs, set goals, and implement research-backed reforms to help students earn credentials that lead to good-paying jobs or successfully transfer to bachelor’s programs. College leaders and teams will participate in virtual and in-person sessions, using lessons from the 10 pilot colleges to guide improvements in program alignment, advising, and student outcomes.
The initiative’s goal is to increase enrollment and completion in high-value workforce and transfer programs while reducing lower-opportunity pathways. The original 10 pilot colleges are on track to move more than 20,000 students into such programs. Aspen will track progress across all 65 participating colleges. Insights from the initiative will be shared through fellowships, publications, and state partnerships to support professional development for college teams. Funding is provided by organizations including Arnold Ventures, Ascendium Education Group, Bank of America, ECMC Foundation, and JPMorgan Chase.
“At GateWay, we strive to open doors to opportunity for every student,” said Dr. Amy Diaz, President of GateWay Community College. “Being part of the Unlocking Opportunity network allows us to add resources in powerful new ways and refine our strategic mindset—ensuring our students not only complete their programs but also move into meaningful careers that change the trajectory of their lives and strengthen our community.”
GateWay Community College began operations in 1968 as Maricopa Technical College and has since expanded from downtown Phoenix to multiple locations across the region. It operates four main campuses in the Phoenix area along with additional training and innovation sites in Surprise. The college offers more than 160 degree and certificate programs including options in technical, trade, and workforce training. GateWay is also home to facilities such as the Center for Entrepreneurial Innovation and Phoenix Forge. The college is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and provides a variety of academic pathways aligned with workforce and community needs.
