Press release:

Highline Community College in Des Moines earned national recognition as one of the top 100 associate degree producers in 2013 from Community College Week.

Highline was recognized in two categories with a rank of 53 in the Top 100 Associate Degree Producers for Asian American Students and a rank of 29 in the Top 100 One-Year Certificate Producers for African American Students.

Highline had a 16 percent increase in associate degrees awarded to Asian American students and 21 percent increase in one-year certificates awarded to African American students in the 2011-2012 academic year. Community College Week used data provided by the U.S. Dept. of Education for these rankings.

“These honors reflect our mission to support success for all of our students,” said HCC President, Dr. Jack Bermingham. “While we are pleased with these rankings, we continue to strive for excellence and aspire to rise even higher in future standings.”

Community College Week also found the number of associate’s degrees awarded by community colleges were up eight percent in 2011-2012 and exceeded more than one million for the first time in history.

For more information on the Community College Week and their Top 100 Associate Degree & Certificate Producers 2013 report visit www.ccweek.com.