Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College has been awarded the Student Success Award at the American Association of Community Colleges’ (AACC) Awards of Excellence Gala, held April 12-16 in Nashville, Tennessee. This prestigious national recognition celebrates MGCCC’s unwavering commitment to supporting students throughout their educational journeys and beyond.

The Student Success Award honors a community college that has demonstrated sustained, measurable outcomes in student achievement. MGCCC was selected for its holistic approach to education, comprehensive wraparound student services, and innovative initiatives designed to increase graduation and retention rates.

“We are deeply honored to receive the AACC Award of Excellence for Student Success,” said Dr. Mary S. Graham, MGCCC President. “At Gulf Coast, our mission goes beyond academics. We are committed to meeting our students where they are and providing the tools, support, and opportunities they need to thrive—both in the classroom and in life.”

MGCCC has consistently demonstrated its dedication to student success through:

• Comprehensive wraparound services that support students’ academic, personal, and career needs
• Strong faculty and staff engagement to promote a nurturing, success-oriented environment
• Impressive student outcomes, including increased graduation rates, retention, and alumni success stories
• Innovative initiatives, such as the college’s dual credit and Collegiate Academy partnerships with local K-12 school districts, allowing high school students to earn college credit early and reduce the cost and time of completing a degree

These efforts have positioned MGCCC as a leader in higher education, making a profound impact in the lives of students and the broader South Mississippi community.

“Student success is at the heart of everything we do,” Dr. Graham added. “This recognition reflects the tireless work of our faculty, staff, and community partners who believe in our students and invest in their future every day.”