A Community Celebration of National Excellence

Date: Saturday, September 27th

Time: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Location: Southwest Tech Main Campus,
1800 Bronson Blvd,
Fennimore, WI 53809.

In Spring 2025, Southwest Wisconsin Technical College was named the #1 two-year college in the nation, earning the prestigious Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence.

This award isn’t just about our college—it’s about you.

We’re inviting everyone—students, alumni, families, educators, employers, donors, and community members—to join us for a day of celebration and gratitude. Whether you've taken a class, sent a student our way, partnered with us, or simply cheered us on, this event is for you.

What to Expect

We’ve planned a day filled with meaningful activities that reflect the spirit of our community:

  • Program Demonstrations: Explore hands-on learning across campus.
  • Live Music and Food: Enjoy local entertainment and refreshments.
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Bring your kids—fun for all ages.
  • Campus Tours and Giveaways: Learn more about our programs and facilities.
  • Recognition Moments: We’ll celebrate the people and partners who made this achievement possible.

There is no cost to attend, and no registration required. All are welcome.

Why This Matters

The Aspen Prize is the highest national recognition a community college can receive. It celebrates colleges that deliver exceptional outcomes in learning, completion, equity, and career success.
At Southwest Tech, these outcomes are driven by strong partnerships, personalized student support, and real-world learning. Here's what the data shows:

  • ⭐️Three-Year Graduation Rate (2023):
    54% at Southwest Tech compared to the 35% national average
  • ⭐️Graduation Rate for Pell Grant Recipients (2023):
    49% at Southwest Tech vs. 32% nationally
    (Pell Grant recipients are typically from economically disadvantaged backgrounds)
  • ⭐️Graduate Earnings (5 Years After Completion):
    Southwest Tech graduates earn nearly $14,000 more than the average new hire in our local service area

These results reflect what’s possible when rural communities, technical education, and student success come together. This award is a celebration of what we’ve achieved—together.

Everyone is Invited

Whether you're exploring college for the first time, cheering on a student, guiding young learners, running a local business, serving your community, or simply investing in education through your tax dollars—this celebration is for you.

We welcome:

  • Future students and lifelong learners
  • Current students, graduates, and their families
  • Educators and K–12 partners
  • Local employers and workforce collaborators
  • Alumni, donors, and friends of the college
  • Community members and proud taxpayers in our district

No matter how you’ve supported Southwest Tech—through your work, your voice, your time, or your trust—you are part of this moment. We can’t wait to celebrate with you.

Accessibility and Accommodations

If you need accommodations to access this event, please contact our Disability Services at least two weeks before the event:

We strive to provide reasonable accommodations in accordance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the ADA.