Leader College Designation

Students sitting at tables, listening to a professor positioned at the front of the room.The Leader College designation is ATD’s recognition of “unique and exemplary” institutions that have demonstrated sustained, measurable improvements in student outcomes. These colleges have implemented evidence-based strategies that have proven effective over time in promoting student achievement. 

SUNY Schenectady was honored with the Leader College designation for the quality and impact of our reform efforts in 2024. This recognition reflects our commitment to continuous improvement and equity in student success. We earned this distinction by demonstrating consistent, data-driven progress in key student success metrics.

Notable Achievements

(over a three-year period ending in 2021)

  • 4.7% overall increase in certificate and degree completion rates
  • 5.7% increase in six-year bachelor’s degree completion rates for first-generation students
  • 3.6% overall increase in fall-to-fall persistence
  • 7.2% increase in fall-to-fall persistence for first-generation students

SUNY Schenectady is proud to be part of this distinguished group within the ATD network.

Achieving the Dream Leader College Badge.