Cerritos College Selected to Join Aspen Institute’s Unlocking Opportunity Network

Cerritos College joined the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program’s Unlocking Opportunity network, a nationwide initiative that brings leading community colleges together to strengthen programs, boost completion rates, and expand pathways to high-value jobs and bachelor’s degree attainment.  

The Aspen Institute, a nationally recognized nonprofit dedicated to advancing practices and policies that increase economic mobility, launched the Unlocking Opportunity network to ensure more students graduate with the knowledge and skills that lead to lasting success. The initiative will help colleges implement reforms in advising, strengthen transfer partnerships, and align their programs with the regional workforce so students are better prepared for in-demand, high-paying careers. 

Over the next three years, Cerritos College will work alongside 54 other institutions to establish ambitious goals for increasing enrollment and completion, while expanding high-value workforce and transfer programs. These efforts will build on the college’s strong track record of advancing economic mobility in the Southeast Los Angeles region. Recently recognized as the number one community college in Los Angeles County for its return on investment, the college will expand its impact even further as it shifts focus to prioritize programs that create long-term financial stability for its students and their families. 

“Cerritos College is proud to join the Unlocking Opportunity network and partner with the Aspen Institute to widen the path to social and economic mobility for our students,” said Dr. Jose Fierro, President/Superintendent of Cerritos College. “This is another important step forward as we refine our programs and provide the best possible education for our students and community.” 

Through its participation, Cerritos College is helping lead a national movement to expand access to high-value programs and reduce barriers to upward mobility. By collaborating with the Aspen Institute and peer colleges, Cerritos College will continue to fulfill its promise and create additional opportunities for students to succeed in their education and beyond.  

Learn more about the Unlocking Opportunity network at: https://highered.aspeninstitute.org/programs/unlocking-opportunity.