SEASIDE – Cal State Monterey Bay was one of just two schools honored nationally for “institutional transformation” by the American Council on Education for 2026.
The award, established in 2014, aims to honor campuses that address “pressing obstacles through innovative and creative approaches, achieving significant institutional change over a relatively short time period.”
The ACE/Fidelity Investments Award for Institutional Transformation honors campuses that respond to challenges with innovation, discipline and measurable progress during a progress of significant change. With the award, came a $10,000 prize for both universities during the ACE Annual Meeting in Washington, DC on Thursday. Washington State was the other recipient.
“Each year, this award celebrates institutions that confront real challenges with creativity, discipline and a deep commitment to student success,” said Ted Mitchell, president of the American Council on Education, in a press release.
The press release from CSUMB noted the school has worked to reverse declining enrollment, increase graduation rates, eliminate equity gaps and to develop new degree programs that “align with industry and regional needs.” That work was recognized by the council, which chose to award CSUMB because the university’s transformation has strengthened operations, reinforced financial stability, elevated student success and clarified institutional direction.
“This award from the American Council on Education recognizes the bold and collaborative work underway at Cal State Monterey Bay to advance student success and reimagine what a public university can be,” said Cal State Monterey Bay Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Andrew Lawson in the press release.
“I am deeply grateful to our college deans, chairs, faculty and staff for their leadership, partnership and unwavering commitment to innovation,” said Lawson. “Together, we are transforming our institution in ways that expand opportunity for our students and strengthen our region.”
“Washington State University’s research-informed, human-centered approach has strengthened student resilience and retention across a complex, multi-campus system, while Cal State Monterey Bay’s decisive leadership and equity-driven reforms delivered meaningful gains in completion and social mobility,” said Mitchell. “These institutions demonstrate how intentional strategy and sustained focus can translate into lasting impact for students.”
CSUMB plans to use the award money for “transformational projects to continue the university’s momentous change,” according to a press release from the University.
“Our momentum has been guided by strategic planning and bold initiatives that expand social mobility for our students, but real progress has been powered by our people,” said Cal State Monterey Bay President Vanya Quiñones in the press release. “The strength of us – students, faculty, staff and partners working together with a shared purpose – is what has made the difference.
“Lasting change cannot be imposed from the top down. It is built within every division, every department, and every individual who believes in our mission and chooses to move it forward.”
