State of ACC
Austin Community College District (ACC) held the 2nd Annual State of ACC. The event offered an opportunity to come together to talk about what’s working, what’s changing, and how we’re preparing students and our region for the future ahead.
ACC shared how investments like ACC’s Free Tuition Program, its transfer programs, specialized academies, and basic needs support programs are expanding access and helping students stay on track and succeed. We looked forward to emerging workforce needs and what we can do together to make an even bigger impact.
Your voice and partnership matter. The future of our community depends on the strength of the relationships we build and the work we do together. Thank you for joining us at the table.
State of ACC 2026 - Event Photo Album
Our North Star
70% Completion by 2030
ACC will increase the student completion
rate from 47% to 70% by 2030.
It’s an ambitious goal to improve the lives of
individuals and close workforce gaps in our
community—and to do it at scale.
ACC is For Everyone!
Meet "Ashley"
More than a persona, “Ashley” represents the typical ACC student. She is 26 years old, a woman of color who attends college part-time, and works while caring for her family. ACC is designing a college to help Ashley and all students succeed.
Our Students
How We Get There
Theory of Change
ACC set a bold course to ensure Ashley reaches the North Star Goal. We developed a comprehensive Theory of Change — a transformative plan to redesign the College with a focus on reducing pressing barriers to students’ academic and personal success.
Start Strong
When students have a clear plan and intensive proactive support, they quickly begin making academic progress. For example, students who visit their advisor two or more times each semester are 13% more likely to persist.
Enroll Full-Time
ACC students who enroll full-time finish faster and have access to more financial aid. Currently, 73% of students are part-time.
Meet Basic Needs
Low-income students face significant challenges that can hinder their ability to learn. Reducing those barriers helps students focus on their education and reach their full potential.
Belonging & Culture
ACC is creating a culture that ensures our students (and employees) feel a sense of belonging and connection. Data indicates when students feel a strong sense of community, they excel.
Why It Matters
85% of ACC students stay, live, and work here after they graduate. According to recent student outcome data:
- ACC graduates increase their income by more than 60% within five years
- 11,604 total awards earned in Academic Year 2024-25 (AY24-25)
- 28% increase in the number of completions in the last two years
Meet Anthony Primm
“I wanted my kids to see that it’s never too late to bet on yourself. Whether you’re 18 or 58, the right time is when you decide to take yourself seriously. Use every resource, show up, and keep your ‘why’ in front of you.”
— Anthony P., Veteran & ACC Cybersecurity Graduate
Built for What’s Next
At a moment when higher education is being asked to do more, move faster, and serve more diverse learners than ever before, ACC is responding with purpose. From student basic needs and academic innovation to workforce alignment, responsible use of emerging technologies, and deepened community partnerships.
Free Tuition
ACC launched the Free Tuition Pilot program in 2024, covering tuition and general fees for Central Texas high school, homeschool, and GED graduates who enroll at ACC. As a result, ACC has seen college participation rates among graduating high school seniors in the area grow.
Basic Needs
ACC is expanding resources and support to reduce barriers and help students focus on their education and reach their full potential.
High-Demand Programs
ACC’s workforce programs are designed to prepare students to directly enter the workforce with job-ready skills. Healthcare, manufacturing, and skilled trades programs are among the highest in demand.
ACC Partnerships
ACC partnerships align training needs, serve our community interests, and provide real-world learning experiences and career opportunities upon graduation.
Campus Projects
ACC campus projects aim to improve and modernize our campuses to enhance the learning experience and intentionally grow key programs—funded through the 2022 general obligation bond investments.