Dallas College awarded IEDC Excellence in Economic Development Gold Award

Dallas—Dallas College was awarded a 2023 International Economic Development Council (IEDC) Excellence in Economic Development Gold Award. The award recognizes the college’s efforts to create positive changes in the Dallas community through its mission of transforming lives and communities through higher education. 

“Eliminating barriers on the path to economic prosperity for our students and community is truly at Dallas College’s core,” Dr. Justin Lonon, Dallas College chancellor, said. “As we reimagine the role of a community college, this recognition serves as both a testament to our mission and encouragement for continued evolution for the sake of those we serve.”

Following its 2020 consolidation from seven independent colleges into one institution, Dallas College has focused on creating industry-driven, work-based learning models that benefit both students and businesses. The result has been:

Increased procurement from local, small and diverse businesses

A college-wide leadership drive to create coalitions that result in innovation and economic development

Increased partnerships with civic, educational, industry and nonprofit organizations that are essential to regional growth.

As part of Dallas Colleges commitment to the Anchor Institution mission, Dallas College maintains membership with the Coalition of Urban and Metropolitan Universities, University Economic Development Association, and IEDC. Since 2021, Dallas College has worked with more than 300 local organizations in support of the Anchor Institution Mission. Some key projects and partnerships are:

Work with business leader Peter Brodsky in development of the Dallas College Workforce Center at RedBird 

Two Bezos Academy Montessori-inspired preschools at Dallas College campuses

Collaboration with the Best Southwest Economic Development Plan

Collaboration and representation with 21 local and minority chambers of commerce

Apprenticeship program and industry specific training through Texas Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (TX-FAME).

The economic and community impact of Dallas College on its community is profound, including:

$204.1 million payroll/operations spending in Dallas County (FY 2022-2023)

$218 million spent with diverse suppliers and/or environmentally certified products (FY 2020-2022)

$750 million operating budget (FY 2022-2023)

Social services offered in partnership with community organizations

Student service learning opportunities with 46 nonprofits

125 students received Dallas College’s first four-year degree in Early Childhood Education (2023)

6,000-plus apprenticeships with 45 employers in 28 occupations (2012-2023)

$15 million received for work-based learning programs (FY 2021-2022)

Health, food pantries, counseling services and other resources available for all students.

“We appreciate this recognition and award from IEDC and will continue to focus our efforts on supporting economic opportunity for individuals and economic growth in our community,” Dr. Pyeper Wilkins, vice chancellor of workforce and advancement, said.