Conceived as an initiative in 2004 by Lumina Foundation and seven founding partner organizations, Achieving the Dream now leads the most comprehensive non-governmental reform movement for student success in higher education history. Together with our Network of over 277 institutions of higher education, 75 coaches and advisors, and numerous investors and partners working throughout 44 states and the District of Columbia we are helping more than 4 million community college students have a better chance of realizing greater economic opportunity and achieving their dreams.
Achieving the Dream believes its mission is urgent and that the stakes for success have never been higher. The future of our country requires that we strengthen our communities by relentlessly addressing systemic inequities within higher education to increase social and economic mobility for all students and families. We’re leading America’s largest network of community colleges working to become strong engines of student and community growth.
Our Work with Tribal Colleges and Universities
Achieving the Dream’s partnership with 33 tribal colleges and universities (TCUs) began in 2004 and greatly expanded in 2017. It’s been a journey of mutual learning for ATD and for the institutions. ATD has provided support helping TCUs build data capacity and implement evidence-based reforms, and TCUs have taught ATD much about the power of place and the importance of identity in student success and in nation building.
During this time of disruption and uncertainty, ATD continues to learn and innovate together with TCUs as they scale remote learning and ATD scales virtual coaching. While the immediacy of the challenges are daunting, TCUs are well accustomed to being resourceful and have continued their work in the ATD Network.
