Wednesday, April 16, 2025

Muskegon Community College (MCC) has been named a winner of the 2025 Ellucian Impact Award in the “Unlocking the Power of Data” category. The award, presented at the Ellucian Live Conference on April 9 in Orlando, Florida, recognizes institutions that use data to drive innovation and improve student outcomes. As part of the recognition, MCC will receive a $25,000 award to help fund supports for students including food and transportation.

“This award means a great deal to me personally,” said MCC President Dr. John Selmon. “I’m so proud of the Jayhawk Hub and the impact it has on our students. Removing barriers that get in the way of student success is one of the pillars of MCC’s mission, and this recognition reinforces the importance of that work.”

MCC was selected from a globally competitive pool of approximately 40 applicants for its innovative use of the Jayhawk Hub, a student support system designed to address challenges such as food insecurity, transportation, mental health, financial instability, and housing. Ellucian staff highlighted how MCC leveraged data through Colleague SaaS and Advise to better understand student needs and improve support services.

The Jayhawk Hub serves an average of 25 students each day and has contributed to measurable improvements in student outcomes. Data showed students who accessed services through the Hub experienced an 11% increase in persistence rates, a 3% improvement in retention, and a 6% rise in course success rates.

“The Jayhawk Hub earned this award because it exemplifies how targeted, data-informed support can lead to meaningful change,” said Ellucian’s Dr. Steven Wilson, MCC Chief Information Officer, following the award presentation. Approximately 6,000 attendees were present at the conference.

MCC says it will allocate the $25,000 award to bolster the Jayhawk Hubs’ ongoing efforts in providing essential services such as food, transportation, and other supports for students in need.

“Receiving the Ellucian Impact Award is truly an honor,” said Jayhawk Hub Manager Emily Merten. “This recognition reflects our deep commitment to meeting students where they are—providing support when it’s needed most so they can stay focused on their education.”