DACC earns Carnegie recognition for access, outcomes

Santiago Diaz’s days at Doña Ana Community College start early and often stretch past midnight as he balances coursework with his role as student government president. For Diaz, that pace reflects more than a demanding schedule. It points to a system he said is built to support students trying to move forward. 

That support is central to a recent designation recognizing DACC as an “Opportunity College and University,” part of the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. The designation evaluates whether colleges serve students who reflect their communities and whether those students see increased earnings after completing their education. Dr. Monica Torres said the recognition aligns with the college’s mission. 

“Community colleges are trying to make sure that everybody who wants higher education can get it,” Torres said. “But we’re also focused on making sure that when students leave, their experience actually benefits them.”  

At DACC, that commitment shows up in the day-to-day support students rely on to stay on track. 

 “They’re always there for you,” Diaz said. “It’s pretty much like somebody taking care of your back.” 

 The designation evaluates whether colleges serve students who reflect their communities and whether those students see increased earnings after completing their education. Dr. Monica Torres said the recognition aligns with the college’s mission. 

“Community colleges are trying to make sure that everybody who wants higher education can get it,” Torres said. “But we’re also focused on making sure that when students leave, their experience actually benefits them.” 

At DACC, that effort is reflected in its student population. About 80% of students come from historically underrepresented backgrounds, a figure that mirrors Doña Ana County. The classification also looks at long-term outcomes. Data shows students who attend DACC earn more several years after completing their programs compared to those without a credential. 

Diaz said his own experience reflects that path. Originally from Ciudad Juárez, he came to the United States and enrolled at DACC, where he found academic guidance and support beyond the classroom. 

“It’s not about being the best,” Diaz said. “It’s about being resilient.” 

College officials point to a mix of classroom instruction and support services as key to that progress. Resources such as food pantries, financial aid workshops and student success programs help students manage challenges tied to cost, work, and family responsibilities. 

“Faculty regularly assesses what works in the classroom and adapts their teaching to better support the students,” Torres said. 

Beyond campus, the college’s impact extends into the local workforce. Graduates enter fields ranging from health care and construction to water technology and information systems, contributing to industries across the region. 

“There’s hardly a mile that goes by where I don’t see businesses that aren’t influenced by DACC,” Torres said. 

For Diaz, the connection between education and opportunity is clear. 

“After I get my degree, definitely I’ll be on a better path,” he said. 

Torres said the college is continuing to refine its approach, focusing on improving outcomes and expanding support systems. 

“We’re not done meeting our commitment,” she said. “We’ll continue to work to improve.”