CSUMB is recognized with an award for institutional transformation at national conference.

A national award from the American Council on Education designed to recognize institutions that have addressed obstacles with innovative and creative approaches was bestowed upon CSU Monterey Bay and Washington State University during a ceremony on Thursday, Feb. 26, at ACE’s annual convention, ACEX2026, in Washington, D.C.

CSUMB President Vanya Quiñones accepted the 2026 ACE/Fidelity Investments Award for Institutional Transformation, for an institution with a population of up to 12,000, at the ceremony. It comes with a $10,000 prize for each university.

ACE recognized CSUMB’s success in reversing declining enrollment and increasing graduation rates while eliminating equity gaps and developing new degree programs that align with industry and regional needs. The university launched a bachelor’s of science degree in agribusiness supply chain management and a mechatronics engineering program, both in 2024.

“Our momentum has been guided by strategic planning and bold initiatives that expand social mobility for our students, but real progress has been powered by our people,” Quiñones said in a written statement. 

“The strength of us—students, faculty, staff, and partners working together with a shared purpose—is what has made the difference,” she said. “Lasting change cannot be imposed from the top down. It is built within every division, every department, and every individual who believes in our mission and chooses to move it forward."

ACE President Ted Mitchell said in a statement that the award “celebrated institutions that confront real challenges with creativity, discipline and a deep commitment to student success.”

He said CSUMB’s “decisive leadership and equity-driven reforms delivered meaningful gains in completion and social mobility.”