Gateway to College awarded national excellence honor

The Madison College Gateway to College Program was honored with the Program Excellence Award at the Achieving the Dream K-College Institute in Denver last month.

The early college program helps students reconnect with their education, earn high school diplomas, and gain college credits, all while studying on a college campus. 

Gateway to College serves students ages 16 to 21 who have dropped out of high school and are at risk of dropping out, allowing them to earn a high school diploma and credits toward a college degree. Students in the program often improve attendance, raise their GPAs, and increase their likelihood of enrolling in college.

In May 2025, Madison College’s Gateway graduating class of 22 students collectively earned over 360 college credits. Of those graduates, 82% are pursuing post-secondary education, with 56% continuing their journey at Madison College.

It is the fourth time the Gateway to College Program has received this national recognition. 

Madison College partners with Achieving the Dream in a combined mission to ensure all students can access learning that propels them into rewarding careers. Gateway to College strives to support and empower young people every day, serving as a standard for educators nationwide.

Learn more about Madison College’s Gateway to College Program. For more information, call 608.243.4597 or email gatewaytocollege@madisoncollege.edu