Dallas College has earned the Technology Pioneer Award from EAB for its groundbreaking use of artificial intelligence and data to improve student outcomes. The recognition was announced at EAB’s Connected25 conference in Orlando, Florida.
This national honor highlights Dallas College’s commitment to removing barriers, supporting students, and driving record achievement. The award includes a $1,000 student scholarship, distributed through the Dallas College Foundation.
Dr. Karen Stills, senior associate vice chancellor of student success, accepted the award on behalf of the college.
“At Dallas College, innovation is central to student success,” said Dr. Stills. “We use technology to connect with students, eliminate obstacles, and promote lasting achievement. This award celebrates our dedication to leveraging innovation at scale.”
Dallas College’s student success leaders embrace data literacy and AI fluency. Ninety-six percent have completed professional development focused on data culture, and more than 50 professionals joined the Artificial Intelligence Innovation Collective to strengthen AI understanding.
Recent milestones include:
-
78% persistence rate, the highest in school history
-
19,000+ credentials awarded in 2024–2025
-
36% increase in reverse transfer credential awards
-
45% growth in data-mined credential awards
-
44% rise in New Student Orientation attendance
-
55% boost in first-year students completing career or transfer milestones
-
92% of first-year students declaring a program of study
-
84% of first-year students setting career or transfer goals
-
200,000+ coaching sessions delivered to students
These achievements stem from integrating AI-driven tools into support strategies. Real-time insights, personalized outreach, and timely interventions now guide student engagement.
Key technologies include:
-
EAB Navigate 360 – Tracks student progress and supports targeted outreach.
-
EAB Journeys – Creates personalized action plans for each student.
-
EAB Forage – Offers virtual job simulations for career exploration.
-
EdSights – Features “Ellie,” an AI-powered assistant for first-year students.
-
Waitwell – A virtual waiting system connecting students with needed services.
“As higher education evolves, AI-driven tools are transforming how institutions support students,” said Scott Schirmeier, EAB president of technology. “Our 2025 award winners prove that technology can elevate the student experience and boost graduation outcomes.”
