Dallas College has received a College and University Professional Association for Human Resources (CUPA-HR) 2026 HR Innovation Award for its talent acquisition transformation and AI-enabled talent ecosystem.
The HR Innovation Award recognizes innovative thinking in higher education HR, especially models that can be adapted for use on other campuses. CUPA-HR is pleased to make a $5,000 contribution to Dallas College in recognition of the award.
As one of the largest higher education systems in Texas, Dallas College realized the need for a unified talent acquisition model that would support institutional success while being scalable across multiple campuses and aligned with institutional priorities. The new model was implemented in a phased approach that focused on a design-first transformation model to ensure that processes were standardized across all campuses before introducing technology.
Once the foundations of the new model were solidified, technology innovations were introduced through governed AI-enhanced processes including interview scheduling and video assessments, in addition to an AI-enabled CRM platform that enhanced the hiring process for candidates, recruiters and hiring managers.
As a result of these changes, the college has seen a 682% increase in candidate volume while simultaneously reclaiming over 10,000 hours of staff time. Dallas College’s new talent acquisition model has successfully transformed the hiring process from a reactive, transaction-based system into a key driver of institutional success.
For the innovative ways Dallas College transformed their talent acquisition model, CUPA-HR is pleased to award the institution a 2026 HR Innovation Award.
