Chaffey College Takes Top Statewide Rankings in Awarding Transfer Degrees

The Campaign for College Opportunity has named Chaffey College the No. 1 California community college for year-over-year growth in associate degrees for transfer (ADTs) and for awarding transfer degrees to Latino students.

The nonprofit organization’s “2026 Pathway Champion” awards will honor 40 community colleges and universities for their work to increase transfer pathways and student success throughout the state. The organization will hold a virtual ceremony Oct. 22 at 11 a.m.

“Transfer and career education remain at the heart of Chaffey College’s commitment to student success. We’re continually building on our programs and expanding opportunities to help students achieve their educational and career goals,” said Chaffey College Acting Superintendent/President Lisa Bailey. “We’re honored to be recognized by the Campaign for College Opportunity and appreciate its acknowledgment of the work taking place across our college to create pathways to brighter futures for our students.”

The organization recognized Chaffey for having an increase of 300 associate degrees for transfer awarded in 2024-2025 from the year prior. Chaffey was also the top college for awarding ADTs to Latino and Black students, with more than 70 percent of degree-earning Black and Latino students earing ADTs. Chaffey earned the No. 4 spot for campus-wide ADT earners in 2024-2025 and the percentage of degree earners receiving an ADT.

Chaffey’s work to promote transfer degrees continues to see positive results, with record growth in University of California Transfer Admission Guarantee (TAG) participation. Chaffey received 220 TAG submissions for fall 2026, a 66 percent increase.

Additional highlights:

• UC applications increased 16.8 percent from Fall 2025 to Fall 2026, with Black applicants more than doubling (+108 percent) and Asian applicants increasing 32 percent, demonstrating expanded participation in UC transfer pathways.
• Participation in university representative appointments increased 62 percent, from 145 students in 2024–25 to 235 in 2025–26. Building on equity gaps identified through data analysis, the Transfer Center expanded outreach and campus partnerships to connect more students with direct university advising and transfer opportunities.
• The Transfer Center served more than 1,600 students during the 2025–26 academic year, providing students with direct transfer information, advising and support throughout their transfer journey.
• Chaffey College's annual Transfer Fair brought more than 50 university representatives directly to students, expanding access to four-year institutions and allowing students to explore transfer options and connect directly with university representatives.
• The Transfer Center provides ongoing individualized assistance with UC and CSU applications, application reviews, transcripts, supplemental applications, and transfer planning, helping students navigate critical steps in the transfer process.

The Campaign recognizes Pathway Champions to highlight the importance of improving transfer outcomes statewide. More than 60 percent of California students attend a community college, but just 19 percent transfer after four years. That rate is 13 and 16 percent, respectively, for Black and Latino students.

“The Campaign for College Opportunity is dedicated to ensuring that every Californian has the opportunity to attend and succeed in college, building a stronger future for California’s communities and the students who power them,” said Jessie Ryan, organization president.

To attend the virtual ceremony, register online.