MOBILE, Ala., November 13, 2026 – Bishop State Community College’s Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Honor Society has earned a historic place among the nation's top community colleges, having been named a Top 10 finalist in the Planning, Governance, and Finance category of the prestigious 2027 Bellwether Awards.
The college's submission, titled "Plate It Forward: Sustainable Capital Planning, Governance, and Zero-Cost Financing," was selected as one of the top 10 entries in its category and is among 30 finalists nationwide invited to compete in the final round of the 2027 Bellwether Awards.
This marks the first time in Bishop State's history that the college has been named a Bellwether Award finalist.
Presented by the Bellwether College Consortium, the Bellwether Awards recognize outstanding, evidence-based practices and innovative programs that are transforming community colleges across the United States. The 2027 competition drew 89 submissions from 78 community colleges representing 29 states, making Bishop State's selection among the top 30 finalists a notable national achievement.
The student-led Plate It Forward initiative highlights the college's innovative approach to addressing food insecurity and supporting students through strategic planning, resource management, and sustainable financing. The project demonstrates how thoughtful governance and creative resource allocation can help institutions develop meaningful solutions to student needs while maximizing available resources.
"Being named a Bellwether Award finalist is an extraordinary accomplishment for Bishop State and a testament to the innovative thinking and commitment that drives our institution forward," said Bishop State President Olivier Charles. "This recognition demonstrates that we are not only identifying the challenges our students face, but also working with students, faculty, and staff to develop creative, sustainable solutions that support their success. We are proud to have our PTK student leaders represent Bishop State, the Alabama Community College System, and HBCUs across the country on this national stage."
As a finalist, Bishop State has been invited to present its project during the final round of the competition at the 33rd Annual Community College Futures Assembly, February 21–23, 2027, at the historic St. Anthony Hotel in San Antonio, Texas.
During the final round, representatives from the college will present the Plate It Forward initiative to a panel of judges, demonstrating the project's innovation, impact, and potential to serve as a model for other community colleges. Three colleges will ultimately receive the 2027 Bellwether Award, with one winner selected in each of the competition's three categories.
Bishop State's national recognition reinforces the college's ongoing commitment to putting students first through innovative approaches, strategic partnerships, and solutions that strengthen the college community.
About Bishop State Community College
Bishop State Community College provides accessible and affordable higher education through quality academic pathways, relevant career-focused training, and innovative technology that empowers individuals to succeed in a rapidly changing world. Serving Mobile and Washington counties, Bishop State offers more than 40 degree and certificate programs across four locations. For more information, visit www.bishop.edu.
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