Moon Shot for Equity: Transforming Education at CCD

A five-year initiative to close equity gaps and promote inclusivity at Community College of Denver.

Learn More About Our Mission
What is Moon Shot for Equity?

The Moon Shot for Equity is a five-year initiative launched by the Community College of Denver (CCD) as part of EAB’s national Moon Shot for Equity program, which includes 24 colleges and universities across nine regions. This program aims to close equity gaps and ensure equal educational outcomes for all students, fostering a culture of inclusivity. By utilizing data-driven strategies, we are on a mission to make CCD a more equitable institution.

Explore Our Goals
group of CCD students standing outside with the city behind them
Why Moon Shot for Equity Matters

Three Pillars:

  • Addressing Equity Gaps: CCD has identified persistent disparities in student outcomes, especially among underserved populations. The Moon Shot for Equity directly addresses these gaps.
  • Mission Alignment: This initiative aligns with CCD’s core mission of providing high-quality, accessible education to a diverse community.
  • Community Impact: By improving educational outcomes, we are contributing to the socio-economic development of the region.
  • Advance Equity: Create an inclusive campus climate that prioritizes racial equity and ensures all students are student-ready.
  • Enhance Student Success: Increase retention and graduation rates while removing barriers that disproportionately affect underserved populations.
  • Transform Institutional Practices: Implement systemic changes to promote long-term success and sustainability.

Progress will be monitored through:

  • Key Performance Metrics: Data will be collected on retention, graduation rates, and student satisfaction.
    • Retention: Target of 66% by 2030.
    • Completion: Goal of 51% graduation within 150% of time for first-time, full-time (FTFT) students.
    • Twice-Monthly Goal Calls: Continuous review of progress and adjustments through regular Goal Calls involving stakeholders.
  • Campus Climate Assessments: Regular assessments to gather feedback from students, faculty, and staff to improve inclusivity and effectiveness.
View Our Latest Evaluation Report
How We're Closing Equity Gaps

The initiative is built on several best practices.

Provide students with ongoing academic guidance to keep them on track.

Financial support is offered to help students overcome financial barriers.

Clear academic pathways help students complete their credentials efficiently while embedding skills that are in high demand by regional employers. Improve workforce connections through career advisory boards and industry mixers.

Simplify transfer processes with partner institutions.

Establishment of a care network to assist students holistically.

Regular tracking of progress using Navigate360, Power BI, and Azure Data Lake.

Pathways Integration at CCD

The Moon Shot for Equity integrates with CCD’s Pathways framework:

  • Onboarding & Belonging: Establish communities to support students based on academic interests.
  • Curriculum: Ensure courses are aligned for both transfer and career readiness.
  • Co-Career: Strengthen connections with industry to prepare students for the workforce.
group of CCD students posing with the Swoop mascot
Roadmap to Equity

Launched initiative, conducted leadership training, and completed campus climate assessments.

Focus on community partnerships, student support enhancements, and curriculum alignment.

Scale best practices, deepen engagement, and refine student pathways.

Further develop student support and streamline transfer pathways.

Comprehensive evaluation and planning for sustainability.