Tallahassee State College has announced that two of its senior leaders have been named finalists in the 2026 American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) Awards of Excellence, a national program that recognizes leadership, innovation, and impact across community colleges nationwide.
Dr. Jim Murdaugh, president of Tallahassee State College, has been selected as a finalist for CEO of the Year, placing him among only five community college leaders across the country to receive this distinction. The recognition highlights his visionary leadership, commitment to student success, and continued advancement of the College’s mission.
In addition, Karen Moore, a member of the Tallahassee State College District Board of Trustees, has been named a finalist for Trustee of the Year. The award honors board members who demonstrate exceptional leadership, advocacy, and governance in support of institutional success and student achievement.
Winners of the 2026 Awards of Excellence will be announced at the AACC Annual Convention and Awards of Excellence Gala, scheduled for April 10–14, 2026, in Seattle, Washington.
Established in 2013, the AACC Awards of Excellence celebrate outstanding achievement in community higher education. Tallahassee State College has a strong history of recognition within the program, including receiving the Student Success Award in 2023 and earning Trustee of the Year honors in 2024.
The finalist selections further reflect Tallahassee State College’s sustained leadership and impact in advancing student outcomes and strengthening the role of community colleges nationwide.