Aspen Institute recognizes San Jac as Finalist with Distinction
The Aspen Institute named San Jacinto College a Finalist with Distinction for the 2025 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, ranking the institution as one of the top community colleges in the nation, out of more than 1,100 community colleges.
Aspen recognized San Jac’s commitment to helping students succeed through strong onboarding, advising, and clear transfer pathways. A key workforce training partner, the College also tailors programs to industry needs across the Gulf Coast region.
The 2025 Aspen Prize results are as follows:
- 2025 Aspen Prize Winner: Southwest Wisconsin Technical College
- Finalists with Distinction: San Jacinto College and South Puget Sound Community College
- Rising Star: Wallace State Community College-Hanceville
- Finalists: Georgia Highlands College, Moorpark College, Northeast Wisconsin Technical College, Northwest Vista College, Seminole State College of Florida, and Union College
Ravens softball, baseball reflect on a year of growth and change
Softball player Madelyn Perez
The San Jacinto College Ravens softball team secured a third-place conference finish, qualifying for the 2025 National Junior College Athletic Association Region XIV South Division tournament. The team demonstrated remarkable perseverance throughout its 2025 campaign, ending with an overall record of 26-31.
Lineup flexibility became a necessity as the team navigated player injuries throughout the season, with head coach Kelly Saenz highlighting collective growth as a strength.
“I’m incredibly proud of the entire team for overcoming numerous obstacles throughout the season,” she said. “Our sophomores showed leadership in a variety of ways, and our freshmen rose to the occasion, contributing to all areas.”
The season featured a significant personal achievement for Saenz, who reached her 800th career victory with a win over Lamar State College-Port Arthur. In postseason play, the Ravens’ tournament run ultimately came to an end but not without a fight.
“The team battled until the very end, trusting in themselves and one another,” said Saenz. “While the season may not have gone exactly as we hoped, it provided valuable lessons in determination and many other qualities that we all took to heart.”
Photo courtesy of Janna Martin
The Ravens baseball team concluded its 2025 regular season play with an overall record of 39-15 and a conference record of 27-8, before sweeping the NJCAA Region XIV South Division tournament at Bossier Parish Community College.
The team’s turning point came early in conference play when it swept Galveston College, igniting a remarkable 22-3 run. This dominant stretch showcased both the team’s tenacity and growing confidence as players settled into their roles.
“We are a sophomore-led team, and the chemistry has always been solid,” said Eric Weaver, head coach. “It took time to figure out which players fit best in certain roles within the pitching staff and the lineup. It is always night and day comparing August to May.”
Ultimately, the Ravens’ season reached its finale at the NJCAA Region XIV super regional tournament, where players battled against Blinn College.
“I’m extremely proud of our players and staff, just two wins shy of a World Series berth,” Weaver said. “I can’t thank our sophomores enough for the leadership and legacy they leave behind. For our returning freshmen, I look forward to building off this year.”
Learn more at sanjacsports.com.
