BHCC Featured as National Model in New AAC&U Report on Public Trust in Higher Education

Wednesday, June 17, 2026

Bunker Hill Community College (BHCC) is spotlighted in a new national report by the American Association of Colleges and Universities (AAC&U) as a leading example of how higher education institutions can build public trust through student-centered practices and deep community engagement. The Trust Agenda: A Framework for Advancing Public Trust in Higher Education identifies BHCC’s strong culture of connection, inclusive excellence, and responsiveness to student needs as a model for colleges and universities nationwide.

The report highlights BHCC’s innovative programs and wraparound supports—including its Community Connect initiative, Guided Pathways framework, and basic needs services—as key drivers of student success and trust. With one of the nation’s most diverse student populations, BHCC has cultivated a campus environment where students feel seen, supported, and empowered to succeed. As the report notes, BHCC’s leadership philosophy centers on meeting students where they are and ensuring the institution is “student-ready,” fostering a strong sense of belonging and partnership.

BHCC President Pam Eddinger offered advice to campus leaders: “Know who your students are—not just their name, but the person. The difference between those two ethos is the difference between whether you trust and whether you don’t trust.”

AAC&U’s findings reinforce BHCC’s role as a vital community anchor institution and a national leader in advancing equitable, accessible higher education. By demonstrating that authentic relationships, innovation, and community engagement can strengthen public confidence, BHCC continues to exemplify the transformative impact of community colleges on students, families, and the broader Boston community.

Watch the webinar, featuring BHCC President and AAC&U Board Chair, Pam Eddinger.