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2 Fla. colleges chosen as finalists for prestigious award

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Two Florida colleges have been named as finalists for a prestigious $1 million prize given to one community college each year.

Broward College in south Florida and Santa Fe College in Gainesville were named as two of the ten finalists for the 2013 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence.

The Aspen Prize will be awarded in March in Washington, D.C., along with up to four other awards. It recognizes college completion rates, minority and low-income student success and employment after college. Valencia College in Orlando was chosen as last year's winner.

"These two colleges have shown that they are a dynamic part of Florida's efforts to build a solid economy," said Florida Governor Rick Scott.

The Aspen Institute looks for colleges that stand out by staying on top of economic trends and creating programs that prepare students for tomorrow's jobs.

“I am proud that two of our state’s colleges are being honored for their student’s academic success and the vital role they play in Florida’s economy," said Florida College System Chancellor Randy Hanna.