Gateway College and Career Academy Honored with Regional Innovation Award

Nov 12, 2025
Growing inland achievement honored gateway college

Gateway College and Career Academy has been selected as the recipient of the 2025 Toward a Shared Vision Innovation Award, presented by Growing Inland Achievement (GIA). This recognition is especially meaningful because Gateway was founded at Riverside City College (RCC) in 2004 and continues today as a powerful example of how strong partnerships between K–12 and higher education can transform student outcomes across the Inland Empire.

The Toward a Shared Vision Innovation Award celebrates institutions that demonstrate bold, evidence-based strategies to address long-standing regional challenges. Gateway’s model—blending high school completion with dual enrollment at RCC, career pathway alignment, and wraparound student support—has redefined what educational opportunity can look like for students who once felt disconnected from traditional high school environments.

Through this approach, Gateway students not only earn their diplomas but often graduate having already completed college coursework, explored career and technical education (CTE) pathways, and developed clear plans for their future.

Gateway’s impact would not exist without the courage and vision of its founders at Riverside City College, nor without the sustained commitment from Riverside Community College District (RCCD) leadership over the past 21 years. This partnership continues to serve as a statewide model of:

  • Dual enrollment implemented with equity, not just access

  • Shared student success systems across high school and college

  • Pathways from high school to RCC programs and regional careers

GIA recognized Gateway for:

  • Reimagining education for students who need a second chance

  • Helping more students graduate high school while earning college credit

  • Building enduring partnerships with RCC faculty, counselors, CTE programs, and support services

  • Contributing to regional workforce and equity goals aligned with RCCD’s strategic plan

Gateway Executive Director Miguel Contreras shared,

“This award belongs to our staff, board, students, RCC, RCCD, and our community. Gateway was born because Riverside City College believed in second chances—and that belief continues to shape thousands of futures.”

As Gateway celebrates its 21st anniversary, it remains deeply committed to strengthening its partnership with RCC, uplifting student success stories, and continuing to serve as a model of innovation, equity, and student-centered design for the Inland Empire.