President Seymour Receives NCMPR Pacesetter Award

Oct 13, 2026 | 4:48 PM
ATCC President Michael Seymour recently received the 2026 District 5 Pacesetter of the Year Award from NCMPR. The award honors community college leaders who demonstrate outstanding commitment to marketing, communications, and institutional storytelling.

ATCC's President Seymour was recently awarded the 2026 District 5 Pacesetter of the Year Award from the National Council for Marketing & Public Relations (NCMPR). 

The Pacesetter of the Year Award recognizes a community college president, chancellor, or CEO who has demonstrated exceptional leadership and support in college communications and marketing. The award is presented annually in each of NCMPR's seven districts, and district recipients automatically qualify for consideration for the national award.

This year's NCMPR District 3 & 5 Conference was held in Madison, Wisconsin, at the Edgewater Hotel, where President Seymour attended the opening day and accepted the award. ATCC Marketing Director Nichole Aber was also in attendance and provided opening remarks before President Seymour took the stage. 

In her introduction, Aber highlighted Seymour's leadership since becoming president in 2019, noting his commitment to growth, innovation, and long-term investment in the college. She pointed to ATCC's record enrollment growth, national recognition, strong student outcomes, increased scholarship support, and the strength of the college's Foundation as examples of the college's success during his tenure.

Aber also emphasized Seymour's support for the college's marketing and communications efforts, stating, "Excellence matters, but institutions don't build reputations through outcomes alone. For excellence to inspire trust, build partnerships, attract students, and earn community support, people need to hear the stories behind it. President Seymour understands the importance of telling our story and helping others see the impact of our work."

In his acceptance speech, President Seymour emphasized the importance of helping communities understand the value of community and technical colleges through thoughtful storytelling, strategic communications, and strong brand development. He also highlighted the critical role marketing and communications play in connecting students with opportunities, strengthening the college's reputation, and supporting enrollment and student success.

Read NCMPR's full release here.

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