LEVELLAND – South Plains College’s Industrial Technology Department and its chairperson, Jimmy Stratton, were recognized with a 2025 Catalyst Award from Anthology for innovative uses of technology to support student success and institutional excellence.
The Catalyst Awards, presented annually by Anthology, celebrate institutions and individuals who are leveraging Anthology solutions in bold, inspiring and impactful ways.
Stratton and the department were awarded in the Leading Change category, which recognizes institutions implementing bold, transformational initiatives that drive measurable, campus-wide change and influence the broader academic ecosystem.
“We’re honored to receive the Catalyst Award. The hard work our faculty and students put in every day makes the program notable,” Stratton said. “Embracing technology can spark real change in the classroom and beyond.”
The SPC Industrial Technology Department integrates Blackboard to enhance hands-on learning, assessment and student engagement. Faculty have developed OERs, structured learning modules, AI-driven industry simulations and automated feedback tools to ensure students master both theory and practical skills.
By leveraging progress tracking and digital skill evaluations, student retention at SPC has increased by 20 percent, and job readiness has improved. Sharing these OER resources statewide, the college is leading industry-wide change, making technical education more accessible, affordable and innovative across Texas.
“We believe in the Power of Together, and this year’s Catalyst Award winners are shining examples of what happens when institutions partner with purpose, vision and innovation to transform the future of education,” Anthology CEO Bruce Dahlgren said.
To learn more about the Catalyst Awards and see the full list of 2025 winners, visit https:// www.anthology.com/catalystawards.