The recognition is especially significant for a two-year program, as many global design rankings do not traditionally evaluate community colleges. City College continues to stand out for the quality of student work and its ability to prepare designers for success in the industry.
“As an alumnus of City College Design, I’ve experienced firsthand the program’s exceptional ability to prepare students for meaningful, competitive careers in the industry,” said Ami Ipapo-Glass, assistant professor in Design. “Now, as a faculty member, I’m continually inspired by the talent and momentum of our students, and honored to support and empower underrepresented voices in design. City’s emphasis on design thinking and strategy is what sets it apart and continues to position the program on a global stage.”
In addition to the top ranking, City College students earned major individual honors. Tess Jordahl was named Student of the Year, selected from hundreds of students worldwide for her wine packaging project, while Jaimie McKay was recognized as a close second.
City College students also received international recognition from The Design Kids, where Anna Barnett and Gizelle Farinas each earned bronze awards in the Branding category for their work.
“This program has given me the tools to work alongside designers from the best design schools in the country,” said design student Benedict Allen. “The support from my professors and the structure of the program has prepared me to work at a world class design agency. It has truly changed my life and I recommend any student with a desire to work in the design industry to join this program.”
At the regional level, City College students swept the One Club San Diego student competition, earning all 12 awards, including all three gold honors, competing against hundreds of entries from across Southern California.
The continued recognition affirms San Diego City College’s role as a leader in design education and highlights the impact of accessible, high-quality programs at community colleges.