Standard & Poor’s Affirms College of DuPage’s Financial Outlook College Receives AA+, Stable Rating; Financial Management Deemed Strong

    Citing its strong financial governance, Standard & Poor’s has affirmed College of DuPage’s credit profile of AA+ and its rating outlook of “stable” on the College’s outstanding general obligation bonds.

    In rendering the decision, S&P cited a number of factors, including:

    •    Financial operation, tax base and income levels

    •    Strong financial position with little reliance on state funding

    •    Low debt burden

    “We take our fiduciary responsibility very seriously and see this decision as affirmation of our collective efforts,” said College of DuPage President Dr. Brian Caputo. “From the Board of Trustees to the administrative team, the College understands that good financial health is vitally important to ensuring the success of our students.”

    In addition to the favorable S&P outlook, the College maintains a Moody’s Aaa rating, the agency’s highest possible rating.

College of DuPage Board Chair Maureen Dunne applauded the continued efforts of the College’s financial team.

    “The College’s financial reputation is strong not only with these reporting agencies, but also with the taxpayers of District 502,” she said. “Having a strong financial base opens the doors to many possibilities for the College, the students and community members we serve.”

    Now in its 55th year, COD is institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and each term serves more than 22,000 students. COD is the largest public community college in the state of Illinois. The College grants seven associate degrees and offers more than 170 career and technical certificates in over 50 areas of study.

    “This outstanding rating by Standard & Poor’s is a true testament to the hard work that the employees of the College’s Financial Affairs Office put in daily,” said Scott Brady, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer. “From a financial perspective, we constantly evaluate what makes the best sense for the College from both long- and short-term standpoints to achieve stellar results.”

    COD recently was ranked in the top 20 Best Online Associate Degree programs in Illinois by UniversityHQ.

    The College boasts a vibrant campus, providing a supporting, values-based environment that helps students get the most of their COD experience and prepares them to be active leaders in a complex and ever-changing society.