A Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond analysis found that measuring community‑college success more broadly boosts four‑year outcomes: a 49.8% success rate under an expanded definition versus the 33.8% traditional graduation rate. The Richmond Fed’s metric counts degree or certificate completion, workforce credentials, transfers to four‑year institutions, and persistence (30+ credits with a 2.0 GPA), capturing outcomes for part‑time and adult learners often overlooked in federal statistics. The findings argue for rethinking accountability metrics so colleges are recognized for diverse learner goals—workforce preparation, incremental credentialing and transfer—not just full‑time, first‑time graduation. Policymakers and institutional leaders may use these measures to reshape funding, advising and program evaluation to match community college student realities.