For the third consecutive year, Southwestern College has been recognized for its committed implementation of high-impact educational practices, earning its title as one of the nation’s Colleges of Distinction.

“We are very pleased to once again be included in the Colleges of Distinction recognition,” says Ross Peterson-Veatch, vice president for academic affairs at Southwestern College.  “While other ranking organizations use figures that focus on institutional characteristics or ‘inputs,’ the Colleges of Distinction organization does a remarkable job of gathering information that is directly relevant to a college education that focuses on the whole student – the kind that SC provides.”

Colleges of Distinction selection process is based on answering the question, “What colleges are the best places to learn, to grow, and to succeed?” The evaluation consists of a review of each institution’s freshman experience and retention efforts alongside its general education programs, alumni success, strategic plan, student satisfaction, and more. Schools are accepted on the basis that they adhere to four distinctions: engaged students, great teaching, vibrant community, and successful outcomes.

“SC remains committed to our students and our community, and outcomes at SC remain strong,” said Peterson-Veatch. “Just one example is a recent U.S. Department of Education study that finds that SC students ten years out earn the third highest salaries among graduates of Kansas institutions of all types.  Outcomes like this speak to the importance and quality of an SC education for students in the 21st Century.”

Since 2000, the Colleges of Distinction website and guidebook have honored schools throughout the U.S. for their excellence in undergraduate-focused higher education. The cohort of schools in the Colleges of Distinction consortium distinguish themselves through their focus on the undergraduate experience. To learn more, or to access the resources made available to future college students visit  CollegesofDistinction.com.