WILMINGTON — In the often-cluttered world of college rankings and ratings, Colleges of Distinction prides itself as an “unconventional guide” featuring schools with engaging programs.
Wilmington College recently received word of its inclusion again this year as one of the nation’s “Best Colleges,” as selected by Colleges of Distinction (COD). WC also earned program-specific recognition in business, education and career development for the 2020-21 academic year.
The accolades come on the heels of this fall’s U.S. News & World Report’s Best Colleges 2022 rankings that feature Wilmington College seventh among top performers in the Social Mobility category for the entire 12-state, 87-institution Midwest Region.
US News praised the College’s success at advancing social mobility by enrolling and graduating large proportions of economically disadvantaged students awarded with Pell Grants. Most of these students’ adjusted, gross family incomes are under $50,000.
Also, in US News’ rankings, the College placed among the region’s top 40 percent of schools overall and is featured in the Best Value category for the Midwest Region,
Tyson Schritter, chief operating officer for Colleges of Distinction, said his staff was impressed with WC’s commitment to implementing high-impact educational practices.
“Wilmington College has proven itself to be at the forefront of American higher education with a modern, student-centered approach to teaching,” he said in citing the institution’s dedication to hands-on learning and leadership development opportunities, along with fostering close relationships between students, faculty and staff.
“With a unique learning environment, its programming engages students with character-building programs,” he added while citing WC’s focus upon experiential learning opportunities, service, diversity and global education, undergraduate research, first-year success, internships and numerous other opportunities for experiential learning.
Schritter lauded the College’s “effective dedication to student success.”
He explained that Colleges of Distinction’s selection process 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 COD’s designated “four distinctions”: engaged students, great teaching, vibrant community and successful outcomes.
“Colleges of Distinction is far more than a ranking list of colleges and universities,” Schritter said. “We seek out the schools that are wholly focused on the student experience, constantly working to produce graduates who are prepared for a rapidly changing global society.”
