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College of Mount Saint Vincent Earns National Recognition as College of Distinction

4/12/2017

National guide to colleges highlights advanced learning opportunities at top schools

A profound commitment to innovative, high-impact educational practices at Mount Saint Vincent has earned the College recognition for a second year in a row among the nation’s 2017-2018 Colleges of Distinction.

“We’re so happy to award Mount Saint Vincent for developing skills relevant to graduates’ lives,” said Tyson Schritter, executive editor for Colleges of Distinction. “High student engagement in college is one of the keys to a successful undergraduate education. With an increasing emphasis on hands-on learning techniques, Colleges of Distinction applauds Mount Saint Vincent for practicing methodologies that prepare students for their futures.”

Mount Saint Vincent students gain life-changing experiences participating in service-focused study abroad programs in 15 countries, working with NGOS to aid refugees and bring positive change to disadvantaged regions. The Mount’s Programs of Distinction serve students seeking academic challenge and growth through scholarships, awards, specialized coursework, individual research experience, community service, international education, and leadership development with other exceptionally motivated individuals.

According to a recent study on student economic mobility by the University of California, Berkeley and the U.S. Department of the Treasury, Mount Saint Vincent ranks third among 578 select independent colleges and universities nationwide. Mount students experience greater upward mobility than all but two colleges and universities across the country.

“We are honored to be recognized for something we have done since our founding—provide transformative opportunities for students across the economic spectrum,” said Mount President Charles L. Flynn, Jr. “We are proud that the University of Mount Saint Vincent is true to the traditions of high quality education: academic excellence and authentic inclusivity.”

Schools must demonstrate results across the Four Distinctions—Engaged Students, Great Teaching, Vibrant Community, and Successful Outcomes. High school counselors and educators make nominations, and each school is evaluated on key indicators including student engagement, student empowerment, and curricular innovation. Colleges that have distinguished themselves in each of the Four Distinctions and that have demonstrated dedication to enriching student outcomes through innovative learning opportunities are then invited to join Colleges of Distinction.

The annual process to select the nation’s Colleges of Distinction also includes a review of each institution’s freshman experience, as well as its general education program, strategic plan, and alumni success and satisfaction measures.

“Colleges of Distinction is more than an annual ranking of colleges and universities,” said Mr. Schritter. “We only include colleges that offer every student a holistic and valuable experience.”

In July 2017, Mount Saint Vincent was further honored for its exceptional programming in Nursing, Education, and Business.

About the University of Mount Saint Vincent
Founded in 1847 by the Sisters of Charity, the University of Mount Saint Vincent offers nationally recognized liberal arts education and a select array of professional fields of study on a landmark campus overlooking the Hudson River. Committed to the education of the whole person, and enriched by the unparalleled cultural, educational, and career opportunities of New York City, the College equips students with the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary for lives of achievement, professional accomplishment and leadership in the 21st century.