Once again, the University of West Georgia has been recognized by Colleges of Distinction, a national organization founded by admissions professionals. The organization’s mission is to enable students to find colleges and universities that appeal to their unique personalities and aspirations.

UWG’s College of Education, Richards College of Business and Tanner Health System School of Nursing each received the honor for 2018-19.

Dr. Scot Lingrell, vice president for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management at UWG, is thrilled to be included in the Colleges of Distinction for the academic year.

“Colleges of Distinction has recognized not only UWG as a premier public university, but also for our excellent programs in business, education, and nursing,” Lingrell said. “West Georgia is one of only two public colleges in Georgia to attain this important recognition, and we are proud that we are being seen as a national leader in areas of engaging students, great teaching, vibrant community and successful outcomes–the four distinctions of Colleges of Distinction.”

Colleges of Distinction believes the true measure of a college is found in its people and ideas, not in its numbers and rankings. Colleges that are recognized provide innovative and engaged experiences that not only prepare students for successful careers – but also for active citizenship and lifelong learning.

“Recognitions such as this provide confirmation for all the work that our faculty and staff do to help students succeed,” said Dr. Faye McIntyre, dean of the Richards College of Business and Sewell Chair of Private Enterprise. “We are thrilled that those outside the university recognize the excellence achieved in the Richards College of Business.”

Colleges of Distinction helps parents and students find the right college, not just the best college. Since 2000, it has been a highly trusted resource for over 40,000 guidance counselors across the United States, along with thousands of students, parents and hundreds of colleges and universities.

“It is an honor to be recognized as a College of Distinction,” said Dr. Jennifer Schuessler, dean of THSSON. “This award verifies that we really do live our mission of academic excellence in a caring environment.”

Searching for a college can be a complex and emotional process. By pre-vetting hundreds of institutions, Colleges of Distinction help parents, students and counselors come to know colleges well enough to decide whether a school belongs on their consideration list.

“It is an honor to be named for a second year in a row,” added Dr. Dianne Hoff, dean of the College of Education. “The programs in the College of Education are career-focused and offer high-impact practices that prepare students well for 21st century challenges.”

The evaluation process for finding schools consists of a review of each institution’s freshman experience and retention efforts, alongside its general education programs, alumni success, strategic plan and student satisfaction.

“Colleges of Distinction is far more than a ranking list of colleges and universities,” said Tyson Schritter, Chief Operating Officer for Colleges of Distinction. “We seek the schools that are wholly focused on the student experience, constantly working to produce graduates who are prepared for a rapidly changing global society. UWG stands out in the way it strives to help its students learn, grow and succeed.”