December 11, 2015 (Jackson, Miss.) - Innovative learning opportunities continue to expand at Belhaven University, earning the school recognition among the nation's 2015-2016 Colleges of Distinction. The University was also recognized again for its excellence in student-focused higher education and was awarded the title of 2015-2016 Mississippi Colleges of Distinction.
Belhaven students earned college credit and valuable life experience while participating in study abroad programs as well as through service learning, collaborative learning communities, internships and other new educational models. “Colleges of Distinction is delighted to honor Belhaven University for its success in expanding programming by developing competencies relevant to graduates' lives,” said Tyson Schritter, executive editor for Colleges of Distinction.
“Active engagement is well recognized as a key to ensuring that undergraduates get the most out of their educations, and it has proven correlation with on-time graduation as well. Students increasingly demand access to hands-on learning, and Colleges of Distinction congratulates Belhaven for leading the way in the development of new methodologies that prepare students for the future.”
Schools must demonstrate results across 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 provides more than just a ranking or a tally of test scores. We identify colleges that offer every student an educationally rewarding experience,” said Schritter. “The Colleges of Distinction have earned solid reputations for nurturing and serving their students across every measure. Like Belhaven, our member schools provide the affirming undergraduate experience every student deserves.”