Western championed as 2019-20 College of Distinction

Colleges of Distinction announced this summer that both the School of Business and the Education Department at Western Colorado University have been recognized for excellence in providing an individualized and engaging student experience in undergraduate programs.

Colleges of Distinction’s selection process consists of detailed interviews and research for each institution’s freshman experience and retention efforts. It also examines general education programs, career development, strategic plan, student satisfaction and more. Schools are evaluated in four distinctions: engaged students, great teaching, vibrant community and successful outcomes.

This award is unique among popular college guide classifications, which typically rank schools on the size of endowment, selectivity and faculty salaries. Western instead earns its recognition for the excellence exhibited in the classroom, incorporating high-impact practices throughout every student’s undergraduate education.

Western’s School of Business offers many student-centered programs, including personalized professional development resources at the Office of Career Success, and the opportunity for students to explore global opportunities in the Harlaxton Study Abroad Program. Students in Western’s Education Department have many customizable options for their education, such as participating in a yearlong student teaching residency in a location of their choice, and earning secondary licensure in one of 11 areas of study.

“Colleges of Distinction doesn’t rank schools, because we know that every student is different in what they need to best learn, grow and succeed,” said Tyson Schritter, Chief Operating Officer for Colleges of Distinction. “We value schools that embrace those differences. Western puts the student experience first, providing all the tools students need to become lifelong learners who are ready to take on any challenge in today’s ever-evolving society.”