Sweet Briar named a national college of distinction for student success, engagement

Sweet Briar College has received national recognition for its individualized and engaging education that puts student success first, according to the website and guidebook Colleges of Distinction.

Unlike many popular college guides, which rank schools on the basis of endowment size, selectivity and faculty salaries, Colleges of Distinction focuses on excellence exhibited in the classroom and highlights colleges that incorporate high-impact practices throughout a student’s undergraduate education. At Sweet Briar College, such student-centered programs include a modern, hands-on core curriculum, first-year experiences, service-learning opportunities, intensive writing courses, interdisciplinary courses, collaborative assignments and projects, undergraduate research, common intellectual experiences, capstone projects, study abroad and internships.



“We are so proud to see Sweet Briar College walking the walk,” said Tyson Schritter, chief operating officer for Colleges of Distinction. “Colleges of Distinction knows that a truly valuable education can’t be measured by rank or reputation. Students learn and thrive best when they embrace hands-on learning in a vibrant, welcoming community. That’s why it’s so encouraging to find Sweet Briar take such an innovative approach with its curriculum: its high-impact educational practices ensure that the undergraduate experience is worthwhile and unique.”

Colleges of Distinction’s selection process consists of detailed interviews and research for each institution’s freshman experience and retention efforts alongside its general education programs, career development, strategic plan, student satisfaction and more. Schools are accepted on the basis that they adhere to the Four Distinctions: Engaged Students, Great Teaching, Vibrant Community and Successful Outcomes.

“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 Schritter. “Instead, we value schools that embrace those differences. Sweet Briar College puts the student experience first, providing all the tools and opportunities they need to become lifelong learners who are ready to take on any challenge in today’s ever-evolving society.”

You can view Sweet Briar College’s complete profile here.

About Colleges of Distinction
Since 2000, the Colleges of Distinction website and guidebook have honored schools throughout the U.S. for their excellence in undergraduate-focused higher education. The cohort of schools in the Colleges of Distinction consortium distinguish themselves through their focus on the undergraduate experience. The website and annual guidebooks provide dynamic college profiles, customized tools, and resources for students, parent and high school counselors. For more information, and to learn how to become a College of Distinction, visit CollegesofDistinction.com.