Sweet Briar honored among national Colleges of Distinction

Sweet Briar College has been recognized for its commitment to implementing high-impact educational practices, earning it the title as one of the nation’s Colleges of Distinction.

According to Colleges of Distinction, Sweet Briar College is at the forefront of American higher education with a modern, student-centered approach to teaching. Offering a unique learning environment, Sweet Briar’s programming engages students through character-building first-year experiences, intensive writing courses, interdisciplinary programs and collaborative assignments. Undergraduate research with faculty and peers is central to a Sweet Briar education, as is an expansive capstone project and a strong tradition of study abroad opportunities and internships. An emerging living-learning community enhances common intellectual experiences on campus.

“We are absolutely thrilled to recognize Sweet Briar as a College of Distinction for its effective dedication to student success,” said Tyson Schritter, chief operating officer for Colleges of Distinction. “Colleges of Distinction is so impressed with Sweet Briar’s curriculum, which is enriched by the kind of high-impact educational practices that are most crucial for student development. Such innovative engagement is preparing the next generation of young adults to thrive after college.”



Colleges of Distinction’s selection process consists of a review of each institution’s freshman experience and retention efforts alongside its general education programs, alumni success, 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 is far more than a ranking list of colleges and universities,” Schritter added. “We seek out the schools that are wholly focused on the student experience, constantly working to produce graduates who are prepared for a rapidly changing global society. Now recognized as a College of Distinction, Sweet Briar stands out in the way it strives to help its students to learn, grow and succeed.”

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

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, parents and high school counselors. For more information and to learn how to become a College of Distinction, visit CollegesofDistinction.com.