SUU Earns National Recognition as 2019 College of Distinction

Published: July 30, 2019 | Author: Kierstin Pitcher-Holloway | Read Time: 2 minutes

SUU Clock towerOnce again, Southern Utah University has received national recognition as one of the renowned Colleges of Distinction for its individualized and engaging education. Colleges of Distinction has recognized and honored schools throughout the United States for excellence in undergraduate-focused higher education for nearly 20 years. 

The selection process for Colleges of Distinction 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. 

These distinctions reflect the personalized student experience that SUU provides. At SUU, students are encouraged to be engaged with the local community, they are given the opportunity to learn through hands-on projects, and the chance to have a unique and individualized education from day one.  

“Being recognized by Colleges of Distinction is an honor,” said Jared Tippets, vice president for student affairs at SUU. “As we strive to create an environment that focuses on the student experience, giving each student an individualized education based on their personal and professional goals, this validates our efforts and highlights our success.” 

The past 20 years has since seen the job market and society at large change exponentially, making it even more necessary for graduates to enter the workforce with adaptability and sharp critical thinking skills. Such qualities are best developed through the relevant, career-ready experiences offered every day at SUU. 

“We are so proud to see SUU walking the walk,” said Tyson Schritter, chief operating officer for Colleges of Distinction. “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 SUU take such an innovative approach with its curriculum: its high-impact educational practices ensure that the undergraduate experience is worthwhile and unique.”

SUU provides a personalized, career-ready experience that prepares students to be successful upon graduation. The valuable educational opportunities ensure students enter the job market with a competitive advantage.  Students come first at SUU. We foster small, personalized classes with a 19:1 student to faculty ratio and have more than 144 undergraduate and 18 graduate & certificate programs.

Learn more about SUU’s innovative learning experiences.


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