Innovative application of high impact educational practices at Goodwin College earned the school recognition among the nation’s Colleges of Distinction.

“We’re so happy to award Goodwin College for developing skills relevant to graduates’ lives,” said Tyson Schritter, executive editor for Colleges of Distinction. “High student engagement in college is one of the keys to a successful undergraduate education. With an increasing emphasis on hands-on learning techniques, Colleges of Distinction applauds Goodwin College for practicing methodologies that prepare students for their futures.”

Goodwin College is a different kind of school, with a different kind of population from institutions that the organization typically recognizes, according to Colleges of Distinction founder Wes Creel. “There’s a lot of attention paid to student outcomes,” Creel said. “Community can be other things besides residence halls.”

Schools must demonstrate results across the 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.

“Goodwin College strives to offer all students an outstanding educational experience,” Henriette Pranger, Assistant Vice President for Institutional Effectiveness at Goodwin College, said. “It is encouraging to be recognized as a College 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 is more than an annual ranking of colleges and universities. We only include colleges that offer every student a holistic and valuable experience,” said Schritter. “The Colleges of Distinction have earned solid reputations for serving their students and nurturing success. Like Goodwin College, our member schools provide the affirming undergraduate experience every student deserves.”

To view Goodwin College’s profile or to find more information about the innovative learning experiences it offers, visit CollegesofDistinction.com.