FROM STAFF REPORTS

MONTEVALLO – For the eighth consecutive year, the University of Montevallo has been named to the prestigious national Colleges of Distinction list, remaining one of only two public higher education institutions in the state to achieve the honor.

In addition to again earning the overall Colleges of Distinction designation, UM also achieved program-specific recognition for the Stephens College of Business and the College of Education & Human Development, and was praised for its efforts to prepare students for their careers after graduation.

“The University of Montevallo is delighted and honored to receive this tremendous, continued recognition as a College of Distinction, and for program-specific recognition of the Stephens College of Business and the College of Education & Human Development,” said UM Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Mary Beth Armstrong. “Since this organization recognizes colleges that are the best places to learn, to grow and to succeed, what they are really recognizing are colleges that put student learning above all else. For us, it is a recognition of the outstanding job our faculty members are doing engaging students in the learning environment.”

Colleges of Distinction Chief Operating Officer Tyson Schritter praised UM for offering an innovative, student-focused curriculum, and for achieving measurable success across multiple criteria.

“We are so proud to see the University of Montevallo 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 the University of Montevallo 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.

“Student success is a given at the University of Montevallo,” Schritter added. “All of its programs are backed with broad perspectives across the liberal arts. Every student is pushed to be inquisitive and active. And with such extensive experiential learning opportunities, it’s no wonder why the University of Montevallo’s graduates feel expertly prepared by their professional education.”