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Albright College Named a College of Distinction

by Carey Manzolillo

Reading, PA (07/23/2021) — Albright College has been recognized for its commitment to engaging, experiential education by Colleges of Distinction, which last year celebrated its 20-year anniversary as a guide for college-bound students. Promoting engagement over prestige, Colleges of Distinction supports student-centered schools whose primary goals are based on student success and satisfaction.

Colleges of Distinction conducts detailed interviews and in-depth research into each institution's first year experience and retention efforts, alongside general education programs, career development, strategic plan, student satisfaction, etc. Celebrated colleges are distinct in four categories: Engaged Students, Great Teaching, Vibrant Community, and Successful Outcomes.

More than half of Albright's students personalize their degrees by crossing or combining majors. And with its fully residential, close-knit community, students get to know their professors on an individual basis. Students in all programs are encouraged to work one-on-one with faculty mentors through programs like the Albright Creative Research Experience (ACRE). A number of students are also led abroad by faculty to locales such as Costa Rica, Ecuador, Hawaii and more to engage in culture, research and coursework.

Colleges of Distinction founder, Wes Creel, traces its beginnings back to when he was helping his eldest daughter search for schools. While most pervasive rankings systems rely on metrics like peer reputation, size of endowment, and alumni salaries, Colleges of Distinction recognizes institutions for first year experiences, engaging interdisciplinary programs, undergraduate research opportunities, internships, study abroad, etc. The organization provides dynamic college profiles, as well as customized tools and resources for students, parents and high school counselors.

"Each school is different, just as every student is different," said Creel. "There is no number-one college for everyone, so we never rank those in our cohort." Albright College's inclusion is informed by the unique ways it commits to achieving success.

Founded in 1856, Albright College is a diverse community of learners cultivating integrity, curiosity, connection and resilience. The college's flexible curriculum encourages students to combine and cross majors to create individualized academic programs. Close faculty mentorship and numerous experiential learning options create opportunities for Albright graduates to exceed their own expectations. Located in Reading, Pa., Albright enrolls more than 1,800 full-time undergraduates and 700 adult learners and graduate students.

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Albright College has been named a 2021-22 College of Distinction.

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