ISSUED: 13 July 2017
MEDIA CONTACT: Valerie Owens
SHEPHERDSTOWN, WV — Shepherd University has been named a 2017-2018 College of Distinction. A letter from Colleges of Distinction founder Wes Creel describes Shepherd as a school that delivers well on four overarching distinctions that are the fundamental elements of an effective undergraduate education—engagement, teaching, community, and outcomes.
The letter says in order to be designated a College of Distinction, a school’s curriculum must emphasize core competencies like critical thinking, writing, oral skills, research, and global perspectives and must include out-of-classroom learning, and study abroad programs.
“This distinction reflects a strong commitment to student success our campus community provides,” said Bill Sommers, vice president for enrollment management. “This honor strengthens Shepherd’s position in a competitive environment as a university of first choice.”
Colleges of Distinction also awarded Shepherd three Fields of Study Colleges of Distinction Badges in business, education, and nursing. The badges are awarded to schools with first-rate programs and recognized professional accreditations in these fields.
Colleges of Distinction began 15 years ago with the goal of providing students and parents with a resource for finding the right college. The 2017-2018 Colleges of Distinction guidebook will be published in both digital and print form in September. The book will be available for purchase and free digital copies will be provided to high school counselors to distribute to students and parents.
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