Dean College has once again received national recognition for its honorable commitment to engaged, experiential education by Colleges of Distinction, a one-of-a-kind guide for college-bound students. This is the sixth consecutive year that the College has earned this honor. Dean also received Colleges of Distinction badges for Business (fifth consecutive year) and Career Development (third consecutive year).

Founder Wes Creel created Colleges of Distinction to draw more attention to schools like Dean College whose student-centered education prevails in applying theory to practice while fostering a dynamic learning community.

Colleges of Distinction’s selection process comprises a sequence of in-depth research and detailed interviews with the schools about each institution’s freshman experience and retention efforts alongside its general education programs, career development, strategic plan, student satisfaction, and more—and accepting only those that adhere to the Four Distinctions: Engaged Students, Great Teaching, Vibrant Community, and Successful Outcomes. These principles are all informed by the High-Impact Practices to prioritize the ways that institutions enable students to have a fulfilling, individualized college experience.

“Every student has their own unique set of abilities, their own goals, and their own ideal settings in which they would thrive,” said Creel. “That’s why we don’t rank our schools. It’s about finding the best opportunities for each individual’s needs and desires.”

Creel continued, “It’s inspiring to see Dean College commit to the learning styles and community involvement that will best allow their students to succeed in and beyond their college years.”

Dean College is proud to be named a 2021-2022 College of Distinction

Learn more about the Colleges of Distinction.  

Colleges of Distinction 2021-2020 Best College Badge