EOU named “College of Distinction”

EOU earns national recognition as “College of Distinction”

News contact: Laura Hancock, University Advancement, 541-962-3585

LA GRANDE, Ore. July 26, 2016 – Innovative application of high impact educational practices has earned Eastern Oregon University recognition among the nation’s “Colleges of Distinction.”

The listing appears in the new 2016-17 Colleges of Distinction Guidebook. Innovative learning opportunities at EOU and other top schools across the country are highlighted in the publication, available September 6 in digital and print editions.

“Eastern Oregon University is once again honored to receive national recognition as a ‘College of Distinction,’” said Sarah Witte, EOU provost. “We have a proud history of providing access, opportunity and inclusive excellence to traditional and adult learners on campus and at a distance.”

To be included, schools must demonstrate results across four distinctions: engaged students, great teaching, vibrant communities 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 have demonstrated dedication to enriching student outcomes through innovative learning opportunities are then invited to join Colleges of Distinction.

“We’re so happy to award EOU 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 EOU for practicing methodologies that prepare students for their futures.”

The annual selection process also includes a review of each institution’s freshman experience, general education program, strategic plan, and alumni success and satisfaction measures.

“Colleges of Distinction is more than an annual ranking of colleges and universities,” Schritter added. “We only include colleges that offer every student a holistic and valuable experience, and have earned solid reputations for serving their students and nurturing success. Like EOU, our member schools provide the affirming undergraduate experience every student deserves.”

To view EOU’s profile and learn more about its innovative learning experiences, visit collegesofdistinction.com/school/eastern-oregon-university.

About Colleges of Distinction

Since 1999, the Colleges of Distinction website and guidebook have recognized and honored schools throughout the U.S. for excellence in undergraduate-focused higher education. The member schools in the Colleges of Distinction consortium distinguish themselves through their focus on the undergraduate experience. CollegeofDistinction.com provides dynamic college profiles, customized tools and resources for students, parents and high school counselors. For more information, visit collegesofdistinction.com.