Pitt-Bradford named a College of Distinction

BRADFORD, PA – The University of Pittsburgh at Bradford received more good news recently as it became one of 64 public institutions of higher education and one of 29 Pennsylvania colleges recognized as a College of Distinction. The selection recognizes the growth in innovative and experiential learning opportunities at Pitt-Bradford during 2014-15.

Pitt-Bradford students earned college credit and valuable life experience while participating in study abroad programs in 16 countries as well as project-based learning, internships and undergraduate research.

“We’re astonished by the national attention our campus continues to receive for its high-quality academic programs and pioneering spirit of our faculty members,” said Dr. Livingston Alexander, president of Pitt-Bradford. “As our visibility increases, we’re quickly shedding the ‘hidden gem’ label often used in reference to our campus.”

Tyson Schritter, executive director of Colleges of Distinction, said, “Active engagement is well recognized as a key to ensuring that undergraduates get the most out of their education, and it has proven correlation with on-time graduation as well.”

To be chosen for the Colleges of Distinction website and e-guidebook, schools must demonstrate results across four distinctions – engaged students, great teaching, vibrant community and successful outcomes. High school counselors and educators nominate schools, and each is evaluated on key indicators including student engagement, student empowerment and curricular innovation.

The annual process to select the nation’s Colleges of Distinction also includes a review of each institution’s freshman experience, as well as its general education program, strategic plan and alumni success and satisfaction measures.

Earlier this month, Pitt-Bradford was named to The Princeton Review’s list of the Best Colleges in the Northeast for the 12^th year in a row. To see Pitt-Bradford’s Colleges of Distinction listing, visit http://collegesofdistinction.com/school/university-of-pittsburgh-at-bradford/.