ODU Named a National College of Distinction
August 06, 2018
By Betsy Hnath
Old Dominion University has earned a title as one of the nation's Colleges of Distinction.
The University also received "Field of Study" badges for its business, engineering, education and nursing programs.
"We're especially proud to be named a College of Distinction because schools are accepted based on four main criteria: engaged students, great teaching, vibrant community and successful outcomes," said Ellen Neufeldt, vice president for student engagement and enrollment services. "Old Dominion University excels in those areas year after year."
Colleges of Distinction's selection process consists of a review of each institution's freshman experience and retention efforts alongside its general education programs, alumni success, strategic plan, student satisfaction, and more.
"We are absolutely thrilled to recognize Old Dominion University as a College of Distinction for its effective dedication to student success," said Tyson Schritter, chief operating officer for Colleges of Distinction. "Colleges of Distinction is so impressed with Old Dominion University's curriculum, which is enriched with the kind of high-impact educational practices that are most crucial for student development. Such innovative engagement is preparing the next generation of young adults to thrive after college."
Other schools on this year's list include Wake Forest University, the College of William & Mary and James Madison University. But Schritter is quick to point out the organization's list represents more than scores and data points.
"Colleges of Distinction is far more than a ranking list of colleges and universities," Schritter said. "We seek out the schools that are wholly focused on the student experience, constantly working to produce graduates who are prepared for a rapidly changing global society. Now recognized as a College of Distinction, Old Dominion University stands out in the way it strives to help its students to learn, grow, and succeed."
Old Dominion University has proven itself to be at the forefront of American higher education with a modern, student-centered approach to teaching. With a unique learning environment, its programming engages students with content-specific first-year seminars, community-based learning programs, service-learning programs, entrepreneurships, diversity and global learning programs, intensive writing courses, interdisciplinary programs, collaborative assignments and projects, undergraduate research, learning communities and living-learning communities, common intellectual experiences, capstone projects, ePorfolio initiatives, study abroad programs and internships.
