
»Ê¹Ú²ÊƱ Named a 2026 College of Distinction

»Ê¹Ú²ÊƱ (»Ê¹Ú²ÊƱ) has been recognized nationally and regionally among the 2025-2026 Colleges of Distinction for the 10th consecutive year. Honored for its mission-driven, student-centered transformative educational experience, »Ê¹Ú²ÊƱ is recognized in the areas of affordability, nursing, education, career development, business, equity and inclusion, and military support. »Ê¹Ú²ÊƱ is also recognized as a Catholic College of Distinction and an Illinois College of Distinction, marking 10 unique distinctions for the University.
Being recognized so consistently is a testament to »Ê¹Ú²ÊƱ's commitment to providing a high-quality undergraduate education that focuses on four key distinctions: engaged students, great teaching, vibrant community and successful outcomes. Colleges of Distinction's rigorous selection process entails a sequence of in-depth research with the institutions, accepting only those that exhibit those four distinctions.
Colleges of Distinction's criteria goes beyond traditional ranking models and calls for innovative institutions that meet individual student needs and create an environment that allows students to flourish and have an enriching undergraduate experience. Unlike rankings that focus on prestige-driven metrics, Colleges of Distinction highlights schools that champion educational impact. That includes everything from first-year seminars and collaborative projects to undergraduate research, global learning, and internships. Saint Xavier's inclusion is a result of its commitment to these high-impact practices and the personalized support it offers students throughout their college journey.
"This year marks 10 years of recognition as a College of Distinction for Saint Xavier, which is a remarkable honor. The Colleges of Distinction methodology is based on transformation, and »Ê¹Ú²ÊƱ has a long history of offering a transformative educational experience that opens doors to bright futures. Our dedicated faculty and supportive staff work each day to help our students find their passion and purpose so they may become empowered leaders who will have a strong impact on our world," said Keith Elder, Ph.D., »Ê¹Ú²ÊƱ president.
To be named a College of Distinction in the areas of Business, Nursing and Education, the institution must offer a well-rounded curriculum and demonstrate stability and longevity, accreditation, multidisciplinarity, practical experience, collaborative learning, high mastery rates, liberal arts exposure, ethics, dedicated advising and counseling, high-impact practices, and industry connections.
A College of Distinction that is recognized for its outstanding Career Development initiatives exhibits integrated career exploration and preparation, accessible programs and training, and dedicated, career-centered staff.
The Military Support designation is awarded to institutions whose supportive initiatives include comprehensive educational benefits, a military and veterans affairs team, flexible and accessible options, faculty training, and campus activities and support.
A College of Distinction recognized for Equity and Inclusion efforts demonstrates a diverse population of students and faculty, food and housing security, physical and mental care, Pell Grants and financial aid, and academic inclusion.
Saint Xavier is one of only six colleges in Illinois to receive the Affordability designation. The prestigious distinction considers an institution's quality and diversity of hands-on experiences, notable financial costs, and positive outcomes that epitomize a significant return on a student's investment. Saint Xavier was selected for its dedication to ensuring that college investment pays off for students, families and the communities they go on to serve.
Learn more about »Ê¹Ú²ÊƱ's undergraduate programs on the »Ê¹Ú²ÊƱ website. To check out an in-depth profile of »Ê¹Ú²ÊƱ on the Colleges of Distinction guidebook, visit the website.