Davis & Elkins College has been recognized as a 2022-2023 College of Distinction for its commitment to helping undergraduate students learn, grow and succeed. A unique guide for college-bound students, Colleges of Distinction honors schools that place priorities on students’ needs.
“More than just marketing, the terms ‘engaged’ and ‘hands-on’ are the hallmarks of the educational experience at Davis & Elkins College,” said D&E President Chris A. Wood. “It is gratifying to be recognized by Colleges of Distinction for who we are and the very core of our mission. Rather than being one of thousands of students in an entering class, new students to D&E quickly discover we exist to provide ‘engaged hands-on’ education that meets our students where they are and takes them to where they need to be.”
Colleges of Distinction believes that a thorough selection process requires more than an overview of institutional data, statistics and size of endowment. Instead, the Colleges of Distinction selection process comprises a sequence of in-depth research and detailed interviews with the schools, 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 both inside and outside of the classroom. To earn the recognition, Davis & Elkins College demonstrated the following programs and experiences:
Engaged Students – Students at Davis & Elkins College have the opportunity to take an active part in experiential learning through internships, practica, service projects, field research, travel and study abroad programs, and classes that explore experimental subjects in unexpected locales.
Great Teaching – The D&E faculty focuses on teaching, and helping students discover their passion and potential. Students have meaningful interactions with faculty in first-year seminars and collaborative assignments and projects.
Vibrant Community – Creating connections with peers outside of the classroom is an important part of a well-rounded college experience. D&E offers service and community-based learning and numerous student organizations and activities to help students find a sense of belonging and meaning throughout their campus experience.
Successful Outcomes – The undergraduate experience works cohesively to prepare students not only for graduation, but for life after graduation. Some of these experiences at D& include internships, programs and support through Career Services and senior capstone.
“When we focus all of our attention on how schools stack up against one another, we lose track of what really matters: the students themselves,” said Wes Creel, founder of Colleges of Distinction. “Every student has individual needs and their own environment in which they’re most likely to thrive. We want to extend our praise to the schools that prioritize and cater to students’ goals.
“We’re inspired by the ways in which Davis & Elkins College immerses students in their fields, all while fostering a welcoming community that will support them through and beyond their college years,” Creel said.
Aside from overall undergraduate recognitions, Colleges of Distinction also awards recognition in individual areas. Davis & Elkins has earned additional recognition in the areas of business, education and equity and inclusion.
Learn more at collegesofdistinction.com.
About Colleges of Distinction
Since 2000, Colleges of Distinction has been committed to honoring schools throughout the U.S. for true excellence in higher education. The member schools within the Colleges of Distinction consortium distinguish themselves through their dedicated focus on the undergraduate experience. Its website provides dynamic college profiles, customized tools, and resources for students, parents, and high school counselors. For more information, and to learn how to become a College of Distinction, visit CollegesofDistinction.com.
