Recently, Elizabethtown College has been recognized by Colleges of Distinction for the institution’s commitment to providing a high-quality undergraduate education that focuses on hands-on learning, strong student-faculty relationships, a vibrant campus life, and successful outcomes. In addition to being honored as a 2023-24 College of Distinction, Etown was also named a Pennsylvania College of Distinction and earned additional recognition in the areas of Business, Education, Engineering, and Career Development.

“This year’s honor as a College of Distinction is a testament to the well-rounded, transformative educational experience that Elizabethtown College offers students through outstanding academic programs taught by committed professor-mentors, guaranteed high-impact experiences, and an inclusive campus community that fosters a sense of belonging for all,” Elizabethtown College President Betty Rider said.

Colleges of Distinction, a unique guide for college-bound students, utilizes a selection process that focuses on qualitative criteria, an evaluation process that differs from those of popular college rankings publications which rely heavily on statistics. To be accepted, institutions must adhere to the Four Distinctions: Engaged Students, Great Teaching, Vibrant Community, and Successful Outcomes.

As a College of Distinction, Etown has shown excellence in each of these areas, providing its students with a well-rounded, practical education that prepares them for successful careers and lives:

  • Engaged Students – Students at Etown have the opportunity to transform their courses into demonstrated, real-world action by taking an active role in their own learning through the College’s five Signature Learning Experiences (SLEs) which include a capstone course, project, or portfolio; community-based learning; cross-cultural experiences; internship, field placement, or practicum; and supervised research.
  • Great Teaching – Students at Etown have meaningful interactions with faculty in First-Year Seminars, experiential courses, and collaborative research. That impact continues long after leaving Etown, with 97% of graduates reporting having a professor who made them excited about learning. 
  • Vibrant Community – Creating connections with peers outside of the classroom is an important part of a well-rounded college experience. Etown offers over 80 student clubs and organizations, affinity-based Living Learning Communities (LLCs), and year-round community service opportunities 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. Etown graduates surpass national averages for admissions to medical, business, and law schools with 95% of graduates being employed or pursuing continuing education within one year of graduation.

“We believe that engaged students are successful students,” Tyson Schritter, Chief Operating Officer at Colleges of Distinction said. “Elizabethtown College’s dedication to experiential learning shows us that each of its students has the opportunity to play an active role in their education.

“We are deeply inspired by how Etown immerses students in their academic pursuits, fostering a welcoming community that provides unwavering support throughout their college years and beyond.”

About Colleges of Distinction
Since 2000, Colleges of Distinction has been committed to honoring schools with a 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.