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Evangel University recognized as a College of Distinction 2018

Published on Aug 27, 2018 by Paul K. Logsdon

SPRINGFIELD, Mo.  — Evangel University has been named to the Colleges of Distinction list for 2018-2019, with a special focus on the departments of business and education.

Web-based research tools for students looking for a college are easy to find, but not all of them are created equally. Students across the country are finding the Colleges of Distinction to be a resource that helps discover that “best-fit school” for them.

To help determine that best fit, colleges and universities are nominated and then go through a comprehensive vetting process. Colleges of Distinction schools are selected based on such qualities as accreditation, breadth of program, and a track record for success.

Evangel University, Riggs Hall
Evangel is the National Assemblies of God University of Arts, Sciences & Professions. // PHOTO BY: Paul K. Logsdon (CLICK TO ENLARGE)

“What set this organization apart for us was the actual vetting process,” said Chris Belcher, vice president for enrollment management at Evangel University. “We were nominated for consideration, and we then went through a rather extensive interview process with key members of our leadership team.”

The goal is to point students to schools which offer remarkable experiences that help them learn, grow and succeed.

“We are ecstatic to celebrate Evangel University for its exceptional commitment to student success,” said Tyson Schritter, chief operating officer for Colleges of Distinction.

Highly rated universities provide hands-on experiences to undergraduates that go beyond or expand upon academic majors. These experiences are known collectively as High-Impact Practices (HIPs), and they’re linked with more successful outcomes for the students who engage with them.

“Building upon its extensive liberal arts curriculum, as well as its impressive engagement of High-Impact Practices, Evangel continues to stand out through its stance as a leader in professional education,” he said.

2018-05.20b Evan Masters, Josh Clark
Business students at Evangel have received numerous awards in recent years, including two of three new leadership awards presented at the 2018 Enactus USA Nationals — Joshua Clark was named the first-ever Executive Leader of the Year, and Evan Masters was named the first-ever Project Leader of the Year. // (CLICK TO ENLARGE)

Special recognition

EU’s business and education departments were spotlighted this year by the staff of Colleges of Distinction.

“Evangel is honored for its ability to keep their future leaders ahead of the curve and ready to grow alongside the industry,” they said of the business department.

The programs in accounting, finance, management, marketing and business education are stellar, as is its unique non-profit business and social enterprise major.

“Evangel’s future educators are bolstered by an enriching liberal arts perspective, allowing them to be empathetic, creative and efficient mentors for their students,” the staff added.

The highly regarded education programs at EU include 15 undergraduate areas of study, three master of education programs, and a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership, Curriculum & Instruction.

2018-06.21A Riziki, Katelyn, Patrick word game
Evangel’s annual free reading clinic has received high praise for the boost it gives to needy students in the community. Local teachers who are enrolled in the Master of Education in Literacy program at Evangel also gained real-world experience while serving as tutors. // PHOTO BY: Paul K. Logsdon (CLICK TO ENLARGE)

What do they look for?

Each of the Four Distinctions established by the editorial staff  of Colleges of Distinction is important to the overall student experience, according to Schritter.

  • Engaged Students ensures that students are learning through more than just classroom lectures. Students are writing, conducting research, studying abroad, and learning through discussion and classroom involvement.
  • Great Teaching reflects the quality of professors and staff at each school. Schools with great teaching have experienced professors in small classrooms, where students can establish a relationship with their professors and mentors and will not be lost in the crowd.
  • Vibrant Communities measures the ways students can grow outside the classroom. This not only includes clubs, organizations, and sports teams but also the feel of the campus. Students should be comfortable where they go to school and be able to choose an institution that can help them expand their hobbies and interests as well as further their careers.
  • Successful Outcomes ensures that students are experiencing internships, research opportunities, and are prepared for what is to come.

Students are encouraged to view Evangel’s profile and find more information about the innovative learning experiences it offers.

Colleges of Distinction has recognized and honored schools throughout the U.S. for excellence in undergraduate-focused higher education for more than 15 years. The member schools within the Colleges of Distinction consortium distinguish themselves through their focus on the undergraduate experience. For more information, visit CollegesofDistinction.com.