Innovative learning opportunities at Oglethorpe University grew in 2014–2015, earning the school recognition among the nation’s Colleges of Distinction, a national guide to colleges that highlights innovative learning opportunities at top schools.

Oglethorpe students earned college credit and valuable life experience while participating in Atlanta Laboratory for Learning led initiatives, such as Oglethorpe’s LeadAbroad programs, other study abroad programs around the world, civic engagement, service learning, internships, and research opportunities.

The annual process to select the nation’s Colleges of Distinction also includes a review of each institution’s freshman experience, as well as its general education program, strategic plan, and alumni success and satisfaction measures.

“Colleges of Distinction is delighted to honor  Oglethorpe University for its success in expanding programming by developing competencies relevant to graduates’ lives,” said Tyson Schritter, executive editor for Colleges of Distinction. “Active engagement is well recognized as a key to ensuring that undergraduates get the most out of their educations, and it has proven correlation with on-time graduation as well. Students increasingly demand access to hands-on learning, and Colleges of Distinction congratulates Oglethorpe for leading the way in the development of new methodologies that prepare students for the future.”

Schools must demonstrate results across the Four Distinctions—Engaged Students, Great Teaching, Vibrant Community, and Successful Outcomes. High school counselors and educators make nominations and each school is evaluated on key indicators including student engagement, student empowerment, and curricular innovation. Colleges that have distinguished themselves in each of the Four Distinctions and that have demonstrated dedication to enriching student outcomes through innovative learning opportunities are then invited to join Colleges of Distinction.