St. Edward's Named One of "America's Best Colleges"

U.S. News & World Report has recognized St. Edward's among “America's Best Colleges” for the third straight year. In the 2006 rankings, released Aug. 19, the university ranked 24th among master's-granting institutions in the Western region, up from 25th last year — and was one of only four universities in Texas to rank in the top 25. The formula used by U.S. News considers peer assessment, retention, faculty resources, student selectivity, financial resources and alumni giving. Moving up by even one number requires significant improvements in almost every area.

The latest ranking comes five years into the university's vision to attain recognition as one of the best small universities in the country. To realize the vision, university leaders implemented a set of seven strategic priorities — from enrollment growth and integrated marketing to faculty recruitment and technology enhancements — and an ambitious master plan to guide facilities growth. The master plan includes new academic buildings and residence halls, computer and athletic facilities, a chapel, and a theater, as well as a revised road and parking system and landscape master plan. View the 2006 rankings online.

In the meantime, check out the latest on the web from the Office of Alumni & Parent Programs.

Alumni Spotlight:
Alumni Achievement Winner Nelson Arboleda, ’94

Nelson Arboleda, ’94, originally came to St. Edward’s on a soccer scholarship, but he knew his future plans included more than playing sports — he wanted to eventually return to his home country of Colombia to treat innocent victims of guerrilla warfare. Read the full story.

New Deans Announced

In July, the university welcomed new academic deans in the schools of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Education, and Natural Sciences.
Read the full story.

Peru Immersion Captures Holy Cross Spirit of Service

Thirteen students and three staff members volunteered nearly 500 hours in the poverty-stricken community of Canto Grande, Peru, last spring as part of Campus Ministry’s Peru Immersion Experience. Read the full story.

Summer Orientation Welcomes 600 Freshmen

More than 600 freshmen and their families visited campus this summer during Orientation, which is designed to provide incoming students with the tools and know—how needed to guarantee a smooth transition into college life. Read the full story.

Recommend a Hilltopper

Do you know someone who would be a good candidate for admission to St. Edward’s? If so, tell us about him or her! You can now make online recommendations for potential undergraduate, graduate or New College students. And for every candidate you refer, you’ll receive a free gift from the Office of Alumni and Parent Programs. So, go ahead and get started!

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