Adelphi Named a 2025-2026 College of Distinction for Excellence in Student-Centered Approach to Undergraduate Education
Garden City, NY (08/04/2025) — Adelphi University has once again received several prestigious Colleges of Distinction designations, awarded to schools that demonstrate a commitment to engaged, experiential education. This recognition is based on unique evaluation criteria used by Colleges of Distinction, known as the "Four Distinctions": Engaged Students, Great Teaching, Vibrant Community and Successful Outcomes. Colleges of Distinction has recognized Adelphi for over 10 years.
"Adelphi has crafted a campus culture where students are empowered to take ownership of their learning," said Tyson Schritter, chief operating officer at Colleges of Distinction. "Its programs reflect the kind of innovation and intentionality that prepare students for life after graduation."
Adelphi has earned the following 2025-2026 Colleges of Distinction recognitions: New York, Private, Business, Education, Nursing, Career Development, Equity & Inclusion, International, and Military Support.
Unlike rankings that focus on prestige-driven metrics, Colleges of Distinction highlights schools that champion educational impact. This includes everything from first-year seminars and collaborative projects to undergraduate research, global learning, and internships. Adelphi's inclusion is a result of its commitment to these high-impact practices and the personalized support it offers students throughout their college journey.
"This ongoing recognition from Colleges of Distinction underscores Adelphi's commitment to enhancing its educational offerings and support systems, ensuring that students receive a well-rounded and impactful college experience," said Chris Storm, PhD, Interim President of Adelphi University. "The university remains dedicated to fostering an environment where students can thrive academically and personally, preparing them for successful futures."
In other rankings during the past year, Adelphi University was also recognized for its excellence in student outcomes and commitment to student success-including being ranked the top private university in Long Island by Forbes and The Wall Street Journal. The University is a U.S. News & World Report's Best College and Top Performer in Social Mobility. See more of Adelphi's recent awards and rankings.
About Colleges of DistinctionSince 2000, Colleges of Distinction has been committed to recognizing schools across the United States for their exceptional contributions to higher education. Member institutions within the Colleges of Distinction consortium distinguish themselves through their unwavering focus on providing an outstanding undergraduate experience. Their website offers dynamic college profiles, customized tools, and valuable resources for students, parents, and high school counselors. For more information and to discover how to become a College of Distinction, visit CollegesofDistinction.com.
About Adelphi: A modern metropolitan university with a personalized approach to higher learning
Adelphi University, New York, is a highly awarded, nationally ranked, powerfully connected doctoral research university dedicated to transforming students' lives through small classes with world-class faculty, hands-on learning and innovative ways to support academic and career success. U.S. News & World Report named Adelphi a 2025 Best College, Best Value College, and Top Performer in Social Mobility. In addition, U.S. News & World Report, Forbes and the Wall Street Journal/ America's Top Colleges all ranked Adelphi the top private university on Long Island.
Adelphi serves more than 7,600 students at its beautiful main campus in Garden City, New York-just 23 miles from New York City's cultural and internship opportunities-and at dynamic learning hubs in Manhattan, the Hudson Valley and Suffolk County, as well as online.
More than 121,000 Adelphi graduates have gained the skills to thrive professionally as active, engaged citizens, making their mark on the University, their communities and the world.
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