Fisher Earns “College of Distinction” Designation

St. John Fisher College was among just 400 colleges and universities across the country to earn a 2019-2020 Best Colleges of Distinction designation.

Colleges of Distinction assess institutions based on four characteristics: engaged students, great teaching, vibrant communities, and successful outcomes. According to the Colleges of Distinction website, the selection process includes research into each nominated school and an extensive interview; methodology is a mix of qualitative and quantitative information.

Dr. Gerard J. Rooney, president of the College, said that the Colleges of Distinction designation was especially meaningful because of the high value it places on student-centered educational experiences.

“Students are at the heart of the College’s mission statement and we are grateful to be recognized for creating an environment in which they can engage in intellectual inquiry, develop professional integrity, and embrace civic responsibility,” he said. “That has been the charge since our founding in 1948, and will continue to be the focus of our work as we move Fisher forward.”

Fisher’s five schools—School of Arts and Sciences, School of Business; Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. School of Education; Wegmans School of Nursing; and Wegmans School of Pharmacy—all earned accreditation by regional, national, or international accrediting bodies. Small class sizes are taught by faculty members who earn recognition for their teaching excellence and scholarly initiatives.

Further enhancing its commitment to a student-centered learning environment, the College launched the Fisher Edge in 2018, an integrated approach to student success. The Fisher Edge offers opportunities for students to excel academically, benefit from team-based advising, get a head start with career exploration, take advantage of internships and other experiential learning opportunities, and achieve on-time degree completion in four years or less.