La Roche University Receives National Recognition Across Eight Colleges of Distinction Categories

PITTSBURGH, June 9, 2026 – La Roche University has once again been recognized by Colleges of Distinction, earning national and specialized honors across eight categories for the 2026-27 academic year. The recognitions reflect the University’s commitment to student success through engaged learning, career preparation, inclusive excellence and global engagement.

In addition to being named a College of Distinction, La Roche received recognition in the following categories:

• Pennsylvania College of Distinction
• Catholic College of Distinction
• Business
• Education
• Nursing
• Career Development
• Equity & Inclusion
• International

These distinctions recognize institutions that prioritize high-impact educational practices and student-centered learning experiences. Rather than relying on traditional rankings such as selectivity or institutional size, Colleges of Distinction evaluates schools based on four core principles: Engaged Students, Great Teaching, Vibrant Community and Successful Outcomes.

Together, these recognitions reflect La Roche’s commitment to providing a holistic, student-centered education that prepares graduates for success in their careers and communities. The Career Development distinction highlights the University’s emphasis on integrating career readiness throughout the student experience through experiential learning opportunities, internships and employer partnerships. The Equity & Inclusion distinction reflects La Roche’s commitment to fostering a supportive and welcoming campus community where students from all backgrounds can thrive. The International distinction recognizes the University’s longstanding commitment to global engagement and cross-cultural learning opportunities.

“At La Roche, student success is at the center of everything we do,” said Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner, Provost and Dean of the Faculty. “These recognitions reflect our commitment to providing transformative learning experiences, personalized support and opportunities that prepare students to lead, serve and succeed in a constantly changing global society.”

“La Roche University exemplifies what it means to be a student-centered institution,” said Tyson Schritter, Chief Operating Officer at Colleges of Distinction. “Across its programs and campus culture, the University demonstrates a clear commitment to helping students grow academically, personally and professionally.”

Colleges of Distinction selects institutions through a process of in-depth research and interviews, focusing on the quality of the undergraduate experience rather than traditional numerical rankings. Schools are evaluated on how effectively they engage students, support teaching excellence, foster community, and deliver successful post-graduate outcomes.

To learn more about La Roche University’s Colleges of Distinction recognitions, visit the University’s profile on the Colleges of Distinction website.

About La Roche University: An independent liberal arts university in the North Hills of Pittsburgh, La Roche University offers undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs with particular strengths in education, business, criminal justice, cybersecurity and forensics, psychology, nursing, and health and medical sciences as well as interior architecture & design and graphic design. This residential university provides a vibrant campus community for women and men enjoying multiple student organizations and an exciting NCAA Div. III athletics program. Founded by the Sisters of Divine Providence in 1963, La Roche University embraces its Catholic heritage while welcoming people of all faiths and backgrounds. With a legacy of social justice and a commitment to international exchange, La Roche University educates students to be lifelong learners and achievers in an increasingly diverse and global society.

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