July 12, 2022
La Roche University Named a 2022-23 College of Distinction
PITTSBURGH, July 12, 2022 – La Roche University has been recognized for its honorable commitment to helping undergraduate students learn, grow and succeed by Colleges of Distinction, a unique guide for college-bound students.
La Roche is named a 2022-2023 College of Distinction, Pennsylvania College of Distinction and Catholic College of Distinction.
Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs Howard Ishiyama, Ph.D., said, “For the 11th consecutive year, La Roche has been championed as a College of Distinction. Through high-impact learning experiences, exceptional faculty and an engaged campus community, La Roche students find an ideal environment to grow personally and professionally. This designation speaks to our continued commitment to student success.”
The Colleges of Distinction selection process comprises a sequence of in-depth research and detailed interviews with the schools, accepting only those that adhere to the four distinctions: engaged students, great teaching, vibrant community and successful outcomes. These principles are informed by the high-impact practices to prioritize the ways that institutions enable students to have a fulfilling, individualized college experience both inside and outside of the classroom. To earn the recognition, La Roche demonstrated the following programs and experiences:
- Engaged Students – La Roche students have the opportunity to take an active part in their own learning through internships, hands-on projects, study abroad experiences and research opportunities through the University’s Honors Institute.
- Great Teaching – Students at La Roche have meaningful interactions with faculty in a small class setting with a 12:1 student-faculty ratio. Faculty includes award-winning scholars, researchers and industry-connected professionals.
- Vibrant Community – Creating connections with peers outside of the classroom is an important part of a well-rounded college experience. La Roche offers more than 30 student clubs and organizations, service-learning experiences and 14 Div. III sports.
- Successful Outcomes – The undergraduate experience works cohesively to prepare students not only for graduation, but for life after graduation. The Office of Student Academic Support Services at La Roche provides opportunities for students to move ahead in their careers, even before they graduate. Services include internship- and employment-search assistance, workforce-readiness education, professional networking strategies, resume and cover letter development, interview preparation, professional and career fair etiquette, and application support for graduate school.
Colleges of Distinction also awards recognition in individual areas. La Roche earned additional recognition in the areas of business, education, nursing and career development.
Coordinator of Career and Professional Development Kevin Myles, M.Ed., said, “Supporting students on their path to personal and professional discovery is at the core of what we do in the Office of Career and Professional Development. Through one-on-one meetings, classroom presentations, workshops and professional development offerings, we pride ourselves on equipping our students with the core competencies that they’ll need to be successful in life during and after their time at La Roche.”
Since 2000, Colleges of Distinction has been committed to honoring schools throughout the U.S. for true excellence in higher education. The member schools within the Colleges of Distinction consortium distinguish themselves through their dedicated focus on the undergraduate experience. Its website provides dynamic college profiles, customized tools, and resources for students, parents, and high school counselors.
“When we focus all of our attention on how schools stack up against one another, we lose track of what really matters: the students themselves,” said Wes Creel, founder of Colleges of Distinction. “Every student has individual needs and their own environment in which they’re most likely to thrive. We want to extend our praise to the schools that prioritize and cater to students’ goals.
Learn more at collegesofdistinction.com
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About La Roche University: A private liberal arts university in the North Hills of Pittsburgh, La Roche University offers 66 undergraduate programs of study, six master’s degrees and one doctoral degree, with particular strengths in education, business, criminal justice, psychology, nursing, and health and medical sciences as well as interior design and graphic design. This residential university provides a vibrant campus community for nearly 1,300 men and women enjoying 30-plus 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.