For the 2026-2027 academic year, Colleges of Distinction has named Lee University a College of Distinction, recognizing the university’s commitment to help undergraduate students learn, grow, and succeed. Additionally, Lee was named a Tennessee College of Distinction and a Christian College of Distinction.

“At Lee University, we believe higher education should shape the whole person,” said Lee president Dr. Phil Cook. “Being named a College of Distinction affirms our commitment to an environment where students are challenged academically, nurtured in community, and grounded in a Christ-centered foundation that prepares them to lead and serve with purpose.”

Colleges of Distinction conducts in-depth research and direct interviews with each institution, selecting only those whose campuses reflect a genuine, student-first philosophy. Through this process, the organization evaluates schools based on its Four Distinctions: Engaged Students, Great Teaching, Vibrant Community, and Successful Outcomes.

To earn the recognition, Lee University demonstrated a commitment to providing students with meaningful opportunities both inside and outside the classroom. Students engage in undergraduate research, global learning experiences, service-learning opportunities, internships, and collaborative coursework while benefiting from close faculty mentorship and a supportive campus community.

“Today’s students are navigating a college landscape shaped by rising costs, rapid technological change, and real uncertainty about the future of work,” said Tyson Schritter, chief operating officer at Colleges of Distinction. “What they need from higher education isn’t just a credential, but preparation for the world ahead. Lee University delivers that through the kind of intentional, high-impact education that equips students for whatever comes next.”

Colleges of Distinction believes that the most meaningful measure of a college is the experience it provides, not its place in a numerical ranking. Lee’s inclusion reflects the university’s commitment to creating an educational environment where students are active participants in their learning and are prepared for success after graduation.

“No two students arrive on campus with the same goals, background, or definition of success,” Schritter added. “The institutions we recognize understand that. Lee University has built an environment where students are supported and challenged in ways that translate into real academic, professional, and personal outcomes.”

In addition to the overall undergraduate recognition, Colleges of Distinction also awards recognition in individual areas. Lee also earned distinctions in business, education, and nursing. To view Lee’s full profile, visit collegesofdistinction.com/school/lee-university.

Since 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, visit collegesofdistinction.com. To learn more about Lee University, visit leeuniversity.edu.