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Lee 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. Lee has been named a 2022-2023 College of Distinction, Tennessee College of Distinction, and Christian College of Distinction. 

“We are delighted to receive this recognition by Colleges of Distinction,” said Dr. Shane Griffith, Lee University’s assistant vice president for Enrollment. “Lee is committed to providing an incredible student experience by combining top-tier academic programs with a Christ-centered community, and this honor demonstrates our success in that endeavor.” 

Colleges of Distinction believes that a thorough selection process requires more than an overview of institutional data, statistics, and size of endowment. Instead, 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 all 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, Lee University demonstrated the following programs and experiences:  

• Engaged Students – Students at Lee have the opportunity to take an active part in their own learning through undergraduate research, diversity and global learning, and common intellectual experiences.  
• Great Teaching – Students at Lee have meaningful interactions with faculty through first-year programs and courses, collaborative assignments and projects, and contemporary degree programs in a wide variety of disciplines. 
• Vibrant Community – Creating connections with peers outside of the classroom is an important part of a well-rounded college experience. Lee offers service/community-based learning and more than 100 academic and social service clubs to help students find a sense of belonging and meaning throughout their campus experience.
• Successful Outcomes – The undergraduate experience works cohesively to prepare students not only for graduation, but for life after graduation through capstone courses and internships. 

“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.” Lee University’s inclusion is informed by the unique ways it commits to achieving success. The effective strategies for student satisfaction and outcomes were the kinds of engaging experiences found at Lee. 

Creel continued, “We’re inspired by the ways in which Lee University immerses students in their fields, all while fostering a welcoming community that will support them through and beyond their college years.”  

Aside from overall undergraduate recognitions, Colleges of Distinction also awards recognition in individual areas. Lee has earned additional recognition in the areas of business, education, and nursing. Learn more at collegesofdistinction.com/school/lee-university/. 

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. For more information, and to learn how to become a College of Distinction, visit collegesofdistinction.com.