LAMONI — Graceland University is again one of the “Best in the Midwest,” according to the 2015 evaluation of colleges by The Princeton Review.
The survey rates four-year higher education institutions on six factors: academics, admissions selectivity, financial aid, fire safety, quality of life and environmental sensitivity.
Information comes from data reported by the university and its students, campus visits by staff, and panels of college counselors and advisors selected by The Princeton Review.
Graceland president John Sellars said, “It is good to be recognized by an outside evaluator for something that we have known all along: that Graceland provides a solid, well-rounded experience for its students.”
In addition to statistical information provided by Graceland, The Princeton Review summaries include consistent themes about academics and college life reported in student surveys. Students appreciate the fact that Graceland does not use any teacher’s assistants, and professors take the time to get to know the students and take an interest in their success.
This designation as “Best in the Midwest” for another year speaks highly to the personal attention students receive at Graceland. Personal attention paves the way for student success. This attribute was highlighted through many of the student surveys done by The Princeton Review, as well as in conversations with students on campus and after graduation.
According to one sophomore surveyed, “The one thing I enjoy the most about this school is the relationships I have with my professors. Most create close bonds with students and really care about your welfare and success.”
Graceland also scored well in “Quality of Life” issues, which includes Student Life programs and the campus environment. The survey data revealed very strong participation in intramural sports and 56 student organizations. The university also garnered favorable comment for its “green practices,” including the hoop house to grow and consume vegetables locally.
Nationally, the survey’s “Best” list included 649 colleges, about 25 percent of the nation’s 2,500 four-year colleges, selected primarily for their academic excellence. Eleven other Iowa private schools and all three state universities made the 2015 list for “Best in the Midwest.”