Colleges of Distinction has recognized Eastern Connecticut State University for a variety of distinctions in its 2020-21 rankings, including badges of distinction for Public Colleges, Connecticut Colleges, Business and Education Programs, Career Development, Equity and Inclusion, and Military Support. Colleges of Distinction is a guide for college-bound students that recognizes undergraduate institutions that prioritize a well-rounded and individualized education.

The organization is a trusted resource for guidance counselors, parents and students, focusing on the four criteria of Engaged Students, Great Teaching, Vibrant Communities and Successful Outcomes to help prospective students find the best-fit college for them.

Schools awarded the Career Development badge have shown that they are well equipped to help their students graduate with confidence for the workplace. The badge recognizes schools with comprehensive four-year plans, advising, internship opportunities, professional networking and career-readiness workshops.

“The Career Development recognition goes beyond a job board and résumé writing,” said Tyson Schritter, chief operating officer at Colleges of Distinction. “Eastern has shown inventiveness in connecting with students throughout their academic careers and beyond.”

In recognizing schools for Military Support, Colleges of Distinction notes that veterans can be some of the most dedicated and capable students on a college campus, but that the unique challenges they face can impede success. Eastern has been named a stand-out institution for veteran and active-military students due to the efforts of its VETS Center.

“Schools like Eastern ensure that military students are supported through comprehensive education benefits, a committed military/veterans’ affairs team, flexible options, trained faculty and dedicated campus activities and community support,” wrote Colleges of Distinction in a press release.

Colleges of Distinction also notes that Eastern distinguishes itself as a community dedicated to equal opportunity for all students, faculty and staff. With a dedicated Office of Equity and Diversity and a variety of clubs and campus organizations aimed at fostering intercultural awareness, Eastern ensures that students of all ethnic, gender and religious backgrounds have equal opportunity to thrive academically and personally.

Students of color make up 28 percent of the total student body, up from 17 percent in 2009. In addition, Eastern has the highest percentage of minority faculty of any college or university in Connecticut, including Yale, Wesleyan and the University of Connecticut.

Programs of note that support diversity on campus include the Women’s Center, Pride Center and Intercultural Center. Among Eastern’s nearly 100 student organizations are those for the campus’s Caribbean, African American, Asian, Latin American and religious student communities.

“Eastern has created a welcoming environment for underserved students,” said Schritter. “It’s a tremendous opportunity to highlight the noteworthy support offered for students who might not otherwise study and thrive on a college campus.”

To view Eastern’s profile on the Colleges of Distinction website and to find more about the services and experiences it offers, visit https://collegesofdistinction.com/school/eastern-connecticut-state-university/.

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Now in its 20th year, Colleges of Distinction is 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. For more information, visit CollegesofDistinction.com.