Cresson, Pa. – Mount Aloysius College is once again featured on CollegesofDistinction.com, a website dedicated to honoring schools nationwide for excellence in student-focused higher education.

“Schools designated as “Colleges of Distinction” create well-rounded graduates and are among the very best in the country,” said Tyson Schritter, executive editor of Colleges of Distinction.

Colleges and universities are nominated for participation in Colleges of Distinction through high school counselors’ recommendations as well as quantitative research.

Once nominated, the colleges like Mount Aloysius are assessed using the Four Distinctions: student engagement, quality of teaching, vibrancy of the college community and success of graduates. Schools featured on CollegesofDistinction.com must meet minimum standards in each category.

Mount Aloysius President Tom Foley praised the total effort that allows the College to advance. “Certainly we view this award with pride,” he said. “And we know too that behind these accolades are so many basic needs that are met each day. Seeing to those fundamentals allows the campus to excel.  I have to commend the security team that keeps the campus safe; the caretakers that manicure 193-acres of beauty and the maintenance team that keeps our infrastructure functioning. All of us recognize the comprehensive efforts that allow excellence to flower. Everyone today can be Mountie Proud.” 

Mount Aloysius College was found to excel in all four distinctions and will receive a personal profile on the Colleges of Distinction website.

Dr. Timothy Fulop, academic vice president and dean of faculty noted that the College of Distinction award reflects a multi-faceted approach to teaching and creating a challenging yet supportive learning environment. “Excellence is not a destination,” he said, “but a series of processes that place the student at the center. Everyone contributing to those processes can be proud of this prestigious award.”  

Dr. Jane Grassadonia, vice president of student affairs said that planning and executing a series of cultural events for a diverse and growing student population is a challenge that reaps constant rewards. “Keeping students successfully engaged in campus life involves listening and respecting diverse interests,” said Dr. Grassadonia. “It is a fast-paced team effort that starts with understanding the students we are serving then constantly asking ourselves how we can serve them best. We pride ourselves on listening,” she said.

CollegeofDistinction.com offers dynamic college profiles and easy-to-use search tools for students, parents, and counselors. The website includes tips from high school guidance counselors, essays from college students, presidents and other members of campus communities.

“While each school is one of a kind, they all share a common theme: they are all a great place to get an education,” Schritter said.

To view Mount Aloysius College’s profile or to find more information about the online guide visit CollegesofDistinction.com.

CAPTION: Displaying the presentation plaque commemorating Mount Aloysius College’s designation as a College of Distinction are, from left: Dr. Jane Grassadonia, vice president of student affairs; Sr. Helen Marie Burns, RSM, vice president of mission integration; Mount Aloysius President Tom Foley; Dr. Timothy Fulop, vice president for academic affairs, Frank Crouse, vice president for enrollment management and Andy Clouse, director of freshman admissions.