Ottawa University-Arizona (OUAZ) has received national recognition for the integrity of its truly individualized and engaging education. As an institution whose primary goals are based on student success and lifetimes of personal significance, OUAZ confirms its honor as one of the renowned “Colleges of Distinction” for 2019-20. The prestigious designation comes in its second year of operation.
This award is unique among popular college guide classifications, which typically rank schools on the basis of hollow or unclear numbers like the size of endowment, selectivity, and faculty salaries. Ottawa University-Arizona instead earns its recognition for the excellence exhibited in the classroom, incorporating High-Impact Practices throughout every student’s undergraduate education. Such student-centered programs include flex scheduling, first-year seminars, personal growth days, community-based learning programs, service-learning programs, diversity and global learning programs, interdisciplinary programs, common intellectual experiences, capstone projects, study abroad programs and internships.
“We are so proud to see Ottawa University walking the walk,” said Tyson Schritter, chief operating officer for Colleges of Distinction. “Colleges of Distinction knows that a truly valuable education can’t be measured by rank or reputation. Students learn and thrive best when they embrace hands-on learning in a vibrant, welcoming community. That’s why it’s so encouraging to find that OU takes such an innovative approach with its curriculum: its High-Impact Educational Practices ensure that the undergraduate experience is worthwhile and unique.”
Colleges of Distinction’s selection process consists of detailed interviews and research for each institution’s freshman experience and retention efforts alongside its general education programs, career development, strategic plan, student satisfaction, and more. Schools are accepted on the basis that they adhere to the Four Distinctions: Engaged Students, Great Teaching, Vibrant Community, and Successful Outcomes.
“It is a great honor and accomplishment that, in just its second year, OUAZ has met the rigorous standards set forth by the ‘Colleges of Distinction’ program, the four distinctions of which align with our University’s missions and values,” said Dr. Terry Haines, provost and chief academic officer. “This recognition for the delivery of a well-rounded liberal arts education to our students is a testament to the excellence of our students, faculty, staff, and administrators. As our mission states, we are a Christ-inspired community of grace and open inquiry, and we strive to enrich the lives of our students and prepare them for lifetimes of personal significance, vocational fulfillment, and service to God and humanity. We are proud to be among the elite group of colleges and universities to receive this designation.”
As part of its 2019-20 designation, OUAZ also received three “Fields of Study” distinctions for its Angell Snyder School of Business and its school of education. OUAZ earned the “Colleges of Distinction” designation in its second year after opening in the fall of 2017.
