ºÚÁÏÉç

JACKSON, Miss. (September 16, 2025) – Colleges of Distinction, a national guide for college-bound students, awarded ºÚÁÏÉç three major awards for its academic excellence and student success.

Belhaven is one of only three universities in Mississippi named a 2025–2026 College of Distinction, marking the 16th consecutive year it has earned this prestigious designation. The University was also recognized as a Christian College of Distinction for the 15th year and honored as a Mississippi College of Distinction, underscoring its statewide educational impact.

Vice President for Enrollment and Marketing Suzanne Sullivan said, "For 16 years, Colleges of Distinction has affirmed what we know to be true about Belhaven—our commitment to Christ-centered academics, a supportive community, and preparing students for meaningful lives and careers. We are honored to be recognized once again for the transformational experience our students receive here."

Colleges of Distinction evaluates institutions on four pillars of student success: engaged students, great teaching, vibrant community, and successful outcomes. Each year, it reviews a university’s freshman experience, general education program, strategic initiatives, alumni success, and student satisfaction.

Belhaven’s distinction highlights its comprehensive approach to higher education, where students gain both academic credit and valuable life experience. They engage in character-building seminars, service-learning, diversity and global learning, and interdisciplinary programs. Students also benefit from collaborative projects, undergraduate research, living-learning communities, capstone experiences, study abroad opportunities, and internships.