Saint Martin’s University Recognized as an Opportunity College by the Carnegie Foundation – A Milestone for Inclusive Education | The JOLT News Organization

Saint Martin’s University in Lacey was recently recognized as an Opportunity College by the Carnegie Foundation. This acknowledgment highlights the university’s commitment to helping students succeed, regardless of their backgrounds.

President Bill Brownsberger praised this recognition, saying it reflects the university’s mission to support diverse students in achieving personal and professional growth. The designation is part of the new Student Access and Earnings Classification introduced by the American Council on Education and the Carnegie Foundation.

This classification measures how well institutions serve their communities. It looks at whether schools enroll students from various backgrounds and how those students fare financially after graduation. This year, 479 colleges earned the Opportunity designation, representing about 16% of institutions across the U.S.

Saint Martin’s takes pride in its values of hospitality, service, and community. It strives to provide educational opportunities that transform students’ lives. In 2024, the university also ranked No. 34 among regional universities in the West by U.S. News & World Report for its commitment to social mobility. This ranking focuses on how well universities support economically disadvantaged students in achieving their goals.

The demographics reflect this commitment: 61% of students identify as people of color, 39% are first-generation college students, and 36% receive Pell Grants, indicating financial need. These figures show the university’s role in offering education to those historically underserved.

To ensure student success, Saint Martin’s provides personalized academic advising, career preparation, and mentorship programs. These resources help students not just excel in their studies but also thrive after graduation. Patty Lemon, Dean of Admissions and Enrollment, emphasized that the university aims to eliminate barriers to higher education.

“We want to reach students who may not have considered college a possibility and ensure they have the support they need to flourish,” Lemon said. This focus on accessibility sets Saint Martin’s apart, as it is the only Catholic Benedictine university in the Pacific Northwest.

In a broader context, educational institutions nationwide are increasingly recognizing the importance of inclusivity and support for diverse student populations. This aligns with recent trends emphasizing social mobility and equitable access to education. As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, Saint Martin’s commitment to these principles positions it as a leader in fostering a more equitable future for all students.

To explore more about the Opportunity Colleges and Universities classification, you can check the official Carnegie Foundation page.

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