MACON, Ga. — Mercer University has been named a College of Distinction for the 2025-2026 academic year, a prestigious designation awarded to schools whose commitment to engaged, experiential education sets them apart.
Mercer was recognized as a private university on both the state and national levels and in the categories:
- Business — Affirms a dynamic and ethics-driven business education
- Education — Highlights commitment to preparing the next generation of transformative educators
- Engineering — Recognizes the school’s commitment to preparing career-ready problem solvers
- Nursing — Recognizes hands-on learning and career readiness in healthcare
- Career Development — Honors outstanding support for students’ post-graduation success
The recognition is based on Colleges of Distinction’s unique evaluating criteria known as the Four Distinctions: Engaged Students, Great Teaching, Vibrant Community and Successful Outcomes. Through extensive research and interviews, Colleges of Distinction identifies institutions that make a meaningful impact on students’ lives.
“This honor from Colleges of Distinction validates our unwavering commitment to our undergraduate students,” said President Penny L. Elkins. “It affirms that our emphasis on engaged learning, personalized mentorship and a vibrant campus community provides an exceptional educational experience that prepares students for meaningful careers and lives of purpose.”
“Mercer University has crafted a campus culture where students are empowered to take ownership of their learning,” said Tyson Schritter, chief operating officer at Colleges of Distinction. “Its programs reflect the kind of innovation and intentionality that prepare students for life after graduation.”
Colleges of Distinction highlights schools that champion educational impact. That includes everything from first-year seminars and collaborative projects to undergraduate research, global learning and internships. Mercer’s inclusion is a result of its commitment to these high-impact practices and the personalized support it offers students.
“The recognition is a testament to the dedication of our faculty and staff, who work tirelessly to foster a student-centered environment,” said President Elkins.
To view Mercer’s profile, visit collegesofdistinction.com/school/mercer-university/
About Colleges of Distinction
Since 2000, Colleges of Distinction has been committed to recognizing schools across the United States for their exceptional contributions to higher education. Member institutions within the Colleges of Distinction consortium distinguish themselves through their unwavering focus on providing an outstanding undergraduate experience. Their website offers dynamic college profiles, customized tools, and valuable resources for students, parents, and high school counselors. For more information and to discover how to become a College of Distinction, visit CollegesofDistinction.com.
This article was originally published on The Den at https://den.mercer.edu/mercer-named-2025-2026-college-of-distinction
About Mercer University’s Recognition as a College of Distinction in Career Development
OUTSTANDING ALUMNI
Every Mercer graduate has the opportunity to join a lasting community of alumni through Mercer’s University Alumni Association. Alumni are engaged from all over the world and keep in touch through events and celebrations such as Mercer Mixers throughout the year. The Association aims to preserve traditions within Mercer and help develop lifelong connections.
Some notable alumni include:
- Nathan Deal, former governor of Georgia
- Bill Yoast, high school football coach made famous in the film, Remember the Titans
- Nancy Grace, TV host of Crime Stories with Nancy Grace
- Phil Walden, music pioneer and founder of Capricorn Records
- Cory Gearrin, former pitcher for the Atlanta Braves
DRIVEN TO GRADUATE STUDENTS
Mercer University seeks to ensure that its students transition to the next phase of their lives seamlessly and confidently. Mercer invests significant resources in tracking student performance with their academic goals in mind throughout the duration of the student’s degree program. A faculty advisor works closely with each student to identify individual goals and assist in creating a path that supports their goals and satisfies their degree of choice.
Whether it is preparing students for advanced study or for careers in a variety of fields, Mercer offers a comprehensive set of support for furthering their education. In addition to pre-professional tracks, Mercer’s undergraduate students may apply to participate in Special Consideration Programs for the School of Business, School of Law, School of Medicine, College of Nursing, and College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences for graduate programs.
Mercer’s Center for Career and Professional Development (CCPD) is a valuable resource for students and alumni in all disciplines. This program supports students, alumni, and even faculty and staff in career development resources. Mercer’s CCPD assists with the job search process, resume building, and even networking events. Mercer hosts companies on campus every year to meet with students and develop professional connections. CCPD resources are also available to alumni who are looking for professional development tools, career pivot advice, and networking events. From start to finish, Mercer has you covered.
