University of Montevallo Named College of Distinction for 14th Consecutive Year

June 26, 2025

The University of Montevallo has been recognized as a 2025-2026 College of Distinction, marking its 14th consecutive year receiving this prestigious honor. This designation is awarded to institutions whose commitment to engaged, experiential education sets them apart.

“Pursuant to our mission, the University of Montevallo provides students a premier experience where strong emphasis is placed on developing cross-domain skills such as oral and written communication, critical thinking and problem solving, teamwork, professionalism and work ethic and others valued in the workplace,” said Dr. Courtney Bentley, provost and senior vice president for academic affairs at UM. “The development of these skills is anchored by a depth of learning, learning for academic knowledge but also professional knowledge through experiential opportunities that render UM students uniquely prepared for what lies before and ahead of them.”

Montevallo was also recognized as a 2025-2026 Alabama College of Distinction and 2025-2026 Public University College of Distinction. Alongside these institution-wide awards, UM has also received specific recognition for the Michael E. Stephens College of Business, the College of Education and Human Development, its outstanding career development initiatives for undergraduate students and its commitment to supporting military-related students and employees.

“Montevallo 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.”

Since 2000, Colleges of Distinction has been committed to recognizing schools across the United States for their exceptional contributions to higher education. Instead of relying on traditional metrics like rankings and test scores, Colleges of Distinction recognizes schools that champion educational impact. Institutions are evaluated based on their demonstrated excellence in four key areas:

• Engaged students: Providing opportunities that encourage students to make the most of their education
• Great teaching: Encouraging an atmosphere of exciting thought and action, led by professors who care about helping students learn to think for themselves
• Vibrant community: Offering activities and events that help students keep on learning even after the books are closed
• Successful outcomes: Producing alumni who are prepared for anything, from graduation and beyond

As a College of Distinction, Montevallo has shown commitment to these high-impact practices and to providing personalized support for students throughout their college journey.

Come discover why Montevallo Means More — visit montevallo.edu/campus-visits to schedule a campus tour today!