Decade of Distinction: St. John Fisher University Once Again Honored as 2026-2027 College of Distinction

For the tenth year in a row, St. John Fisher University has been recognized for its continuing commitment to engaged, hands-on education by Colleges of Distinction. Fisher was named to the 2026-2027 list, recognizing its delivery of a high-quality undergraduate education that focuses on personalized learning, strong student-faculty relationships, a vibrant campus life, and successful student outcomes.

This award signifies Fisher’s dedication to what Colleges of Distinction calls its Four Distinctions: Engaged Students, Great Teaching, Vibrant Community, and Successful Outcomes. Colleges of Distinction conducts in-depth research and direct interviews with each institution, selecting only those whose campuses reflect a genuine, student-first philosophy.

“We are proud to once again earn the College of Distinction recognition. As a campus community, we are committed to the academic, personal, and professional success of every student,” said Dr. Gerard J.  Rooney, president. “Fisher was founded with the commitment to providing a personalized and accessible education and we continue to deliver an individualized experience for all students, guiding them to identify their values, their pathway, and their purpose.”

For the first time this year, Fisher was also recognized by Colleges of Distinction as a Best College for Transfer Students, reflecting Fisher’s commitment to making the transfer process seamless from applying to the completion of each student’s degree, through orientation, campus support, academic advisors, and dedicated career support, 

This new designation comes at a pivotal moment in transfer enrollments across the country as more students are making deliberate, cost-conscious decisions about where to begin and continue their academic journeys. Fisher is also consistently included in the Phi Theta Kappa Transfer Honor Roll.   

In addition to earning the honor of a College of Distinction, Fisher received specialized recognition among institutions in New York and among private institutions. The University was commended for its business, education, and nursing programs, as well as its career development initiatives for the fifth year in a row. Fisher has met these needs through the Fisher Edge, the University's integrated approach to student success that will offer you premier opportunities to excel academically, benefit from team-based advising, get a head start with career exploration, take advantage of internships and other experiential learning opportunities, and on-time degree completion in four years or less. 

“Today’s students are navigating a college landscape shaped by rising costs, rapid technological change, and real uncertainty about the future of work,” said Tyson Schritter, chief operating officer at Colleges of Distinction. “What they need from higher education isn’t just a credential, but preparation for the world ahead. Fisher delivers that through the kind of intentional, high-impact education that equips students for whatever comes next.”

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.