Founded in 2000, Colleges of Distinction has advocated for schools whose undergraduate experiences are grounded in a philosophy of engagement, teaching, community, and outcomes. This philosophy has evolved over the last few years to inspire the team at Colleges of Distinction to create individual recognitions that focus on institutions’ specialized services for students.
St. Cloud State University has received recognition in Career Development and Military Support.
“We are delighted for the recognition of the great work that we are doing to support students from the moment of their admission to the university, to their walk across the stage for commencement, and the start of long and successful careers,” said St. Cloud State University President Robbyn Wacker. “Our dedication to providing an experience that is focused on the educational journey of students and one that is tailored to their learning styles and goals is a signature piece of St. Cloud State’s It’s Time framework for the future. In a relatively short period of time, St. Cloud State has developed wonderful traditions, curricular and co-curricular opportunities, and critical supports to help every student identify their passions, connect to their majors, and explore the possibilities that an undergraduate and/or graduate degree can realize.”
President Wacker is referring to It’s Time, a framework that the university has been working toward since 2019. Much of the work focuses on building on the university’s strengths and standing firmly on its academic distinctions, focusing on the student experience, and supporting faculty who are experts in their fields and excellent teachers. This includes the university’s Career Center is set apart from the rest as it offers numerous in-person, virtual, and innovative opportunities to prepare students for a successful launch into their careers and the dedication of our campus colleagues to create an inclusive environment of support for our students who are veterans.
Career Development
Additionally, schools awarded the Career Development badge have shown that they are well equipped to help their students graduate with confidence. The badge recognizes schools with comprehensive four-year plans, advising, and more. St. Cloud State offers such resources as career exploration, interview preparation, resume reviews, LinkedIn profile reviews and job and internship fairs, providing unparalleled support throughout every stage of career exploration, development, and application.
“The Career Development recognition goes beyond a job board and résumé writing,” said Tyson Schritter, Chief Operating Officer at Colleges of Distinction. “St. Cloud State University has shown inventiveness in connecting with students throughout their academic careers and beyond. Students and graduates are fully supported by St. Cloud State’s outstanding Career Center.”
Military Support
As the number of veterans pursuing higher education increases, so too does the demand for their personal and academic support. Veterans can be some of the most dedicated, hard-working, and capable students on a college campus, but the unique challenges they face can impede their success. That is why St. Cloud State with its Veterans Resource Center has been selected as a stand-out institution dedicated to helping veterans overcome their obstacles and achieve success.
The Military Support Colleges of Distinction care primarily about the individual student rather than the size of their GI Bill package. Schools like St. Cloud State ensure that military students are supported with comprehensive education benefits, a committed military and veterans affairs team, flexible options, trained faculty, and dedicated campus activities and community support. St. Cloud State has also earned Military Friendly Top 10 Gold and Best for Vets distinctions.
“Institutions with the Military Support recognition are aware of the unique challenges military students face on college campuses,” said Tyson Schritter, Chief Operating Officer at Colleges of Distinction. “St. Cloud State is proud to support and cultivate the skills that military students bring to the classroom, all while helping them achieve their personal and professional goals.”
To view St. Cloud State’s profile or to find more information about the services and experiences it offers.
