For the fourth year in a row, U.S. News & World Report has ranked Tabor College among the best liberal arts colleges in the Midwest.
In the 2008 edition of “America’s Best Colleges” published in the magazine’s Aug. 27 issue, Tabor College ranks 40th among the best baccalaureate colleges in the Midwest region—up from 51st place last year.
“We’re pleased that Tabor again is ranked in the top tier of colleges in the Midwest,” said Lawrence Ressler, vice president of academics and student development.
“Factors U.S. News considers important, such as a high number of classes with less than 20 students, and a low faculty-student ratio, make education at Tabor a very satisfying experience.
“In the long run, these relationships make our learning environment meaningful,” Ressler said.
At a time when sending children to college has become a major family investment, independent reviews such as “America’s Best Colleges” have become valuable resources.
The U.S. News & World Report rankings are based on a set of 15 indicators of excellence and help consumers evaluate and compare data compiled from more than 1,400 accredited four-year schools.
The unbiased rankings shine a national spotlight on outstanding regional options such as Tabor College, which offers an excellent educational value, but might be overlooked by serious college-bound students and their parents.
The category formerly titled “Comprehensive Colleges-Bachelor’s” has been renamed “Baccalaureate Colleges” to better clarify the broad educational mission of these schools.
Tabor College is the highest-ranking liberal arts college in the state in this category. (Bethany College, Lindsborg, ranked 44th, is the only other Kansas school listed among the results).
According to Tabor College President Larry Nikkel, another top-tier ranking affirms the school’s commitment to continuous improvement in all of its programs.
“Prospective students should be encouraged to know that in some cases, ‘small’ is a distinct advantage,” Nikkel said.
“This is a high-quality education with ‘high touch,’ a combination which is attractive to many students.”
According to Ressler, “Ultimately, the greatest measure of success is the work a student does after they graduate as employees, citizens, parishioners and family members.
“We hear some amazing stories of lives being changed, and, in the final analysis, that’s what we’re striving for.”
