The 2008 collegiate rankings by U.S. News and World Report magazine show Grace College in Winona Lake, Indiana, to be in the top tier of the Best Baccalaureate Colleges in the Midwest region.
U.S. News and World Report’s annual rankings are based on a number of criteria, including academic reputation, retention rates, graduation rates, faculty, selectivity in admissions, financial resources, and alumni giving.
Grace College’s top-tier ranking comes at a time when record numbers of prospective students are applying to the college. The campus welcomed a record 350 new full-time freshmen and transfer students at new student registration August 18. The new students come from 25 states and six foreign countries and includes 14 high school valedictorians and six salutatorians.
According to Grace College President Ronald E. Manahan, the record number of applicants is attracted to Grace College due to several factors, including the college’s commitment to academic achievement and to the Christian faith.
“We are sharply focused on our mission as an evangelical Christian community of higher education which applies biblical values in strengthening character, sharpening competence, and preparing for service,” Dr. Manahan said.
He added that in recent years Grace has continued to build on its strengths with innovative programs such as its Center for Character and Leadership Development, Millennial Scholars Academy, Orthopaedic Scholars Institute, and Presidential Scholars program, as well as establishing its new School of Music last year and providing students with increasing opportunities for community involvement and ministries.
Grace, in partnership with the orthopaedic businesses and community, recently completed a new $9.1 million events and sports complex, the Orthopaedic Capital Center, on campus. The new facility provides for indoor sporting events and the college chapel services, and is used by the community for conventions and meetings. The OCC seats up to 2,800 and is the largest facility of its kind in Kosciusko County.
