Lees-McRae College named 2025–26 College of Distinction, marking eight years of recognition by the national organization

BANNER ELK, N.C.— Lees-McRae College is one of just 17 North Carolina higher education institutions named to the Colleges of Distinction’s list of the best colleges in the U.S. for 2025–26. This is the eighth year the college has earned this prestigious distinction.
In addition to earning a spot on the organization’s national Colleges of Distinction 2025 list, Lees-McRae also marked eight years of recognition on the lists for Affordable Colleges of Distinction, Top Business Colleges of Distinction, and Top Education Colleges of Distinction.
Earning these recognitions from Colleges of Distinction means that Lees-McRae consistently and successfully embodies the organization’s four primary distinctions: engaged students, great teaching, vibrant communities, and successful outcomes. These awards reflect the college’s dedication to fostering experiential learning, strengthening student-faculty relationships, maintaining an active campus community, and facilitating post-graduate professional success.
“Lees-McRae College 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.”
Visit Colleges of Distinction’s Lees-McRae College profile >>
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Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina, Lees-McRae College is a private, residential college that awards baccalaureate and graduate degrees. At nearly 4,000 feet—the highest elevation of any campus on the East Coast—the college celebrates its location through distinct programming. An emphasis on experiential education inspires students to learn by doing and gain broad knowledge through study across disciplines. To provide continuing education opportunities for all, the college also offers bachelor’s and master’s programs online and in surrounding communities. For more information, please visit www.lmc.edu or call 828.898.5241.

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