Colleges of Distinction COO praises Carson-Newman in latest national recognition

Carson-Newman University “delivers on equipping students” according to Tyson Schritter, COO of Texas-based organization, Colleges of Distinction.

Carson-Newman was named a “College of Distinction,” as well as a “Christian College of Distinction” for 2026-2027. The recognition signifies a school’s adherence to what Colleges of Distinction calls its “Four Distinctions:” Engaged Students, Great Teaching, Vibrant Community and Successful Outcomes. Rather than relying on endowment figures or selectivity rates, the organization conducts in-depth research and direct interviews with each institution, selecting only those whose campuses reflect a genuine, student-first philosophy.

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

The organization also recognized the University for its Business, Education and Nursing programs. In addition, Carson-Newman received special accolades for its Career Development initiatives for undergraduate students and for its support of international students.

“The schools that do career development well don’t wait for students to come to them,” said Schritter. “Carson-Newman meets students where they are early, consistently, and across every field of study.”

The COO points out that every student’s college journey is different and champions C-N approach to preparing the next generation of servant-leaders.

“No two students arrive on campus with the same goals, background, or definition of success,” he said. “The institutions we recognize understand that. Carson-Newman has built an environment where students are supported and challenged in ways that translate into real academic, professional, and personal outcomes.”