September 06, 2006

SIUC named a "Best Midwestern College" for 2007

by Sue Davis

CARBONDALE, Ill. -- The Princeton Review has named Southern Illinois University Carbondale as one of 163 "Best Midwestern Colleges: and as one of America's Best Value Colleges" for 2007.

"We are pleased that the Princeton Review has named us as a top school in our region and that they recognize we offer a top academic experience at a reasonable price," said SIUC Chancellor Walter V. Wendler.

The on-line rankings, published late last month, give prospective undergraduate students a look at schools through the eyes of students. Other Illinois schools on the Best Midwestern Colleges list include Northwestern University, and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.

SIUC Provost and Vice Chancellor John M. Dunn said the guides are one of many sources students use when considering college choices. "Students recognize we offer a strong academic experience in a beautiful location with outdoor recreation areas a few minutes away from campus," Dunn said. "We know that students use these lists as a starting point and then plan their campus visits. We welcome all students to our next open house at the Student Center on Oct. 9."

The Princeton Review's summary for America's Best Value Colleges said, "This school is one of the colleges designated as one of the best overall bargains—based on cost and financial aid—among the most academically outstanding colleges in the nation."

SIUC students who were polled for the listings talked about a variety of issues, including the University's long-range plan, "Southern at 150: Building Excellence Through Commitment."