Mobile, Ala. – Spring Hill College has been named a 2026-2027 College of Distinction, making it the only college in the Mobile area to receive the overall designation while earning national recognition across six areas of excellence.

In addition to the overall College of Distinction, Spring Hill was recognized as a Best Affordable College, Best Private College in the U.S., Best Catholic College in the U.S., College with Outstanding Career Services, Nursing College of Distinction and Business College of Distinction.

The College of Distinction designation recognizes institutions that excel in four key areas: Engaged Students, Great Teaching, Vibrant Community and Successful Outcomes. Rather than relying solely on rankings or selectivity, Colleges of Distinction evaluates colleges through in-depth research and interviews to identify institutions that prioritize a student-centered undergraduate experience.

Spring Hill’s national recognition comes as the College builds momentum in its enrollment efforts and continues to strengthen its position among distinctive liberal arts institutions.

“Today’s students and families are looking for a college that offers both an exceptional educational experience and a meaningful return on their investment,” said Vice President for Enrollment and Marketing Arlene Cash. These national recognitions affirm the experience our students have every day. Rooted in our Jesuit mission, Spring Hill challenges students to think deeply, discover their purpose, and graduate prepared to make a meaningful difference in the world.”

The additional distinctions recognize Spring Hill’s strengths in affordability, career preparation and academic excellence. Colleges of Distinction recognized the College’s commitment to providing accessible educational value. In addition, 100% of Spring Hill students receive some form of financial aid, helping make a Jesuit education accessible to students from a wide range of backgrounds. The College was also recognized for preparing students for successful careers through intentional career development and delivering outstanding undergraduate programs in business and nursing while earning distinction among the nation’s top private and Catholic institutions.

“The institutions we recognize as affordable aren’t cutting corners,” said Tyson Schritter, Chief Operating Officer at Colleges of Distinction. “They’ve made a deliberate institutional commitment

to ensuring that a student’s financial background doesn’t limit the quality of their education. Spring Hill College stands as proof that high value and low cost can coexist.”

Founded on a conviction that the quality of a college is defined by the experience it provides, Colleges of Distinction recognizes institutions where students actively engage in undergraduate research, collaborative learning, service opportunities, internships and other high-impact educational experiences that prepare them for success beyond graduation.

To learn more about Spring Hill College and its Colleges of Distinction recognitions, visit collegesofdistinction.com.

ABOUT SPRING HILL COLLEGE

Founded in 1830, Spring Hill College is the oldest institution of higher learning in Alabama, the oldest Catholic college in the Southeast and the third oldest Jesuit college in the United States. Spring Hill combines the Jesuit tradition of excellence in education and a commitment to caring for the whole person — mind, body and spirit — with innovative educational experiences. Located in Mobile, Alabama, Spring Hill’s mission is to form leaders engaged in learning, faith, justice and service for life. As a result, Spring Hill students are engaged, inspired and transformed by their experiences. For more information, visit www.shc.edu.

ABOUT COLLEGES OF DISTINCTION

Since 2000, Colleges of Distinction has been committed to recognizing schools across the United States for their exceptional contributions to higher education. Member institutions within the Colleges of Distinction consortium distinguish themselves through their unwavering focus on providing an outstanding undergraduate experience. Their website offers dynamic college profiles, customized tools, and valuable resources for students, parents, and high school counselors. For more information and to discover how to become a College of Distinction, visit CollegesofDistinction.com.