University of New England earns national recognition for student success and outcomes
The University of New England has been named a 2025-26 College of Distinction, joining a select group of institutions recognized for their commitment to delivering an exceptional undergraduate college experience. The distinction, awarded by the national Colleges of Distinction program, is based on four pillars: engaged students, great teaching, vibrant campus community, and successful outcomes.
As a College of Distinction, UNE was honored for its hands-on approach to learning, strong student-faculty relationships, and a campus culture that supports student achievement, the program said in its announcement.
UNE President James Herbert said the ranking affirms the University’s commitment to positioning students for lasting success and fostering graduates who are ready to meaningfully contribute to their communities.
“What makes UNE special is that we support our students in every aspect of their lives: academically, personally, and professionally,” Herbert said. “We work hard to create an empowering environment where students feel confident, prepared, and ready to thrive in their careers and make a real impact long after graduation.”
As a part of the recognition, the University received a career development distinction for its focus on practical experience and career readiness, which is reflected in integrated career exploration, dedicated advising, and robust internship and networking opportunities.
The designation comes as the University continues to demonstrate measurable impact in preparing students for life after graduation, with 95% of UNE undergraduates employed or pursuing further education within one year of graduation, based on student survey data.
UNE is also among the top institutions in New England for increasing career earnings.
In April, the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching and the American Council on Education announced that UNE graduates earn nearly $20,000 more annually in the eight years following graduation compared to peers in the region who did not attend college, as part of their 2025 Student Access and Earnings Classifications, a new category developed to evaluate how effectively colleges create pathways to economic mobility. Zippia also lists UNE as the top college in Maine for job placement.
The Colleges of Distinction also recognized UNE for its commitment to fostering community and belonging, noting the University’s comprehensive support for students from all backgrounds, including first-generation and rural students, and ensuring equitable access to resources and opportunities.
Over 30% of incoming first-year students at UNE are the first in their families to pursue a college degree. Jennifer DeBurro, Ed.D. ’24, dean of students and vice president of Student Affairs, said UNE is committed to creating an empowering environment accessible for all.
“UNE graduates will be the future of the industries they step into. We take our responsibility to create programming that elevates and further supports them seriously so that our students really stand out in the industries they enter,” said DeBurro, noting that she and Herbert are both first-generation college students themselves.
In addition to University-wide recognition, the designation also highlights specific program success. UNE’s nursing programs, School of Education, and College of Business were each recognized for program stability, national accreditation, and high-impact, hands-on learning that prepares students for real-world success.
According to Colleges of Distinction, the programs stand out for their strong advising, multidisciplinary curriculum, practical experiences, and robust industry connections, ensuring graduates are career-ready and equipped to be leaders in their fields.
“At UNE, we are moving the needle in a direction that promotes not just student well-being but thriving success in the lives they’ll lead after graduation,” DeBurro said.