North Dakota State University Named College of Distinction for 2025-26

University staff say they're especially proud of their recent progress in the areas of career development and educational opportunity for those in the military.

FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) – North Dakota State University prides itself on a great many things – be it the on-field success of the Bison, the accomplishments of its alumni, or the campus atmosphere they’ve cultivated.

Now, they have one more feather to stick in their collective cap.

“This really is a celebration of all the work and the commitment we have from the employees who work here,” said Seinquis Leinen, senior director for strategic enrollment management for NDSU.

The school has announced they’ve been named a College of Distinction for 2025-26.

Staff say that it’s different from your average academic accolade.

“They look at the experience as opposed to just the statistics. You can go on any website, it’ll tell you our placement rates, our enrollment, our student to faculty ratio,” said Leinen. “They really dig into what is the experience like for students, how high is its quality.”

The evaluation process for a College of Distinction involves four separate categories, but outside of that, NDSU was specifically recognized for advancement in other areas which have been specific points of focus, including career development and educational opportunities for military personnel.

NDSU joins UND, Valley City State, and the University of Mary as the other Colleges of Distinction in North Dakota.