Hobart and William Smith Colleges (HWS) have been ranked first in the nation for service and 19th overall among liberal arts colleges in Washington Monthly’s 2024 College Guide and Rankings. This marks the eighth consecutive year HWS has placed in the top five for service, including two previous years as the No. 1 service-oriented college in the nation. The overall ranking represents a significant jump of 13 spots from last year.
“These recognitions reflect our commitment to a robust liberal arts and sciences curriculum and the myriad opportunities we provide for students to engage meaningfully with communities locally and globally,” said HWS President Mark D. Gearan. He highlighted the efforts of the Center for Community Engagement and Service Learning and praised the contributions of students, faculty, and alumni in fostering a strong culture of service.
Washington Monthly’s service rankings consider factors such as alumni participation in the Peace Corps, institutional involvement in the AmeriCorps Matching Program, and the allocation of Federal Work-Study funds toward community service. HWS students contribute more than 80,000 hours of service annually, and their fundraising efforts generate approximately $110,000 for non-profit organizations.
Katie Flowers, director of the Center for Community Engagement and Service Learning, expressed pride in the recognition, noting the hard work of community partners and the dedication of students in making a positive impact. All HWS students participate in service learning or community-based research from their first week on campus, reinforcing the college’s mission to prepare students for lives of consequence.
Washington Monthly’s rankings are based on social mobility, research, and community service, with HWS excelling across all measures. The rise from 32nd to 19th overall reflects the college’s dedication to academic excellence, social impact, and community engagement.
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