Hobart and William Smith Colleges has been recognized as one of the nation’s financially strongest private colleges, earning an “A” grade in Forbes’ 2026 Financial Report Card.
The annual ranking evaluated more than 900 private colleges and universities on factors including liquidity, operating performance and long-term financial sustainability. According to Forbes, nearly half of the institutions reviewed received grades of C or lower. HWS was among the schools recognized for strong operational performance and balance sheet health.
HWS President Mark Gearan said the ranking reflects confidence in the institution’s long-term strategy and financial position at a time when many colleges and universities are facing enrollment and budget challenges.
The college also pointed to several recent milestones, including a 20% increase in enrollment for the incoming Class of 2030 and progress in its “Further Together: The Campaign for Our Third Century” fundraising effort. As of June 1, the campaign had raised $353 million toward its $400 million goal, including $216 million raised during fiscal years 2024 and 2025.
Among the campaign’s largest contributions was a $70 million gift from L. Thomas Melly ’52 and Judith Hershey Melly, which HWS said was among the largest donations made to a college or university nationwide in 2024.
The Forbes rankings were based on data from the U.S. Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics and higher education consulting firm Perspective Data Science.
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