I’m not a great fan of the college rankings, as differing methodologies offer a confusing conglomeration of results.  However, the Forbes comparisons, grouping institutions regardless of type and size, offer an interesting approach.  There are currently more than 4,700 degree-granting institutions in the United States.  Approximately 3,100 of them are private, and almost 1,600 of the private institutions are not-for-profit.  Of that number, slightly more than 1,000 are religiously affiliated . . . and of that number, 144 are either members or collaborative partners of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities.  Of those 144 institutions, Samford ranks third—behind Pepperdine and Westmont—in the Forbes rankings.  Through unwavering commitment to mission by trustees, faculty and other employees, generous gifts across 175 years and the prayers of thousands of people, Samford occupies a hopeful position within the context of American higher education.  We are blessed.

The world is better because, regardless of institutional rankings, Samford’s mission endures.