Doane College Rankings & Achievements
Doane College, a private, independent institution in Crete, Nebraska, has built a reputation for its commitment to providing quality education while fostering community engagement and supporting nontraditional students. With its rich history and dedication to student success, Doane College has earned recognition both regionally and nationally for its academic rigor, service-oriented programs, and a commitment to fostering a supportive and dynamic learning environment. Established in 1872, Doane is one of the longest-standing private colleges in the United States, and it continues to stand out for its various achievements and rankings, cementing its place as a respected institution in the field of higher education.
One of the most distinctive features of Doane College is its approach to student success, particularly its guarantee of a four-year graduation plan for undergraduate students. The institution has been recognized as one of the first in the country to offer such a guarantee, which underscores Doane’s dedication to ensuring students not only enroll but also graduate in a timely manner. The four-year graduation guarantee provides students with a clear academic pathway, personalized advising, and a host of resources aimed at supporting them throughout their college careers. This forward-thinking initiative reflects Doane’s commitment to ensuring that its students are equipped with the tools, guidance, and academic structure needed to succeed in both their studies and their future careers.
The college has also distinguished itself as a founding institution of the Association of Nontraditional Students in Higher Education (ANTSHE), a testament to its recognition of the diverse needs of students and its commitment to supporting nontraditional learners. Nontraditional students, who may include older adults returning to education, part-time students, or those with significant life experience outside of the traditional classroom, often face unique challenges in their educational journeys. Doane’s involvement in ANTSHE and its creation of PINNACLE, a national honor society for nontraditional students, demonstrates the institution’s emphasis on inclusion and equity, as well as its understanding that education is not a one-size-fits-all experience. The support and recognition of nontraditional students play a central role in Doane’s mission, allowing the college to serve a wider range of learners and contribute to their academic and personal development.
Along with its inclusive ethos, Doane College has garnered notable recognition for its academic achievements and community contributions. The college’s consistent ranking among the best in the Midwest and nationally speaks to the quality of its educational offerings and the commitment of its faculty, staff, and students to excellence. According to U.S. News & World Report in 2011, Doane was ranked 152nd among National Liberal Arts Colleges, an indication of its strong academic reputation. Furthermore, Forbes.com ranked Doane as the top college in Nebraska, placing it 66th nationally among 600 undergraduate institutions. This ranking not only underscores Doane’s standing within the state but also highlights its appeal as a destination for students seeking a high-quality liberal arts education.
The Princeton Review has named Doane College one of the "Best Colleges" in the Midwest, further emphasizing its reputation as a top choice for students in the region. Being included in this prestigious list, which recognizes colleges that exemplify academic excellence and student satisfaction, attests to Doane’s ability to offer a high level of instruction while maintaining a welcoming and engaging environment for its students. Additionally, Kaplan/Newsweek College Catalog described Doane as a “hidden treasure,” a fitting label for an institution that is perhaps not as widely known as larger universities but offers students a rich, fulfilling educational experience nonetheless.
Another significant milestone in Doane College’s recognition came in 2009 when it was named to the President's Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll. This recognition highlights the college’s commitment to service, both locally and nationally. Doane College has long believed in the importance of community engagement, and its students, faculty, and staff actively contribute to a wide range of community-based projects and initiatives. From volunteering at local food banks to participating in national service programs, Doane’s commitment to civic responsibility is an integral part of its mission. Being named to the President’s Honor Roll further solidifies the college’s reputation as a leader in fostering a culture of service and social responsibility, a quality that is often a hallmark of liberal arts education.
In addition to service, Doane College has shown a commitment to environmental sustainability and stewardship. In 2008, the college was named a Groundwater Guardian Green Site by the Groundwater Foundation, an accolade that recognizes institutions for their efforts in groundwater and environmental protection. This award was particularly significant because it marked Doane as the first college in Nebraska to receive such a designation. The college’s dedication to environmental sustainability aligns with its broader mission of promoting responsible citizenship and global awareness among its students. By prioritizing sustainability initiatives on campus, Doane fosters an environment where students are not only educated in academic subjects but also in the importance of being stewards of the earth.
Doane’s focus on holistic student development is also evident in its inclusion in the Colleges of Distinction guide for the 2008-2009 academic year. Colleges of Distinction selects institutions that demonstrate four key distinctions: engaged students, great teaching, vibrant communities, and successful outcomes. These four elements are the cornerstones of a strong college experience, and Doane excels in each of these areas. Engaged students at Doane are not only active participants in their academic programs but also in the wider campus community. Great teaching is provided through a faculty that is deeply committed to the intellectual and personal growth of their students, and the college’s vibrant community fosters both academic and extracurricular involvement. Finally, Doane’s commitment to successful outcomes is evident through its graduates, who are well-prepared to enter the workforce or continue their education in graduate or professional schools.
In the national rankings by Washington Monthly, Doane College has also been recognized for its emphasis on both academics and service. Ranked first among Nebraska’s liberal arts colleges and 115th nationally, Doane’s position in Washington Monthly’s rankings reflects its strong academic offerings and its commitment to community engagement. Washington Monthly evaluates colleges based on their contributions to the public good, including social mobility, research, and service, and Doane’s performance in these categories highlights its role as an institution dedicated to both intellectual development and societal improvement.
While Doane College continues to achieve success in a variety of areas, it is important to note that the college’s impact is not solely measured by rankings or external recognitions. Doane’s emphasis on personalized education, close student-faculty relationships, and a supportive campus environment plays a significant role in the overall experience of its students. Smaller class sizes and a strong sense of community allow students to thrive both academically and personally. The college’s commitment to fostering an inclusive, collaborative environment creates a space where students can explore their passions, develop their talents, and grow as individuals.
Ultimately, Doane College’s enduring success is a reflection of its ability to balance academic excellence with a commitment to service, sustainability, and the needs of diverse student populations. Whether through its pioneering efforts to support nontraditional students, its focus on graduating students within four years, or its contributions to community service and environmental stewardship, Doane College remains a beacon of higher education in Nebraska and the Midwest. The institution’s rankings and achievements, while impressive, are merely the outward symbols of a deeper, more profound commitment to the holistic development of its students and the betterment of society as a whole. As Doane College continues to evolve, its legacy of excellence in education, service, and community engagement will undoubtedly remain at the heart of its mission.
