Education news website EducationDive.com recently released its list of awardees for its annual Dive Awards. Winners here were chosen for their distinction as disruptors and innovators in the field of higher education.
Taking the spot as University of the Year for 2018 was the University of California, Merced. “Building the future in the heart of California continues to be our mission, and I am excited for what is in store for the University,” stated UC Merced Chancellor Dorothy Leland upon receiving the award.
Listed below are qualities that make UC Merced a cut above the rest in terms of quality education.
Merced 2020
UC Merced has been experiencing growth like never before at levels they never anticipated. Thus, the struggle was real for the administration and teaching staff to be consistent with the quality of instruction they have been providing their students.
To address that need, the university came up with a $1.3-billion expansion project named, “Merced 2020”. This entails the addition of infrastructures within the campus like school buildings, dining areas, expanded parking, and more. UC Merced is also doubling the size of its campus to accommodate these facilities. Amenities to add here will be classrooms, student residences, a soccer field, a conference center, laboratories with up-to-date equipment, and a swimming pool.
With UC Merced bent on providing the best education possible for their students, this expansion project is sure to double the impact on the quality of learning students receive, as well as widen the university’s reach. More students will be served high-quality learning so they can explore their passions and contribute meaningfully to the larger community after graduation.
Innovative education
UC Merced cares about providing education to all. Whether you’re a firstgeneration college student, a student with a low income or a minority student, the university is there to provide you with world-class education.
The university has, from the beginning, worked toward increasing student access to public university education in California. It opened in an area that desperately needed improvements in education and finances. UC Merced has basically transformed the area and helped in its growth.
Over 73% of UC Merced’s students are first-generation college students while at least 90% of their students receive financial aid. The high graduation and retention rates at UC Merced (64% and 86% respectively, according to CollegeFactual.com) are testaments to the university’s awe-inspiring dedication in delivering first-class education.
Sustainable
Not only is UC Merced concerned with making a positive impact on its students, but it is also taking steps to make a positive impact on the environment.
Buildings on the campus are designed to be sustainable and are LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)-certified. Solar panels installed on these buildings also provide clean, sustainable energy. Hydration stations are scattered around the campus to reduce waste from plastic water bottles. UC Merced also has taken strides in conserving all 25,000 acres of its land.
Even students and faculty take steps to be sustainable and are rewarded for their efforts. Recycling is implemented across the campus.
With all these attributes and programs under their belt, it’s not a surprise why UC Merced has earned the distinction of being University of the Year for 2018. If you are interested in experiencing the energetic, youthful vibe of Merced, why not make that move? We at Soldavi Realty will be glad to help you out. You can reach us at 209.975.7653 or via email at info(at)soldavi(dotted)com for more information.