National publication recognizes Will County universities

U.S. News & World Report included two Will County universities in its recent nationwide rankings of colleges.

The University of St. Francis in Joliet earned recognition in the publication’s “National Universities” category, the third time the school has made the list, according to a news release. USF was ranked 249th in the “National Universities” category and ninth among the 17 Illinois schools included in the report.

“Rankings such as this help to validate the efforts of our faculty and provide us with many points of pride,” USF President Arvid Johnson said in a statement. “However, the most important indicators of our success as educators are that our students have a great learning experience, graduate, are considered top prospects by employers, and find jobs that launch their careers.”

The publication also named USF as one of the top universities on its “Top Performers on Social Mobility” list which recognizes schools that support economically disadvantaged students, according to a news release.

Lewis University in Romeoville also earned recognition from the publication.

U.S. News & World Report included the school on its list for regional universities in the Midwest (No. 19), best colleges for veterans in the midwest (No. 9), undergraduate teaching (No. 20), social mobility (No. 19), and best value (No. 28).

The publication also recognized Lewis University’s undergraduate programs in computer science, engineering and nursing.

“Our future-focused and innovative academic programs produce graduates who adapt and thrive with the ever-changing demands of work and career while also contributing to a better world for all,” Lewis University President David Livingston said in a statement.